Abu Dhabi Airport and Al Hail Holding, an Abu Dhabi investment entity, who has invested in digital bank Zand, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore next generation payment solutions including stablecoin and crypto or digital assets as well as develop a regulated digital wallet for inbound travelers to Zayed International Airport in efforts to enhance the UAE’s status as a global hub for tourism, fintech, and sustainable mobility.
The partnership will also focus on integrating AI systems and sustainable infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance. A joint steering committee will oversee the project, with Abu Dhabi Airports providing infrastructure and operational access, while Al Hail Holding will manage governance and regulatory engagement. Xare, an innovative payment card provider will act as the technology partner.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, noted that the partnership with Al Hail Holding and Xare will pilot cashless, next-generation payment technologies that simplify every step of the traveler journey and redefine convenience, sustainability and financial access, while showcasing UAE as the ideal launchpad for a digital economy.
Hamad Al Darwish, Chief Executive Officer of Al Hail Holding, added, “We aim to create new opportunities that align with the UAE’s vision for a digital and diversified economy. By combining our expertise in governance, regulatory engagement and financial services with Abu Dhabi Airports’ operational capabilities, we will deliver innovative solutions that benefit travelers and contribute to the growth of the national economy.”
Milind Singh, co-Founder of Xare noted how thrilled they were to be partnering with two leading organizations to bring the future of travel commerce to life. He explained “ By leveraging our unique tech stack—spanning instant onboarding, programmable payments, and merchant connectivity, we can unlock entirely new traveler experiences and monetization opportunities across the airport and the wider city. This pilot sets the stage for a seamless, cashless journey from touchdown to take-off.”
UAE governmental sector is increasingly entering the digital asset payment ecosystem. Earlier this summer, Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) partnered with Al Maryah Bank (MBANK) to introduce the use of digital currency for the payment of judicial and legal service fees.
While UAE based Air Arabia was also the first airline to accept AED stablecoin, AE Coin, for payments such as flight booking. Users can book their flights using the AEC Wallet application developed by MBank.
Even the Dubai Department of Finance (DOF) , the governmental entity responsible for budget and its execution signed an MOU ( Memorandum of Understanding) with UAE regulated Crypto.com to allow crypto payments for governmental fees.
