In a regional first, Air Arabia has rolled out stablecoin-based payments for flight bookings, giving travellers a new, secure way to pay.

The Sharjah-based low-cost carrier has partnered with Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank) to accept AE Coin, the UAE’s first AED-backed stablecoin, through the AEC Wallet App.

What’s new:

Air Arabia customers can now book flights using AE Coin directly via the airline’s website by choosing the AEC Wallet at checkout.

Backed 1:1 by the UAE dirham, AE Coin offers price stability, lower transaction fees, and enhanced payment security, making it an attractive alternative to traditional payment methods.

A step into digital finance

“This partnership enhances the customer experience through smart, flexible payment options,” said Adel Al Ali, Group CEO of Air Arabia.

AE Coin is part of the UAE’s broader push to create a digitally empowered financial ecosystem. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, stablecoins are pegged to assets like fiat currencies or gold to ensure minimal volatility.

“This collaboration simplifies travel payments,” added Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank.

Passengers flying through Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) can soon expect to clear immigration in seconds, thanks to a new AI-powered smart corridor that speeds up the process 10 times faster than traditional smart gates at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

The announcement was made during The Airport Show in Dubai, where officials showcased what has been dubbed “the airport of the future.” Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) highlighted that the upcoming passenger experience at DWC will be fully automated, contactless, and tailored to different traveller needs, including special services for mothers, children, and elderly passengers.

In addition to smart immigration tunnels, travellers can look forward to a digitised journey from the moment they book their flights. Through a dedicated app, passengers can purchase tickets, shop duty-free, and even experience the airport in the metaverse before arriving.

Concierge robots to assist passengers

Once at the airport, autonomous robots will handle baggage drop-offs. Luggage will be weighed and collected from the vehicle by self-service bag-drop robots, while concierge robots greet and assist passengers. A smart traffic system will track vehicles heading to the airport, alerting airlines to incoming travellers.

Inside the terminal, immersive experiences and robotic assistance will continue. Passengers can enjoy cafes, lounges, shopping, and interactive zones for children, with delivery robots bringing purchased items directly to their lounge seats or boarding gates. 

Home delivery of luggage

Instead of traditional conveyor belts, biometric-enabled kiosks will be used for baggage claim, and luggage delivery to one’s home will be available via autonomous vehicles.

The airport will feature eight smaller, interconnected terminals, which will be linked by underground trains and serviced by autonomous transport.

The UAE is set to resume air travel with Syria, according to a statement issued by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Monday.

The announcement marks a significant step in restoring connectivity between the two nations, as efforts are currently underway to complete the necessary technical and regulatory procedures required to relaunch commercial flights. 

The GCAA confirmed that joint coordination is in progress with its Syrian counterparts to facilitate the resumption of air traffic in a way that enhances travel and trade.

“This move comes as part of the UAE’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and fostering connectivity that supports economic and humanitarian exchange,” the authority said in a statement.

Once operational, the reinstated air routes are expected to significantly ease passenger movement between the UAE and Syria while also boosting cargo traffic and trade flows. The return of direct flights will offer a convenient travel option for thousands of residents and nationals with ties to Syria, as well as business professionals and logistics operators.

Although specific details regarding flight schedules, routes, and airline operators have yet to be announced, the GCAA noted that updates would follow once final approvals are granted and logistics are confirmed.

The development follows a broader trend of regional engagement and reflects the UAE’s efforts to rebuild diplomatic and economic bridges across the region.

Airlines operating in the UAE are expected to reveal individual plans to service Syrian destinations, subject to regulatory clearance and market demand.

(Source: Wam)