The United Arab Emirates is implementing policies that allow the purchase of airline tickets with cryptocurrencies. A number of airlines in the UAE began accepting cryptocurrency as a means of payment back in 2025.
The largest airlines are collaborating with companies in the cryptocurrency world as well as with blockchain companies to facilitate the sale of tickets, upgrades, and a few in-flight purchases.
The goal is to attract tech-savvy tourists and digital nomads by simplifying cross-border payments. The plan moves forward through industry deals and a new regulatory agreement that took effect on August 15, 2025.
What airlines are doing?
Emirates announced a partnership with Crypto.com to build a crypto payment system, which is due to launch in 2026. It will initially accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins such as USDT and USDC. Officials expect it to grow to support more than 30 digital currencies.
Also Read: Abu Dhabi Becomes First City in UAE to Enable Taxi Fare Payments Using AED-Pegged Stablecoin
Air Arabia has already started taking AE Coin, which is a stablecoin tied to the UAE dirham. The carrier says the option should make booking easier for passengers who prefer using the dirham-backed token.
Passengers will be able to purchase crypto at checkout, and they can use it to pay for tickets, choose seats, and buy food on board where the system is enabled. Payments will move through third-party platforms like Crypto.com and Travala, which act as bridges between crypto wallets and airline systems.
The airports and airlines will still require standard identity checks and travel documents. Crypto will only replace the payment step. Booking details, refunds and change policies will follow the usual airline rules.
Regulatory steps and cooperation
Regulators are moving to give the sector clearer rules, and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, or VARA, has been named as a key player in shaping how digital asset payments are used in travel services. The UAE has also pushed for more unified oversight.
The Securities and Commodities Authority and Dubai Municipality turned an earlier memorandum of understanding from September 2024 into a binding operational agreement.
That change aims to make it easier for public bodies to work together on licensing, consumer protection and logistics matters tied to virtual assets.
Why the shift matters?
Using crypto for travel payments could cut friction. Tourists who hold digital currency no longer need to convert funds at exchange counters.
For some travellers, this saves time and fees. The acceptance of AE Coin may be especially useful for locals and residents who already use the digital dirham.
Business groups and travel operators have welcomed the move and stated it can attract new visitors and give existing passengers more choice. Some consumer advocates want stronger safeguards. They want rules that spell out liability if a payment fails or a token loses value between purchase and travel.