Dubai Embraces Crypto: Emirates and Dubai Duty Free to Accept Digital Currency Payments from 2026

Flagship airline Emirates and Dubai Duty Free partner with Crypto.com to roll out crypto payment options for flights and shopping, marking a bold step in Dubai’s digital finance journey

Dubai: Travellers Can Soon Fly and Shop with Cryptocurrency
In a groundbreaking move that aligns with Dubai’s vision to become a global leader in digital finance, Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free have announced strategic partnerships with Crypto.com, setting the stage for cryptocurrency payments across travel and retail sectors starting in 2026.

The integration will allow passengers to purchase Emirates flight tickets and shop at Dubai Duty Free using popular digital currencies. This initiative not only caters to evolving customer preferences but also targets younger, tech-savvy travelers who favor decentralized finance tools.

“Partnering with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency into our digital payments system reflects Emirates’ commitment to meeting evolving customer preferences,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer. “This move offers our passengers greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates.”

Crypto.com President and COO Eric Anziani echoed the sentiment, adding:

“Integration with exceptional partners like Emirates brings real momentum to the digital asset industry. It also allows both companies to deliver innovative finance solutions to customers across the region.”

A Wider Rollout Across Retail

Simultaneously, Dubai Duty Free has also signed an agreement with Crypto.com, enabling crypto payment options for both in-store and online purchases. This move reinforces Dubai Duty Free’s position as a forward-thinking retail hub for global travelers.

“As a global hub welcoming millions of travellers, Dubai Duty Free continually seeks to enhance the retail experience,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free. “Embracing digital currency payments is a forward-looking step that supports our vision for sustained growth.”

The agreement includes plans for joint marketing campaigns, customer engagement initiatives, and a push to increase awareness around crypto-based transactions.

Leadership and Vision

The announcement took place in the presence of key figures including Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, Michael Doersam, Emirates’ Chief Financial & Group Services Officer, and Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com UAE.

Dubai’s strategic embrace of digital currencies is already visible in its real estate sector, with numerous developers now accepting cryptocurrency payments. This broader shift is transforming the emirate into a thriving digital finance hub, welcoming the future of payments.

As Dubai continues to innovate and invest in blockchain and fintech infrastructure, the integration of crypto payments in major industries like aviation and retail signals a new era of convenience, transparency, and global leadership in the financial space.