Emirates Partners with Crypto.com to Introduce Cryptocurrency Payments for Travel

Emirates Airline has entered into a strategic partnership with cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com to integrate digital currency payments into its services, addressing the increasing customer demand for digital asset options. The collaboration was announced on July 9, with both parties signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Dubai. The initiative will initially utilize Crypto.com Pay, enabling customers to use cryptocurrencies for flight bookings and other transactions. The signing ceremony was attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group, with the agreement signed by Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, and Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com’s UAE operations. Emirates highlighted that this move aligns with its digital transformation strategy and its objective to offer flexible payment solutions. The airline had previously expressed interest in cryptocurrency payments in 2022, following the UAE's introduction of crypto-friendly regulations. Adnan Kazim remarked on the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a legitimate payment method, particularly among tech-savvy travelers. Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, noted that this partnership signifies progress in expanding the practical applications of cryptocurrency payments, contributing to the growth of the digital asset sector. The service is anticipated to launch next year, pending internal preparations and regulatory approvals. Both entities plan to engage in promotional activities to foster awareness and adoption of this new payment option. Upon implementation, Emirates will stand among the pioneering international airlines to fully incorporate cryptocurrency into its payment systems.