Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a significant event for the cryptocurrency world, Abu Dhabi hosted the Bitcoin MENA 2025 conference, which wrapped up after two days filled with impactful dialogues and innovative presentations. Co-organised by ADNEC Group and BTC Inc, the gathering featured 234 speakers who delved into the dynamic realms of Bitcoin and decentralised finance.

The event's keynote was presented by Michael Saylor, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Strategy, who described Bitcoin as both “digital capital” and “digital gold.” He pointed out the increasing integration of Bitcoin within the banking sector in the United States, emphasizing that key financial institutions are beginning to offer credit options based on Bitcoin. Saylor encouraged the Middle East to take the lead in developing banking frameworks supported by Bitcoin.

A highlight of the conference was a fireside chat with Binance founder CZ and Brandon Green, CEO of BTC Inc. They reflected on the changing sentiments towards cryptocurrency among governments, noting a transition from skepticism to strategic adoption. CZ remarked on the distinct nature of the current Bitcoin cycle, characterized by heightened institutional involvement that is diminishing the divide between retail users and traditional finance.

Over the course of four stages, participants engaged in discussions covering a broad spectrum of subjects, including mining, digital assets, tokenisation, stablecoins, and practical uses of crypto. Notable figures like Yoni Assia of eToro and Marwan Al Zarouni from Dubai Blockchain Center contributed to the discourse, while exhibitors showcased cutting-edge mining technologies and exchange platforms from leading industry entities such as Crypto.com and Bitmain.

A notable feature this time was the Bitcoin for Corporations Symposium, aimed at assisting CFOs and finance executives in leveraging Bitcoin as a reserve asset. The sessions revealed that corporate acquisitions of Bitcoin are happening at a rate nearly four times greater than new coin production. The event also marked the launch of several products, including Safebox, an institutional self-custody solution for earning Bitcoin yield, and Roxom’s stock exchange, entirely denominated and settled in Bitcoin.

Bitcoin MENA is scheduled to make a return in 2026 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi Marina Hall, focusing on investments, regulations, and innovations as the Middle East enhances its position in the global digital asset landscape.

#Global News