According to local media reports, UAE telecom giant du has started accepting cryptocurrencies as a payment method, allowing customers to choose from multiple payment options including Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, debit cards, credit cards, and cryptocurrencies.
Although du has not yet officially responded to this move, it demonstrates the increasing acceptance of digital payments in the UAE telecom industry.
However, it is important to note that the Central Bank of the UAE currently only allows stablecoins pegged to the Dirham (AED) to be used for payment of goods and services domestically, a policy expected to officially take effect this year.
Furthermore, major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as dollar-backed stablecoins like Tether, will not be allowed for everyday payments unless within the UAE's financial free zones.
This means that even though du accepts cryptocurrency payments, users must still be aware of the applicable policy scope to ensure compliance.
