Dubai to Host Middle East Blockchain Awards 2025 at Burj Al Arab

The Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) is set to return for its second edition, with Dubai selected as the host city for the prestigious event. Scheduled to take place on April 29 at the iconic Burj Al Arab, the ceremony will coincide with the TOKEN2049 conference, bringing together leading industry figures to celebrate excellence in blockchain and cryptocurrency.

A Growing Blockchain Hub

The MENA region has witnessed rapid blockchain adoption, with recent data from Chainalysis ranking it as the seventh-largest cryptocurrency market globally. Between July 2023 and June 2024, the region recorded an on-chain transaction value of $338.7 billion, accounting for 7.5% of the global volume.

The UAE has emerged as a key player in the digital asset landscape. A report from Henley & Partners places the country third globally in digital currency usage, while Chainalysis data indicates that the UAE received $34 billion in cryptocurrency transactions between June 2023 and July 2024, marking a 42% year-on-year increase. Cities like Dubai continue to foster blockchain innovation through supportive policies and initiatives.

Recognizing Blockchain Excellence

Organized by Hoko Group, MEBA 2025 aims to acknowledge achievements in blockchain and digital transformation.

Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO of Hoko Group, emphasized the significance of the event:
“The Middle East Blockchain Awards provides a platform to recognize achievements in blockchain and digital transformation. With the UAE leading developments in Web 3.0, this year’s event will highlight the work of industry leaders shaping the sector’s future.”

Returning as a judge for the second consecutive year, Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI for Dubai at the Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s growth:
“I am pleased to be part of the judging panel again and to witness the continued development of blockchain technologies in the MENA region. The UAE’s regulatory approach and innovation ecosystem are driving adoption across Web 3.0 technologies.”

MEBA 2025 Judges Panel

The judging panel for this year’s MEBA includes industry leaders and experts:

• Jumana Al Darwish – Social Entrepreneur & Founder of Happy Box
• Scott Melker – Host of The Wolf of All Streets Podcast & Crypto TownHall
• Mario Nawfal – Host of the Largest Show on X & Founder of International Blockchain Consulting Group
• Saqr Ereiqat – Secretary General of Dubai Digital Assets Association & Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis
• Matthies Mende – Founder & CEO of Bonuz & Co-Founder of Dubai Blockchain Centre

Innovation and Industry Impact

MEBA aims to spotlight breakthroughs in blockchain and Web 3.0 projects, recognizing innovation and excellence across the sector. The inaugural 2023 edition partnered with Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Abu Dhabi Finance Week and the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Crypto and Blockchain Association (MEAACBA).

How to Participate

Submissions for MEBA 2025 are now open at www.meba.io, where participants can find details on award categories and the nomination process.

As the blockchain industry continues its expansion, Dubai’s hosting of MEBA 2025 reaffirms its status as a global leader in digital assets and innovation.