đ Crypto.com Strikes Game-Changing Deal with Emirates & Dubai Duty Free â Web3 Takes Flight
Crypto.com just parked a private jet in the winner's circle. The exchange inked a landmark partnership with Emirates airline and Dubai Duty Freeâturning travel hubs into crypto gateways.
Why this burns brighter than a jet afterburner:
⢠First-ever MoU between a major airline and crypto platform
⢠Dubai Duty Freeâs 66M+ annual passengers get exposure to Web3
⢠Emiratesâ luxury clientele now primed for crypto onboarding
The cynical take: Nothing says "bullish" like getting tourists to trade memecoins between duty-free perfume purchases. But heyâif Dubaiâs betting its golden reputation on crypto, maybe the suits finally see the runway.
One thingâs clear: when traditional finance zigged with regulation crackdowns, Crypto.com zagged straight into the VIP lounge. Buckle up.

- Emirates, Dubai Duty Free, and Crypto.com signed a major MoU to integrate crypto payments for travelers.
- Dubai Duty Free plans to allow in-store and online purchases using cryptocurrencies.
- The deal aligns with Dubaiâs broader digital economy vision under the D33 Agenda.
Emirates Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum revealed that Emirates, Dubai Duty Free, and Crypto.com have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce digital payment systems for overseas travelers.
The strategic cooperation has been unveiled via Sheikh Ahmedâs official social media platform, announcing a new chapter in Dubaiâs journey towards hassle-free, smart commerce.
It aims to complement Dubaiâs D33 Agenda, which focuses on developing the city as a world-leading center for the digital economy and innovation. It also highlights the UAEâs renewed interest in integrating travel, retail, and fintech industries in one transformative vision.
Under this arrangement, customers of Dubai Duty Free will also be able to make payments in cryptocurrency in the near future. This includes both physical outlets at Dubai International Airport and the online duty-free store, affording travelers a convenient and sophisticated payment facility.
.@Emirates, @DubaiDutyFree, and @Cryptocom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enable digital payment solutions for travellers.
This partnership agreement represents a promising step towards our shared ambition to transform travel and commerce. By exploring advanced⌠pic.twitter.com/qS1WATKTWX
MoU Signing Brings Together Key Dubai Authorities
Emirates HQ witnessed the MoU signing ceremony. Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director, Dubai Duty Free, and Mohammed Al Hakim, President, UAE Operations, Crypto.com, were present. It was also attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, which speaks to the high-profile nature of the deal.
Crypto.comâs President and COO, Eric Anziani, and Middle East President Alain Yacine highlighted that this collaboration will enable the integration of cryptocurrency in everyday consumer interactions.
The launch follows a strong first-half retail performance by Dubai Duty Free, which recorded sales of AED 4.118 billion (USD 1.128 billion) during the first six months of the year. That was 5.34% better than the same month a year ago, a testimony to the popularity of the brand that continues to grow globally.
Crypto Integration Expands to Dubai Land Department
Crypto.comâs growth in Dubai isnât limited to travel and retail. Crypto.com has also inked a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
It proposes to create a digital investment climate for VIRTUAL real estate assets. It also covers the use of blockchain and digital currency in property deals and government fee collection.
It aligns with the Dubai governmentâs effort towards developing digital infrastructure and smart property via the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033. It targets achieving AED 1 trillion in real estate transactions by 2033 and targets high-value investors via smart, technology-led solutions.