CH17 partners with FinWin Group to launch first franchise operation in the UAE and MENA region

Jumar Preena with Faroon Hamim, Founder Chairman of FINWIN Group after exchanging agreement 

Channel 17 (CH17) Loyalty launched its first international franchise operation in the United Arab Emirates, in strategic partnership with FinWin Group. 

This extension of services to the Middle East is the result of its recent tie-up with CHEC Port City Colombo to promote down-town duty free shopping for all in-bound visitors both locals and foreigners. 

This initiative will particularly benefit Sri Lankan expatriate community across the Middle East, particularly the over 1.2 million migrant workers residing in Gulf countries who could directly benefit out of this generous offer by the two participating Duty-Free operators, namely One World Duty Free (OWDF) and China Duty Free (CDF).

The UAE alone hosts approximately 390,000 Sri Lankans comprising professionals, middle managers, skilled and semi-skilled workers and domestic groups. 

We are not keeping out any particular segment, our offers will reach out to everyone who earns foreign exchange of whatever proportion, Jumar Preena CEO CH17 Prestige said.

We recognize their vital contributions to Sri Lanka’s economy through remittances, he added.

The Mall at Port City Colombo, is the region’s first downtown duty-free destination. We want to incentivize shoppers with attractive offers, surprise them with gifts and also give them a chance to win a luxury motor car, and many more surprises are on the cards, Jumar stated. 

The two operators have consented to give a dollar discount up to 10 percent on the total bill, up to a maximum of the customer’s yearly permitted duty-free allowance. This initiative aligns with the Government’s efforts to bolster foreign exchange earnings by providing tangible benefits to its overseas citizens. By offering savings, shopping perks, and lifestyle benefits, the program encourages expatriates to channel a portion of their remittances towards duty-free purchases and travel-linked rewards.

Dubai based FinWin Group, as the exclusive franchise holder, will oversee all operations under the CH17 brand within the UAE and MENA Region, introducing targeted programs for expatriates, frequent travelers, and high-value shoppers.

“Our mission has always been to personalize loyalty and rewards for specific communities,” said Jumar.

“With FinWin’s regional insight and our platform’s proven success, we are proud to extend this value-driven model to support our fellow Sri Lankans abroad.”

This expansion is part of CH17’s broader vision to become a globally recognized leader in loyalty and privilege solutions, built on technology, trust, and meaningful member engagement.