• Offers returnees with dollar discounts on duty free purchases at The Mall, Port City Colombo.

Dubai, UAE –May 4 2025 - Channel 17 (CH17) Loyalty, Sri Lanka’s pioneering rewards and loyalty management company, launched its first international franchise operation in the United Arab Emirates, in strategic partnership with FinWin Group. 

This initiative aims to serve the substantial Sri Lankan expatriate community across the Middle East, particularly the over 1.2 million migrant workers residing in Gulf countries.

The UAE alone hosts approximately 390,000 Sri Lankans, accounting for 3.15% of the nation's population . 

We are not singleling out any particular segment, our offers reach out to everyone who earns foreign exchange of whatever proportion, Jumar Preena CEO 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 incentivise 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.

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.

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 Preena, Founder and CEO of CH17. “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.

Caption: Jumar Preena CEO CH17 PRIVILEGE with Faroon Hamim Founder Chairman of FINWIN Group after exchanging Agreement