Emirates and Dubai Duty Free Embrace Cryptocurrency in Push Toward Digital Finance Leadership
Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free are taking bold steps into the digital finance frontier by introducing cryptocurrency payments across their operations. Both UAE giants have signed strategic agreements with global digital asset platform Crypto.com, aiming to reshape the travel and retail experience for the next generation of global consumers.
Emirates to Accept Crypto for Flights and Services by 2026
Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, Emirates will integrate Crypto.com Pay into its booking platforms by 2026, enabling customers to purchase flights and other services using digital currencies.
“This strategic move is in line with Dubai’s vision to be at the forefront of financial innovation,” said Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer. “It reflects our commitment to flexibility and innovation—particularly for younger, tech-savvy travelers.”
The partnership also includes co-branded marketing initiatives and strict adherence to regulatory compliance frameworks to ensure secure and seamless transactions.
Dubai Duty Free Prepares for Retail Crypto Integration
In a parallel move, Dubai Duty Free has signed a separate agreement with Crypto.com to explore enabling cryptocurrency payments both in-store and online. The initiative will expand the retailer’s suite of digital payment solutions while offering enhanced convenience to international travelers.
“We believe that embracing digital currency payments is a forward-looking step that will add significant value for our diverse customer base,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free.
Crypto.com: “Real Momentum Boost” for Mainstream Adoption
Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, described the twin partnerships as “key milestones” in driving mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency within the travel and retail sectors. “This is a real momentum boost—not just for Crypto.com but for digital finance across the region,” he added.
Part of Dubai’s Larger Digital Finance Strategy
These moves align closely with Dubai’s strategic vision of becoming a global leader in blockchain and digital asset innovation. Both Emirates and Dubai Duty Free are early adopters of tech-driven financial solutions. Dubai Duty Free, in particular, has a track record of integrating platforms like Alipay and TerraPay, positioning itself at the forefront of digital retail.
The announcement comes amid a strong financial performance for Dubai Duty Free, which posted a turnover of $1.128 billion in the first half of 2025—a 5.34% year-on-year increase.
With the upcoming crypto payment rollouts, both Emirates and Dubai Duty Free are signaling a strong commitment to shaping the future of travel and commerce, embracing innovation not just as a buzzword, but as a core operational strategy.
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