Products featured
When you’re launching a business, the last thing you want is to spend weeks waiting for a payment gateway to complete onboarding or hours trying to make sense of complicated API documentation.
As a general rule of thumb, online payment gateways that offer pre-built plugins for platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce could be a bit easier to set up. Providers like Ziina also offer low-code embedded checkouts (for WooCommerce and custom websites in Ziina’s case) that take just a few clicks to add to your website.
To help you find a payment gateway that could be easy to set up, this article will walk you through a few setup processes, as well as what to look for when choosing a provider.
Some easy ways to start accepting payments online
| Method | What it is |
|---|---|
Website integration | Connect a payment gateway directly to your e-commerce store or website. Most providers offer plugins for platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and WordPress, while custom websites typically integrate using an API. |
Hosted checkout page | Some providers host the entire checkout experience for you. Customers are redirected to a secure payment page, so you don't need to build or maintain your own checkout. |
Payment links or QR codes | Generate a secure payment link or QR code that sends customers to a hosted checkout page. This is ideal if you don't have a website or if you also sell through social media, messaging apps, or in person. |
What to look for in a payment gateway provider
While a simple setup process can be attractive in the short-term, choosing a payment gateway based solely on this might lead to issues later on when you try to scale.
Try to evaluate providers based on how they'll support your business a year from now, not just on launch day. For example, consider:
- Transparent fee structures: Look for simple, transparent pricing without hidden monthly costs. Keep in mind that some providers charge more for international cards or specific payment methods, so make sure to verify exact fees with them.
- Support availability: When a transaction fails, you’ll need a human to talk to, so it might be best to prioritize providers that offer local support in your language and time zone.
- Payout speeds: Verify how quickly your provider will pay you based on your cash flow needs.
- Scalability and multi-channel potential: Some payment gateways allow you to set up multiple sales channels. This means you could go from simple payment links on Instagram to a full checkout experience on your website without signing up for a new platform.
How to set up Ziina’s online payment gateway in a few clicks
Since we’re writing this article, we’ll introduce you to Ziina, our UAE-based payment gateway that allows you to get set up quickly.
Our onboarding and integration processes are designed to be easy. For example, our customer LAS Club registered with Ziina in just two working days and added our payment gateway to their website in minutes.
“The integration process was so simple, all it took was five clicks and no technical understanding. I’m grateful Ziina made it so convenient. As an entrepreneur navigating complexities all day long, the simplicity with Ziina was a huge relief!”
Here’s what makes setting up with Ziina so easy:
- Minimal coding required: Our pre-built plugins for Shopify and WooCommerce don’t require any coding or developers. Simply install the plugin on your website builder’s dashboard and log in to your Ziina account. If you have a custom website, you can integrate with our API and embed your checkout as well.
- Payment links: If you don’t want to add a checkout function to your website, you can also create a payment URL and send it to your customers without having to integrate anything. Once your customer clicks the link, they’ll be able to enter their card details (or use Apple Pay or Google Pay) and complete their purchase.
- Comprehensive API documentation: For those with custom websites, our easy-to-understand documentation guides you through every step of the integration. We also have an FAQ page where we answer common setup questions.
- Local human support: We offer free, UAE-based support in both English and Arabic for all of our business customers.
- Automatic sales tracking: All of your sales are tracked in one centralized app. This is regardless of if they come through Ziina’s payment gateway, QR codes, Tap to Pay, or even our payment links.
- Quick cash outs: Your funds should arrive in your Ziina account quickly. Cashing out your funds to a linked bank account typically takes 1–2 business days for amounts under 25,000 AED (subject to bank processing times). 24h cash out options are available to eligible users.
What can slow down payment gateway setup?
Even if a payment gateway offers a simple integration, getting up and running isn't always just about adding a plugin to your website. The overall setup time can also depend on the provider's onboarding process.
Here are a few factors that can affect how quickly you can start accepting payments:
- Business verification: Most providers will ask you to verify your identity and, if applicable, your business before activating your account.
- Website platform: If you're using Shopify, WooCommerce, or another supported platform, setup is often quicker than building a custom API integration.
- Business type: Some industries require additional compliance checks, which can increase approval times.
- Required documentation: Having your identification and business information ready can help speed up the onboarding process.
In summary
A payment gateway that could be considered easy to set up will likely vary depending on how you sell. Ziina, for example, allows you to get set up today and start accepting payments right away, whether you’re selling through WhatsApp DMs or through a full-on e-commerce website.
Disclaimer: Availability of Ziina products and features is subject to eligibility, successful verification, device compatibility, applicable transaction limits, Ziina’s terms and conditions, and regulatory requirements. Customers are responsible for ensuring they hold any trade license, permit, tax registration, or other approval required for their business activities. Fees, limits, payout timelines, and product features may vary and are subject to change. Please refer to Ziina’s latest terms and pricing for full details. This article was published in August, 2026.