tl;dr
Dubai-based airline Emirates has signed a memorandum of understanding with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency payment options into its systems, with an official launch planned for next year. This move targets tech-savvy customers and follows Emirates’ earlier intention to accept Bitcoin. The par...
Dubai-based airline Emirates has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Crypto.com to explore integrating the exchange’s cryptocurrency payment functionality into the airline’s payment systems. This feature is slated for official launch next year, marking a significant step towards adopting digital currencies in mainstream travel transactions.
Emirates had already hinted at plans to accept Bitcoin payments back in 2022, signaling its strategic focus on appealing to younger, tech-savvy customers who favor digital currencies. According to Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, this partnership aligns with the airline’s commitment to evolving customer preferences and innovation in payment options.
While specific details remain under wraps—including which crypto tokens will be accepted and the particular goods or services eligible for payment—the move leverages Crypto.com Pay’s technology. This system supports over 20 settlement options, including major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, alongside traditional fiat currencies such as USD and EUR. Currently, more than 4,000 merchants worldwide use Crypto.com Pay for transactions.
Eric Anziani, Crypto.com President and COO, emphasized that collaborating with a high-profile partner like Emirates could accelerate the digital asset industry’s momentum. The cooperation will include promotional campaigns aimed at boosting awareness of the new crypto payment option among consumers.
This initiative complements Crypto.com’s recent agreement with Dubai Finance to enable cryptocurrency payments for government fees, part of Dubai’s broader cashless strategy launched in October. Together, these partnerships highlight Dubai’s ambitious trajectory toward integrating cryptocurrency into everyday financial activities.