Major Airlines Join the Crypto Movement
The United Arab Emirates is making strides in digital finance, as airlines and travel platforms start accepting cryptocurrency payments. This move gives travelers more freedom when booking flights and aligns with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global blockchain hub.
Emirates, the country’s flagship airline, recently entered into a preliminary agreement with Crypto.com. By 2026, customers will be able to pay for flights and onboard services using Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), and USD Coin (USDC). While these options aren’t available yet, the partnership represents a major step toward mainstream crypto adoption in aviation.
In contrast, Air Arabia is already ahead of the curve. The airline now accepts AE Coin—a stablecoin tied to the UAE dirham—for bookings across its regional routes. This makes it one of the first carriers in the Middle East to allow direct payments using digital assets.
Crypto-Friendly Travel Platforms Expand Options
In addition to airlines, travel booking sites are also helping bridge the gap between crypto and tourism. Platforms like Travala and Alternative Airlines are leading this charge:
- Travala lets users pay with various digital currencies including BTC, ETH, USDT, USDC, Binance Coin (BNB), and its native AVA token.
- Alternative Airlines supports over 650 global carriers and accepts a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Emirates and Etihad flights.
- Destinia, another travel portal, allows payments with BTC, ETH, and USDT for flights, hotels, and car rentals.
These platforms provide convenient options for crypto holders, whether they’re booking international vacations or quick regional getaways.
Stablecoins Offer Practical Advantages
Stablecoins like USDT and AE Coin reduce the risk of price swings, making them a safer choice for travel-related transactions. However, using volatile assets like BTC or ETH can be tricky, as their values may shift between booking and confirmation. Travelers are advised to save their blockchain transaction IDs and booking confirmations in case they need to request refunds or resolve issues.
Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) is creating a secure framework for these innovations, boosting confidence among consumers and companies. Experts believe crypto usage in the travel industry could soon extend to loyalty programs, visa services, and personalized tourism experiences built on blockchain.
As it stands, travelers can already use crypto to book flights with Air Arabia and through international platforms like Travala. Emirates is preparing to launch its crypto payment system by 2026. These efforts position the UAE as a leader in combining digital finance with travel innovation.
