UAE Ministry of Energy to use Shiba Inu decentralized operating system

UAE Ministry of Energy to use Shiba Inu decentralized operating system

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has partnered with Shiba Inu, whose official mascot is DogeCoin, to advance Web3 solutions in energy infrastructure using Shibu Inu’s decentralized operating system.

As per a press release on UAE Ministry of Energy website, the partnership will leverage Shiba Inu’s broad range of Web3 technologies to support public service efficiency, green infrastructure enhancements, and citizen-focused governance models. Shiba Inu’s Operational System (ShibOS) will unify development across MoEI operations.

As per Shiba Inu website, the next gen operating system delivers turnkey solutions for Web2 to Web3 transitions. The Shib Alpha Layer
is a modular rollup abstraction layer for ultra-fast transactions, achieving sub-100ms finality and high TPS to power a global network state. While the FHE-Powered Identity Stack offers a privacy-first on-chain solution providing verifiable credentials and one-time KYC, secured by fully homomorphic encryption.

H.E. Engineer Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, noted that the partnership is a pivotal moment in their journey to redefining governmental services. He added that the Ministry aims to deliver transformative solutions that benefit both citizens and the wider community with sustainability, connectivity and digital excellence.

Shytoshi Kusama, Lead Visionary for the Shiba Inu team, added “We’re thrilled the Ministry sees Shiba Inu as a cornerstone for next-generation infrastructure.” He believes this showcases the power of Shiba Inu in delivering groundbreaking solutions.

The UAE government launched its Blockchain Strategy 2021 back in 2018 to capitalize on Blockchain technology and transform 50% of government transactions. The UAE government had expected that this strategy would save more than $3 billion in transactions and document processing, $108 million in printed documents annually, and 77 million work hours.

In January 2025, MarkNtel Advisors noted that the blockchain industry in the UAE is experiencing remarkable growth, with an annual rate of 42%.

Over the past week, blockchain initiatives have seen renewed momentum, with significant developments such as the UAE KYC Blockchain platform, led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and powered by Norbloc Blockchain, welcoming its first insurance member, Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI).

Recently, the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) have joined forces to promote the use of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, within the real estate and property technology (Proptech) sectors.

This all comes as Elon Musk was reported to be considering using blockchain technology at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to track Federal government spending. Blockchain might be used to monitor federal spending, make payments, secure data and manage government buildings.

DOGE’s goal is to update federal software and technology to boost efficiency and productivity within the federal government.

BitGo receives crypto custodial in-principle approval from Dubai regulator

BitGo receives crypto custodial in-principle approval from Dubai regulator

BitGo, a digital asset solutions provider offering crypto custody, and trading services has received its crypto custodial license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). BitGo Custody MENA FZE, has received an in-principle approval (IPA) for a Virtual Assets Service Provider (VASP) license to provide custody services. This IPA marks a significant expansion of BitGo’s world-class suite of regulatory compliant custody services to leading financial markets around the world.

As per the press release, once fully approved and licensed, BitGo Custody MENA FZE will be able to offer its secure and efficient cold storage custody services to qualified and institutional investors in Dubai. 

Ben Choy, General Manager of BitGo MENA, said, “Dubai has cemented itself as a central hub within the digital asset ecosystem and we are excited to play an important role in its growth.This IPA marks a significant milestone in our journey and we are confident that BitGo’s innovative custody services will address the sophisticated needs of the market and will help deliver meaningful value to our clients.”

BitGo’s commitment to security and compliance aligns with VARA’s comprehensive regulatory framework, which is designed to protect investors and ensure market integrity. VARA’s forward thinking and innovative frameworks have positioned Dubai as the ideal choice for BitGo’s expansion into the region. 

Bitgo is one of eight virtual asset service providers currently holding in-principle approvals from Dubai’s regulator. Currently Zand Bank, Komainu, and HexTrust hold regulated licenses.

Gewan Holding, Zodia markets and Metalpha launch crypto financial services entity in UAE

Gewan Holding, Zodia markets and Metalpha launch crypto financial services entity in UAE

UAE based Gewan Holding, Zodia Markets, a UAE regulated digital asset broker and Metalpha Limited, a digital asset wealth management service provider have launched ZMG7 LLC, which is set to redefine the global digital asset ecosystem.

ZMG7 received its Financial Services Permission from the FSRA in Abu Dhabi Global Market on December 24 2024.

ZMG7 will bring together the expertise and resources of three powerhouses in finance and digital innovation, with each partner bringing their own distinct strength to the partnership.

Utilizing the brokerage and custodial services of Zodia Markets and Metalpha’s crypto derivatives expertise which is serving institutions such as exchanges, mining firms, investment funds, and family offices. Metalpha Limited aims to lead the crypto wealth management industry, driving innovation, transparency, and sustainable growth for its clients worldwide.

Commenting on the launch, Alaa Al Ali, CEO of Gewan Holding, said: “ZMG7 embodies the vision of innovation and collaboration that is central to our values at Gewan Holding. This venture is also a testament to Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a global hub for digital assets and financial technology.”

Gewan Holding is also a participant in the digital energy Fund with Hodler Investments out of DIFC Dubai.

Amer Al Osh, Chief Development Officer, Gewan Holding, noted, “By joining forces with Zodia Markets and Metalpha, we aim to unlock unprecedented opportunities in the digital asset landscape, driving its rapid yet sustainable growth across the UAE, the GCC, and beyond.”

Adrian Wang, CEO of Metalpha Limited, further stated, “I’m very excited for our partnership and shared vision of advancing digital assets in the Middle East. Aiming to play a pivotal role to drive mass adoption of digital assets in the region, we look forward to expanding our presence in this dynamic market.”

While Usman Ahmad, Co-Founder and CEO of Zodia Markets, said, “It is a privilege to partner with esteemed institutions like Gewan Holding and Metalpha. Together, our unique capabilities and combined infrastructure will create unparalleled synergies, enabling us to contribute to the growth of the global digital asset markets. .”

SuiHub Dubai accelerator receives over 630 applications

SuiHub Dubai accelerator receives over 630 applications

SuiHub, based out of Dubai UAE received over 630 applications for its Global Accelerator Program, the largest intakes ever recorded for an ecosystem-specific accelerator program.

SuiHub’s accelerator program attracted interest from over 13,000 individuals from 152 countries and 2,452 cities. This exceptional level of enthusiasm highlights the momentum within the Sui ecosystem and the widespread appeal of the SuiHub initiative.
Kristof Lukovich, CEO of SuiHub stated, “The immense interest in the SuiHub Accelerator Program underscores the strength of the Sui ecosystem and its appeal to builders worldwide. We are incredibly excited to work with the inaugural cohort and help them unlock the full potential of the Sui blockchain to address real-world challenges.”

With an acceptance rate of just around 1.3%, the inaugural cohort of the SuiHub Accelerator is set to feature some of the most innovative and promising startups in the Web3 space.

“The 630+ applicants is a testament to the strength of the SuiHub offering and the momentum within the Sui ecosystem,” said Scott Keto, President at CoinList. “With an acceptance rate of just 1.3% and many quality applicants to choose from, the first cohort of the accelerator looks incredibly promising. We look forward to supporting this next generation of builders on Sui.”

The SuiHub Accelerator, run in partnership with UAE based Brinc, CoinList, UAE based Ghaf Group, and the Sui Foundation, provides up to $200,000 in milestone-based funding per team, technical support, and access to global marketing channels. Its mission is to empower pre-token projects and entrepreneurs building sustainable business models on the Sui blockchain.

“Backed by Sui’s lightning-fast and scalable network, these projects have immense potential to continue to grow the Sui ecosystem.” said Dr. Kostas Chalkias, Co-founder of Sui.

“The response to the SuiHub Dubai Accelerator from the community, developers, entrepreneurs, and users has been incredible. The extraordinary volume of qualified submissions reflects the talent that makes the Sui ecosystem a thriving, innovative network,” said Henrik Johansson, Head of Community at Sui Foundation.

The first cohort of the SuiHub Accelerator is scheduled to commence shortly, with selected teams gaining direct access to the Sui Solutions Engineering team, expert advisory on token design and distribution mechanisms, and growth marketing support.

“The exceptional caliber and overwhelming number of SuiHub accelerator applications demonstrate both the rapid growth of the Sui ecosystem and the strength of our partners,” said Bashar Aboudaoud, COO & Co-Founder of Brinc. “The program is quickly establishing itself as one of the best in the Web3 space, and I am very excited to see the progress of the startups that enter it.”

As SuiHub continues to foster innovation and collaboration, this inaugural cohort is poised to set the stage for further advancements in Web3 and accelerate Sui’s mission of onboarding the next billion users to the blockchain.

“At Ghaf Group, we are thrilled to support Sui’s growth in the Middle East and beyond. This program is more than just an accelerator, it’s a launchpad for the next wave of innovation in Web3 and will have a positive effect in further strengthening the regional ecosystem through new global connections.” stated Feras Al Sadek, MD, Ghaf Group.

Sui Hub launched in UAE in November 2024

SUI, through its SuiHub launched its Global Accelerator Program, a new initiative designed to help build sustainable businesses on Sui in the Web3 space in the UAE back in November of 2024. The 12-week accelerator program will be run in partnership between Brinc, CoinList, Ghaf Group, and Sui Foundation; and is set to provide strategic funding, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to startups and developers building on the Sui blockchain.

Dubai Freezone and Dubai Land Department to include blockchain and AI in proptech sector

Dubai Freezone and Dubai Land Department to include blockchain and AI in proptech sector

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) and the Dubai Land Department (DLD) have partnered to encourage the adoption of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, in the real estate sector, and Property technology sector (Proptech), while facilitating the establishment of companies and providing the necessary support to expand their business,

As per the press release, the collaboration aims to enhance research, development, and technological innovation, as well as ease of doing business in Dubai, and to contribute to the growth of emerging startups, small and medium innovative enterprises in the sector.

This partnership aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Grant Initiative, launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, in September 2024. Through one of the four priority sectors – Cognitive Cities – Dubai RDI will focus on Proptech, smart mobility, traffic management, and smart grids.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, and Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Land Department, at Dubai Silicon Oasis, the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and a member of DIEZ.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni said, “DIEZ is committed to providing a conducive environment for start-ups, SMEs and innovative projects in various emerging technology sectors. Dubai is a global destination for entrepreneurs and innovators with promising tech-focused ideas. Through our collaboration with active entities to contribute to building a future-ready economy in Dubai, such as the partnership with Dubai Land Department, DIEZ aims to enhance the emirate’s global position in attracting technology entrepreneurs and SMEs and providing everything they need to support doubling the size of Dubai’s economy and making it one of the top three global cities by 2033, in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”

Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita said, “Through this partnership with the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, we are committed to providing a conducive environment that encourages the adoption of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in the real estate sector, while facilitating the establishment of companies and providing the necessary support to expand their business, aligning with the Real Estate Evolution Space ‘REES’ initiative we previously launched as part of our efforts to achieve the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), positioning the emirate as a key hub for innovation. We aim to enhance Dubai’s position as a leading destination for real estate innovation, in line with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033, particularly by establishing a comprehensive ecosystem based on modern technology and advanced digital solutions.”

this comes as Klickl, the Web3 financial platform out of the UAE, announced that it will enable real estate developer IMKAN offer international investors with secure, fast and flaxible options of alternative payments in high value sector such as real estate through cryptocurrency by converting crypto into AED. Klickl will offer cryptocurrency payment processing system.

UAE Tokinvest and InvestaX have partnered to deliver tokenized asset offerings

UAE Tokinvest and InvestaX have partnered to deliver tokenized asset offerings

Tokinvest, a market-leading real-world asset investment platform based in Dubai, and InvestaX, a leading tokenization platform based in Singapore, have partnered to enhance global accessibility to asset-backed and rights-linked virtual assets. The two entities will deliver an end-to-end solution for token offerings and secondary market trading across two markets that are global leaders in supporting the adoption of real-world asset tokenization.

The collaboration between Tokinvest and InvestaX will provide a seamless dual-market solution for real-world tokenized assets.  This includes structuring and creating virtual assets, issuing tokens in the primary market, raising capital, and facilitating liquidity and secondary market trading. The partnership leverages both companies’ complementary regulatory licenses and market reach: Tokinvest as a leader in the Middle East and InvestaX as a pioneering platform in Asia.

“Through this partnership, we are uniting two strong forces in the virtual assets world to bring greater access, efficiency, and liquidity to investors and asset owners,” said Scott Thiel, CEO of Tokinvest. “Our shared vision is to enhance the global ecosystem of tokenized assets and provide robust solutions for those looking to invest in the digital future.”

Julian Kwan, Co-Founder & CEO of InvestaX, added: “We’re excited to collaborate and bring Singapore and the UAE closer together through this partnership. We already have several projects in the pipeline, and we’re eager to launch them and contribute to the growth of this industry.”

Tokinvest has been increasing its partners over the past few months

Just last week, Tokinvest, and German based StegX, a platform for tokenized real assets based in Germany, have partnered to bridge tokenization between UAE and Germany. StegX has been collaborating with entities to bridge tokenization solutions with Singapore, and Latin America.

Additionally Tokinvest expanded its collaboration with Universal Digital Payments Network (UDPN) to launch a Tokenized Deposit and Stablecoin Management System.

Klickl and IMKAN Properties to convert crypto into AED for real estate transactions

Klickl and IMKAN Properties to convert crypto into AED for real estate transactions

While the UAE Central Bank has made it clear that crypto cannot be used as a legal tender for the purchase of goods and services inside the country, while AED stablecoins can be, real estate investors and buyers can still utilize cryptocurrencies for real estate purchases with Klickl and IMKAN Properties which has 26 properties across two continents.

Klickl, the Web3 financial platform out of the UAE, will be able to help IMKAN offer international investors with secure, fast and flaxible options of alternative payments in high value sector such as real estate. Klickl will offer cryptocurrency payment processing system.

“Our collaboration with IMKAN aligns with our mission to extend the benefits of Web3 technologies into everyday business transactions,” said Michael Zhao, CEO of Klickl. “From cross-border remittances to real estate investments, digital currencies offer an unmatched level of convenience, transparency, and efficiency. By supporting IMKAN’s customers with both crypto payment acceptance and fiat conversion, we are creating a model that other real estate companies can adopt to attract a new generation of buyers.” He went on to say.

The collaboration will allow IMKAN to offer its clients the option of converting cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins like USDT for use to invest in premium real estate . With these options, both local and international buyers gain greater flexibility, avoiding the complexities and delays that often come with cross-border bank conversions.

One of the key drivers behind this initiative is the increasing number of international investors in UAE real estate. The ability to use digital currencies for conversion will streamline transactions for overseas buyers, especially those in emerging markets or regions with less-developed banking infrastructure.

“Crypto is more than a payment method—it’s a financial tool that enables us to operate more efficiently across borders,” Zhao explained. “Our goal with IMKAN is to offer this technology to its customers in a way that enhances liquidity and supports business continuity, providing real estate developers with the financial stability they need to grow.”

Klickl’s platform will be offered seamlessly with IMKAN’s existing sales and payment systems. Buyers will experience a straightforward process where cryptocurrency payments can be made through a secure platform, and all necessary regulatory checks will be conducted automatically.

Klickl will ensure that all transactions are compliant with UAE regulations. From Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols to anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, the platform incorporates best-in-class security features to protect both IMKAN and its clients.

“We are committed to maintaining the highest levels of security and compliance,” Zhao emphasized. “Every transaction will go through rigorous checks to ensure it meets regulatory standards, so our partners and their customers can transact with confidence.”

The long-term vision includes expanding the use of digital finance tools across IMKAN’s full range of projects, from luxury residential developments to large-scale commercial properties.

“The UAE is rapidly emerging as a major crypto hub driven by the region’s welcoming regulatory environment and its proactive approach to supporting the digital asset sector. As one of the nation’s leading real estate developers, IMKAN is proud to play a decisive role in revolutionizing real estate transactions by embracing cryptocurrency for property investments. Together with Klickl, we are helping to ensure that the UAE will remain a leader and not a follower in digital currency proliferation,” said Engineer Suwaidan Al Dhaheri, CEO of IMKAN Properties.

“This collaboration demonstrates how blockchain and digital assets can bring real value to traditional industries,” said Zhao. “It’s not just about following trends; it’s about using these technologies to solve real-world challenges and unlock new opportunities. We see the potential for this model to reshape not only real estate but also other sectors where high value transactions are common.”

UAE Etihad Credit Insurance joins KYC Blockchain platform

UAE Etihad Credit Insurance joins KYC Blockchain platform

UAE KYC Blockchain platform led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism ( DET) and powered by Norbloc Blockchain has added the first insurance member, Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI),The KYC Blockchain platform aims to improve ease of doing business, company KYC compliance, and customer data quality and enable the KYC network’s future growth by leveraging it as a reliable customer data ecosystem.

Her Excellency Raja Al Mazrouei, CEO of ECI, said, “We are pleased to be the first export credit agency to join the UAE’s KYC platform, which marks a remarkable milestone for us. This step enables the ecosystem to quickly improve the verification process of consumer identities and build unified procedures by leveraging blockchain technology. At ECI, we are committed to using state-of-the-art technologies in partnership with relevant stakeholders to increase operational efficiency, optimize services and accelerate processes. We believe that this move would help streamline the process of delivering our services and solutions, as well as support and enable a larger group of businesses engaged in UAE export and re-export operations to both regional and international markets.”

Ahmad AlFalasi, CEO of DBLC at DET, added, “We are pleased to welcome ECI as the first insurance sector entity to join the KYC Blockchain Platform. This milestone highlights ECI’s commitment to improving ease of doing business and enhancing KYC compliance standards. DET is dedicated to providing alternative channels for seamless company KYC data sharing and validation, with this initiative being a key example. By easing access to banking, financial, and insurance services, the platform fosters regulatory collaboration while ensuring robust KYC compliance. ECI’s participation underscores the growing momentum of this initiative, and we look forward to further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global trusted business hub.”

Astyanax Kanakakis, CEO and Co-Founder of norbloc, explained “The KYC Blockchain Platform establishes a single version of truth per customer profile, enhancing data quality, boosting transparency, while improving institutions’ efforts to combat financial crimes, streamlining data exchange and encouraging cooperation. Furthermore, the continuous expansion of platform members in the country aligns with the UAE’s strategy for digital transformation and is an integral component to stimulating economic growth and reinforcing the UAE’s leading position as a global financial hub and a primary investment destination.”

The platform uses norbloc’s Fides solution to improve customer experiences by leveraging innovative blockchain technology to offer access to accurate and reliable information for banks and other financial institutions. Joining the platform ensures an expedited account opening process, streamlined financial and digital services, seamless consent-driven customer data transfer, and confidentiality of customer data.

With the goal of facilitating efficient data exchange in the emirate, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) launched the KYC Blockchain Platform in 2020, in collaboration with a group of founding member banks. In May of 2023, Al Masraf bank became the 10th bank to join the Norbloc KYC Blockchain platform developed under the initiative with Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Eight crypto entities receive in-principle approval from VARA Dubai

Eight crypto entities receive in-principle approval from VARA Dubai

Eight crypto entities have received in-principle approval from Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) listed on VARA website. Those receiving in principle approval include names such as BitPanda, Hashkey and Bybit which are both seeking a crypto brokerage license, as well as Bitgo which is seeking a crypto custodian license.

Other names include Atremo Digital, Gate Technologies, and MKX Virtual Assets Broker, which have all as well received in principle approval for a crypto broker licenses.

LCT Global, also known as CoinW has also received an in-principle approval for crypto exchange license. In December 2024, “Securing VARA’s In-Principle Approval is a defining moment for LCT,” said Sonia Shaw, CEO of LCT. “It affirms our steadfast commitment to compliance, transparency, and innovation. This achievement positions us to deliver secure, world-class crypto solutions and establish trust with our clients and stakeholders worldwide.”

Once or if these crypto services providers receive their final licenses, they will be added to the already existing licensed 23 virtual asset service providers in VARA.

The UAE had become an attractive destination for leading crypto exchanges including Binance, Crypto.com, OKX and others. It is not only attractive for its regulatory frameworks in place which includes the recent stablecoin regulations from UAE Central Bank, but also for the ownership of crypto in the country.

According to data from Triple A, countries within the “Emerging Economies” category dominate in crypto ownership. The UAE leads the way at 25.3%, the highest percentage of ownership. Singapore follows closely at 24.4%, while Turkey is at 19.3%. Both exhibit higher adoption rates compared to Advanced Economies like Switzerland (12.4%) and the United States (15.0%).

Mohammed Al Hakim, Crypto.com President, UAE Operations noted in a a session on The Future of Crypto at the 8th annual Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) that, “In the next two years, people in the UAE should be able to use cryptocurrency for everyday transactions”.

Globally 562 million people own crypto. This number is set to rise as the United States takes on a more open regulatory stance to crypto, stablecoins, and service providers.

The UAE still remains at the forefront, with the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority has recently released a draft regulation under the title “ Security Tokens and Commodity Tokens Contracts”. The UAE SCA  in its draft regulations has defined Security tokens as digital assets created using Distributed Ledger Technology to represent financial rights or tangible assets. Examples of Security tokens include equity tokens, and bond tokens. With regards to Commodity Tokens, the regulator has defined them as a type of digital assets that are based on the value of physical commodities such as gold, oil, metals, or agricultural products.

WadzPay Blockchain crypto entity no longer licensed in UAE

WadzPay Blockchain crypto entity no longer licensed in UAE

WadzPay, a blockchain technology and financial services company that had applied and had received a VASP license pending further operational requirements in Dubai UAE, via the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, has been delisted from VARA’s public registry, which implies that WadzPay is no longer a regulated entity in Dubai UAE. Reasons behind this are not unclear given the efforts WadzPay had made over the years to received this license, yet on VARA website it shows that the license has been withdrawn.

This comes months after WadzPay in November of 2023, had announced it secured a capital commitment of $50 million SGD in the form of a Share Subscription facility from GEM Global Yield (GEM). The SSF as noted in that press release, was supposed to accelerate the company’s growth strategy via acquisitions, partnerships and organic initiatives.

The agreement established a Share Subscription Facility granting WadzPay the option to call upon GEM to subscribe for Ordinary Shares up to a total value of SGD 50 million (approximately USD 36.7 million) upon a successful public listing for a thirty-six-month period.

WadzPay had received a VASP license for crypto brokerage under pending status back in February 2024. Yet until now it was still pending. In November Anish Jain, Founder and CEO, noted that the company opened its Dubai offices back in 2022, citing that a main attraction of Dubai was its supportive regulatory environment.

WadzPay “bridges the gap between fiat currencies and virtual assets,” according to Anish Jain, founder and CEO.

Moreover Jain had described the license, – issuance of which is subject to meeting pre-operating requirements and qualifications – as a “pivotal advancement for WadzPay… enhancing trust and credibility among stakeholders viewing Dubai as a launchpad for global ambition.”

It would seem that this ambition has faded for WadzPay.