The national airline of the United Arab Emirates has announced the launch of collectible and utility-based NFTs. Emirates claimed in an announcement that it would introduce NFTs and “exciting Metaverse experiences” for its consumers and workers. The airline, which has built a reputation for innovative goods and customer-centric service, announced its intention to create a unique consumer experience in the metaverse alongside collectible and utility-based NFTs. The first projects are ongoing, with an estimated debut date of later this year.

Emirates also stated that the airline’s Emirates Pavilion at Expo 2020 would be converted as an innovation hub, bringing together talent from across the world to bring the airline’s future-focused initiatives to reality, including those involving the metaverse, NFTs, and Web3.

Emirates launched its website and app using virtual reality (VR) technology more than five years ago to provide travelers with an immersive 3D picture of airplane interiors and onboard activities. It was the first airline to offer a virtual reality application on the Oculus Store, exhibiting interactive cabin interior features aboard its iconic A380 aircraft. The airline’s entrance into the Metaverse is the logical next step in pursuing high-tech experiences.

“With a bold vision supported by practical governance and regulatory structures in areas including virtual assets, data security, and AI, Dubai and the United Arab Emirates are visionaries in the digital world. So it’s only fitting that our futuristic-themed Emirates Pavilion at Expo is now being repurposed as a center for the development of cutting-edge future experiences linked with the UAE’s ambition for the digital economy”, said HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Emirates airline and group.

Emirates has always embraced innovative technology to streamline corporate operations, increase customer offerings, and develop the talents and experiences of its workers. We are ecstatic about the potential for the upcoming digital world and are committing significant human and financial resources to develop goods and services that use advanced technological capabilities to drive revenues, brand experience, and business efficiencies,” the CEO continued.