Emirates Launches Crypto.com Payments for Eligible UAE Flight Bookings

Emirates has introduced Crypto.com Pay across its website and app, allowing eligible United Arab Emirates residents to book flights using cryptocurrency, the airline confirmed Tuesday.

How the Payment System Works

Mobile users are redirected to the Crypto.com app to approve payments directly from their crypto wallet, while desktop users complete transactions by scanning a QR code at checkout. Emirates settles all transactions in UAE dirhams rather than holding crypto itself, with Crypto.com managing the currency conversion process behind the scenes.

Airline Cites Shifting Customer Preferences

Emirates’ deputy president and chief commercial officer said the move reflects the habits of a younger, mobile-first generation that manages finances and travel planning primarily through smartphones. Neither company has confirmed whether the crypto payment option will expand beyond current UAE residents.

Built on Existing Regulatory Approval

The rollout follows a partnership first announced in mid-2025 and builds on Crypto.com’s UAE central bank license allowing it to operate as a Stored Value Facility. This license permits non-bank companies to hold customer funds or crypto in digital wallets and process payments under central bank supervision, letting customers pay with crypto while merchants receive dirhams or approved dirham-backed stablecoins.

Not the Region’s First Crypto Airline Payment Option

Emirates joins Air Arabia, which began accepting a dirham-backed stablecoin for flight payments back in mid-2025, marking continued momentum for crypto payment adoption within the region’s aviation sector.