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Fly Emirates, Pay in Bitcoin: Full Integration Set for 2026

Published by
Zameer Attar and Anjali Belgaumkar

Driven by the global trend, the UAE introduced several crypto regulations to boost its digital finance. In July, Emirates signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Crypto.com to explore ways to integrate crypto into travel payments. The full integration is expected to launch in 2026. 

Understanding the Emirate’s MOU with Crypto.com

With the new initiative, passengers are allowed to pay for flights, upgrades, duty-free items, and other services on Emirates routes. It supports crypto, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Cronos (CRO), and stablecoins such as USDT and USDC. It is also planning to support over 30 cryptocurrencies, simplifying the integration of the digital assets into daily life. 

Crypto Supporting UAE Airlines

  • Air Arabia: This Dubai-listed budget airline accepts AE Coin, a dirham-backed stablecoin. This AED stablecoin is for flight bookings across its Middle East, North Africa, and Asia network.
  • Travala: It is a blockchain-based global travel booking platform that offers flights and hotels with crypto payments. Multiple cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, Binance Coin (BNB), and its native AVA token, are accepted.
  • Destinia: A global travel agency for flights, hotels, and car rentals, offers a flexible payment method option for UAE travelers. It supports cryptocurrencies like  BTC, ETH, and USDT.
  • Alternative Airlines: It is an online travel agency that supports bookings with over 650 airlines globally, including Emirates and Etihad. It offers crypto payments in many coins such as BTC, ETH, XRP, Litecoin, Cardano, Dogecoin, and USDT.

UAE to Position as Global Crypto Leader

The UAE has a robust regulatory framework with impressive investments and proactive initiatives in the crypto space. With recent regulatory developments, it is focusing on licensing, AML/KYC compliance, consumer protection, and adherence to international standards like FATF. These measures are further strengthening the foundation of crypto in the UAE by promoting greater stability and transparency. 

Emirates’ Chief Commercial Manager, Adnan Kazim, said, “Partnering with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency into our digital payments system reflects Emirates’ commitment to meeting evolving customer preferences, in addition to tapping into younger, tech-savvy customer segments who prefer digital currencies. 

“This strategic move is in line with Dubai’s vision to be at the forefront of financial innovation while at the same time providing our customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates,” he added. 

FAQs

What is Emirates’ partnership with Crypto.com?

Emirates signed an MoU with Crypto.com to enable crypto payments for flights and services by 2026.

Can UAE travelers already book flights with crypto?

Yes, airlines like Air Arabia and platforms like Travala, Destinia, and Alternative Airlines accept crypto.

Why is the UAE pushing crypto in airlines?

To attract tech-savvy travelers, boost innovation, and position itself as a global crypto leader.

Zameer Attar and Anjali Belgaumkar

Zameer is a financial analyst and writer with a particular interest in cryptocurrency markets. He has been studying cryptocurrencies and their market behavior for several years and deeply understands the factors that affect the price of cryptocurrencies. His expertise lies in his ability to use both technical and fundamental analysis to make informed predictions about the future direction of cryptocurrency prices. He has a strong understanding of market sentiment and uses this to inform his trading decisions and price predictions.

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