Emirates Airlines Partners with Crypto.com for Cryptocurrency Payments
Emirates Airline has entered into a partnership with global digital assets platform Crypto.com to accept digital asset payments from its customers, including Bitcoin. This initiative marks a significant step in the airline’s digital payment modernization efforts and aims to attract younger, tech-savvy travelers.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the companies plan to integrate Crypto.com Pay into Emirates’ booking and payment systems by 2026. The deal was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group.
Key Stakeholders
Key signatories to the agreement included Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, and Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com’s UAE operations.
Integration Plan
Emirates stated that this initiative is part of its broader strategy to adapt to evolving customer preferences and remain competitive in digital innovation. Kazim emphasized that integrating cryptocurrency into the airline’s digital payment system reflects this commitment.
“Partnering with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency into our digital payments system reflects Emirates’ commitment to meeting evolving customer preferences,” said Adnan Kazim.
He further noted that the initiative is specifically aimed at “tapping into younger, tech-savvy customer segments who prefer digital currencies.”
Implementation Details
Customers will be able to use digital assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) to pay for flights. The rollout is planned in phases, starting with select markets or routes before expanding globally.
A Crypto.com spokesperson confirmed that the initial rollout is scheduled for Q4 2025, with technical setup, compliance processes, and customer experience improvements underway.
Crypto.com Pay supports over 20 settlement options, including numerous digital assets and fiat currencies such as USD and EUR.
“This strategic move is in line with Dubai’s vision to be at the forefront of financial innovation,” Kazim added. “At the same time, providing our customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates.”
Emirates’ Stance on Digital Assets
Emirates will not hold any digital assets. Instead, all digital asset payments will be converted to UAE dirhams (AED) in real-time, ensuring the airline avoids currency volatility and remains compliant with financial regulations.
Context: Dubai’s Digital Ambition
This development aligns with Dubai’s broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for digital assets and blockchain technology. The emirate has cultivated a business-friendly regulatory environment for such companies.
In 2023, Crypto.com partnered with Dubai’s Department of Finance to enable residents to pay for services using digital assets, supporting the city’s “cashless strategy.”
Over 600 digital asset companies are currently operating in Dubai, and sectors including real estate and telecom are increasingly accepting digital currency payments.
Potential Impact on the Aviation Industry
If fully implemented, Emirates could become one of the first major international airlines to accept Bitcoin. While some smaller carriers have previously tested cryptocurrency payments, Emirates’ participation may significantly influence the industry.
Details regarding which specific Emirates services will accept Bitcoin—such as seat upgrades or baggage fees—have not yet been announced. Both companies anticipate launching promotional campaigns to encourage adoption once the system is live.
