Dubai launches cryptocurrency payments for public services
Dubai is stepping up its digital finance game. In a major move, the government has partnered with Crypto.com to allow residents and businesses to pay for government services with cryptocurrency.
The news was announced at the Dubai Fintech Summit, where the agreement was formalized between the Dubai Ministry of Finance and Crypto.com.
How it works
The system will use Crypto.com’s wallet infrastructure to process payments, converting cryptocurrencies into dirhams (AED) before depositing them into government accounts. While the exact cryptocurrencies accepted were not named, the statement confirmed that stablecoins would be used to ensure smooth and secure transactions. The feature will go live once the technical integration is complete.
Cryptocurrency finds a home in Dubai
This isn’t just about crypto payments, but is part of Dubai’s overall push towards a fully cashless economy. The emirate launched its “Dubai Cashless Strategy” in October 2024, with the goal of making more than 90% of financial transactions digital by 2026. The government has already digitized 97% of its payments system, and this new partnership is designed to accelerate that final push.
Senior officials, including Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti and Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, have endorsed the deal, highlighting how it fits into Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda — a plan to transform the city into a global innovation hub. Meanwhile, Crypto.com’s head of the UAE, Mohammed Al-Hakim, highlighted the deal as a step forward in normalizing cryptocurrencies in everyday life.
Real Estate Also Turns to Cryptocurrencies
The shift is not limited to government services. Private sector projects, including the Trump International Hotel and Tower under construction in Dubai, have announced plans to accept cryptocurrency payments, indicating that digital assets are gaining popularity in the city’s booming real estate market.
Overall, Dubai is not only experimenting with cryptocurrency, it is putting it to work. From paying bills to buying real estate, the city is building a real-world use case for digital currency, positioning itself as a serious global leader in fintech innovation. Is it a threat to the United States? We’ll have to wait and see.