On April 29, 2025, the Middle East Blockchain Awards (MEBA) took place, aligning with the TOKEN2049 conference, and showcasing a remarkable gathering of investors, technologists, public officials, and entrepreneurs. The event has transformed into a prominent celebration of digital innovation in the region, now in its second year. Described by organizers as an “awards-as-networking experience,” MEBA not only highlights the excellence in blockchain and fintech but facilitates meaningful connections among industry leaders.
Hosting the event were impact speaker and entrepreneur Lilly Douse alongside Scott Melker, the charismatic host of The Wolf Of All Streets Podcast and #CryptoTownHall. Their engaging presence set a dynamic tone for the evening, allowing the audience to feel the vibrant energy and excitement surrounding blockchain innovations.
The Hoko Group was behind the organization of this prestigious event. This year, the judging panel consisted of some of the most respected names in the blockchain sphere, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the nominees across various categories.
The 2025 winners included:
- Best GameFi Project: Astro Armadillos
- Best RWA Tokenization Project: Hash AI
- Most Promising Web3 Ecosystem: Propchain (powered by prop.com)
- Best Blockchain Development Solution: Chainsight
- Top Crypto Influencer: Ran Neuner
- Best Web3 Financial Community: Real Vision
- Most Influential Woman in Blockchain and Crypto: Nikita Sachdev
- Most Promising Crypto Media Agency: Credibility X
- Best Blockchain Analytics Solution: Crystal Intelligence
- Most Influential Person in Blockchain and Crypto: Acme Worawat
Max Palethorpe, founder and CEO of Hoko Group, emphasized the significance of MEBA in recognizing achievements within the fields of blockchain and digital transformation. “With the UAE leading developments in Web 3.0,” he noted, “this year’s event highlights the work of industry leaders pushing boundaries across blockchain, AI, and fintech.”
Returning judge, Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of the Dubai Blockchain Center, also shared his thoughts: “I am pleased to be part of the judging panel again and to witness the continued development of blockchain technologies in the MENA region.” He praised the UAE’s progressive regulatory approach and innovation ecosystem, driving greater adoption of Web 3.0 technologies.
The full judging panel included:
- Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO, Dubai Blockchain Center
- Scott Melker, Host of The Wolf Of All Streets Podcast and #CryptoTownHall
- Jumana Al Darwish, Impact Entrepreneur and Web3 Investor, Founder of The Happy Box
- Megan Plisky, Web3 Leader and Strategic Advisor
- Matthias Mende, Founder & CEO of Bonuz and Co-Founder of the Dubai Blockchain Center
- Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General of the Dubai Digital Asset Association and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis Ventures
- Gareth van Zyl, Group Editor, Gulf Business
- Jorge Sebastião, Co-Founder of the Global Blockchain Organisation and Co-Founder of EcoX
With the ongoing advancement of blockchain and digital assets across the region, MEBA has established itself as a significant platform for both recognition and collaboration. This year’s event placed a strong emphasis on real-world impact, striving to foster strategic partnerships and investment opportunities within its extensive network of winners and attendees.
The UAE continues to reinforce its status as a leading global blockchain hub. Data from Chainalysis indicates that from July 2023 to June 2024, the MENA region recorded an impressive $338.7 billion in on-chain transaction volume, with the UAE accounting for $34 billion—a staggering 42% year-on-year growth. Furthermore, Henley & Partners recognized the nation as third globally in terms of digital currency usage.
As the growth of Web3 accelerates, MEBA 2025 underscores Dubai’s commitment to digital innovation and its aspirations to shape the future landscape of finance, technology, and governance. For further details, visit www.mebawards.io.
