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Gulf Business
20-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Winners of MEBA 2025 revealed as Dubai cements its blockchain leadership
The Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) 2025 took centre stage at the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab at the end of last month, honouring pioneers who are shaping the future of blockchain, crypto, Web3, and AI technologies across the MENA region. Held on 29 April to coincide with the TOKEN2049 conference, the event gathered top investors, technologists, public officials and entrepreneurs in what organisers described as an 'awards-as-networking experience'. Now in its second year, MEBA has become one of the most high-profile celebrations of digital innovation in the region. The ceremony was hosted by impact speaker and entrepreneur Lilly Douse and Scott Melker, Host of The Wolf Of All Streets Podcast and #CryptoTownHall. The event was also organised by the Hoko Group. Winners were selected by a judging panel comprising some of the most respected names in blockchain and fintech. The 2025 winners included: Best GameFi Project: Astro Armadillos Best RWA Tokenization Project: Hash AI Most Promising Web3 Ecosystem: Propchain (powered by Best Blockchain Development Solution: Chainsight Top Crypto Influencer: Ran Neuner Best Web3 Financial Community: Real Vision Most Influential Woman in Blockchain and Crypto: Nikita Sachdev Most Promising Crypto Media Agency: Credibility X Best Blockchain Analytics Solution: Crystal Intelligence Most Influential Person in Blockchain and Crypto: Acme Worawat Max Palethorpe, founder and CEO of Hoko Group, said: 'The Middle East Blockchain Awards provides a platform to recognise achievements in blockchain and digital transformation. With the UAE leading developments in Web 3.0, this year's event highlights the work of industry leaders pushing boundaries across blockchain, AI, and fintech.' Returning judge Dr Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of the Dubai Blockchain Center, added: '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.' The full judging panel included: Dr Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO, Dubai Blockchain Center Scott Melker, Host of The Wolf Of All Streets Podcast and #CryptoTownHall Jumana Al Darwish, Impact Entrepreneur and Web3 Investor, Founder of The Happy Box Megan Plisky, Web3 Leader and Strategic Advisor Matthias Mende, Founder & CEO of Bonuz and Co-Founder of the Dubai Blockchain Center Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General of the Dubai Digital Asset Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis Ventures Gareth van Zyl, Group Editor, Gulf Business Jorge Sebastião, Co-Founder of the Global Blockchain Organisation and Co-Founder of EcoX As blockchain and digital assets continue to accelerate across the region, MEBA has positioned itself as a platform not only for recognition, but also for collaboration. This year's event put an emphasis on real-world impact — aiming to foster strategic partnerships and investment opportunities across its network of winners and attendees. The UAE continues to assert itself as a global blockchain hub. Chainalysis data reveals that between July 2023 and June 2024, the MENA region saw $338.7bn in on-chain transaction volume. The UAE accounted for $34bn of that figure — a 42 per cent year-on-year increase — while Henley & Partners ranks the country third globally in digital currency usage. With Web3 growth accelerating, MEBA 2025 underscores Dubai's role as a leader in digital innovation and its ambition to shape the future of finance, tech, and governance. For more information, visit:
Zawya
06-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai to host second edition of Middle East Blockchain Awards as MENA drives global crypto growth
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 The UAE leads MENA blockchain growth, ranking third worldwide for digital currency usage Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni returns as second time judge, highlights the UAE's status as global blockchain hub Dubai, UAE: 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 o f 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 where participants can find additional details about the categories and the nomination process. -Ends- 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. For media inquires Yousef Batter Head of PR White Label Strategy
Emirates 24/7
06-02-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai to Host Second Edition of Middle East Blockchain Awards as MENA Drives Global Crypto Growth
● Award ceremony will take place at the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab on 29 April, coinciding with global TOKEN2049 conference ● 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 ● The UAE leads MENA blockchain growth, ranking third worldwide for digital currency usage ● Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni returns as second time judge, highlights the UAE's status as global blockchain hub 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 where participants can find additional details about the categories and the nomination process. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
