According to a press release dated July 09, 2025, Emirates has signed a memorandum of understanding with Crypto(dot)com to explore ways to integrate Crypto(dot)com pay within its system. 

The MOU was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airlines & Group, and Michael Doersam and a few other higher authorities.

Following this development, Adan Kazim said, “ Partnering with Crypto.com to integrate cryptocurrency into our digital payments system reflects Emirates’ commitment to meeting evolving customer preferences, in addition to tapping into younger, tech-savvy customer segments who prefer digital currencies. This strategic move is in line with Dubai’s vision to be at the forefront of financial innovation while at the same time providing our customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with the Emirate.” 

Along with exploring this payment option, Emirates and Crypto(dot)com plan to run marketing campaigns. This campaign will help boost awareness about using crypto for travel and encourage more people to try this new way of paying.

This partnership comes as Dubai continues to grow as a major hub for cryptocurrency. The city has built a strong system with smart rules to support innovations while keeping investors safe.

Dubai aiming a broader dominance as crypto hub

Dubai has strongly backed its motive to become a cryptocurrency hub globally, offering a clear and protected environment for digital assets and related products, making it ordinary compared to traditional nations.

The Emirates established the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority in 2022, the first independent regulator at a broader scale, providing clear regulations that balance innovation with investor protections.

Major exchanges like Binance, Crypto(dot)com, and Bybit with over 1,000 crypto firms applying for the license since the VARA laws were enacted.

The decided tax slabs for digital assets and related services have impressed both investors and companies, backing the sudden growth in the number of companies and users in the region.

On July 01, it was reported that a crypto miner has announced its plan to establish its workplace in Dubai, and has started hiring for the regional office 

Hut 8 Mining’s move seems to be supported by the strategic shift towards worldwide expansion and capital efficiency. Over the past few years UAE and Dubai have worked keenly to structure a favorable ecosystem for digital assets and other related services.