Air Arabia, the Emirati budget airline, has announced that it will begin accepting cryptocurrency payments for ticket bookings, marking a significant step towards integrating digital assets into mainstream travel.
The airline revealed the move on Wednesday, stating that the new payment option is the result of a partnership with Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), the UAE’s first digital bank. The collaboration will introduce a stablecoin-based system and enable payments via AE Coin through the bank’s dedicated application, the AEC Wallet.
When purchasing tickets online, passengers will now be able to select AEC Wallet as a payment option at checkout. The company said the system is designed to ensure price stability, enhanced security, and low transaction fees, addressing some of the concerns often associated with cryptocurrency payments.
Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia, said the airline remained committed to digital transformation across its operations. “This partnership will enhance customer experience through technology by giving them smart solutions that offer value, choice and flexibility,” he added.
The announcement comes at a time when Gulf carriers and real estate firms have shown growing interest in cryptocurrency adoption. Earlier this year, luxury property projects in Dubai confirmed they would accept Bitcoin for purchases, highlighting the UAE’s push towards a digital-first financial ecosystem.
Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank, described the partnership as part of a larger national vision. “Through this partnership, we are not only enhancing the booking process but also contributing to the UAE’s broader goal of creating a truly inclusive, digitally empowered financial ecosystem,” he said.
The initiative positions Air Arabia as one of the first low-cost airlines in the region to accept cryptocurrency payments directly. Analysts say the move could attract tech-savvy travelers and boost the airline’s appeal among younger customers who are more open to using digital assets.
Stablecoin integration is expected to play a critical role in managing the volatility associated with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. By using AE Coin, transactions are pegged to a stable value, offering passengers confidence in pricing while enabling faster, cheaper cross-border transfers.
The UAE has been working to establish itself as a global hub for blockchain innovation and cryptocurrency adoption. The Central Bank of the UAE has already outlined plans for a national digital currency, while several private banks and fintech companies have launched crypto-linked services.
Air Arabia, headquartered in Sharjah, operates flights to more than 170 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. With this new payment system, it aims to combine cost-efficiency with modern technology, further aligning itself with the country’s ambitions for a digital economy.
The airline has not disclosed the exact launch date for the cryptocurrency payment option but confirmed it will be rolled out in phases, starting with the AE Coin system through the AEC Wallet.
