Middle East & Africa Digital Transformation Summit
Join global leaders, innovators, and investors at the region's most influential summit.
The Economic Powerhouse Hidden in Plain Sight
Supported by Global Partners
Leading organizations supporting Middle East-Africa economic integration
Sectors Driving Regional Integration
High-impact investment areas creating sustainable economic partnerships between the Middle East and Africa
Energy Transformation
Renewable projects with $7B investment by ACWA Power and 10 GW green energy capacity by Masdar
Agricultural Security
Strategic investments addressing food security for Gulf nations that import 80-90% of their food
Infrastructure Projects
Port development with $1.72B DP World investment creating logistics networks across Africa
Financial Integration
Cross-regional frameworks with Gulf banks establishing African operations and $1B fund of funds
Digital Economy
Technology partnerships with UAE and Ethiopia developing data centers up to 1,000 megawatts
Smart City Initiatives
Urban innovation with Rwandan partnerships leveraging Dubai's experience in smart implementation
Distinguished Speakers
Connect with decision makers shaping Middle East-Africa partnerships
Blockchain & Digital Finance Revolution
The Middle East has emerged as a global blockchain innovation hub, with the UAE and neighboring countries becoming preferred destinations for crypto companies seeking regulatory clarity and institutional support.
In 2025, Circle (USDC issuer) received official approval from the UAE's financial regulators, while Dubai's International Financial Centre recognized USDC and EURC as the first approved stablecoins in the region.
Beyond cryptocurrencies, the region is pioneering real-world applications in cross-border payments, supply chain verification, digital identity, and asset tokenization that connect businesses across Middle East and African markets.
Regional Blockchain Innovations
UAE ranks 3rd globally in crypto adoption with comprehensive regulatory frameworks
Circle's USDC receives regulatory approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) recognizes stablecoins for institutional use
Cross-border payment corridors linking Gulf states with African markets
Blockchain-powered trade finance solutions reducing settlement time by 80%
UAE Stablecoin Initiative
ADQ, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and IHC have partnered to launch a UAE dirham-backed stablecoin to enhance digital payment infrastructure
Investment Landscape
Major financial institutions driving economic integration between the Middle East and Africa
Combined assets of ADIA ($993B), PIF ($925B), and QIA ($475-500B) with increasing allocations to African markets
Summit Agenda
Key events during the MEA Summit 2025
Ministerial Opening
Investment Roundtables
Sovereign Fund Forum
Sector-Specific Panels
Technology Showcase
Structured Networking
Bilateral Meetings
Investment Commitments
Strategic Global Significance
Middle East-Africa partnerships are reshaping global trade routes and geopolitical dynamics
Maritime Infrastructure
UAE-based DP World's investments in African ports enhancing connectivity along critical global shipping lanes
Geopolitical Influence
Gulf states established as pivotal actors in a region traditionally influenced by Western powers and China
Alternative Frameworks
Emerging alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative with different investment approaches and equity stakes
Forge the Future of Cross-Continental Commerce
MEA 2025 is implementing a phased integration framework to structure and transform the Middle East-Africa economic partnership with a focus on digital transformation using blockchain and AI.
MEA Summit 2025 Partners
Leading organizations supporting Middle East-Africa economic integration
Summit OrganizerChampioning Digital & Financial Inclusion
HiPipo Foundation
HiPipo is a leading advocate for digital innovation and financial inclusion across Africa. Through the Include Everyone Program, HiPipo empowers underserved communities, drives adoption of digital financial services, and champions instant, inclusive payment systems. Their work spans grassroots empowerment, women in FinTech, and global advocacy for transformative digital finance.
- Include Everyone Program
- #40Days40FinTechs Event Series
- Women in FinTech Hackathon & Summit
- Digital Impact Awards Africa
- Digital & Financial Inclusion Summit
- Empowering women, youth, and the unbanked
- Promoting digital skills and financial literacy
- Advocating for inclusive payment systems
- Supporting special interest groups
- Driving social transformation through technology
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