bu Dhabi Airports and Al Hail Holding have signed a MoU to strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for tourism, financial technology, and sustainable mobility.
The partnership outlines plans to explore next-generation payment solutions, including stablecoin and digital asset technologies, to enable faster and more secure transactions.
Al Hail Holding, together with its group companies Index Exchange and Zand Bank, and technology partner Xare, will lead the project’s implementation.
The collaboration includes the design and pilot of a regulated digital wallet for inbound travellers, to be tested at Zayed International Airport.
The wallet will allow visitors to make secure, cashless payments, improving convenience and supporting financial innovation in the tourism sector.
Beyond financial technology, the partners will also work on smart mobility and sustainability initiatives, such as integrating AI-enabled systems, intelligent transport technologies, and sustainable infrastructure to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental performance across Abu Dhabi Airports’ network.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said:
“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 the UAE as a launchpad for a digital economy.”
Hamad Jassim Al Darwish, Chief Executive Officer of Al Hail Holding, said:
“By combining our expertise in governance, regulatory engagement, and financial services with Abu Dhabi Airports’ operational capabilities, we will deliver solutions that benefit travellers and contribute to national economic growth.”
A joint steering committee will oversee the development and implementation of the project.
Abu Dhabi Airports will provide infrastructure and operational support, while Al Hail Holding will contribute governance, regulatory coordination, and financial structuring through its network of affiliates, including Zand Bank and Index Exchange.
Xare will act as the technology partner, integrating wallet, payment, and partner interfaces.
Featured image credit: Abu Dhabi Airports
