Emirates strikes deal with Crypto.com to enable crypto payments from next year 

DUBAI: Emirates has signed a preliminary agreement with Crypto.com that will allow its customers to make payments using digital currencies, the airline’s parent company said on Wednesday. 

The partnership is expected to roll out next year and is aimed at attracting younger, tech-savvy travellers who prefer using cryptocurrencies. “We are constantly looking for ways to make the travel experience easier and more flexible for our customers,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer.

The United Arab Emirates has rapidly positioned itself as a key hub for crypto businesses. In recent years, it has welcomed global crypto firms and allowed digital currency payments for services such as property purchases, school fees, and transportation. 

Dubai established the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in 2022 to oversee the sector. Its Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), one of the city’s major free zones, now hosts more than 650 crypto-related companies. 

Other airlines have also begun accepting cryptocurrency payments in recent years. In the Gulf region, budget carrier Air Arabia has offered similar options. 

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