Blockchain enabled Hyperspace raises millions of dollars from KSA backed Riyadh Seasons

Blockchain enabled Hyperspace raises millions of dollars from KSA backed Riyadh Seasons

UAE based Blockchain, VR, NFT enabled physical theme park builder has received millions of dollars in investment from KSA’s sovereign fund backed Riyadh Seasons. The majority of the $55million raised came from Riyadh Seasons. U.S. based Galaxy Interactive, venture capital firm focused on gaming, led the latest funding round, which includes other international investors.

Founded by Alexander Heller in 2020, Hyperspace is building physical theme park attractions that are blockchain-enabled and extended reality-native, with it making use of cutting-edge emerging technologies, spatial compute layers, real life virtual effects, and non-fungible token (NFT) projects

Heller sees them as physical front ends to the metaverse, with visitors to these venues making use of the developed technologies to access everything from surreal-istic playgrounds and immersive neighborhoods, to virtual production stages containing holographic super cars and high-end digital fashion.

HyperSpace had raised $11 million in equity in 2021 allowing it to scale its operations. At the time Heller noted, “In a world where blockchain, spatial computing, digital identity, and growth in the gaming and social media sector took meteoric steps in 2021, HyperSpace has rooted itself in building towards a future where these trends find place in the amusement attractions industry.”

In Q3 of 2023 Hyperscale will launch in Dubai Mall the House of Hype after it successful launched its first Immersive AYA space in Wafi Mall where nearly half a million enthusiasts paying $34 to enter its 40,000-square-foot park.

According to the Financial Times article KSA Riyadh Season, a government-backed entertainment initiative under the auspices of the sovereign wealth fund, has invested the majority of the $55mn of debt and equity raised by HyperSpace.  Riyadh Season is led by Turki al-Sheikh, who chairs the General Entertainment Authority.

HyperSpace is launching House of Hype in Riyadh in November.  The Riyadh-based company plans to expand in Saudi Arabia and beyond to the US. “There’s a big focus on expanding the business” to the rest of the world, Heller says in the interview with FT.

He adds, “Riyadh was a uniquely attractive partner, Heller said, given the importance of shopping centers to Saudis, who are also highly engaged in social media. HyperSpace is keen to be behind the push to attract consumers back to shopping malls, which have been hit by a rise in online shopping. Our parks adapt the best ingredients of video games, social media, and Web3 culture; translating them into future forward entertainment attractions.”

UAE EnjinStarter first Web3 Launchpad globally to be initially licensed by regulator

UAE EnjinStarter first Web3 Launchpad globally to be initially licensed by regulator

UAE based EnjinStarter MENA, a web3 Launchpad and incubator, has become the first launchpad globally to receive initial approval by Dubai’s virtual asset regulatory authority.

According to the unilateral announcement, EnjinStarter will continue to undertake the in-depth process of applying for a licence, in accordance with VARA requirements.

With the Middle East and North Africa considered to be a booming Web3 market, Enjinstarter is seeking a foothold in the region as it aims to be the premier Launchpad and incubator for Web3 metaverse, gaming, and entertainment experiences.

Enjinstarter has ambitious plans to be the go-to provider for Web3 adoption in the region, including the addition of more portfolio projects focusing on impact and sustainability initiatives that complement the UAE’s commitment to climate action.

“This is an important step for Enjinstarter. Getting initial approval and continuing with our license application makes clear our commitment to achieving the highest standards of accountability and transparency in the Web3 space. We are committed to   conforming to VARA’s high standards and know this will only accelerate our growth in the Middle East and beyond,” said Prakash Somosundram, co-founder and CEO of Enjinstarter.

“Dubai has been laser-focused on establishing itself as a global hub for Web3. It continues to provide much-needed leadership in terms of regulation and innovation, especially with initiatives such as VARA’s own foray into The Sandbox. We are looking forward to getting started here and contributing to Dubai’s growing Web3 ecosystem,” added Vasseh Ahmed, Enjinstarter MENA’s managing director.

UAE Vision Night club will allow crypto payments, offer NFTs and metaverse experience

UAE Vision Night club will allow crypto payments, offer NFTs and metaverse experience

One of China’s biggest entertainment companies, WanTing Group, will be opening its venue in the GCC, with VISION in November 2022. The night club will located at The H Hotel Dubai, VISION will be the first night club build around the metaverse, where payments can be made in crypto and NFTs can be used and bought. It will also be  the only nightclub in the world to achieve cross-border collaboration with the famed Jacob&Co brand with the launch of the VISION x Jacob&Co wristwatch.

Club-goers and crypto-owners will be able to turn coins into cocktails and enjoy a plethora of exclusive benefits at the venue, with NFTs also available for purchase and for use.

Further elevating the guest experience, VISION will launch in partnership with Jacob&Co, the renowned luxury jewellery and wristwatch brand, to create exclusive VISION x Jacob&Co timepieces, that will be available to those who purchase the venue’s unique NFTs. An exclusive branded VIP table will also be established at VISION along with other Jacob&Co elements.

The ambiance at VISION exudes opulence set in a futuristic space, featuring laser beams and LED lights that radiate through the entire venue. Guests can look forward to visionary décor and entrancing techno beats blended with Hip-Hop and Pop favourites that are sure to transform any night into an other-worldly experience. Situated at the luxurious H Hotel Dubai, VISION will be an extraordinary destination with a vibrant dancefloor as well as options for intimate, private booths and rooms for VIP clientele.              

Chris Wang, Chief Executive Officer of VISION and Hang Zhou WanTing Catering & Entertainment Management Co., stated, “We are extremely excited to be launching our first venue in the region in Dubai. There is so much potential in the Middle East in terms of nightlife entertainment, and we look forward to presenting a celestial nightlife experience for guests and clients with VISION. At the venue, we plan to provide club-goers space to connect through light and sound, turning their evenings into a stellar visual and audio haven.”