Dubai is taking another step towards its digital economy goals. Emirates and flydubai have entered a new partnership with Dubai Finance to encourage tourists to rely less on cash and more on contactless payments during their stay.
With over 18 million visitors arriving in Dubai last year, many still chose cash for everyday transactions. This collaboration aims to change that by positioning digital payments as the faster, safer, and more convenient option.
Encouraging a shift in tourist behaviour
Cashless transactions are already second nature to many residents. However, international visitors often arrive with the habit of carrying large amounts of local currency. The airlines, with their global reach, plan to change this perception right from the moment of booking a flight.
Passengers will be reminded at every stage of their journey that Dubai is ready for contactless payments. The idea is simple: whether it’s booking a hotel, hailing a taxi, or paying for a coffee, cash won’t be necessary.
A smoother experience from start to finish
Emirates and flydubai already have strong digital frameworks. Emirates supports multiple payment gateways and its Skywards loyalty programme is fully digital. Now, the airlines want to extend this culture beyond ticketing into everyday spending across the city.
Hamad Obaidalla, flydubai’s Chief Commercial Officer, explained that going digital makes travel simpler and more secure. For tourists, this means no queues at ATMs, no fumbling with coins, and fewer concerns about carrying cash.
Incentives and awareness campaigns
The collaboration will also focus on making digital payments rewarding. Campaigns and promotions will encourage visitors to opt for cards and mobile wallets instead of notes. Expected perks will help reinforce the contactless habit for those who choose it.
By nudging visitors towards these methods, the move is expected to ease day-to-day transactions and add value to Dubai’s economy. Analysts suggest this transition could boost economic activity by up to AED 8 billion annually.
Supporting Dubai’s digital economy vision
This initiative reflects Dubai’s wider ambition to be recognised as a global leader in smart city innovation. Cashless systems are a natural fit for a city that values speed, efficiency, and security.
It also supports the UAE’s long-term digital economy strategy, which places strong emphasis on technology-driven convenience. Tourists who embrace the cashless lifestyle will find their Dubai experience faster, safer, and more enjoyable.
Cash is not disappearing, but its importance is shrinking. For visitors, the message is clear—Dubai is ready for them to travel, shop, and explore without carrying notes.
Over time, even those who prefer cash are likely to discover that a tap-and-go lifestyle fits perfectly with Dubai’s fast-paced rhythm.
