Emirates Integrates Crypto Payments for UAE Residents

Emirates, the Dubai-based carrier, has introduced Crypto.com Pay on its website and app, enabling eligible UAE residents to book flights using cryptocurrencies. This move marks a significant step in the adoption of digital payments, particularly among younger generations who manage their finances primarily through mobile devices.

The airline settles transactions in UAE dirhams rather than holding cryptocurrencies, with Crypto.com handling the conversion process. To facilitate payment, customers are directed to the Crypto.com app for authorization or use a QR code at checkout on desktop platforms.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates' deputy president and chief commercial officer, stated that this move reflects 'the rapidly evolving preferences of a younger, digitally fluent generation.' Neither company has indicated whether they will expand the service beyond eligible UAE residents.

This partnership is a result of Crypto.com's Stored Value Facilities (SVF) license obtained in July 2025. The SVF license allows non-bank companies to hold customers' money or cryptocurrencies in digital wallets and process payments under central bank oversight.