MENA News
Discover the latest blockchain and crypto news from the MENA region, including updates from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman, covering trends, regulations, and developments shaping the industry
The Middle East’s financial sector is increasingly becoming a prime target for sophisticated cyberattacks. This surge in threats is driven by the widespread adoption of mobile financial services, online transactions, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. These advancements have expanded potential vulnerabilities, making financial institutions more susceptible to cybercriminals. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report, cybersecurity has now emerged as one of…
Read More »The blockchain industry in the UAE is experiencing remarkable growth, with an annual rate of 42%, according to the latest report by MarkNtel Advisors. This surge is fueled by proactive government initiatives, such as the UAE Blockchain Strategy, positioning the country as a leader in adopting this transformative technology. The national vision aims to digitize 50% of government transactions using blockchain by 2031, accelerating the nation’s digital transformation. These forward-looking…
Read More »Two key players within the Digital Assets Lab of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at advancing distributed ledger technologies (DLT) and digital assets across industries. The collaboration between SettleMint, a blockchain transformation company, and The Hashgraph Group (THG), a Swiss-based leader in venture capital, technology, and business innovation, seeks to make DLT more accessible globally and drive widespread adoption. Launched in September 2024, the…
Read More »Crypto.com has partnered with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to introduce Sharia-compliant products and expand its reach in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to a press release, the agreement focuses on launching financial solutions like tokenized Islamic sukuks and real-world asset tokenization. The deal was signed by Crypto.com’s UAE President of Operations, Mohammed Al Hakim, and Dubai Islamic Bank’s Chief Digital Officer, Musabbah Al Qaizi. The partnership aims to strengthen…
Read More »The Syrian Center for Economic Research (SCER) has unveiled a bold proposal to incorporate Bitcoin into the nation’s financial system. On December 31, Bam, the founder of the Arabic crypto channel Bitcoin 21, shared the SCER’s proposal on the social media platform X, stating: “The Syrian Center for Economic Research publishes a proposal for the transitional government to legislate Bitcoin in Syria and digitize the Lira.” The Syrian Center for…
Read More »The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has released Consultation Paper No. 11 of 2024, outlining proposed changes to its regulatory framework for businesses involved in virtual assets. The paper seeks feedback on potential amendments to the rules governing authorised entities conducting regulated activities related to virtual assets in ADGM. Key proposed changes include revisions to the process for accepting virtual assets for use…
Read More »In 2024, the UAE reaffirmed its position as a global leader in digital assets. Through groundbreaking regulatory advancements, innovative banking strategies, and licensing expansions for major crypto exchanges, the country showcased its commitment to building a robust digital economy. From stablecoin regulations by the Central Bank to bold initiatives by Zand Bank and VARA’s expanding portfolio, the UAE digital assets ecosystem continues to thrive as a model of innovation and…
Read More »Greek authorities have conducted their first-ever cryptocurrency seizure, confiscating 273,000 USDT (Tether) during a criminal investigation in December, as reported by Digital Watch Observatory. The operation, overseen by the Greek European Public Prosecutor’s Office, involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Digital Evidence Examination Department. This seizure is part of the ongoing ‘Admiral’ operation, underscoring the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling crimes involving blockchain and cryptocurrencies. While digital assets…
Read More »In late December 2024, Turkey introduced new cryptocurrency regulations, drawing inspiration from global frameworks such as Europe’s Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA). A document published in the Official Gazette on December 25 outlines key measures that will take effect on February 25, 2025. Key Regulation Highlights: Transactions exceeding 15,000 Turkish liras (around $425) will require users to provide identifying information to crypto service providers. For transfers under $425, this requirement…
Read More »A recent survey by trading and investing platform eToro reveals that 54% of retail investors in the UAE have financial goals as their primary New Year’s resolution for 2025. Among these investors, increasing investments in traditional assets such as stocks, bonds, and commodities is the most common objective, with 40% aiming to expand their exposure. This is closely followed by investing in real estate (38%) and increasing investments in cryptoassets…
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