Emarat and Crypto.com Partner to Revolutionize Payments at UAE Fuel Stations

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Dubai, UAE – May 10, 2025 – In a move that underscores the UAE’s growing prominence as a crypto-friendly hub, Emarat, the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation, has joined forces with global cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com to introduce cryptocurrency payment options at its extensive network of service stations. This pioneering partnership aims to modernize the refueling experience, enhance customer convenience, and further the utility of digital assets in everyday transactions across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The initial phase of this collaboration will see crypto payment capabilities implemented at 10 strategically located Emarat service stations throughout the UAE. Following this initial rollout, Emarat intends to progressively expand this service across its vast network of over 155 stations, contingent upon securing the necessary regulatory approvals and gauging customer demand.

A significant element of this partnership is the unveiling of the “Emarat x Crypto.com Service Station” situated on Al Wasl Road in Dubai. This flagship station, part of Emarat’s innovative “Project Landmark” which offers naming rights for fuel stations, will be a fully branded Crypto.com location. It will serve as a showcase for the integrated payment system and highlight the future of mobility, retail design, and digital payments.

Key Highlights of the Emarat-Crypto.com Partnership:

  • Seamless Crypto Payments: Customers will gain the ability to pay for fuel, convenience store purchases, and other services at participating Emarat stations using a variety of cryptocurrencies via Crypto.com’s payment terminals. This aims to provide a more versatile and convenient payment experience for the growing number of crypto users.
  • First-of-its-Kind in MENA: This initiative marks a significant milestone as the first known integration of cryptocurrency payments within the fuel retail sector across the entire Middle East and North Africa region.
  • Flagship Branded Station: The “Emarat x Crypto.com Service Station” on Al Wasl Road in Dubai will be a landmark location, demonstrating the synergy between the two brands and the potential of crypto in everyday commerce.
  • Wider Adoption Potential: With plans to eventually extend crypto payment options to over 155 Emarat stations, this partnership has the potential to significantly increase the real-world utility and adoption of cryptocurrencies within the UAE.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: By embracing digital payment innovations, Emarat aims to attract tech-savvy consumers, enhance customer loyalty, and solidify its image as a forward-thinking and customer-centric brand.
  • Exclusive Benefits: Crypto.com users and Emarat customers can anticipate enjoying additional benefits through exclusive offers and joint promotional programs designed to elevate their overall experience.

Statements from Leadership:

Mohammed al Hakim, President of Crypto.com UAE, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Further enabling the utility of cryptocurrency is central to our vision at Crypto.com. The UAE is a cryptocurrency market leader, and we are excited to partner with Emarat, the region’s leading petroleum brand and serving tens of thousands of customers every day, in bringing digital assets into its next era.”  

Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, Chief Retail Officer & Senior Vice President—Marketing at Emarat, commented on the collaboration, saying, “At Emarat, we are constantly exploring new frontiers in innovation and customer experience. This partnership with Crypto.com introduces a new era of convenience and possibility for our customers, while strengthening our position as a future-focused brand. Together, we’re bridging the gap between energy retail and emerging financial ecosystems.”  

The UAE’s Crypto-Friendly Stance:

This partnership aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to become a leading global hub for digital assets and blockchain technology. The country has established regulatory frameworks through bodies like the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) to foster innovation while ensuring consumer protection and compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) regulations.  

The UAE has seen increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies, with various entities exploring and implementing blockchain and digital asset solutions. This collaboration between Emarat and Crypto.com represents a tangible step towards integrating these technologies into everyday life, moving beyond mere speculation to practical utility.

As the partnership progresses, more details regarding the specific cryptocurrencies accepted and the timeline for wider rollout are expected to be announced. This initiative is poised to set a new benchmark for digital payment integration within the retail sector in the region and further solidify the UAE’s position at the forefront of the digital economy.

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