Emirates has officially launched cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings, allowing eligible customers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to purchase tickets using digital assets through Crypto.com Pay.
The new payment option is available on both the Emirates website and Emirates mobile app, marking the rollout of a partnership first announced in July 2025 between the airline and Crypto.com.
Crypto Payments Available for UAE Customers
The service is currently available to eligible UAE residents who hold a Crypto.com account.
Customers booking flights priced and settled in United Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED) can now choose Crypto.com Pay during checkout, enabling them to pay directly with supported cryptocurrencies from their Crypto.com wallet.
How the Payment Process Works
When booking through the Emirates website or mobile application, customers simply select Crypto.com Pay as their preferred payment method.
On the mobile app, users are redirected to the Crypto.com application to approve the transaction. Website users are presented with a QR code, which can be scanned using the Crypto.com app before confirming the payment.
Once the transaction is authorised, customers are automatically redirected to Emirates, where their booking confirmation and electronic ticket are issued immediately.
Expanding Digital Payment Options
According to Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, the new payment option reflects the airline’s commitment to offering customers greater flexibility while meeting the expectations of digitally connected travellers.
He said the rapid rollout of the partnership demonstrates both organisations’ ability to innovate quickly within the UAE’s supportive regulatory environment, while aligning with Dubai’s ambition to become a global leader in fintech and digital commerce.
Crypto.com Highlights Strategic Partnership
Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com, described the collaboration as an important milestone for the company’s payment platform.
He said the partnership showcases the UAE’s forward-looking approach to financial innovation and reflects growing demand for seamless digital payment experiences across major industries, including aviation.
Supporting Dubai’s Cashless Economy
The payment integration is powered by Crypto.com’s Dubai entity, which became the first Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) to receive a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence from the Central Bank of the UAE.
Emirates said the initiative also supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy, part of the D33 Economic Agenda, which aims for 90% of financial transactions across both the public and private sectors to be conducted digitally by the end of 2026.
The launch further strengthens Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most crypto-friendly jurisdictions while accelerating the adoption of digital assets in mainstream consumer services.
