Dubai accepts crypto: More payment options to follow public service fees?

Dubai has taken another step in its digital economy roadmap by permitting cryptocurrency payments for select government service fees—a pivotal moment in its push to integrate virtual assets into everyday transactions.

The initiative, announced by the Dubai Department of Finance in partnership with global crypto platform Crypto.com, will allow individuals and business customers of government entities to settle eligible fees through digital wallets.

While the announcement did not disclose which types of services or cryptocurrencies would be covered, it reinforces Dubai’s broader ambition to become a regulated global hub for virtual assets. The move also aligns with the emirate’s Cashless Dubai Strategy, which targets a 90% transition of public and private sector transactions to cashless platforms by 2026.

Crypto.com received its license to offer regulated virtual asset services in Dubai in 2023 and has been expanding its operations since. In April 2024, the company announced it had secured a limited license to offer crypto derivatives, following approval from the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). These developments reflect the emirate’s continued support for licensed crypto firms and its commitment to a regulated digital finance ecosystem.

Adding to the momentum, Emarat—one of the UAE’s major fuel retailers—recently teamed up with Crypto.com to launch the first-ever crypto payment service at fuel stations across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a deal that makes it possible to fill up your tank and pay with crypto.

Additionally, the Department of Finance’s announcement comes amid growing adoption of crypto payments in Dubai’s private sector—particularly in hospitality. Shortly after the government revealed its plans, Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai announced a partnership with Bybit, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges by user base. The hotel will now accept payments through the Bybit Card, a crypto-and-fiat card that has been issued to over 1.7 million users globally, according to the company.

Other hospitality providers in the city have already been accepting crypto payments. Palazzo Versace Dubai, through a partnership with Binance, allows guests to pay in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Binance Coin (BNB) for room stays, dining, and spa experiences. The Manor by JA in Al Furjan has implemented a crypto-to-crypto payment gateway, also powered by Binance. Several cafes and restaurants across the city are reportedly embracing digital assets as payment options.

While the specifics of the government crypto payment rollout are yet to be detailed, the direction is evident: Dubai is methodically enabling broader use of cryptocurrencies across both public and private sectors. From hotel check-ins to future government service fees, digital assets are steadily gaining ground. And with supportive regulations and infrastructure in place, paying with crypto in Dubai may soon become a common convenience—not a novelty.