Abu Dhabi Airports and Abu Dhabi investment corporation Al Khail Holding have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore next-generation payment solutions including stablecoins and crypto/digital assets.
Al-Khair Holding, which has invested in Abu Dhabi Airports and digital bank Zand, will also develop a regulated digital wallet for inbound travelers to Zayed International Airport, in an effort to strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for tourism, fintech and sustainable mobility.
Additionally, the partnership includes the integration of AI systems and sustainable infrastructure to improve operational efficiency. Abu Dhabi Airports will provide the infrastructure and operational access, while Al Khail Holding will manage governance and regulatory engagement. Innovative payment card provider Xare will serve as the technology partner.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said the partnership with Al Khail Holding and Xare will pilot next-generation cashless payment technologies that simplify every step of the traveler’s journey and redefine convenience, sustainability and financial access, while promoting the UAE as an ideal launchpad for the digital economy.
Hamad Al Darwish, CEO of Al Khail Holding, added: “We aim to create new opportunities in line with the UAE’s vision for a digitally diversified economy.”
Milind Singh, co-founder of Xare, expressed how excited he is to partner with two leading organizations to realize the future of travel commerce. He explained, “By leveraging our unique technology stack, including instant onboarding, programmable payments, and merchant connectivity, we can unlock entirely new traveler experiences and monetization opportunities at airports and across cities. This pilot sets the stage for a seamless, cashless journey from touchdown to takeoff.”
UAE government departments are increasingly entering the digital asset payments ecosystem. Earlier this summer, the Abu Dhabi Department of Justice (ADJD) partnered with Al Maryah Bank (MBANK) to introduce the use of digital currencies for payment of judicial and legal services fees.
