Bhutan is revolutionizing global tourism with Binance Pay: Complete guide to the first national crypto payment system
Bhutan has just written a new chapter in the history of cryptocurrencies by becoming the first country in the world to adopt a payment system entirely based on cryptocurrencies for its tourism sector. Launched in May 2025, this revolutionary partnership between the Royal Government of Bhutan, Binance Pay, and DK Bank transforms the way tourists can travel and pay in this Himalayan kingdom.
A world first
Bhutan officially launched on May 7, 2025, what is presented as the 'first national crypto payment system for tourism.' This ambitious initiative allows visitors to pay for their entire trip to Bhutan in cryptocurrencies: airfare, accommodation, visas, and even local purchases.
The actors of the partnership
The Royal Government of Bhutan: A pioneer in the adoption of cryptocurrencies, Bhutan already holds significant reserves in Bitcoin (approximately $900 million) and has added Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Coin to its national reserves.
Binance Pay: Binance's cryptocurrency payment service, enabling instant and secure transactions.
DK Bank: Local banking partner facilitating the integration of the system into the Bhutanese economy.
What is Binance Pay?
Binance Pay is a cryptocurrency payment service developed by Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange platform. Launched in 2021, this service enables instant and fee-free payments between users of the Binance ecosystem.
Accepted cryptocurrencies
#BinancePay supports many popular cryptocurrencies, including:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Binance Coin (BNB)
- USD Coin (USDC)
- Tether (USDT)
- And many other major tokens
How to use BinancePay: Practical guide
Step 1: Account setup
1. Create a Binance account: Sign up on the Binance platform and complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification
2. Download the mobile app: Binance Pay mainly works through the Binance mobile app
3. Activate Binance Pay: Access the 'Pay' section in the app and activate the service
Step 2: Fund your wallet
1. Deposit cryptocurrencies: Transfer crypto from your external wallet or buy directly on Binance
2. Convert if necessary: Make sure you have the cryptocurrencies accepted by the merchant
Step 3: Make a payment
Method 1: Scan QR Code
1. Open the Binance app
2. Select 'Pay' then 'Scan to Pay'
3. Scan the merchant's QR code
4. Confirm the amount and cryptocurrency
5. Validate the transaction
Method 2: Direct payment
1. Select 'Send' in Binance Pay
2. Enter the recipient's Binance Pay ID
3. Enter the amount
4. Confirm the transaction
Step 4: Confirmation
The transaction is usually confirmed in a few seconds, and you receive a confirmation notification.
The benefits of Binance Pay
For users
Speed: Transactions are almost instantaneous, unlike traditional bank transfers which can take several days.
Reduced fees: Binance Pay offers fee-free transactions between users of the Binance ecosystem, representing significant savings compared to international banking fees.
Security: Transactions are secured by blockchain and advanced security protocols from Binance.
Simplicity: Intuitive interface that does not require in-depth technical knowledge of cryptocurrencies.
International accessibility: Allows payments worldwide without worrying about traditional exchange rates.
For merchants
Cost reduction: Elimination of credit card processing fees and international transfer fees.
Widening customer base: Access to a global base of cryptocurrency users.
Instant settlement: Immediate receipt of payments without bank processing delays.
Fraud protection: Blockchain transactions are irreversible and secure.
Impact on tourism in #Bhoutan
Democratization of access
This system revolutionizes access to Bhutanese tourism. Even the most isolated businesses in the country can now accept international payments with a simple smartphone, breaking geographical and infrastructural barriers.
Attracting a new clientele
Bhutan is now attracting a tech-savvy clientele passionate about cryptocurrencies, thus diversifying its traditional tourism offering focused on luxury and sustainable tourism.
Innovation and modernization
This initiative positions Bhutan as a technological leader in the region, enhancing its appeal as a cutting-edge destination.
Challenges and considerations
Volatility of cryptocurrencies
The main concern remains the volatility of cryptocurrencies, which can affect the value of transactions between the time of payment and conversion.
Education and adoption
It remains necessary to educate local merchants and tourists on the use of these new technologies.
Technical infrastructure
Although the system is designed to work with a simple smartphone, the quality of the internet connection remains a crucial factor.
Future perspectives
Potential expansion
This model could inspire other countries to adopt similar systems, creating a global crypto tourism ecosystem.
Integration with other services
Bhutan could extend this system to other sectors of its economy, creating a true national digital economy.
Continuous innovation
The partnership with Binance paves the way for new innovations, such as the integration of tourist NFTs or loyalty programs based on #Blockchain
The partnership between Bhutan and #BinancePay marks a historic turning point in the national adoption of cryptocurrencies. By enabling a fully cryptocurrency-paid journey, this small Himalayan kingdom demonstrates that technological innovation can radically transform an economy, even in the most remote regions of the world.
For crypto-enthusiast travelers, #Bhoutan now offers a unique experience: discovering a preserved country while using the most advanced financial technologies. This initiative perfectly illustrates how cryptocurrencies can go beyond mere investment status to become real everyday payment tools.
With #BinancePay, making payments in cryptocurrencies becomes as simple as sending a message, paving the way for a new era of digital tourism. #Bhoutan , as a pioneer of this revolution, proves that the future of decentralized finance is already a reality.