Emirates and Dubai Duty Free explore cryptocurrency payment option

In a major step toward digital innovation, Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free have signed separate Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with global cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com, aiming to explore the integration of crypto payments into their systems.

The agreements underscore Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for financial innovation and digital assets.

They were signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman & Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Duty Free.

Emirates plans to integrate Crypto.com Pay into its payment systems by next year, offering customers more flexibility and aligning with the preferences of younger, tech-savvy travellers.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the move reflects the airline’s commitment to evolving customer needs and supports Dubai’s vision of becoming a leader in financial innovation.

Dubai Duty Free, meanwhile, is exploring crypto payment options both in-store and online.

Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi highlighted the initiative as a forward-looking step to enhance convenience and choice for millions of global travellers.

The partnership also includes plans for joint marketing campaigns and customer engagement programmes.

Crypto.com’s President and COO, Eric Anziani, welcomed both agreements, calling them milestones in expanding real-world use cases for digital currencies in the region.

The company’s UAE President, Mohammed Al Hakim, and Middle East President, Alain Yacine, emphasized the strategic importance of these partnerships in building a robust crypto ecosystem in the GCC.

These developments come as Dubai continues to position itself at the forefront of digital transformation, supported by a strong regulatory framework and a growing number of businesses embracing cryptocurrency.

In the presence of Ahmed bin Saeed, Emirates signs a MoU with https://t.co/HZnta4oQ7D to explore ways to integrate https://t.co/HZnta4oQ7D Pay within its payments systems, while maintaining the highest security and compliance standards. Integration is expected to take effect next… pic.twitter.com/U1QDneAunj

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 9, 2025

In the presence of Ahmed bin Saeed, Dubai Duty Free signs a MoU with https://t.co/HZnta4oQ7D to explore enabling crypto payment and developing collaborative initiatives. pic.twitter.com/tnq8EmhTd7

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 9, 2025