Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines and the top carrier in the UAE, is set to revolutionise how customers pay for their tickets by accepting cryptocurrency. The airline has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Crypto.com to explore incorporating Crypto.com Pay into its payment systems while ensuring high standards of security and compliance. This integration is expected to be implemented next year.
Details about the service are still pending, but more information will be provided as the launch date approaches. The initial focus will be on ensuring technical readiness, meeting compliance requirements, and enhancing the customer experience. It is still undecided whether the rollout will be limited to specific routes and markets or if it will be a global launch. Once the service is available, all cryptocurrency payments made for ticket bookings will be converted to AED in real time at the time of the transaction.
.@Emirates, @DubaiDutyFree, and @Cryptocom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enable digital payment solutions for travellers.
This partnership agreement represents a promising step towards our shared ambition to transform travel and commerce. By exploring advanced… pic.twitter.com/qS1WATKTWX
— HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum (@HHAhmedBinSaeed) July 9, 2025
Emirates Airline To Roll Out Crypto Payment Option In 2026
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Financial and Group Services Officer, stated that partnering with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency into their payment system demonstrates Emirates’ commitment to adapting to changing customer preferences, particularly among younger, tech-savvy individuals who favor digital currencies. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s goal to lead in financial innovation while providing customers with more choices in their transactions.
Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying that this MoU will help enhance the everyday use of cryptocurrency and drive momentum in the digital asset industry. He looks forward to collaborating with Emirates to expand crypto options in the GCC.
In addition to the Crypto.com Pay integration, Emirates and Crypto.com plan to explore promotional marketing campaigns to promote awareness and encourage the adoption of this new payment method.
