Dubai Tourism Chief Backs Crypto Push as Hotels Begin Accepting Bitcoin

Dubai is taking bold strides to become a global leader in cryptocurrency adoption within the tourism sector, Issam Kazim, Dubai tourism chief, recently stated in an interview with The National that the city is well-positioned to lead the integration of crypto payments across its hotels, tourist attractions, and hospitality services. He emphasized that such an initiative must be well-regulated and in line with the frameworks already in place under the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

Issam Kazim, chief executive of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, described the potential adoption of crypto in the travel and tourism sector as a strong opportunity, particularly given that Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority already has regulatory frameworks in place to support such developments.

This declaration comes as part of Dubai’s wider vision to become a global hub for innovation, digital finance, and tech-driven tourism. The United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular, has made rapid advancements in blockchain regulation, with VARA serving as the world’s first independent regulator for virtual assets. Established in March 2022, VARA has implemented a robust licensing system for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), making the emirate a magnet for crypto exchanges and fintech companies alike.

Already, several prominent hotels in Dubai have moved ahead of the curve by enabling cryptocurrency transactions. Luxury destination Palazzo Versace Dubai, located along the Jaddaf Waterfront, now accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Coin for bookings, dining experiences, and spa treatments. The hotel partnered with Binance in late 2022 and has since expanded its crypto offerings to include gift vouchers and other e-commerce services via its website.

Another major adopter is The Manor by JA, located in Dubai’s Al Furjan district. The hotel has introduced a crypto-to-crypto payment gateway, also facilitated by Binance. Guests can pay directly using BTC, ETH, or BNB, with the backend infrastructure instantly converting crypto to fiat to mitigate volatility risks.

This push toward crypto in hospitality is aligned with Dubai’s growing digital ecosystem. The city’s broader tourism strategy aims to attract 40 million hotel guests per year by 2031, and integrating digital currency payments is viewed as one way to modernize the experience and enhance convenience for global travelers.

Analysts point out that Dubai’s positioning is strategic. With many countries still struggling to implement clear crypto regulations, Dubai has already built a transparent and forward-looking framework. This regulatory clarity not only attracts businesses and exchanges but also builds consumer confidence.

Moreover, Dubai is capitalizing on a demographic shift: younger tourists, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly comfortable using digital wallets and engaging with emerging technologies like NFTs and crypto-based loyalty programs. While specific data on crypto destination preferences is limited, analysts suggest these generations value digital convenience and innovation in travel experiences, making them more likely to embrace destinations that integrate modern payment solutions.

Industry experts believe the next phase could involve government-approved wallets, integration with the UAE’s own central bank digital currency (CBDC), the Digital Dirham, and potential partnerships with major airline and booking platforms.

As Dubai continues to explore crypto in tourism, its dual commitment to innovation and regulation may serve as a model for other destinations looking to modernize their travel industries.