Dubai Duty Free has launched a regulated cryptocurrency payment system across its airport locations and e-commerce platform, marking a regional first for airport retail.
The rollout enables eligible shoppers to complete purchases using Crypto.com Pay at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA), and through the official Dubai Duty Free website. The initiative builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the travel retailer and Crypto.com in July 2025.
Under the setup, shoppers authorise payments from their Crypto.com mobile app by scanning a point-of-sale QR code in-store or selecting the option during digital checkout. Dubai Duty Free receives instant transaction settlements in UAE Dirhams, protecting the retailer from cryptocurrency price fluctuations while using Crypto.com's Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence issued by the Central Bank of the UAE.
The integration directly supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to transition 90% of all public and private financial transactions to digital channels by the end of 2026.
The service simplifies airport shopping by removing the step of converting crypto into fiat currency prior to travel. Residents can now purchase electronics, cosmetics, and duty-free goods directly from their crypto balances with immediate AED verification at the till. The integration adds to existing digital payment channels at Dubai Duty Free, including Apple Pay, Alipay, and TerraPay.