💥Emirates will accept Bitcoin payments by 2026.💥
Emirates has announced a new project that allows passengers to pay for flights, upgrades, duty-free merchandise, and other onboard services with bitcoin. The airline now accepts Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Cronos (CRO), and stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), with aspirations to extend to over 30 cryptocurrencies. This move demonstrates the growing importance of digital assets in everyday interactions.
Other Emirates Airlines Supporting Crypto
Air Arabia, a Dubai-listed budget carrier, accepts AE Coin, a dirham-backed stablecoin, for tickets on its Middle East, North Africa, and Asia routes.
Travala is a blockchain-based worldwide travel booking platform that accepts a variety of cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, Binance Coin (BNB), and its own AVA token, for flights and hotels.
Destinia is an international travel firm that accepts cryptocurrency payments for flights, hotels, and vehicle rentals in the UAE.
Alternative Airlines is a global online travel service that has worked with over 650 airlines, including Emirates and Etihad. It accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Litecoin, Cardano, Dogecoin, USDT, and other cryptocurrencies.
UAE's Push Towards Global Crypto Leadership
The UAE is establishing itself as a global powerhouse for digital finance. With a robust regulatory framework, the country has implemented licensing frameworks, AML/KYC compliance measures, consumer protection standards, and adherence to FATF principles. These initiatives are intended to increase openness, attract investment, and foster stability in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Adnan Kazim, the Chief Commercial Officer at Emirates, emphasized:
Emirates is integrating crypto payments through Crypto.com to meet customer demand, attract younger digital-savvy travelers, and support Dubai’s goal of becoming a leader in financial innovation while giving passengers more payment flexibility.