Abu Dhabi Airports and Al Hail Holding have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the UAE's status as a global hub for tourism, fintech, and sustainable mobility.
This collaboration aims to innovate aviation through
improved passenger experiences and support the UAE’s economic vision.
The agreement will explore next-generation payment
solutions, including stablecoin and digital assets, aligning with the UAE
Digital Economy Strategy and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.
Key initiatives include the development of a regulated
digital wallet for inbound travellers at Zayed International Airport,
facilitating secure cashless transactions.
The partnership will also focus on integrating AI systems
and sustainable infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and
environmental performance.
A joint steering committee will oversee the project, with
Abu Dhabi Airports providing infrastructure and operational access, while Al
Hail Holding will manage governance and regulatory engagement. Xare will act as
the technology partner.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer
of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “Airports are evolving from gateways into
platforms for seamless digital commerce. Through our partnership with Al Hail
Holding and Xare we will pilot cashless, next-generation payment technologies
that simplify every step of the traveller journey and redefine convenience,
sustainability and financial access, while showcasing UAE as the ideal
launchpad for a digital economy.”
Hamad Al Darwish, Chief Executive Officer of Al Hail Holding,
added: “We are proud to collaborate with Abu Dhabi Airports on this
forward-looking initiative. Together, we aim to create new opportunities that
align with the UAE’s vision for a digital and diversified economy. By combining
our expertise in governance, regulatory engagement and financial services with
Abu Dhabi Airports’ operational capabilities, we will deliver innovative
solutions that benefit travellers and contribute to the growth of the national
economy.”
Milind Singh, co-Founder of Xare said: “Xare is thrilled to
partner with two leading institutions to bring the future of travel commerce to
life. By leveraging our unique tech stack—spanning instant onboarding,
programmable payments, and merchant connectivity—we can unlock entirely new
traveller experiences and monetisation opportunities across the airport and the
wider city. This pilot sets the stage for a seamless, cashless journey from
touchdown to take-off.” -TradeArabia News Service