DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
Emirates airline has taken a significant step toward embracing cryptocurrency by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Crypto.com. The agreement sets the stage for the potential integration of Crypto.com Pay into Emirates’ payment systems, with implementation expected next year. The collaboration aims to uphold the highest standards of security and compliance.
The MoU was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and Michael Doersam, Emirates’ Chief Financial & Group Services Officer. The agreement was formalised by Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, and Mohammed Al Hakim, President of Crypto.com’s UAE operations.
Adnan Kazim stated: “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 Emirates.”
Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, added: “We’re delighted to complete the signing of this important MoU with Emirates Airline. As we continue to expand the everyday use case for crypto, integration with exceptional partners such as Emirates will bring real momentum to the digital asset industry and enable both companies to offer genuine innovative finance solutions for our customers. We look forward to working together as we continue to build our crypto offering in the GCC.”
Beyond payment integration, Emirates and Crypto.com also plan to collaborate on promotional marketing campaigns aimed at boosting awareness and adoption of the new digital payment solution.
This latest move by Emirates aligns with Dubai’s positioning as a leading global hub for cryptocurrencies, supported by a robust ecosystem and a progressive regulatory framework designed to foster innovation while safeguarding investor interests and financial stability. Several companies across the emirate—from real estate developers to telecom giants—have already begun accepting cryptocurrency payments.