Emirates Airlines to Accept USDT and Major Cryptocurrencies by 2026 in Landmark Crypto Integration
Emirates Airlines is set to transform the travel industry by fully integrating cryptocurrency payments by 2026. Partnering with Crypto.com, the UAE carrier will allow passengers to use Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Cronos (CRO), and major stablecoins like USDT for bookings, upgrades, and duty-free purchases. This strategic move aligns with Dubai's vision to become a global leader in digital assets, further solidifying its position as a crypto hub. The initiative highlights the growing adoption of cryptocurrencies in mainstream commerce and travel, offering travelers unprecedented flexibility and convenience.
Fly Emirates, Pay in Bitcoin: Full Integration Set for 2026
Emirates Airlines is poised to revolutionize travel payments with a full cryptocurrency integration by 2026. The UAE carrier's partnership with Crypto.com will enable passengers to book flights, upgrades, and duty-free purchases using Bitcoin (BTC), ethereum (ETH), Cronos (CRO), and major stablecoins. This move aligns with Dubai's aggressive digital asset strategy, which has seen the emirate establish itself as a global crypto hub.
The initiative expands crypto utility beyond speculative trading into mainstream commerce. Air Arabia already accepts AE Coin for flight bookings, while platforms like Travala and Destinia offer blockchain-based travel services. Emirates' scale could accelerate merchant adoption—plans include supporting 30+ digital assets, bridging the gap between crypto and real-world transactions.
Is Ethereum Ready for RWA Tokenization? Industry Experts Share Big Take
Ethereum's suitability for real-world asset tokenization faces scrutiny as security vulnerabilities and infrastructure limitations come to light. Pro-crypto lawyer John Deaton highlighted concerns raised by Austin Campbell, an NYU Stern adjunct professor, regarding Ethereum's validator system and stablecoin risks.
The Bybit hack, which resulted in a $1.5 billion Ethereum theft, exposed critical weaknesses in the network's security framework. Campbell argues these flaws could hinder Ethereum's ability to manage large-scale tokenized asset issuance, particularly given the central role of stablecoins like USDC and USDT on the platform.
Private key vulnerabilities pose additional threats, with potential attackers gaining control over smart contracts. These challenges emerge as the tokenization market experiences rapid growth, placing Ethereum's readiness under intense examination.
Stablecoin Adoption Reshapes Local Economies
Stablecoins like USDT and USDC have evolved beyond trading tools into essential digital payment modes, transforming local economies globally. In 2025, their annual transaction volume surged to $27.6 trillion, surpassing traditional payment giants like Visa and Mastercard. Cross-border flows now dominate, accounting for 64% of remittances and payments.
High-inflation nations are leading the charge. Argentina’s stablecoin circulation hit $11 billion—over 3% of its M1 money supply. Nigeria recorded $24 billion in annual flows despite regulatory crackdowns, while Turkey’s stablecoin transfer volume reached $63 billion, representing 3.7% of GDP. These figures underscore a silent financial revolution.
The mechanism is straightforward: locals ditch volatile currencies for stablecoins via exchanges or peer-to-peer networks. Digital dollars then permeate daily life—paying rent, buying groceries, or securing wages. This informal dollarization operates entirely outside traditional banking, powered by apps and social media. As one Lagos trader put it, 'USDT is my savings account and paycheck combined.'
