Emirates Launches Crypto Payment Option For UAE Flight…

Emirates airline announced on July 28 that it has begun accepting Crypto.com Pay for flight bookings, allowing eligible customers in the United Arab Emirates to pay for tickets using cryptocurrency through the exchange’s payment platform. The rollout follows a partnership signed in July 2025 to integrate Crypto.com Pay into Emirates’ digital payment systems.

The service is available through Crypto.com’s Dubai entity, which operates as the first Virtual Asset Service Provider licensed under the Central Bank of the UAE’s Stored Value Facilities (SVF) framework. Only UAE residents booking flights priced and settled in Emirati dirhams through emirates.com or the Emirates mobile app are eligible.

How It Works

Customers booking via the Emirates app are redirected to the Crypto.com app to authorize payment before returning to complete their booking. Those using the website can scan a QR code displayed during checkout to approve the transaction within Crypto.com’s app. Once payment is confirmed, passengers receive their booking confirmation and electronic ticket.

Emirates said the integration reflects growing demand for digital payment options among travelers. Adnan Kazim, the airline’s Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, noted that younger, digitally connected customers increasingly favor flexible payment methods that fit into mobile-first lifestyles.

Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, said the rollout represents another step in expanding Crypto.com Pay into everyday commerce, adding that the partnership demonstrates how regulated digital asset payment services are gaining traction across the UAE.

Regulatory and Strategic Context

The launch supports Dubai’s Cashless Strategy under the D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to make 90% of financial transactions digital by end of 2026. Crypto.com’s payment service operates under the Central Bank’s SVF regime, while crypto activities in Dubai are overseen by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). The dual regulatory framework has enabled financial institutions and digital asset firms to introduce new services within licensed frameworks.

For Crypto.com, the Emirates integration marks further expansion of its payment business beyond trading. The company has recently broadened its UAE presence through partnerships with government agencies and private-sector firms, including an agreement with e& money to explore merchant payments, digital asset custody and settlement services.