Emirates Airlines has officially launched cryptocurrency payments through Crypto.com Pay, becoming one of the few major global airlines to accept digital assets for ticket purchases.
The new payment option is available through Emirates' website and mobile application, where eligible customers can pay for flights using Crypto.com Pay. Transactions are processed in compliance with United Arab Emirates regulations, with bookings priced and settled in UAE dirhams (AED).
The rollout follows Crypto.com's regulatory expansion in the region. Earlier this year, Foris DAX Middle East FZE, Crypto.com's UAE entity, received a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) license from the Central Bank of the UAE, enabling it to provide regulated crypto payment services within the country.
Crypto.com Pay Added at Checkout
Customers booking flights on emirates.com or through the Emirates mobile app will now see Crypto.com Pay as a payment option during checkout.
After selecting the payment method, travelers can complete the transaction using the Crypto.com mobile wallet or by scanning a QR code when booking from a desktop device. Once the payment is approved, the booking is confirmed immediately and an electronic ticket is issued.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the initiative reflects changing customer preferences:
He added that expanding payment choices aligns with the expectations of younger, mobile-first travelers who increasingly prefer digital payment methods.
Crypto Settled Into UAE Dirhams
Although customers pay using cryptocurrency, Emirates does not directly receive digital assets.
Instead, Crypto.com processes the payment, converting the cryptocurrency into either a regulated AED-backed stablecoin or AED fiat currency before settlement. This structure complies with Central Bank of the UAE regulations, which require merchants to receive payments in approved AED stablecoins or traditional UAE dirhams.
The arrangement allows Emirates to benefit from crypto payments while remaining fully compliant with the country's financial regulations.
Part of Dubai's Cashless Economy Vision
The initiative supports Dubai's broader Cashless Strategy under the D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to make 90% of all financial transactions across both the public and private sectors digital by the end of 2026.
Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com, described the partnership as a significant milestone for the company and highlighted the UAE's growing reputation as a leader in financial innovation.
With the launch, Emirates joins a small group of airlines worldwide that accept cryptocurrency payments, including airBaltic in Latvia, Vueling in Spain, and Peach Aviation in Japan.
The partnership reflects a broader trend of established global companies integrating regulated cryptocurrency payment solutions as digital assets become increasingly accepted in mainstream commerce, particularly in jurisdictions with supportive regulatory frameworks such as the United Arab Emirates.
