Michaela
Abu Dhabi has become the first city in the world to let taxi passengers pay fares using a national stablecoin, as riders can now use AE Coin, tied directly to the UAE dirham, for cashless trips across the capital.
Crypto education platform Coin Bureau shared that passengers in Abu Dhabi can now pay for taxi rides using the AEC Wallet app, thanks to a new initiative by Tawasul Transport in collaboration with Al Maryah Community Bank and the Integrated Transport Center (ITC). By simply scanning a QR code inside the vehicle, riders can complete transactions quickly and securely, with no cash or cards required.
Developed by Al Maryah Community Bank, the AEC Wallet app offers users a seamless way to manage AE Coin, allowing them to send, receive, store, and convert the dirham-backed digital currency. The app is freely available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery.
The app supports a range of services, including QR code-based payments, instant conversion between AE Coin and UAE dirhams, and peer-to-peer transfers within the AEC Wallet ecosystem.
This development aligns with the UAE’s broader push toward digital payments, following the launch of the region’s first crypto payment option at fuel stations. Introduced in May, the initiative spans the Middle East and North Africa and was made possible through a collaboration with digital asset provider Crypto.com.
The Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat) revealed plans to introduce cryptocurrency payments across all its fuel stations. With the rollout underway, customers can now use digital assets to pay for fuel at Emarat locations, a notable move toward mainstream crypto integration in the region’s everyday transactions.
As the UAE accelerates its embrace of digital innovation, these advancements reflect a growing effort to position the country as a global leader in blockchain-powered financial infrastructure and real-world crypto utility.
By integrating stablecoin payments into daily services like transport and fuel, the UAE continues to lay the groundwork for a future where digital assets play a central role in both commerce and public services.
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Michaela has no crypto positions and does not hold any crypto assets. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
