I&M Bank has expanded its premium banking offering with the launch of the Mastercard World Elite Metal Credit Card, targeting affluent customers seeking exclusive travel, lifestyle and international payment benefits.
Developed in partnership with Mastercard, the new card becomes the latest addition to the bank’s premium card portfolio and is designed for customers who travel frequently and require secure payment options with access to global privileges.
The card offers unlimited access to airport lounges worldwide for cardholders and one guest, fast-track airport services at selected locations, and a dedicated concierge service to assist with travel, dining and lifestyle arrangements.
Cardholders will also receive travel and medical insurance, access to selected hotel partnerships, and curated experiences through Mastercard’s Priceless platform, which features dining, sporting and cultural events alongside offers from retail and hospitality partners.
Unlike some premium cards, the Mastercard World Elite Metal Card does not require a minimum spend for eligible customers to access its benefits.
Speaking during the launch, I&M Bank Regional Chief Executive Officer Kihara Maina said the bank developed the card in response to changing customer expectations, particularly among professionals and business executives who travel regularly.
“Kenya’s affluent professionals and global executives no longer measure prestige by what a card represents on paper, but by what experiences it unlocks in the world,” Maina said.
“The Mastercard World Elite Credit Card is our answer to that shift. It is engineered for those who travel often, shop and entertain widely, and expect their bank to move at the same pace as their ambitions.”
Mastercard’s Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands, Shehryar Ali, said the partnership reflects growing demand for premium financial products among customers seeking international payment solutions and exclusive experiences.
“The Mastercard World Elite Credit Card represents the very pinnacle of our premium portfolio, and this collaboration with I&M Bank reflects the growing sophistication and global mobility of the clients we serve in Kenya,” Ali said.
He added that the partnership is aimed at giving eligible customers access to the same privileges and experiences available to World Elite cardholders in other markets.
The card also comes with security features including fraud monitoring, purchase protection, emergency assistance services and a dedicated support line for World Elite customers.
The launch comes as demand for premium financial products continues to grow in Kenya, driven by increasing international travel and a growing population of high-net-worth individuals.
According to figures shared during the launch, Kenya’s high-net-worth population grew by 14 per cent between 2015 and 2025, contributing to increased demand for financial products that combine global acceptance with travel and lifestyle benefits.
