Emirates Collaborates with Crypto.com to Investigate Cryptocurrency Payment Incorporation
In a significant move towards digital finance, Emirates Airlines has announced a partnership with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency payments into its digital payment systems, starting in 2026. This partnership, which was signed in the presence of Emirates Group Chairman His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, aims to provide customers with flexible, secure, and innovative payment options while supporting Dubai’s vision as a global leader in financial innovation.
The integration will be rolled out in phases, with the full integration expected to take effect next year. Customers will be able to pay for flights and services using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Crypto.com's native token (CRO), among others. At the point of transaction, cryptocurrency payments will be converted to UAE Dirhams (AED), ensuring compliance and simplicity in the airline's backend financial systems.
This partnership reflects Emirates’ strategy to cater to younger, tech-savvy travelers who prefer using digital currencies. It also aligns with Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in financial innovation, positioning Emirates as one of the largest airlines accepting cryptocurrencies for payment, joining a growing list of airlines embracing crypto.
Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, stated that the partnership adds momentum to real-world crypto use cases and helps expand the digital asset ecosystem in the region. Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, described the move as part of the airline's broader commitment to flexibility, innovation, and supporting Dubai's ambition to lead in the global digital finance space.
The partnership between Emirates and Crypto.com will involve joint marketing campaigns to promote the new cryptocurrency payment option. These marketing efforts are expected to contribute to the real-world use cases of cryptocurrencies and increase merchant adoption of digital currencies across sectors in Dubai.
In summary, Emirates plans a carefully phased integration of cryptocurrency payments via Crypto.com Pay starting in 2026, aiming to provide customers with flexible, secure, and innovative payment options while supporting Dubai’s vision as a financial innovation hub. This partnership is a testament to Emirates' commitment to innovation and its alignment with Dubai's growing status as a global crypto hub.
The Emirates-Crypto.com partnership is an exemplary step towards financial innovation, integrating cryptocurrency payments into Emirates' digital payment systems to cater to tech-savvy customers. This innovative integration will leverage technology to offer flexible, secure payment options, aligning with Dubai's ambition to lead globally in digital finance and cryptocurrency adoption.
