Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Airport to pilot stablecoin, crypto wallet

Abu Dhabi Airports will pioneer digital asset technology to enable a more seamless travel experience.

Abu Dhabi Airports is embracing crypto. On Friday, October 10, a new partnership with Al Hail Holding and fintech firm Xare will bring a digital wallet pilot to Zayed International Airport in the UAE capital. The system will enable inbound travelers to make purchases using stablecoins and crypto.

The goal of the pilot project, according to Abu Dhabi Airports, is to simplify the travel experience by enabling more cashless payment options at the airport. What’s more, the project will also explore integrating AI and sustainable infrastructure to enhance the project’s efficiency.

“Airports are evolving from gateways into platforms for seamless digital commerce,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports. “Through our partnership with Al Hail Holding and Xare we will pilot cashless, next-generation payment technologies that simplify every step of the traveller journey and redefine convenience, sustainability and financial access, while showcasing UAE as the ideal launchpad for a digital economy.”

Abu Dhabi races to adopt stablecoins, crypto

A joint committee will oversee the project, with Abu Dhabi Airports providing operational infrastructure. At the same time, Al Hail Holding will be in charge of regulations and governance, while Xare will lead the technology.

According to Abu Dhabi Airports, the project aligns with the UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. Notably, the project aims to signal that Abu Dhabi wants to position itself as a leader in both digital asset innovation and smart travel.

Currently, the Zayed International Airport supports more than 50 airlines, which fly back and forth between 102 destinations in over 56 countries.