Emirates and flydubai have joined Dubai’s Department of Finance (DOF) to advance the city’s digital payments strategy, focusing on international tourists. As a result, travelers can now enjoy a more seamless, cashless experience from arrival to exploring the city.
The two airlines signed separate Memoranda of Understanding with DOF to promote and simplify digital payment adoption. This move forms part of Dubai’s Cashless Strategy, which aims to make over 90 percent of all payments fully digital by 2026.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said the initiative improves travel convenience. He explained that the goal is for visitors to enjoy secure, cash-free experiences from booking flights to exploring Dubai. Likewise, Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai, highlighted that the partnership makes digital payments more accessible for millions of travelers each year.
Moreover, Ahmed Ali Meftah, Executive Director at DOF, emphasized that the collaborations strengthen Dubai’s digital economy and financial efficiency. He added that encouraging tourists to adopt cashless payments forms a central part of Dubai’s long-term economic vision.
The agreements align with global trends toward cashless societies. By integrating airlines into the strategy, Dubai ensures travelers can make payments easily across hotels, retail, transportation, and entertainment sectors.
Industry experts suggest the initiative could boost tourist spending and streamline operations in hospitality and retail. Consequently, tourists enjoy safer, faster, and more convenient payments, while businesses reduce cash handling and enhance transaction security.
Looking ahead, Emirates and flydubai plan to expand digital payment options across airport lounges, in-flight offerings, and partner merchants. Overall, the initiative supports Dubai’s goal of a fully cashless economy, fostering innovation and reinforcing the city’s appeal as a global tourism and business hub.
Through these partnerships, Dubai strengthens its digital payments strategy, ensuring residents, visitors, and businesses experience a secure and efficient financial ecosystem.
