Dubai Duty Free introduces cryptocurrency payments

Dubai Duty Free has enabled customers to pay for purchases using cryptocurrency, according to a statement from the Dubai government’s press office.

“Dubai Duty Free has officially launched Crypto.com Pay™, becoming the first airport retailer in the Middle East to introduce the regulated digital payment solution. Eligible customers can now use Crypto.com Pay™ when shopping at Dubai Duty Free both in Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA), as well as online at dubaidutyfree.com,” the statement said.

Dubai Duty Free customers can now make payments using cryptocurrency through Crypto.com Pay™, allowing eligible users to complete purchases both in stores and online via their Crypto.com accounts. The transactions are securely processed through Crypto.com's regulated payment infrastructure, with Dubai Duty Free receiving settlements in UAE Dirhams (AED).

The move represents the implementation of the strategic partnership announced between Dubai Duty Free and Crypto.com in July 2025, when the two organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore blockchain-based payment solutions and digital innovation opportunities across Dubai Duty Free’s operations.

The introduction of Crypto.com Pay™ adds to Dubai Duty Free’s expanding portfolio of digital payment options, including Apple Pay, Alipay and TerraPay. The initiative also supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy launched under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which targets 90% of financial transactions across public and private sectors being conducted through cashless methods by the end of 2026, further enhancing Dubai’s role as a global hub for technology, tourism and digital commerce.

By Jeyhun Aghazada