Emirates Airline to accept crypto payments from 2026
The partnership aims to provide more payment flexibility and attract younger, tech-savvy travellers.
Emirates Airlines will begin accepting cryptocurrency payments from 2026, following a new agreement with Crypto.com. The partnership was formalised through a memorandum of understanding, with Crypto.com Pay set to become one of the airline’s official payment options.
Emirates Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Crypto.com’s UAE President Mohammed Al Hakim signed the agreement. Emirates said the move aims to offer greater flexibility to travellers and appeal to younger, tech-savvy customers who prefer digital currencies.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President, stated that the integration reflects customer demand and Dubai’s ambition to lead financial innovation. Crypto.com also noted the partnership would support broader adoption of digital assets in the region and provide real momentum to the industry.
Beyond technical integration, both companies plan joint marketing efforts to raise awareness and promote using crypto as a payment method.
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