Getting out of a taxi in Abu Dhabi just got a whole lot smoother. Thanks to a new partnership between Tawasul Transport, Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), and the Integrated Transport Center (ITC), passengers can now pay for rides using AE Coin — a digital currency that’s pegged to the UAE dirham. No more digging for cash, no awkward waiting for a card machine. Just a quick scan and you’re done.
A Simple, Smart Way to Pay
The first official AE Coin payment happened during an ordinary ride, but it felt like a glimpse of what’s ahead. Passengers just open the AEC Wallet app, scan the QR code inside the taxi, and the fare is instantly paid. Since AE Coin is locked at one dirham per coin, there’s no need to worry about fluctuating prices or hidden fees.
The app itself is free to download on Apple Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery, and it’s built to make the process easy and fast. It’s the kind of upgrade that once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to old-school payments.
Why It’s a Big Deal for the City
This isn’t just a new payment option. It’s part of Abu Dhabi’s bigger vision to make everyday life smoother through smart technology. By weaving AE Coin into public transportation, the city is taking a big step toward becoming a global fintech hub.
Ghena Jbour, General Manager at Tawasul Transport, said it best: going digital isn’t a luxury anymore — it’s what people expect. This move gives passengers a payment option that’s fast, secure, and fits seamlessly into daily life.
A Win for Fintech Innovation
For Mbank, this is a proud moment. CEO Mohammed Wassim Khayata shared that AE Coin isn’t just another crypto token; it’s part of the UAE’s growing digital finance ecosystem. It combines stability with modern technology to create a payment experience that feels effortless.
Ramez Rafeek, General Manager of AED Stablecoin, called this collaboration a turning point — proof that digital currencies don’t have to live only in trading apps. They can actually make everyday experiences, like paying for a taxi, better.
Just the Beginning
The taxi integration is only the start. Soon, AE Coin will be accepted across more transportation services, shops, and everyday spots around the UAE. Imagine grabbing your morning coffee, hopping on the bus, or picking up groceries — all with a quick scan of your phone.
Abu Dhabi isn’t just talking about going digital. It’s doing it. And if this is what the future of everyday payments looks like, it’s going to make life a lot easier for everyone.