AE Coin Adoption Surges in UAE with Taxi and Airline Integration

AE Coin, a Dirham-backed stablecoin, is rapidly gaining traction in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its adoption expanding to various sectors, including airline bookings and taxi rides. This surge in usage is part of the UAE's broader initiative to enhance real-world crypto applications and drive smart city transformation.

Taxis in Abu Dhabi, operated by Tawasul Transport, have started accepting AE Coin as a payment method. Passengers can now settle their fares using the AEC Wallet app, which supports AE Coin transactions. This integration is a result of a collaboration between Tawasul Transport and Al Maryah Community Bank, which launched the first digital payment system in taxis using AE Coin. This move is expected to streamline payments and enhance the overall user experience for commuters.

AE Coin is the UAE’s first Dirham-backed stablecoin, pegged 1:1 to the UAE Dirham. It is designed to deliver price stability, fast settlement, and low transaction costs, making it ideal for everyday digital transactions. Though relatively new, AE Coin is gaining momentum. It received its final license from the Central Bank of the UAE in December 2024, officially recognizing it as a regulated digital payment solution.

The adoption of AE Coin extends beyond taxi services to the airline industry. Passengers can now book flights using AE Coin, further expanding the utility of this stablecoin in everyday transactions. This development is a testament to the UAE's commitment to embracing digital currencies and fostering a cashless society.

Tawasul Transport General Manager, Ghena Jbour, emphasized that this integration supports Abu Dhabi’s broader goal of developing a smart and sustainable transportation system, offering passengers more flexible payment options. MBank CEO, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, added that AE Coin’s integration into transportation aligns with the UAE’s Digital Government Strategy 2025, which focuses on accelerating digital adoption across public and private sectors.

The integration of AE Coin in public transport and airline bookings is a strategic step towards the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in smart city initiatives. By leveraging blockchain technology, the UAE aims to create a more efficient and transparent payment ecosystem. This not only benefits consumers by providing them with more convenient payment options but also supports the growth of the digital economy.

The acceptance of AE Coin in these sectors is likely to encourage more businesses to adopt digital currencies, thereby accelerating the transition to a cashless society. As more industries embrace AE Coin, it is expected to drive further innovation and economic growth in the UAE. The successful implementation of AE Coin in public transport and airline bookings sets a precedent for other sectors to follow suit, paving the way for a more integrated and digital economy.

AE Coin General Manager Ramez Rafeek, stated that stablecoins like AE Coin are proving that crypto can be seamlessly integrated into daily services across transportation and travel. With regulated stablecoins entering public services, the UAE is advancing its vision of becoming a global hub for digital innovation. The adoption of AE Coin in taxis and airlines is not just a tech upgrade—it’s a strategic step toward a blockchain-enabled economy.