In a strategic leap toward digital modernisation, Dubai’s flagship carrier, Emirates Airlines, is preparing to accept Bitcoin for flight reservations, under a new pact with Crypto.com scheduled for rollout early next year. The preliminary agreement, announced by Emirates’ parent company, aims squarely at tech-savvy and younger travellers inclined to use cryptocurrencies, according to Adnan Kazim, the airline’s Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer
This bold initiative comes as part of a broader drive across the United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, to become a leading hub for virtual asset adoption. Since the establishment of VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) in 2022, Dubai’s DMCC free zone has attracted more than 650 crypto-focused firms
Emirate’s pioneering step also mirrors regional trends, with Gulf counterparts like Air Arabia already accepting UAE-dirham backed stablecoins for bookings
By enabling Bitcoin as a payment option, Emirates is positioning itself at the cutting edge of travel commerce, hoping to boost its appeal among global travellers who favour speed, security, and innovation. The move highlights not only the airline’s ambition but also the UAE’s steady march toward a fully digital economy.
