Emirates launches Crypto.com Pay for UAE flight bookings

Emirates has launched a new payment option allowing eligible residents of the United Arab Emirates to book flights using cryptocurrency. The service, activated on July 28, 2026, integrates Crypto.com Pay into the airline's website and mobile app, though it is currently restricted to bookings priced and settled in UAE dirhams.

The rollout fulfills a partnership announced in July 2025, when Emirates and Crypto.com signed a memorandum of understanding to explore adding the payment service. Adnan Kazim, Emirates Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the integration expands customer choice and responds to travelers who manage their finances digitally. He noted that moving from agreement to a live product in under a year reflected the work of both companies and the UAE's regulatory environment.

To use the service, customers must have an active Crypto.com account. The checkout process differs by device. Mobile users in the Emirates App are redirected to the Crypto.com app to approve the payment from their wallet before returning for their booking confirmation. Desktop users on emirates.com select Crypto.com Pay, scan a displayed QR code with the Crypto.com app, and...