How to Pay for Flights with Crypto in the UAE: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Key takeaways

• Airlines and travel agencies, including Emirates, Air Arabia, Travala and Alternative Airlines, now support cryptocurrency payments for bookings, targeting tech-savvy travelers and digital nomads.

• Travelers can pay with Bitcoin, Ether, stablecoins and other digital assets via checkout or gift cards, depending on the platform.

• The UAE’s initiatives, such as Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), could help expand crypto-powered services like flight tickets and loyalty programs.

• Travelers should monitor exchange rates, choose regulated platforms and maintain transaction records for a smooth booking experience.

The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a torchbearer in cryptocurrency adoption, with travel being the latest sector to embrace this trend. In July 2025, Emirates signed an agreement with Crypto.com to allow passengers to pay for flights and in-flight purchases using cryptocurrencies. 

The move reflects the UAE’s efforts to attract tech-savvy tourists, digital nomads and residents who value secure and flexible payment options. As more travelers choose to pay with digital currencies, integration of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH) Tether USDt (USDT) and more. 

This article briefs you about platforms enabling you to purchase crypto flight bookings. It explains the step-by-step process to make these bookings and provides tips for making an optimum deal.

Platforms in the UAE that accept flight bookings

The UAE has set up an advanced financial ecosystem with regulations supporting crypto. The aviation and travel industries are also part of this trend, and you can book flights with cryptocurrency with several airlines and travel agencies.

Here is a review of key platforms and agencies accepting cryptocurrencies with flight bookings, comparing their fees, supported digital currencies and overall user experience.

Emirates Airlines

• Overview: Emirates, the UAE’s flagship airline, has collaborated with Crypto.com to enable cryptocurrency payments through Crypto.com Pay, scheduled to launch in 2026.

• Supported cryptocurrencies: BTC, ETH, Cronos (CRO) and stablecoins like USDT and USDC (USDC), with plans to support over 30 currencies.

• Availability: Payments will cover flights and extra services across Emirates’ routes, such as upgrades and duty-free items.

Air Arabia

• Overview: Air Arabia, a Dubai-listed budget airline, accepts AE Coin, a dirham-backed stablecoin, for bookings. Using one stablecoin simplifies payments…