Middle East Blockchain Awards 2025 to Take Place in Dubai
The Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) is set to return for its second edition, with Dubai chosen as the host city. The prestigious event will be held at the Burj Al Arab on April 29, aligning with the TOKEN2049 conference. MEBA 2025 will bring together top industry professionals to celebrate outstanding contributions to the blockchain and cryptocurrency sector.
The upcoming awards come amid the rising adoption of blockchain technology across the MENA region. According to recent findings from Chainalysis, the region is now ranked as the seventh-largest cryptocurrency market globally. Between July 2023 and June 2024, MENA recorded an estimated on-chain transaction value of $338.7 billion, accounting for 7.5% of the global volume.
The UAE has firmly positioned itself as a frontrunner in digital asset adoption. A Henley & Partners report ranks the country third globally in digital currency usage. Additionally, Chainalysis data indicates that the UAE received approximately $34 billion in cryptocurrency transactions between June 2023 and July 2024, reflecting a 42% year-on-year increase. Dubai, in particular, has played a key role in fostering blockchain-related advancements.
Max Palethorpe, Founder and CEO of Hoko Group, the official organiser of MEBA, commented:
“The Middle East Blockchain Awards serve as a platform to honor excellence in blockchain and digital transformation. With the UAE leading the charge in Web 3.0 developments, this year’s event will showcase the contributions of industry pioneers who are shaping the future of the sector.”
Returning for the second time as a judge, Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI for Dubai at the Department of Economy and Tourism and CEO of Dubai Blockchain Centre, added:
“It is an honor to once again be part of the judging panel and witness the continuous evolution of blockchain technologies in the MENA region. The UAE’s regulatory framework and innovation-driven ecosystem are accelerating the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies.”
MEBA 2025 Judging Panel
This year’s Middle East Blockchain Awards will feature a distinguished panel of judges, including:
- Jumana Al Darwish – Social Entrepreneur and Founder of Happy Box
- 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
- Matthias Mende – Founder and CEO of Bonuz, Co-Founder of Dubai Blockchain Center
MEBA is dedicated to recognizing innovation and excellence in blockchain and Web 3.0 projects throughout the region. The awards debuted in 2023, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Abu Dhabi Finance Week and the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Crypto and Blockchain Association (MEAACBA).
