Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat) has made history by partnering with Crypto.com to introduce crypto payments at fuel stations in the Middle East and North Africa. This groundbreaking initiative allows customers to pay for fuel using Bitcoin and other digital assets directly at the pump, bypassing traditional fiat transactions. The initial phase of the rollout will take place at 10 Emarat stations across Dubai, with plans to expand the service throughout Emarat’s extensive network.
In addition to enabling crypto payments, Emarat and Crypto.com have announced plans to launch a flagship co-branded service station in Dubai, named the “Emarat x Crypto.com Service Station.” This innovative location will also serve as an anchor for Project Landmark, a global initiative that introduces naming rights to fuel stations and blends brand visibility with digital-first customer experiences. The new site will showcase innovation in mobility, payments, and retail design.
Emarat, established in 1981, operates over 100 service stations in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, serving approximately 100 million retail and commercial customers annually. This partnership with Crypto.com marks a significant step forward in the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in digital asset regulation and infrastructure.
The UAE has been at the forefront of digital finance, with initiatives like the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority in Dubai and clear licensing structures in Abu Dhabi. By encouraging private-public partnerships and launching pilot projects like the crypto payments at fuel stations, the UAE is solidifying its role as a hub for Web3 innovation and fintech.
Major players in the industry, such as Binance, OKX, and Bybit, have already secured regulatory licenses for their operations in the region, attracted by the progressive regulatory environment in the UAE. By integrating crypto payments into everyday transactions like fuel purchases, the UAE is demonstrating that digital assets are becoming increasingly embedded in daily life, beyond just speculative investments.
This move not only showcases the UAE’s commitment to embracing digital assets but also highlights the country’s dedication to driving innovation in the fintech space. As the UAE continues to make strides in becoming the most crypto-friendly jurisdiction in the world, initiatives like the collaboration between Emarat and Crypto.com are paving the way for a future where digital assets are seamlessly integrated into everyday transactions.