Emirates Airline has integrated a service for paying for flights in cryptocurrency

7/29/2026, 07:41 AMЕвгения Слив

Emirates Airline has officially launched the Crypto com Pay service, which allows customers to pay for flights using cryptocurrencies. This payment option has become available to residents of the United Arab Emirates through the carrier's official website and mobile application. Transactions are processed in the national currency, UAE dirhams (AED), which ensures stable settlements for both parties. The introduction of the new payment mechanism represents the practical implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed by the partners back in July 2025, and marks an important milestone in the integration of digital assets into the traditional passenger transportation sector.

Technical integration is carried out through the Dubai-based Crypto com division, which was the first among virtual asset service providers to receive a money storage license (SVF) from the UAE Central Bank. The mechanics of making payments vary depending on the device used: mobile users confirm transactions directly in the wallet application, while desktop clients scan QR codes to authorize the transfer. Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Commercial Director of Emirates, emphasized that this initiative reflects the rapidly changing preferences of a young, technologically savvy generation that actively manages finances through mobile devices.

As part of the development of the region's crypto infrastructure, regulators have set clear requirements for the issuance of digital assets. According to the current rules, all issuers of tokens are divided into three categories: stablecoins with fiat collateral and assets backed by physical resources require a license and retention of 100 percent of reserves; other virtual assets can be distributed through licensed distributors without the need for a separate license to issue; certain categories of non-transferable tokens and closed loyalty points are excluded from general regulation. This approach provides a balance between innovation and consumer protection in the emerging digital payments segment.

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The material has been prepared solely for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice or recommendation.

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