Abu Dhabi Airports to Pilot Regulated Digital Tourist Wallet at Zayed International
Ashwini Gambo
Abu Dhabi Airports has announced a new initiative to pilot a regulated digital wallet at Zayed International Airport, aimed at transforming how tourists and travellers experience financial transactions in the UAE. The pilot, developed in partnership with Al Hail Holding, is designed to offer secure, cashless payments powered by next-generation financial technology including stablecoins and other digital-asset solutions.
The announcement marks a significant step in integrating digital finance with travel infrastructure, positioning Abu Dhabi at the forefront of fintech innovation in the region.
“This is about more than payment it’s about transforming the airport into a platform for seamless digital commerce,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports. “Through this partnership, we will pilot cashless, next-generation payment technologies that simplify every step of the traveller journey and redefine convenience, sustainability and financial access.”
The digital wallet is expected to streamline purchases at the airport from duty-free shopping to transportation services while offering tourists a more inclusive and accessible alternative to traditional currency exchange.
Under the agreement, a joint steering committee has been established to guide the development and execution of the project. Abu Dhabi Airports will provide the infrastructure, operational access, and ecosystem integration, while Al Hail Holding through its affiliated entities such as Zand Bank and Index Exchange will handle the governance and financial structuring of the wallet system.
The wallet integration and user interface will be powered by Xare, a regional fintech platform specializing in digital financial access. Xare will ensure secure partner integrations and real-time payment capabilities that comply with local regulatory frameworks.
This initiative comes amid a broader shift across the GCC region toward cashless, tech-driven financial ecosystems aligned with the UAE’s ambition to lead the global digital economy while enhancing the visitor experience. As air travel rebounds and tourism surges, such innovations are becoming essential touchpoints for modern travellers.
