- Emirates partners with Crypto.com to launch crypto payments for flights.
- Air Arabia adopts AE Coin, pegged to UAE dirham, for bookings.
- Travala and Alternative Airlines expand crypto travel options for UAE residents.
Air travel in the United Arab Emirates is moving closer to digital innovation as leading airlines embrace cryptocurrency payments. According to reports, Emirates Airlines and Air Arabia have begun shaping new payment options that allow passengers to book tickets and services using digital assets.
Emirates has become the first airline to collaborate with Crypto.com to allow cryptocurrency payments on its booking and in-flight services. This will be deployed in 2026 and will feature Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cronos (CRO), and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Crypto wallets will allow travelers to buy tickets, upgrade, and shop duty-free.
Air Arabia has taken another direction by embracing AE Coin, a stablecoin that will be pegged to the UAE dirham. This method offers a local and convenient choice to residents who are used to AED transactions. It also expands crypto-enabled travel to the airline’s wide network in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia.
Also Read: World Liberty Financial Expands Crypto Holdings Amid Market Dip
Booking Platforms Widen Crypto Choices
In addition to direct airline initiatives, global booking platforms are helping expand crypto payment options for UAE travelers. Travala, a platform popular among residents, supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, USDC, BNB, and its AVA token for flights, hotels, and experiences.
Alternative Airlines allows bookings with more than 650 carriers, including Emirates and Etihad, and supports payments with coins such as XRP, Litecoin, Cardano, and Dogecoin. Similarly, Destinia enables travelers to pay for flights, hotels, and rentals using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT.
Simple Process for Crypto Flight Payments
Third-party providers handle the payment process to ensure smooth transactions. At checkout, passengers select cryptocurrency as the payment option, link their digital wallet, confirm the transfer, and receive an electronic ticket instantly. Platforms like Travala also integrate with services such as Crypto.com Pay and Binance Pay.
UAE Travel Embraces Digital Assets
By enabling crypto payments in air travel, the UAE is reinforcing its position as a leader in digital adoption. The growing presence of crypto-friendly airlines and booking platforms provides travelers with more flexibility and reduces reliance on traditional financial systems.
Emirates and Air Arabia’s adoption of cryptocurrency highlights a major step toward integrating digital assets into aviation. Future developments may include loyalty programs built on blockchain, crypto-based visa solutions, and decentralized insurance, further strengthening the UAE’s role in crypto-powered travel.
Also Read: Trump Jr. Rumored to Buy XRP as Expert Predicts Surge in Institutional Adoption
