Air Arabia Becomes First Airline in the Region to Accept Crypto Payments

Air Arabia announced today that it will start accepting the use of crypto payments for flight bookings. This collaboration makes Air Arabia the first airline in the region to offer

Air Arabia announced today that it will start accepting the use of crypto payments for flight bookings in partnership with Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), the UAE’s first fully integrated digital bank.

This collaboration makes Air Arabia the first airline in the region to offer stablecoin-based payments, underscoring the carrier’s commitment to offering innovative digital solutions to its customer base.

The partnership will see the introduction of AE Coin, the UAE’s first AED-backed stablecoin, as a preferred payment mode for booking flights on Air Arabia’s network.

Air Arabia customers can fund their AEC Wallet through the AEC Wallet App and select the e-wallet at checkout when booking on Air Arabia’s website, presenting a new convenient and secure payment alternative to travellers.

“We are pleased to partner with Mbank to introduce AE Coin as a new and preferred payment option for our customers. At Air Arabia, we are committed to advancing digitalization across our operations, and this partnership showcases our dedication to enhancing the customer experience through technology,” said Adel Al Ali, group CEO of Air Arabia.

“The newly introduced payment option through AEC Wallet from Mbank reflects our ongoing efforts to adopt smart solutions that bring greater value, choice and flexibility to our growing customer base.”

Earlier this year, Air Arabia announced the integration of a new self-service bag drop system at its hub in Sharjah, as part of its efforts to introduce new travel technology solutions.

The partnership also aligns with the UAE’s vision of a digital-first economy, with the integration of AE Coin in handling payments for flight bookings kicking off a new chapter in Air Arabia’s efforts to expand its innovative offerings.

For his part, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank, said Air Arabia’s strong reputation as a leading low-cost carrier operator in the Mena region, catering to a diverse customer segment, aligns perfectly with the bank’s mission to provide accessible, secure and affordable digital banking solutions to the community.

“Through this partnership, we are not only enhancing the booking process for Air Arabia’s passengers but also contributing to the UAE’s broader goal of creating a truly inclusive, digitally empowered financial ecosystem in line with the country’s vision,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ramez Rafeek, general manager of AED Stablecoin, said this partnership with Air Arabia is a key milestone for AE Coin as it brings digital currency closer to everyday consumers.

“With this integration, Air Arabia passengers can now select the AEC Wallet at checkout when booking on Air Arabia’s website, presenting a new convenient and preferred payment alternative to travellers, and allowing for a smooth cashless experience that aligns with the growing digital economy.

“Air Arabia’s leadership in adopting cutting-edge digital payment solutions within the aviation industry is an exciting development that will set the stage for wider adoption of digital currencies in the region.”