Travelers will soon use crypto when paying at Dubai Duty Free, thanks to landmark agreements with Crypto.com. Emirates Airline is also enabling crypto payments for flights — a clear sign that digital currencies are going mainstream in Dubai’s travel and retail sectors.
Crypto Payments Coming to Airport Retail & Travel
Dubai Duty Free & Crypto.com MoU
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Dubai Duty Free exceeded AED 4.1 billion in sales in H1 2025.
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Signed a MoU with Crypto.com to explore crypto payment acceptance for in-store and online purchases.
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Aims to offer tourists more payment flexibility and align with global payment trends.
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Joint efforts include feasibility studies, integration plans, and marketing campaigns.
“This MoU underscores our commitment to innovation and to providing greater convenience and choice for our customers,” — Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director, Dubai Duty Free
Emirates Airline & Crypto.com Pay
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Emirates signed a similar MoU to add Crypto.com Pay as a payment option.
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Crypto payments will be available for flight tickets and onboard services.]
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Aligns with Dubai’s strategy to embrace future-ready tech and appeal to digital-native travelers.
“It reflects Emirates’ commitment to meeting evolving customer preferences while tapping a new generation of digitally fluent users.” — Adnan Kazim, Emirates CCO
Dubai’s Digital Payment Ecosystem Expands
These agreements build on Dubai’s expanding digital finance landscape:
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Dubai Land Department recently partnered with Crypto.com to explore blockchain for real estate tokenisation.
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The UAE government has already enabled digital currency payments for public services, including visa and municipality fees.
These initiatives support Dubai’s broader vision to lead global digital innovation and financial inclusion.
Crypto.com’s Growth & Regional Impact
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Eric Anziani, President & COO, Crypto.com, praised the MoUs as a huge step in mainstreaming crypto usage across travel and retail.
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The partnerships signal confidence in Dubai’s crypto-friendly ecosystem, which merges convenience with regulation and security.
What’s Next & Timeline
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No crypto payments yet — both entities are analyzing the technology, regulation, and integration pathways.
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Rollout is expected during the next 12 months, once feasibility and systems integration are finalized.
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Travelers can expect secure, fast, and seamless crypto payment options for shopping and travel.
Broader Significance
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Represents a major shift from niche digital currencies to practical everyday use.
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Positions Dubai as a global leader in crypto acceptance, setting new standards in travel retail.
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Encourages new tourist demographics, especially tech-savvy millennials.
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Complements Dubai’s blockchain-first agenda, reinforcing its role as a digital finance hub.
Final Thoughts
Soon, you’ll be able to use crypto when paying at Dubai Duty Free or flying on Emirates — a groundbreaking shift in travel and retail payments. These historic MoUs with Crypto.com highlight Dubai’s dedication to digital transformation and align with global trends in currency and commerce.
As the rollout progresses, both businesses are working to ensure regulated, secure, and convenient crypto payment experiences. For travelers and innovators alike, Dubai is redefining what mainstream digital transactions look like in 2025.
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