UAE based Blockchain entity accepted into ThirdWeb Superchain accelerator

UAE based Blockchain entity accepted into ThirdWeb Superchain accelerator

With a presence in RAK DAO in Rask Al Khaimah UAE, Vault Hill, a tech entity that leverages blockchain and AI has announced its acceptance into the ThirdWeb SuperChain accelerator. ThirdWeb SuperChain accelerator is co founded by serial entrepreneur Steven Bartlett.

As per the press release, this milestone marks a significant leap forward in Vault Hill’s commitment to advancing blockchain technology and expanding its innovative ecosystem.

As part of its participation in the Superchain accelerator program, Vault Hill will gain access to an array of advanced blockchain and gaming development kits, alongside expert guidance from some of the leading minds in the tech industry. This initiative is set to enhance Vault Hill’s developmental capabilities, enabling quicker deployment of new features and improvements across its platforms.

The gaming development toolkit provided by ThirdWeb is particularly crucial for Vault Hill’s strategic expansion into blockchain-based gaming. These tools are designed to streamline the creation and integration of gaming applications, making them a key component in Vault Hill’s 2024 strategic direction.

Tayo Kalejaiye, Head of Gaming at Vault Hill, comments on the toolkit’s significance: “The integration of ThirdWeb’s gaming development toolkit is instrumental to our 2024 roadmap. It not only enhances our capability to develop cutting-edge gaming solutions but also aligns perfectly with our strategic direction, pushing us towards becoming a leader in blockchain gaming innovation.”

“This acceptance into the ThirdWeb Superchain is not just a recognition of Vault Hill’s potential but also a crucial opportunity to leverage cutting-edge resources that will propel our technological advancement,” said Jimi Daodu, CEO of Vault Hill. “We are poised to set new standards in blockchain applications, benefiting both our community of users and our investors.”

Dubai Fintech summit offers a platform for Fintech startups and investors

Dubai Fintech summit offers a platform for Fintech startups and investors

For the second consecutive year, Dubai will remain in the spotlight as it hosts the second edition of Dubai FinTech Summit, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime
Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE and President of DIFC, which is set to take place on 6-7 May at Madinat Jumeirah.


Organized by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, the Summit will bring together 8,000 decision-makers, over 300 thought leaders and more than 200 exhibitors to discuss the latest innovations and challenges and showcase cutting-edge technologies.


The global FinTech sector is rapidly growing and is predicted to be valued at USD 608bn globally by 2029, according to Mordor Intelligence, a market intelligence and advisory firm. Bucking the downward global market trend, the MENA FinTech market is expected to register a CAGR of over eight per cent during the period 2024 to 2029.


Dubai FinTech Summit will offer a platform for start-ups, investors and industry leaders to connect and capitalize on the growing FinTech market in the region and beyond. The MENA region’s FinTech start-up and venture capital landscape is booming, with over 800 FinTech start- ups worth USD15.5 bn, according to data by dealroom.co. Reflecting the ongoing transformation in the financial sector driven by Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact, the key themes this year will be Finance Renaissance, Ecofinance and Impact, Investment Vanguard, Regulatory Frameworks, Global Financial Dynamics and FinTech 2.0.


Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO at DIFC Innovation Hub, said: “Nearly 60 per cent of all FinTech companies in the GCC are currently based in Dubai. With the industry growing at an unprecedented rate, it is crucial for stakeholders to gather and discuss the challenges and
opportunities that lie ahead. The Dubai FinTech Summit will bring together the most prominent figures in the industry, with an agenda that is aimed at driving innovation, inclusivity, and growth for all.”

With an impressive line-up of distinguished local and international speakers, the Dubai FinTech Summit will host a series of panel discussions and fireside chats. More than 20 governors of financial institutions will attend the summit this year, amongst them, H.E. Essa
Kazim, Governor, DIFC, UAE; H.E. Dr. Philmnisi, Governor, Central Bank of Eswatini; H.E. Cheaserey, Governor National Bank of Cambodia; H.E. Martin Galstyan, Governor, Central Bank of Armenia; H.E. John Rwangombwa, Governor, National Bank of Rwanda; H.E. Prof. Edward Scicluna, Governor, Central Bank of Malta will participate in discussions during the two-day event. Adena T. Friedman, Chair & CEO of Nasdaq Inc; Nic Dreckman, CEO of Bank Julius Baer & Co.; Yie-Hsin Hung, President & CEO of State Street global advisors and Jim Demare,


President global markets at Bank of America, along with many other global industry leaders will also be participating in the various sessions planned for the Summit. Notable local speakers include H.E. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member & UAE Minister of Economy; H.E. Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai; H.E. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, UAE; and H.E. Faisal Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Chamber, Chairman of J&F Holding.

A key highlight of the Dubai FinTech Summit will be the Grand Finale of the FinTech World Cup (FWC). The champions of the FinTech World Cup will be announced on Day 2 of the summit with the winners securing an investment of up to USD 1 million. The competition is a growth-enabling initiative by DFS designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and stellar innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector.
In line with the D33 Agenda to position Dubai as the top four global financial hub by 2033, the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector. It presents a unique opportunity to explore emerging FinTech trends and their potential to drive financial progress in the MEASA
region.
The inaugural Dubai FinTech Summit attracted over 5,000 C-suite leaders from over 90 countries including north of 1,000 investors and more than 150 speakers. Over 20 Memorandum of Understandings were signed with global financial leaders during the Summit.

Hacken signs MOU with UAE ADGM to set new benchmarks for blockchain security

Hacken signs MOU with UAE ADGM to set new benchmarks for blockchain security

Hacken, a blockchain security auditing entity, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with UAE’s Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), to set new benchmarks for blockchain security and compliance.

As per the press release, this strategic partnership reflects a unique synergy between a regulatory body and a security auditor aimed at establishing a world-leading security assessment standard in the blockchain industry.

Under the MoU, ADGM’s Registration Authority (RA) will collaborate with Hacken on developing security standards and on-chain monitoring solutions in relation to ADGM’s DLT Foundations framework, positioning both organisations at the forefront of fostering a secure blockchain ecosystem. This collaboration not only highlights ADGM’s role in innovating regulatory frameworks but also Hacken’s commitment to advancing blockchain security globally.

Highlights of the MoU include collaboration in the following areas:

  • Security and Compliance Standards Development.
  • Advanced DLT Foundation Monitoring Arrangements
  • Development of AI-Enhanced Monitoring Solutions

“At ADGM, we are committed to setting unprecedented global standards in regulatory compliance and security by harnessing the transformative power of blockchain and AI. Our partnership with Hacken exemplifies our innovative drive and dedication to excellence. By integrating AI-driven technologies, we are pioneering a model of regulatory excellence that enhances transparency, security, and trust across the digital landscape. This represents the next frontier in SupTech, and take pride in spearheading this evolution,” said Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM RA.

Dyma Budorin, Co-Founder and CEO of Hacken emphasized the significance of the collaboration stating, “We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support ADGM in this pioneering venture. Our experience in working with public sectors, such as our audits for the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure and our cooperation with government entities, provides a solid foundation for this partnership. Together, we are setting a new global standard for blockchain security and compliance.”

Lebanese DigiWeb introduces AI and Blockchain in real-state sector

Lebanese DigiWeb introduces AI and Blockchain in real-state sector

The real estate industry globally and in the region is undergoing a transformation. Once known for its intense paper trails and reliance on human interactions, real estate sector transforming with the use of AI and Blockchain technology.


Beirut based DigiWeb, a tech marketing firm, which had previously worked with multinational leading real estate developers and agents is implementing an innovative solution that utilizes both AI and Blockchain.


Built on the Polygon Blockchain, the solution will replace outdated real-estate sale processes that not only take a lot of time, effort, and information queries with a more streamlined and transparent process.


Previously DigiWeb using a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system was able to connect credit solvable buyers with real estate developers in minutes.


Yet DigiWeb founder noticed that although digital marketing entities such as their own, could carry out large scale data mining campaigns for their clients, and analyze them, the data at one time or another becomes obsolete as new cities arise, client taste change and technology evolves.


Fady El Sayah, Founder and CEO of DigiWeb explained, “Years ago we developed a solution for a real estate developer utilized at one of their sales events. Potential buyers registered their pre interest, the information was then shared with credit entities who either considered them as solvable or not.


These buyers would then talk to a sales team, once the buyer committed, they had to pay a down payment of booking fee”
He adds “At the event there were stands for banks, the bank would then process the booking fee, and the information would then be sent to the legal department of the real estate developer where a contract was set up.”


While this process managed through a CRM allowed the real estate developer sell 90 apartments and 100 offices in just four hours, DigiWeb is now ready to take this a step further utilizing Blockchain and AI.


At present instead of a real estate sales event, there will be a virtual room. A potential buyer from anywhere in the world can access the digital meeting room, interact with EDA an AI AVR and visit each floor and each apartment in a complex checking out the interior and exterior as they move along using their joystick.


Al Sayah explains, “If a potential buyer would like to change the internal set up of an apartment, the AI can do so. In addition, the AI can place an order and the buyer can use their crypto or digital assets wallet to pay.”
AVR Chatbots powered by AI can answer basic questions 24/7, freeing up human agents for more complex interactions. The entire sales process from viewing up to purchasing will be done utilizing blockchain.


Al Sayah notes that this doesn’t just fall into the real-estate sector. He has already prepared a demo for the biggest distributor of home appliances in Ghana. As such DigiWeb wants to incorporate AI and Blockchain not only in real-estate but also shopping
malls and retail sector.
In conclusion while some believe that Blockchain for the real-estate sector is centered on tokenization of assets, it can also be utilized in the manual processes by streamlining it with automation.


Today it is data that helps realtors assess potential clients as well as help clients to make more informed decisions note solely based on gut feeling. The future is in AI algorithms that can analyze user preferences and suggest properties that perfectly match their needs.

Companies like DigiWeb are continuing to evolve. In the past DigiWeb has designed and developed virtual tours, created automated sales solutions for multimillion-dollar real estate projects, and executed multi-million real estate marketing campaigns.

As Al Sayah notes, “Our approach has always been holistic, integrating technology with marketing strategies to deliver exceptional results. Today utilizing AI and Blockchain we can ensure better services such as dynamic pricing, and better customer interfaces.”

UAE investors participate in the $12 million Blockchain round for Shiba Inu

UAE investors participate in the $12 million Blockchain round for Shiba Inu

UAE Funds including names such as, WoodStock Fund and Cypher Capital are among the investors in Shiba Inu’s $12 million raise.

Shiba Inu, an interconnected ecosystem of digital assets and solutions built on the Ethereum blockchain that includes popular global cryptocurrency $SHIB, announced a raise of $12 million from a number of non-U.S. strategic partners in venture capital, including Comma 3 Ventures, Big Brain Holdings, Cypher Capital, Shima Capital, Hercules Ventures, Animoca Brands, Morningstar Ventures, Woodstock Fund, DWF Ventures, Polygon Ventures, Stake Capital, Illuminati Digital Capital, Primal Capital, Mechanism Capital, DWF Ventures and Spirit Dao. T

his group of investors has invested in the Shiba Inu Ecosystem through a $12 million purchase of the not-yet-released $TREAT utility and governance token, Shiba Inu’s final non-stable token.

$TREAT is the final unreleased token by the popular meme brand that will unlock Shiba Inu’s  newly announced blockchain featuring Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE). The new chain utilizes the FHE technology of their partner Zama.ai. This new encryption chain aims to solve multiple problems in crypto, including privacy and trust for Shiba Inu’s large community of tens of millions, and the next billion, crypto-curious individuals.

“Shiba Inu started from the vision of our founder Ryoshi and we’ve been so thankful to the community. Together, we have changed the face of crypto as we’ve worked towards that vision. We’ve crushed expectations by creating a full-fledged ecosystem with a core technology stack that no one else has, alongside community, games, AI, metaverse, DeFi, self-sovereign identity, and encryption,” said Shiba Inu’s Lead Developer known as Shytoshi Kusama. “We are excited to gain the support of such powerful VCs, angel investors, and brands as we plow towards the completion of this grand decentralized experiment. Through the involvement of these venture capital firms and their strategic partners, we are expanding not only our network of trusted partners, but also exponentially increasing what Shiba Inu can truly be capable of for our community, The ShibArmy.”

The funding, through The Shiba Inu Mint S.A. (a Panama corporation), will be used by Shiba Inu to build its new blockchain with FHE, ensure Shibarium becomes the meme center of the world, and expand security and regulatory compliance. Shiba Inu continues to enhance its stack while increasing the usability and portability of its technology in more places than ever, including partnerships like D3 to gain a .shib top-level domain, philanthropic partnerships with organizations like the Manny Pacquiao Foundation, and memberships within organizations like CDSA (Content Delivery & Security Association), the international association of security executives across Media & Entertainment.

stc Bahrain partners with Avalanche Blockchain for Web3 growth in MENA

stc Bahrain partners with Avalanche Blockchain for Web3 growth in MENA

During the recent Token 2049 Dubai event, stc Bahrain, a telecom operator and digital enabler, partnered with Ava Labs to advance the progress of Web3 in the region. By launching an Avalanche Subnet as part of its Web3 Launchpad Program, stc Bahrain is striving to accelerate the adoption and expansion of blockchain across the Middle East.

Avalanche has been selected as the Qala’a Path Partner and Industry Ambassador. The Qala’a Path is named after a UNESCO heritage site, Qala’a al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), emblem of strength and intercultural confluence. The partnership aims to build a foundation for Web3 in the region.

stc Bahrain is a subsidiary of stc group, with a brand valued at $13.9B. stc has a track record of innovation, highlighted by the initiatives of deploying the world’s largest undersea cable (linking Europe, Africa, and Asia) and the development of the region’s first integrated data center park, which covers 55,000 square meters.

Now, stc Bahrain will be using Avalanche to catalyze the region’s Web3 development.

To stc Bahrain, Avalanche stands out for its near-instant transaction finality, high throughput, and robust Subnet architecture allowing for the development of customized solutions. Subnet performance and flexibility will prove key to the sweeping initiative, as stc Bahrain’s launchpad aims to establish a regional ecosystem consisting of a range of dApps – all while maintaining high performance and security.

As an Avalanche builder, supporter, and official ambassador in MENA, stc Bahrain will spur the greater adoption of Web3 on Avalanche in the region. This will entail fostering innovation and driving community engagement via co-marketing, conferences, hackathons, and related efforts.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with Avalanche, leveraging their groundbreaking technology to elevate our Web3 infrastructure,” said Saad Odeh, Chief Wholesale Officer at stc Bahrain. “Deploying an Avalanche Subnet is a testament to our dedication to leading digital transformation and innovation in the region.”


“We are honored to align with stc Bahrain to expand Avalanche’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa,” said John Nahas, SVP of BD at Ava Labs. “Subnets have the performance and flexibility needed for stc Bahrain to cultivate a powerful Web3 ecosystem, and for the people of these regions to benefit from cutting-edge blockchain applications. This launch coincides with our larger plans for the MENA region which are upcoming.”

stc Bahrain has been forging partnerships with major Web3 and Blockchain entities with the most recent being DePin infrastructure provider Aleph Zero.

UAE football league to develop blockchain games with Chiliz

UAE football league to develop blockchain games with Chiliz

The UAE Pro League (ADNOC Pro League), the premier professional football league in the United Arab Emirates, has partnered with Chiliz, a blockchain provider for the sports and entertainment industry, to propel the league’s international presence through web3 technologies, firstly with the development of a Web3 Blockchain enabled fantasy football game.

During the first stage of this multi-year partnership that will see both parties explore a wide range of applications, Chiliz and the UAE Pro League will develop a web3-based fantasy football game, leveraging blockchain technology to offer a unique and immersive experience for fans globally.

Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to own exclusive blockchain-authenticated game-scored balls. Details on how these items will be distributed are forthcoming, with plans to ensure fair and equitable access to fans around the world.

The UAE Pro League represents the highest level of professional football in the United Arab Emirates. Featuring 14 clubs, it serves as the country’s most popular sports competition. This collaboration with Chiliz is part of the UAE Pro League’s strategic efforts to enhance fan interactions and expand its global footprint.

Thes partnership further strengthens Chiliz’s commitment to supporting football in the MENA region. By partnering with the UAE Pro League, Chiliz not only aims to bring advanced technology to the league but also to contribute to the growth and popularity of football within the UAE.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Chiliz in this multi-year agreement aiming to bring groundbreaking web3 technologies to our fans,” said UAE Pro League CEO Waleed Al Hosani.

“This partnership represents a pivotal step in our ongoing efforts to expand our global reach, setting new standards for technological innovation in the world of sports,” he added.

“The Pro League is keen on leadership in the professionalism’s world. Our partnership with Chiliz provides a new and unique experience for the fans of the ADNOC Professional League,” the UAE Pro League’s CEO noted.


“Collaborating with the UAE Pro League is a key Chiliz milestone for Chiliz as we continue to pioneer the integration of web3 technologies in football,” stated Alexandre Dreyfus, CEO of Chiliz and Socios.com. “We’re committed to enhancing the fan experience through these innovative platforms and look forward to contributing to the growth and success of football in the wider region by leveraging not only our technology and expertise but also our remarkable network within the global sports industry.”

e& life fintech tech provider joins Dubai Fintech Summit

e& life fintech tech provider joins Dubai Fintech Summit

e& life, which leverages cutting edge technology to offer fintech, entertainment, retail and mobility services, the business pillar of e& that brings the next-generation digital world to the consumer’s fingertips, has joined theDubai FinTech Summit (DFS), organised by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global Financial Centre in the MEASA region. As a Powered By sponsor, e& life is dedicated to supporting innovative and future-thinking businesses on a global scale.

e& life fintech arm, e& money, has become a regional powerhouse, known for its user-friendly mobile financial services and its position as the UAE’s fastest-growing issuer of Mastercard debit cards.

Mohammad Alblooshi, Chief Executive Officer at DIFC Innovation Hub, said, “The path to true innovation lies in collaboration and the Dubai FinTech Summit strives to bring together global leaders, innovators and disruptive start-ups to shape the future of finance. The alliance between the summit and e& life demonstrates our mutual commitment to fostering a dynamic FinTech ecosystem to strengthen Dubai’s existing reputation as a leading business destination. Transforming challenges into opportunities, our goal is to create the most advanced, inclusive and technologically empowered financial community.”

Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer at e& life, said, “The Middle East is at the forefront of a major transformation in financial services delivery, driven by technology shifting from traditional to innovative solutions. As a pioneer in the region’s flourishing FinTech sector, e& is driven by a bold vision to lead this change.

“Through strategic partnerships, we aim to fast-track progress and take the region’s FinTech potential to new heights. This partnership represents a valuable opportunity for both e& and its FinTech portfolio under the business pillar e& life to collectively imagine new possibilities, inspire breakthrough ideas, and catalyse impactful innovations. By bringing together the talent and resources within our ecosystems, we can accelerate the journey toward a future where financial services truly empower people across societies. We look forward to contributing our expertise to shaping discussions that will steer the direction of the industry and play a role in realising the UAE’s aspiration to become a global hub for financial innovation.”

In line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) to position Dubai as the top four global financial hub by 2033, the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector. It presents a unique opportunity to explore emerging FinTech trends and their potential to drive financial progress in the MEASA region.

The Dubai FinTech Summit, scheduled for May 6-7, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, will see an unprecedented gathering of over 8,000 decision-makers, over 300 thought leaders and over 200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies.

Visitors can purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024, with early bird prices ending soon.

BitLayer partners with Dubai Blockchain center for education and training

BitLayer partners with Dubai Blockchain center for education and training

Bitlayer the first Layer 2 solution offering Bitcoin-equivalent security and Turing completeness built on BitVM has partnered with Dubai Blockchain Center, at the heals of their participation in Dubai’s Token 2049.

As per the press release, Bitlayer aims to bring secure scalability to the Bitcoin ecosystem, promoting asset diversity and spurring innovation for a faster, safer, and more flexible user experience.

Bitlayer states, “This milestone marks a seminal collaboration between titans of the blockchain industry. As the Bitlayer team heads to Dubai for Token 2049, we’re honored to have partnered with an incredibly key company paving the way in blockchain.”

The partnership between Dubai Blockchain Center and Bitlayer seeks to provide a truly global hub for blockchain companies, focusing on providing blockchain education and training. The Bitlayer and Dubai Blockchain center are welcoming projects.

Recently Stc Bahrain, the Saudi Telecom subsidiary in Bahrain, announced it would be operating nodes on Core Chain Bitcoin Layer 1 blockchain. Stc Bahrain has partnered with Core Chain DAO as part of its Web3 launchpad initiative.

Saudi Telecom Bahrain embraces DePin with Aleph Zero

Saudi Telecom Bahrain embraces DePin with Aleph Zero

Saudi Telecom Company Bahrain better known as stc Bahrain has partnered with Aleph Zero to explore DePIN ( Decentralized Physical Infrastructure network) use cases.

Aleph Zero has formed an alliance with stc Bahrain, Telecom operator in Bahrain. The collaboration with Aleph Zero is set to bolster stc Bahrain’s Web3 initiatives that will improve the breadth and depth of the experiences that are offered to stc’s customers.

The first step of the collaboration is for stc Bahrain to deploy validator nodes on Aleph Zero. At the same time, Aleph Zero will join stc’s Pearling Path initiative, a Web3 Launchpad Program designed to accelerate Web3 adoption in the Middle East. Pearling Path focuses on integrating blockchain infrastructure to address regional challenges and enhance economic growth.

As per the press release, the partnership will not only broaden stc Bahrain’s infrastructure portfolio, but will also bolster Aleph Zero’s network and adoption—which stc Bahrain recognized for characteristics such as privacy, scalability, security, and speed. Aleph Zero also stood out to stc Group’s subsidiary thanks to the team’s technological prowess and unique approach to tackling on-chain privacy and enterprise-grade scalability challenges.

Saad Odeh, stc Bahrain Chief Wholesale Officer noted, “Aleph Zero brings privacy-enhancing technology and a scalable, decentralized network that resonates with our vision for a seamless digital future. Privacy-enhancing web3 protocols and Telecoms are a perfect match.”
stc Bahrain also highlighted Aleph Zero’s innovative consensus protocol, AlephBFT, and the fact that it is a public network offering robust privacy technology through a blend of Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK-SNARKs) and Secure Multi-Party Computation (sMPC). The company is confident in Aleph Zero’s ability to deliver a secure, scalable solution, and lay the groundwork for private, verifiable transactions–without compromising sensitive data.

Antoni Zolciak, Aleph Zero Co-founder added,” stc Bahrain stands as a pioneer in the Gulf region, leading the charge in introducing Web3 and blockchain solutions to its extensive customer base. Aleph Zero is thrilled to collaborate with such a prominent player in the telecommunications arena, that shares our dedication to secure, scalable, and privacy-focused blockchain infrastructure. We look forward to seeing how our combined efforts will contribute to advancing a more secure, decentralized DePIN digital ecosystem across the Gulf region and beyond.”

In the past weeks stc Bahrain has signed several partnerships with blockchain entities including stc Bahrain operating nodes on Core Chain Bitcoin Layer 1 blockchain as part of its Web3 launchpad initiative. It also partnered with Lionscraft for blockchain and Web3 services.