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AE Coin Adoption Grows in UAE: From Airline Bookings to Taxi Rides

Published by
Vignesh S G and Qadir AK

UAE taxi riders can now pay using AE Coin, a Dirham-backed stablecoin. This marks a key milestone in the country’s efforts to integrate blockchain-based payments into daily life.

What Is AE Coin and How Is It Powering UAE Taxis?

As part of Abu Dhabi’s smart city initiative, the Integrated Transport Center has partnered with Al Maryah Community Bank (MBank) to introduce AE Coin payments in taxis.

AE Coin is the UAE’s first Dirham-backed stablecoin, pegged 1:1 to the UAE Dirham. It is designed to deliver price stability, fast settlement, and low transaction costs, making it ideal for everyday digital transactions.

Though relatively new, AE Coin is gaining momentum. It received its final license from the Central Bank of the UAE in December 2024, officially recognizing it as a regulated digital payment solution.

A Boost to Abu Dhabi’s Smart Transport Vision

Tawasul Transport General Manager, Ghena Jbour, emphasized that this integration supports Abu Dhabi’s broader goal of developing a smart and sustainable transportation system, offering passengers more flexible payment options.

MBank CEO, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, added that AE Coin’s integration into transportation aligns with the UAE’s Digital Government Strategy 2025, which focuses on accelerating digital adoption across public and private sectors.

AE Coin Adoption Expands to the Airline Industry

Beyond taxis, AE Coin is now accepted by Air Arabia for flight bookings. This move reinforces the growing real-world utility of stablecoins in the UAE, signaling a broader shift toward crypto-inclusive commerce.

UAE Leads the Way in MENA’s Stablecoin Adoption

The MENA region recorded $338.7 billion in crypto transaction volume between July 2023 and June 2024, accounting for 7.5% of global activity. Within the region, the UAE ranked third, contributing $34 billion in transaction volume with a 30% adoption rate.

According to AE Coin General Manager Ramez Rafeek, stablecoins like AE Coin are proving that crypto can be seamlessly integrated into daily services across transportation and travel.

Conclusion: UAE’s Digital Payment Revolution Is Underway

With regulated stablecoins entering public services, the UAE is advancing its vision of becoming a global hub for digital innovation. The adoption of AE Coin in taxis and airlines is not just a tech upgrade—it’s a strategic step toward a blockchain-enabled economy.

The future of everyday crypto payments is already unfolding in the UAE.

FAQs

What is AE Coin and how can I use it to pay for taxis in Abu Dhabi?

AE Coin is a UAE Dirham–backed stablecoin introduced in Abu Dhabi taxis through the AEC Wallet app. You simply download the AEC Wallet on your phone, scan the QR code inside the taxi, and pay instantly with AE Coin, which is pegged 1:1 to the Dirham to ensure price stability

Are taxis in Abu Dhabi and Dubai equipped to accept digital payments like AE Coin or credit cards?

In Abu Dhabi, taxis have integrated AE Coin payments via QR codes and the AEC Wallet app. Dubai taxis generally accept Visa/MasterCard and Google Pay, but some drivers claim card machines are “not working” to avoid digital payments and prefer cash

Is it safe to pay with AE Coin in taxis?

Yes, AE Coin is a regulated, Dirham-backed stablecoin designed for secure, fast, and low-cost payments. It is supervised by UAE authorities, making it a trustworthy option for daily transactions.

What are the benefits of paying with AE Coin instead of cash or card?

AE Coin offers instant settlement, price stability (1 AE Coin = 1 AED), low transaction fees, and secure blockchain-based payments. It supports the UAE’s smart city goals by promoting digital payments in public transport.

Vignesh S G and Qadir AK

Vignesh is a young journalist with a decade of experience. A proud alumnus of IIJNM, Bengaluru, he spent six years as a Sub-Editor for a leading business magazine, published from Kerala. His interest in futuristic technologies took him to a US-based software company specialising in Web3, Blockchain and AI. This stint inspired him to view the future of journalism through the lens of next generation technologies. Now, he covers the crypto scene for Coinpedia, uncovering a vibrant new world where technology and journalism converge.

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