Emirates has rolled out a new crypto payment option for bookings on its website and app, but only UAE residents can use it. The airline accepts payments through Crypto.com Pay, allowing passengers to fund their tickets with crypto assets converted into Emirati dirhams (AED) before settlement.
How Crypto Payments Work with Emirates
When customers pay via Crypto.com Pay, the crypto tokens never reach Emirates directly. Instead, Crypto.com converts these tokens into dirhams or dirham-backed stablecoins regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE. This process operates under a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence held by Crypto.com’s UAE affiliate, Foris DAX Middle East FZE, which is currently the only virtual asset service provider licensed for such transactions within the country.
The checkout flow differs by device: mobile users must switch to the Crypto.com app to authorize the payment, while desktop users scan a QR code and confirm on their phone. Using a saved card on Crypto.com streamlines the process, requiring no extra steps.
With Emirates flying 53.2 million passengers in the last financial year across 152 cities in 80 countries, this new payment method covers just one currency and is accessible solely to residents in the UAE. This limitation is noteworthy given the airline’s global reach.
Why Most Travelers Won't Benefit
Despite Emirates being known for offering 14 different payment gateways prior to this launch, Crypto.com Pay is the 15th and the only one restricted by residency. The move seems at odds with Dubai Finance’s earlier ambitions to tap into international tourists as a major market for digital payments. Dubai attracted 18.7 million visitors in 2024, yet non-residents cannot use this crypto payment method.
The exclusive SVF license held by Crypto.com means any regulated virtual asset payment in the UAE must go through their platform, shutting out competitors and limiting accessibility for travelers outside the country.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice.
