Emirates Airline to Accept Crypto for Ticket Payments Soon

Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Crypto.com to enable cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings and services. Expected to go live in 2026, this groundbreaking move aims to reach younger, tech-savvy travelers and build on Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for financial innovation

• Integration of Crypto.com Pay as a payment method on Emirates' digital booking platforms

• Commitment to high levels of security and compliance under Emirates' internal policies

• Collaborative promotional marketing to build awareness and encourage adoption

• Tentative start date: sometime in 2026; exact date depends on regulatory and technical readiness

• Meeting customer expectations: As Adnan Kazim, Emirates Deputy President & CCO, says, this move responds to the preferences of “younger, tech-savvy customer segments”

• Alignment with Dubai’s digital vision: UAE regulators like VARA and the DMCC free zone bolster the region's image as a forward-thinking crypto hub

• Builds on earlier UAE crypto adoptions in sectors like real estate, telecom, and public services, including Dubai Duty Free

• Pioneer move: With global reach, Emirates would be the first major international airline to directly accept crypto, joining earlier adopters like AirBaltic and Peach Aviation

• Industry precedent: Alternative Airlines allows payments in over 100 cryptocurrencies, and now Emirates could follow suit with mainstream appeal

• Crypto.com Pay integration: Customers choose the crypto option at checkout.

• Supported currencies: Likely includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and CRO token 

• Instant conversion: Payments are converted to AED immediately to avoid volatility. Emirates won’t hold crypto on its balance sheet 

• Security & compliance: Strict KYC/AML controls will follow UAE and global regulations.

• Regulatory alignment: Approval is required in all destinations Emirates operates in, not just the UAE.

• Exchange rate transparency: Real-time conversion must remain clear to users.

• User experience: Must educate customers unfamiliar with crypto checkout processes.

• Security risks: Emirates and Crypto.com must safeguard multiple layers, including wallets, payments, and user data.

• Diverse crypto applications: Payments in real estate, schools, and even govt fees via Crypto.com–Dubai Finance MoU 

• Dubai Duty Free is also preparing for crypto payments

• The city envisions 90% cashless usage by 2026, capturing new travel and tourism revenue channels

• Crypto normalization: Expands crypto beyond niche uses to everyday travel

• Market boost: Crypto.com gains credibility through high-profile adoption

• Tourism draw: Crypto-friendly payment adds appeal for tech-savvy tourists

• Precedent setting: If successful, this may lead to wider acceptance in hospitality, transport, and leisure

Emirates is set to become the first major global airline to allow crypto payments via Crypto.com Pay starting in 2026, pending regulatory and technical setup. This innovative step aligns with Dubai’s digital aspirations and meets the expectations of digital-native travelers. While regulatory and UX hurdles remain, successful execution could reshape mainstream travel payments and accelerate global crypto adoption.