Bitcoin MENA Conference Ends in Abu Dhabi as Experts Explain the Future of Digital Money
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
ABU DHABI: The Bitcoin MENA conference wrapped up in Abu Dhabi after two busy days, bringing together 234 speakers from across the region and the world. The event, organised by ADNEC Group and BTC Inc, focused on how Bitcoin and digital finance are changing, while also showing how the Middle East is becoming a key player in this space.
The main talk came from Michael Saylor, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Strategy. During his address, he described Bitcoin as digital capital and digital gold. He also noted that acceptance in the United States is rising, especially as major banks now offer credit backed by Bitcoin. In addition, he called Bitcoin the strongest asset ever created and encouraged the region to lead new forms of Bitcoin-based banking.
Later, CZ, the Founder of Binance, joined Brandon Green, CEO of BTC Inc, for a fireside chat. During the discussion, CZ explained why he stepped down as CEO and how global attitudes toward crypto have shifted. Governments that once asked “What is crypto?” now ask “How do we use it?”, which shows growing interest in regulation, customer protection and building national Bitcoin reserves.
He also pointed out that this Bitcoin cycle is different from past cycles because more large institutions are entering the market. Although retail users are growing slowly, he remains optimistic. He believes that rising government interest, new technology and tools such as stablecoins, tokenisation and real-world asset systems will push Bitcoin forward.
Across four stages, guests explored new ideas shaping the future of Bitcoin. Speakers from well-known financial firms, investment companies and mining groups shared insights. Among them were Yoni Assia of eToro, Derar Islim of Antalpha, John Koudounis of Calamos Investments, Marwan Al Zarouni of Dubai Blockchain Center, Abdulla Al Dhaheri of Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi and Ahmed Bin Sulayem of DMCC.
Meanwhile, exhibitors showcased mining machines, digital asset platforms and tools that help users protect their Bitcoin. Brands such as Antalpha, Crypto.com, Bitmain, Metaplanet and Mining Grid were among the key participants.
This year’s conference also introduced the Bitcoin for Corporations Symposium. Through this programme, CFOs and finance leaders learned how to adopt Bitcoin as a reserve asset. Experts explained that institutional demand is rising quickly, with companies buying Bitcoin almost four times faster than new coins are created.
In addition, several important product launches took place. Safebox presented a new self-custody tool that lets institutions earn Bitcoin rewards while keeping full control of their assets. Roxom also revealed the world’s first stock exchange fully priced and settled in Bitcoin. This system allows investors to trade shares of Bitcoin-focused companies directly in Bitcoin, without needing traditional money systems.
The Bitcoin MENA conference will return in 2026 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi Marina Hall. It will continue to focus on investment, regulation and innovation as the region strengthens its role in the global digital asset market.
