Emirates First Major Gulf Carrier to Accept Crypto Payments
Emirates airline has become the first major carrier in the Gulf region to accept cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings. The service, powered by Crypto.com Pay, allows customers to settle their bookings in dirhams using various digital assets on the airline's website and mobile app. According to Emirates' deputy president and chief commercial officer Adnan Kazim, this initiative is designed to cater to a digitally affluent generation seeking more convenient payment methods.
The specific cryptocurrencies accepted through this feature have not been disclosed by Crypto.com. However, the exchange lists over 400 digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, stablecoins Tether and USD Coin, and its native token Cronos. Emirates' partnership with Crypto.com reflects the UAE's and Dubai's ambition to lead in fintech and the digital economy.
This move is not an isolated incident, as Sharjah-based low-cost carrier Air Arabia began accepting AE Coin, the country's first stablecoin, for bookings last year. Additionally, Emirates has previously announced an agreement with Crypto.com for booking payments, alongside Dubai Duty Free. Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways also have similar plans in place.