Building global Web3 ecosystems: From Dubai to the world — Interview with CoinW
The blockchain industry faces a complex challenge: technology is evolving faster than regulations can keep pace. It breeds uncertainty that can stifle innovation and expose users to risk. Regulators worldwide struggle to balance an environment where creativity can flourish with ensuring consumer protection.
CoinW, a fast-growing global crypto exchange that recently made Dubai its new home, invited Nassar Achkar to come on board. He is a seasoned strategist with deep expertise in blockchain ecosystems, technology innovation and regulatory engagement. His experience co-founding the Dubai Blockchain Center and driving digital transformation across industries makes him uniquely qualified to guide CoinW's global expansion and innovation strategy.
Dubai's emergence as a global blockchain hub makes it the perfect home for CoinW's headquarters. It has clear regulatory frameworks, visionary leadership, and a vibrant tech ecosystem. Anchored in Dubai, CoinW seeks to accelerate Web3 adoption across emerging markets and shape the future of the digital economy with confidence and compliance.
In this interview, Achkar details how CoinW is knitting together Web2 giants like LALIGA and Web3 powerhouses such as Solana, why emerging markets from Southeast Asia to Africa are poised to leapfrog into crypto, and how security, transparency and user empowerment underpin every move. His playbook, forged in Dubai but aimed squarely at the world, offers a front-row view of the forces shaping the future digital economy.
Cointelegraph: Could you briefly walk us through your professional journey and how these experiences have shaped your vision for CoinW's strategic direction?
Nassar Achkar: My career began in the IT sector, where I led digital transformation programs for leading global technology institutions. I advanced to managing large-scale international projects and cross-border teams, gaining deep experience in navigating complex operational, regulatory and cultural environments. This trajectory led me to executive leadership, where I drove strategic growth, innovation initiatives and global partnerships as a managing director.
In parallel with the evolution of emerging technologies, I co-founded the Dubai Blockchain Center and launched a pioneering Web3 health platform. These ventures deepened my engagement with blockchain and AI, reinforcing my belief in their capacity to reshape industries through decentralization, automation and data-driven intelligence. These cumulative experiences have equipped me with the strategic vision and executional expertise that I now apply in my role as chief strategy officer at CoinW.
My vision for the company is to architect a globally integrated blockchain ecosystem that empowers users, drives innovation and upholds the highest standards of security and inclusivity. By connecting diverse markets and communities, we aim to unlock the full potential of decentralized technologies in building a more transparent, accessible and future-oriented digital economy.
CT: As a co-founder of Dubai Blockchain Center, you've observed Dubai's evolution closely. What would you say has been the biggest catalyst in transforming Dubai into a leading Web3 hub?
NA: Dubai's transformation into a leading Web3 hub has been driven by visionary government leadership combined with a proactive regulatory approach. The biggest catalyst, in my view, has been the government's commitment to fostering innovation through clear frameworks and strategic initiatives, such as the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).
This forward-thinking environment has attracted top-tier talent, global companies and pioneering startups, all within a supportive ecosystem that balances innovation with responsible governance. Coupled with Dubai's world-class infrastructure and global connectivity, these elements have positioned the city as a true epicenter for blockchain and Web3 development.
CT: What motivated you to join CoinW? Could you share a bit about your current role and the key responsibilities you hold within the organization?
NA: What motivated me to join CoinW was the opportunity to help shape the future of digital finance at a pivotal moment for the blockchain industry. CoinW stood out not only for its rapid global growth but also for its strong commitment to compliance, user-centric innovation and technological excellence. I saw a clear alignment between my experience in scaling emerging technologies and the company's vision to become a trusted global leader in the blockchain space.
As chief strategy officer, I'm responsible for driving CoinW's long-term strategic direction. This includes identifying growth opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, guiding market expansion and ensuring alignment between our product roadmap and evolving global trends. I also work closely with cross-functional teams to strengthen our position in both established and emerging markets, with a strong focus on innovation, regulatory readiness and sustainable ecosystem development.
CT: CoinW recently relocated its global headquarters to Dubai. What were the key strategic considerations behind this decision, and how do you foresee this impacting CoinW's global presence?
NA: Moving to Dubai was a strategic decision to position CoinW at the heart of a fast-growing and innovation-friendly market. Dubai is widely recognized as a leading global hub for blockchain and cryptocurrency. It is often called the 'crypto capital of the world'. This is thanks to its visionary regulatory framework and government-backed initiatives.
Dubai has a thriving ecosystem of startups and industry events such as the recently concluded Token2049. Its global connectivity, regulatory clarity and vibrant tech community make it an ideal base for expanding our reach.
This relocation will strengthen our partnerships and accelerate our growth. It allows CoinW to better serve users across the region and beyond while benefiting from Dubai's reputation as a magnet for blockchain innovation and global business.
CT: What are the core values embraced by CoinW, and what measures or innovations CoinW has implemented to set a benchmark for these areas?
NA: At CoinW, our core values are security, transparency, innovation and user empowerment. These principles are not just aspirational — they are embedded in our operations, technology and community engagement strategies.
To uphold security, we've implemented institutional-grade infrastructure and real-time risk monitoring systems, and we regularly undergo third-party audits to ensure the safety of user assets. For transparency, we maintain clear communication with our users and adhere to rigorous compliance standards across jurisdictions.
On the innovation front, we've launched advanced trading products and AI-driven risk controls and are pioneering integrations with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols to bridge centralized and decentralized ecosystems. Finally, to ensure user empowerment, we continuously invest in education, intuitive platform design and localized support, making blockchain accessible to both new and experienced users globally.
These initiatives not only reinforce our core values but position CoinW as a benchmark in the industry for responsible innovation and user trust.
CT: Could you elaborate on how CoinW approaches forming strategic partnerships with key industry players from both Web3 and Web2, and the overall impact they have on your ecosystem growth and user experience?
NA: At CoinW, we pursue strategic partnerships that reflect our core mission: driving innovation and enhancing accessibility in the blockchain space. One such collaboration is with Superteam Europe, a key community and talent hub for the Solana ecosystem. Through co-hosted hackathons, educational programs and community-driven events, this partnership plays a vital role in nurturing grassroots development and empowering the next generation of Web3 builders.
In the Web2 sphere, we've also aligned with global brands like LALIGA, bridging the gap between traditional sports audiences and the world of digital assets. By creating integrated crypto experiences for mainstream users, we're expanding access to blockchain technology in ways that are engaging and relatable.
These partnerships not only broaden our ecosystem but also enhance the value we offer by providing users with more ways to learn, earn and engage within a dynamic, inclusive digital economy.
CT: CoinW is deeply involved in the development of a global Web3 community. What strategies or criteria do you use when selecting projects and communities to partner with?
NA: When evaluating potential partnerships, we prioritize projects and communities that demonstrate innovation, integrity and a strong dedication to user education. Our criteria also emphasize visionary leadership, well-defined roadmaps and a proven history of active community engagement.
A prime example of this philosophy in action is WConnect, our flagship online forum series. WConnect serves as a platform for in-depth dialogue, expert analysis, and collaborative knowledge sharing, bringing together thought leaders and grassroots communities from across the blockchain space. These sessions not only facilitate meaningful exchange but also help us identify high-potential partners that align with our strategic values.
Beyond virtual engagement, CoinW maintains an active presence at major industry events worldwide, such as Paris Blockchain Week. These in-person interactions enable us to stay closely attuned to emerging trends, cutting-edge innovations, and the evolving needs of the broader crypto ecosystem. This direct involvement ensures that our partnerships are both well-informed and strategically impactful.
CT: Could you highlight a particular partnership or ecosystem collaboration that exemplifies CoinW's approach to fostering global Web3 adoption?
NA: A standout example of CoinW's commitment to advancing global Web3 adoption is our strategic partnership with Superteam Europe and Solana for the Solana Breakout Hackathon. Spanning four key European regions — France, Germany, Poland and the Balkans — over the course of a month, this initiative convened leading Solana developers and Web3 enthusiasts to collaborate, innovate and share expertise on the Solana blockchain.
CoinW played an active role in supporting this landmark event by providing financial backing, facilitating event organization, and offering winning projects valuable incentives such as free platform listings and incubation resources. Leveraging our extensive global network and exchange expertise, we amplified the hackathon's reach through coordinated social media campaigns, AMAs, livestreams, and partnerships with universities and blockchain clubs.
CT: Looking ahead, what emerging trends or regions do you believe will be crucial for CoinW and the broader Web3 ecosystem over the next few years?
NA: Regions such as Southeast Asia and Africa are uniquely positioned for accelerated Web3 adoption, driven by their youthful, tech-savvy demographics and rapidly expanding digital economies. In Southeast Asia, widespread digital wallet penetration and strong engagement with blockchain technologies are catalyzing innovation, supported by a vibrant creator economy and progressive government policies that facilitate ecosystem growth.
Africa is witnessing a notable rise in localized decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and decentralized identity solutions, alongside increasing real-world applications of NFTs. These developments are propelled by a strong demand for financial inclusion and the need to address shortcomings in traditional infrastructure.
Simultaneously, global Web3 evolution is being shaped by trends such as real-world asset tokenization, AI-powered blockchain applications and the emergence of specialized appchains. CoinW is actively monitoring and engaging with these dynamic regions and technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge and drive substantial impact throughout the blockchain ecosystem.
Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/building-global-web3-ecosystems-from-dubai-to-the-world-interview-with-coinw
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