In a significant push towards digital innovation, Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free have signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with global digital asset platform Crypto.com to explore cryptocurrency payment solutions for travelers.
The agreements mark a significant step in Dubai’s broader strategy to integrate emerging technologies into the consumer finance ecosystem. Both entities will assess the feasibility of accepting crypto for ticket bookings, retail purchases, and other services, aiming to provide customers with more flexible and modern payment options.
Duty Free Sales Soar Past $1.12 Billion.
Dubai Duty Free, which registered $1.12 billion in sales in H1 2025, is expected to test crypto payments for both in-store and online purchases as part of the initiative.
“We are constantly seeking ways to innovate and enhance convenience for our customers,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free. “This partnership reflects our commitment to embracing future-facing technologies.”
Crypto.com Pay to Be Integrated by Emirates
Emirates Airline, meanwhile, is planning to integrate Crypto.com Pay into its booking platform by next year. This would enable passengers to pay for flight tickets, ancillary services, and upgrades using popular cryptocurrencies.
The collaboration will also include joint marketing campaigns to promote digital payments and explore new revenue streams tied to blockchain and digital asset usage.
Dubai’s Continued Crypto Ambitions
The move aligns with Dubai’s broader digital economy vision, which includes positioning itself as a global hub for Web3, blockchain, and crypto innovation. The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has already laid regulatory groundwork to support secure and compliant crypto operations in the region.
Crypto.com has been actively expanding its presence in the UAE, including obtaining regulatory licenses and launching regional initiatives aimed at promoting mainstream crypto adoption.
As Dubai’s tourism and retail sectors continue to rebound, integrating cryptocurrency could offer international travelers and tech-savvy consumers greater payment flexibility while reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a forward-looking global hub.
