- Air Arabia now accepts AE Coin, a UAE dirham–backed stablecoin, for flight bookings.
- The airline has partnered with Mbank and integrated the AEC Wallet App.
- This move supports the UAE’s push for a digital-first, inclusive economy.
Air Arabia has taken a major step toward digital innovation by becoming the first airline in the MENA region to accept cryptocurrency payments using AE Coin.
This partnership aligns with the UAE’s broader economic vision to embrace cutting-edge financial technologies. By merging low-cost air travel with a next-generation payment system, Air Arabia not only enhances customer convenience but also reinforces the country’s ambition to lead the global shift toward digital finance.
Flying into the Future: Air Arabia Launches Stablecoin Payments with AE Coin
The introduction of AE Coin as a payment option marks a strategic collaboration between Air Arabia and Mbank, the UAE’s first fully digital bank. Customers booking flights on Air Arabia’s website can now choose to pay via the AEC Wallet, bridging the gap between traditional travel and the digital economy.
Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, AE Coin is pegged 1:1 to the UAE dirham. This makes it highly practical for consumers, offering consistent value, minimal transaction costs, and real-world usability. It’s a stable digital payment option designed for everyday purchases, including airfare.
This move is not just about convenience—it reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering a secure, innovative financial ecosystem. As more sectors embrace stablecoins, Air Arabia is paving the way for mainstream adoption in travel, setting the tone for others to follow.
Air Arabia’s leadership in integrating crypto aligns with the growing demand for flexibility in payment options. This progressive step will likely appeal to younger, tech-savvy travelers and digital wallet users looking for smarter ways to manage spending while traveling.
Air Arabia’s AE Coin integration isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a sign of how everyday transactions are evolving, blending accessibility, innovation, and digital trust.
“The future of money is digital currency.” – Bill Gates