Dubai Duty Free Launches Crypto.com Pay Across Airport Retail Network
Dubai Duty Free has introduced Crypto.com Pay as a payment option across its retail operations. As a result, it has become the first airport retailer in the Middle East to offer the regulated digital payment solution.
Eligible customers can now use Crypto.com Pay for purchases at Dubai Duty Free stores in Dubai International Airport (DXB), Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), and the retailer’s online platform. Moreover, the rollout follows a memorandum of understanding signed in July 2025 to explore blockchain-powered payment solutions and digital innovation.
Digital payments expand shopping convenience
Customers using Crypto.com Pay can authorize transactions through their Crypto.com account during checkout. Meanwhile, the payment platform processes transactions through its regulated infrastructure, while Dubai Duty Free receives settlement in UAE dirhams (AED).
For in-store purchases, shoppers selecting Crypto.com Pay receive a QR code that they can scan through the app to complete the payment. Similarly, online customers can choose the same option during checkout, while mobile users are redirected to the app before returning to the retailer’s website.
Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, said that, “We are pleased to move into the roll-out phase with the introduction of Crypto.com Pay™. Available exclusively to eligible UAE residents through Crypto.com’s regulated payment platform, this launch reinforces our commitment to providing customers with greater convenience through innovative digital payment solutions.”
Eric Anziani, President and CEO of Crypto.com, said, “The launch of Crypto.com Pay™ marks another important milestone in expanding regulated digital payment solutions for everyday commerce. Customers benefit from a secure and seamless payment experience through Crypto.com Pay™, while merchants receive immediate settlement in UAE Dirhams (AED).”
Initiative supports Dubai’s cashless economy
Crypto.com became the first Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in the UAE to receive a Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence from the Central Bank of the UAE. Consequently, the company can provide regulated payment services under the conditions of that licence.
Furthermore, Dubai Duty Free stated that the new payment option complements existing digital payment methods, including Apple Pay, Alipay, and TerraPay. The initiative also supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which targets 90 percent of financial transactions across the public and private sectors becoming cashless by the end of 2026.
