Overview

• Emirates has entered a preliminary MoU with Crypto.com to explore integrating Crypto.com Pay into its systems with a target launch in 2026.
• Dubai Duty Free signed its own MoU with Crypto.com to accept cryptocurrency payments at Dubai International Airport outlets.
• These agreements advance Dubai’s ambition to become a global crypto hub underpinned by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority and the DMCC free zone ecosystem.
• Emirates aims to tap into younger, tech-savvy travelers by offering flexible digital currency options alongside traditional payment methods.
• Regional competition is intensifying after Air Arabia adopted the UAE dirham-backed AE Coin stablecoin for flight bookings earlier this year.