Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) Set For Second Edition in Dubai

The Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) is gearing up for its second edition, set to take place on April 29, 2025, at the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab in Dubai. MEBA isn’t just another stuffy awards show; it’s a vibrant celebration of the future of finance, spotlighting the region’s dynamic strides in blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation.

• Second edition of MEBA set for April 29, 2025
• Event at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE
• Organized by Hoko Group
• Recognizing achievements in blockchain and Web 3.0
• Distinguished panel of judges

Organized by the Hoko Group led by Founder and CEO Max Palethorpe, MEBA 2025 aims to drive the growth of crypto and blockchain innovations not only in the MENA region but also globally. The awards will celebrate the pioneers who are pushing the boundaries and setting new standards in the industry.

Web 3.0, often referred to as the next generation of the internet, is characterized by decentralization and blockchain technology, aiming to give users more control over their data. Dubai, with its forward-thinking approach, is the perfect backdrop for an event that aims to cement the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital transformation and Web 3.0 adoption.

MEBA 2025 will feature a distinguished panel of judges from various sectors of the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry. Notable figures include Jumana Al Darwish, an award-winning social entrepreneur; Scott Melker, host of The Wolf of All Streets Podcast and Crypto TownHall; Mario Nawfal, host of the 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 of Global Blockchain Organization and EcoX; Matthies Mende, Founder and CEO of Bonuz and Co-Founder of Dubai Blockchain Center; Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI for the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre (DBCC); and Gareth Van Zyl, Group Editor of Gulf Business. This diverse panel underscores the event’s significance in the global blockchain community.

The MENA region has emerged as a powerhouse in blockchain technology and digital currency adoption. From July 2023 to June 2024, the region recorded an estimated on-chain transaction value of $338.7 billion, representing 7.5% of global volume. The UAE alone received approximately $34 billion in cryptocurrencies between June 2023 and July 2024, marking a 42% year-on-year increase. These statistics highlight the region’s dynamic innovation ecosystem and the rapid adoption of Web 3.0 technologies.

Max Palethorpe shares his excitement about the event, stating,

“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.”

Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni adds,

“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 cement the UAE’s position as a global hub for blockchain excellence.”

The UAE’s commitment to becoming a leader in digital transformation and blockchain technology is evident in strategic initiatives like the Dubai Metaverse Strategy, the Abu Dhabi Metaverse Gaming Initiative, the Emirates Blockchain Center of Excellence, and the Dubai Blockchain Assembly. These initiatives align with broader Web 3.0 trends such as decentralization, interoperability, personalized user experiences, smart contracts, tokenization of real-world assets, strategic governance, and enhanced security and privacy.

Furthermore, MEBA aims to reimagine the traditional awards format by fostering networking and sparking meaningful conversations in a relaxed and engaging setting, celebrating the industry’s top innovators. This unique format not only highlights achievements but also encourages collaboration and innovation within the blockchain community.

Looking to the future, experts like Alba Partners suggest that Web 3.0 trends will continue to evolve, including more decentralization, increased user control over keys, greater transparency through mechanisms like Zero Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), lower transaction fees, and advanced integrations with AI and DeFi. These trends are expected to shape the future of cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies in the next five years. Centralized Exchanges (CEXs) will need to adapt by guiding users, ensuring trustworthiness and transparency, creating innovative DeFi products, supporting key management and recovery, and integrating AI for operational optimization.

Key Takeaways and Questions

• What is the purpose of the Middle East Blockchain Awards?

  The purpose of MEBA is to drive the growth of crypto and blockchain innovations globally, recognize excellence in the MENA region, and set new standards for blockchain and Web 3.0 projects.

• Where and when will the second edition of MEBA take place?

  The second edition of MEBA will take place on April 29, 2025, at the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE.

• Who are some of the judges for MEBA 2025?

  Judges for MEBA 2025 include Jumana Al Darwish, Scott Melker, Mario Nawfal, Saqr Ereiqat, Jorge Sebastiao, Matthies Mende, Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, and Gareth Van Zyl.

• How does the event reflect the UAE’s stance on blockchain technology?

  The event reflects the UAE’s progressive stance on blockchain technology by showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation and positioning itself as a global leader in digital currency and Web 3.0 adoption.

• What is the significance of the MENA region in the context of blockchain adoption?

  The MENA region is significant due to its increasing adoption of blockchain technology, with the UAE leading as a hub for innovation and digital transformation, thereby accelerating the region’s dynamic ecosystem and the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies.