Crypto Payments in the UAE: A Guide for Everyday Transactions

The UAE, particularly Dubai, is rapidly becoming a global hub for digital innovation, and cryptocurrency is at the forefront of this transformation. Even if you’re not a crypto trader or investor, you can leverage the power of digital currencies for everyday transactions in the UAE. From booking flights to paying for groceries or sending money to freelancers overseas, crypto-powered payment solutions are making financial transactions faster, cheaper, and more accessible. This blog explores how UAE residents can use crypto for daily purchases without needing to hold or invest in digital assets long-term, thanks to crypto cards, payment gateways, and on-ramp services.

Why Crypto Payments Are Gaining Traction in the UAE

The UAE’s forward-thinking approach to blockchain and digital currencies has positioned it as a leader in the global crypto economy. Dubai’s Vision 2026 aims for 90% of transactions to be cashless, and cryptocurrencies are playing a significant role in this shift. The UAE’s regulatory framework, led by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai, ensures a secure environment for crypto transactions, making it easier for residents and businesses to adopt these technologies. Here’s why UAE residents are turning to crypto payments:

• Speed: Crypto transactions, especially for international transfers, are often faster than traditional banking methods, settling in minutes rather than days.
• Lower Fees: Many crypto payment methods offer transaction fees as low as 0.5–1%, compared to higher fees for credit cards or international bank transfers.
• Privacy: Crypto payments provide a level of anonymity not typically available with traditional payment systems.
• Exclusive Access: Some merchants and platforms offer crypto-only deals, giving users access to unique products or services.
• Financial Inclusion: Crypto solutions bridge the gap for the unbanked, enabling seamless participation in the global economy.

Whether you’re in Dubai’s bustling malls, Abu Dhabi’s luxury hotels, or Sharjah’s vibrant markets, crypto payments are becoming a practical tool for everyday life.

1. Crypto Cards:  Spend Crypto Like Cash

Crypto cards are one of the easiest ways to use digital currencies for everyday purchases in the UAE. These cards function like regular debit or credit cards but are funded with cryptocurrencies, which are automatically converted to AED at the point of sale. This means you can use crypto to buy coffee, shop online, or withdraw cash from ATMs without needing to understand blockchain technology.

Available Crypto Cards in the UAE

• RedotPay: Widely used in the UAE, RedotPay offers virtual and physical crypto cards that support multiple cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT, and USDC. You can deposit crypto via networks like Solana, Polygon, and Tron, and spend at over 130 million merchants worldwide. RedotPay boasts low transaction fees (1%) and high spending limits (up to $100,000 per transaction). Its app also integrates with Apple Pay and Google Pay for contactless payments.
• Bybit Card: A Mastercard-backed debit card, Bybit supports eight cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT, USDC, TON, MNT, BNB) and offers cashback rewards. It’s popular in the UAE for its integration with Google Pay and flexible spending options.
• Crypto.com Visa: While not yet fully launched in the UAE as of July 2025, Crypto.com has partnered with Emirates Airlines and Dubai Duty Free, signaling an upcoming launch. This Visa card will allow users to preload crypto and spend it seamlessly, with potential for cashback and VAT-free transactions.

Cards Not Yet Available

• Binance Card: Offers low transaction fees (0.9%) and up to 8% cashback but requires holding significant BNB tokens, which may be a barrier for non-investors. It’s not yet available in the UAE.
• BitPay Card: A Mastercard debit card supporting 15 cryptocurrencies, but applications are currently paused.
• Coinbase Card: Supports seven cryptocurrencies with a 2.49% liquidation fee. It’s not yet available in the UAE.

How Crypto Cards Work

1. Load the Card: Deposit crypto into your card’s wallet via the provider’s app or website.
2. Spend Anywhere: Use the card at any merchant that accepts Visa or Mastercard, or withdraw AED from ATMs.
3. Instant Conversion: The card converts your crypto to AED at the point of sale, ensuring merchants receive fiat currency without volatility risks.

For UAE residents, crypto cards are ideal for everyday purchases, from dining at Dubai’s restaurants to shopping at the Mall of the Emirates.

2. Crypto Payment Gateways: Seamless Transactions for Businesses

Crypto payment gateways allow UAE businesses to accept cryptocurrencies without worrying about price volatility. These platforms convert crypto payments to AED instantly, making them a practical choice for retailers, e-commerce stores, and even service providers like restaurants and taxis.

Popular Payment Gateways in the UAE

• Binance Pay: A versatile platform supporting multiple cryptocurrencies, Binance Pay is used by UAE merchants for online and in-store transactions. It’s ideal for businesses looking to tap into the growing crypto user base.
• NOWPayments: Supports over 300 cryptocurrencies and offers plugins for e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce. It charges a low 0.5% fee and allows merchants to convert crypto to fiat instantly.
• BitPay: A pioneer in crypto payments, BitPay supports 17 cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, and stablecoins like USDC. It’s widely used for online transactions and bill payments, with fees ranging from 1–2% depending on transaction volume.

How Payment Gateways Work

1. Select Crypto at Checkout: Choose “Pay with Crypto” when shopping online or in-store.
2. Scan or Send: Use a QR code or wallet address to send crypto to the merchant.
3. Instant Conversion: The gateway converts the crypto to AED, ensuring the merchant receives stable fiat currency.

These gateways are particularly useful for UAE businesses in Dubai’s retail and hospitality sectors, where crypto adoption is growing rapidly.

3. On-Ramp Services: Buy and Send Crypto Instantly

For those who don’t own crypto but need to make a payment with it, on-ramp services provide a quick solution. These platforms allow you to buy crypto using AED via debit/credit cards, bank transfers, or mobile payments like Apple Pay, then send it directly to a recipient’s wallet.

Popular On-Ramp Services

• MoonPay: Supports over 150 cryptocurrencies and multiple payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and Apple Pay. It’s integrated with platforms like OpenSea for NFT purchases and is available in the UAE.
• Paybis: Offers a user-friendly interface for buying crypto with AED using credit/debit cards or bank transfers. It’s ideal for one-time payments to merchants or freelancers.
• Simplex: Known for its robust fraud prevention, Simplex supports over 50 cryptocurrencies and is a trusted partner for quick crypto purchases in the UAE.

How On-Ramp Services Work

1. Visit the Platform: Access MoonPay, Paybis, or Simplex via their website or app.
2. Enter Details: Provide the recipient’s wallet address and the amount you want to send.
3. Pay with AED: Use a UAE credit/debit card or bank transfer to buy the required crypto.
4. Send Instantly: The platform sends the crypto to the recipient, completing the transaction.

These services are perfect for UAE residents who need to pay international freelancers or access crypto-only deals without holding digital assets long-term.

Real-World Use Cases in the UAE

Crypto payments are already transforming everyday transactions in the UAE:

• Travel: Pay for Emirates flights or Dubai Duty Free purchases with crypto via Crypto.com.
• Retail: Use RedotPay or Bybit Card to shop at Dubai’s malls or online stores.
• Taxis: Pay for taxi rides in Dubai using XRP or other cryptocurrencies.
• Bills and Services: Settle credit card bills, utilities, or even rent with BitPay.
• Dining and Groceries: Use crypto cards at restaurants and supermarkets across Dubai.

Tips for Using Crypto Payments Safely

• Choose Licensed Platforms: Stick to providers regulated by VARA or other global authorities, like RedotPay or BitPay.
• Enable Security Features: Use two-factor authentication (2FA) and secure passkeys to protect your funds.
• Check Fees: Compare transaction fees to ensure cost-effectiveness, especially for international payments.
• Verify Merchants: Ensure the recipient’s wallet address is correct to avoid losing funds.

The Future of Crypto Payments in the UAE

The UAE is poised to become a global leader in crypto adoption, with predictions that crypto could overtake traditional currencies for everyday purchases like coffee and groceries by 2027. With platforms like RedotPay, Bybit, and NOWPayments already in use, and upcoming launches like Crypto.com Visa, UAE residents have unprecedented access to crypto-powered payments. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a casual user, these tools make it easy to integrate digital currencies into your daily life without the complexities of trading or investing.