Dubai to Host Second Edition of Middle East Blockchain Awards

The Middle East
Blockchain Awards (MEBA) returns for its second year after the success of its
inaugural edition, with Dubai selected as the host city. The ceremony will take
place at the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on April 29, coinciding with the
TOKEN2049 conference. The event will unite industry leaders, innovators, and
visionaries to celebrate achievements in blockchain and cryptocurrency.

MEBA 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment amid the rapid
acceleration of blockchain adoption across the MENA region. Recent data from
Chainalysis positioned the region as the seventh-largest cryptocurrency market
in the world. Between July 2023 and June 2024, MENA received an estimated
on-chain value of $338.7 billion—accounting for 7.5% of the global transaction
volume.

Notably, the UAE has emerged as a global leader in digital
asset adoption. According to Henley & Partners’ latest report, the UAE
ranks third worldwide in digital currency usage. Chainalysis data also revealed
that the UAE received approximately $34billion in cryptocurrencies between June
2023 and July 2024, experiencing a robust 42% year-on-year growth. This is
driven by the country’s progressive approach to blockchain technology, with
cities like Dubai establishing themselves as key innovation hubs.

Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO of Hoko Group, the official
organizers of MEBA, commented: “The Middle East
Blockchain Awards provides a unique platform to recognize the incredible
achievements that are driving the next wave of innovation in blockchain and
digital transformation. With the UAE leading the charge in the Web 3.0
revolution, it’s inspiring to see industry leaders coming together to shape the
future of this dynamic industry. This year’s event promises to be a true
celebration of the pioneers who are pushing boundaries and setting new
standards.”

Returning as a judge for the second consecutive year, Dr.
Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO, AI for Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO
of Dubai Blockchain Centre (DBCC) added: “I am thrilled to be part of the
judging panel once again and witness the rapid evolution of blockchain
technologies in the MENA region. With the UAE at the forefront of this
transformation, the government’s forward-thinking approach, combined with the
region’s dynamic innovation ecosystem, is accelerating the adoption of Web 3.0
technologies. The Middle East Blockchain Awards captures this momentum and
further cements the UAE’s position as a global hub for blockchain
excellence.”

Other judges of the Middle East Blockchain Awards this year
include:

● Jumana Al Darwish, Award Winning
Social Entrepreneur and Founder of Happy Box

● Scott Melker, Host, The Wolf of
All Streets Podcast, and Crypto TownHall

● Mario Nawfal, Host of Largest
Show on X and Founder of International Blockchain Consulting Group

● Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General
of Dubai Digital Assets Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis

● Jorge Sebastiao, Co-Founder
Global Blockchain Organization and Co-Founder EcoX

● Matthies Mende, Founder and CEO
of Bonuz and Co-Founder of Dubai Blockchain Center

MEBA aims to foster innovation, recognize excellence, and
set new standards for blockchain and Web 3.0 projects across the region. In its
inaugural edition in 2022, MEBA partnered with Abu Dhabi Global Market’s
flagship platform, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and the Middle East, Africa, and
Asia Crypto and Blockchain Association (MEAACBA).

Submissions are now open at www.mebawards.io, where
participants can find additional details about the categories and the
nomination process.

About Hoko Abu Dhabi

Hoko Agency is a diversified and innovative company that
owns and operates a diverse portfolio of businesses within the sectors of
Finance, Blockchain, Entertainment, Sport and F&B. Hoko strives to be the
best-in-class in each of their service lines; offering quality products, world
class service and fitting solutions that go beyond the industry’s expectations.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.