DUBAI – In a major development aligned with its digital transformation goals, a leading airline in the United Arab Emirates has announced that passengers will now be able to purchase tickets using cryptocurrency.
According to Arab media reports, the airline has signed an agreement with global crypto authorities, allowing the use of digital currencies for ticket payments. This move marks a significant step toward integrating blockchain-based financial systems into the travel industry.
Authorities in Dubai further revealed that, in addition to airline tickets, cryptocurrency will also be accepted for shopping at duty-free outlets at Dubai Airport. This development reflects the city’s commitment to aligning its digital vision with crypto technology.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Minister of State for Cryptocurrency, Bilal Bin Saqib, acknowledged the progress, stating that “cryptocurrency is a financial reality” and Pakistan is also working in this area. He praised Dubai’s crypto framework as active and successful, urging Pakistan to follow a similar path to boost various sectors, including tourism.
A day earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari has promulgated the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority Ordinance 2025, which will take immediate effect and apply across the entire country.
Under the ordinance, the authority will function as a corporate body, empowered to file legal cases, own property, conduct transactions, and enter into contracts. The authority’s head office will be based in Islamabad, with the provision to establish regional offices as needed.
The authority will be responsible for issuing, suspending, or revoking licenses for virtual asset service providers and will develop regulations for the monitoring and oversight of virtual assets.
The ordinance empowers the authority to take measures for the prevention of money laundering and terror financing. It will also have the power to investigate, impose penalties, and take regulatory action.
