Despite relatively low levels of general awareness and knowledge about its applications in the Middle East and North Africa, blockchain technology is rapidly gaining momentum. Whether the region chooses to step up its adoption depends largely on the availability of regulatory frameworks, an enabling ecosystem as well as confidence in the added value and security the technology offers.
New economic activities, cost reduction, transparency and security represent the main benefits encouraging public and private sector organisations to adopt blockchain technology. While many expect it to revolutionise numerous sectors, it is still in its "proof of concept" stage and yet to go mainstream. This is good news for a region where several countries are struck by a prolonged socio-economic impasse, whereby the advent of blockchain could mark a great opportunity to make a noticeable change.
Globally, blockchain is having an impact on major sectors with pilot projects in place to evaluate its feasibility. Nations such as the US, Canada, China, Japan and countries in Western Europe are witnessing impressive growth in blockchain investments.
In an effort to develop a global supply chain platform, enterprise software giant SAP was one of the first few to establish a blockchain consortium comprising firms such as HP, Intel, UPS and Airbus. Today, dozens of such consortiums exist globally, bringing together businesses from various sectors such as banking, transport and hospitality, among others.
Blockchain solutions have yet to expand into a full-blown implementation in the Mena region or even globally. However, our region has begun embracing the transformative technology, which promises a positive impact on local communities and economies.
Blockchain has yet to go mainstream. This is good news for a region where several countries are struck by a socio-economic impasse
The proliferation of blockchain in the region has been mainly seen in crypto, NFTs and the financial services sector. Being an early adopter, the sector is leveraging the technology in banking, remittances, securities and investments.
Vast blockchain spending is expected to focus on manufacturing, retail and professional services sectors in the years to come. IT and business services will also account for the majority of all blockchain spending this year. Other sectors such as food and health care can also benefit from the technology.
Poverty, conflict, unemployment, poor quality of education and scarcity of resources such as electricity are some of the most common socio-economic issues facing a number of countries in the Mena region today. But where there are challenges there are bound to be opportunities as well, and there is little doubt a number of sectors stand to benefit from the so-called Web3 applications.
Governments, for instance, can use blockchain for record keeping, from real estate transactions to student loan disbursements and tracking of humanitarian aid. Such use cases may reduce corruption, fraud and cost by steering away from the obscurity of typical government transactions and paper use. Port authorities around the globe, for instance, have been using the technology to develop tamper-proof methods to track shipments. The goal is to ensure payments reach the right parties, eliminating fraudulent accounts and money laundering.
Corruption is such an all-pervasive problem in several countries in the Middle East, particularly conflict-ridden ones, that, even though donors want to support humanitarian efforts, they are often hesitant to do so, fearing misuse of donations. Blockchain offers donors and philanthropies a high level of transparency about how their contributions are being distributed among beneficiaries. The technology is likely to amplify donations towards various causes, from food and medical supplies to education and infrastructure. In effect, this move could alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life in underprivileged communities.
Another form of corruption is piracy. Anti-piracy organisations and local authorities are working hand-in-glove to crack down on counterfeit music, films and other products. Purchasing songs and music using cryptocurrency could eliminate copyright infringement. As a result, an enabling environment for budding artists could emerge, allowing them to reach their audience directly without bearing the cost of distributors.
Blockchain can also serve as a global platform for patients’ medical records, eliminating the risk of hacking or deletion. A decentralised ledger of medical data may help provide the necessary insights to fight disease, while supporting the allocation of humanitarian aid in war-torn countries.
Land ownership records in our region, too, are vague and susceptible to tampering through bribery. Blockchain allows tracking of land ownership history, verifying registrations and running background checks on payments, title deeds and taxes. In fact, in more developed markets such as the UAE, real estate is being tokenised as a means of trade. Landlords can now issue blockchain-based tokens, which represent the value of their shares in certain assets. In addition, many developers and real estate agencies have started selling land and virtual properties as NFTs.
Another major challenge, particularly in countries suffering from unrest or emerging from it, has been the lack of regular power supply. But with the help of the technology, consumers can share their energy with their neighbours for a fee.
This is a useful option to have not just in unstable environments but in stable ones too, where a consumption model called the "sharing economy" is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among millennials. As the short-term lease of some products and services gradually replaces full ownership by a single person or entity, the use of blockchain can yield positive results for Mena-based businesses and individuals while tackling pollution and saving resources.
A new technology becomes infinitely more important if it can enable financial inclusion. And blockchain has proved to be handy for lenders who want to extend micro-loans to people in disadvantaged communities with no access to banking services. Street vendors, for instance, will need minimal financial support to set up food stalls. The technology allows micro entrepreneurs to borrow money without the need for the thorough credit checks currently required by banks, leading to a reduction in unemployment.
According to the World Bank, 1.7 billion people around the globe are unbanked. But for those living in remote areas or conflict zones, where banks are not present, blockchain can come in handy. The technology also facilitates faster and more cost-efficient transactions such as remittances, which many families across the region rely on to secure a decent living.
Furthermore, consumers can track their foods from farm to counter. Of particular interest to the Middle East, consumers might be able to tell whether the food is Halal-based on food source and preparation methods. They can also verify and ensure various aspects of food security and quality or the source of food contamination.
The potential benefits of the technology, therefore, are amply clear. But in order to perfect it, one needs to be patient.
When a new medicine is produced or an innovative therapy is developed, it undergoes a series of rigorous tests and approvals before being administered to patients. It may take months and even years before tangible benefits materialise. Even the most promising innovations will face obstacles throughout their pilot phase. Blockchain may have emerged nearly 15 years ago. But no different than a groundbreaking medication en route to achieving its full potential, this technology appears to be a promising panacea for a set of socio-economic issues our region is facing.
10 tips for entry-level job seekers
- Have an up-to-date, professional LinkedIn profile. If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, set one up today. Avoid poor-quality profile pictures with distracting backgrounds. Include a professional summary and begin to grow your network.
- Keep track of the job trends in your sector through the news. Apply for job alerts at your dream organisations and the types of jobs you want – LinkedIn uses AI to share similar relevant jobs based on your selections.
- Double check that you’ve highlighted relevant skills on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- For most entry-level jobs, your resume will first be filtered by an applicant tracking system for keywords. Look closely at the description of the job you are applying for and mirror the language as much as possible (while being honest and accurate about your skills and experience).
- Keep your CV professional and in a simple format – make sure you tailor your cover letter and application to the company and role.
- Go online and look for details on job specifications for your target position. Make a list of skills required and set yourself some learning goals to tick off all the necessary skills one by one.
- Don’t be afraid to reach outside your immediate friends and family to other acquaintances and let them know you are looking for new opportunities.
- Make sure you’ve set your LinkedIn profile to signal that you are “open to opportunities”. Also be sure to use LinkedIn to search for people who are still actively hiring by searching for those that have the headline “I’m hiring” or “We’re hiring” in their profile.
- Prepare for online interviews using mock interview tools. Even before landing interviews, it can be useful to start practising.
- Be professional and patient. Always be professional with whoever you are interacting with throughout your search process, this will be remembered. You need to be patient, dedicated and not give up on your search. Candidates need to make sure they are following up appropriately for roles they have applied.
Arda Atalay, head of Mena private sector at LinkedIn Talent Solutions, Rudy Bier, managing partner of Kinetic Business Solutions and Ben Kinerman Daltrey, co-founder of KinFitz
If you go
The flights
There are various ways of getting to the southern Serengeti in Tanzania from the UAE. The exact route and airstrip depends on your overall trip itinerary and which camp you’re staying at.
Flydubai flies direct from Dubai to Kilimanjaro International Airport from Dh1,350 return, including taxes; this can be followed by a short flight from Kilimanjaro to the Serengeti with Coastal Aviation from about US$700 (Dh2,500) return, including taxes. Kenya Airways, Emirates and Etihad offer flights via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam.
UAE v Gibraltar
What: International friendly
When: 7pm kick off
Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City
Admission: Free
Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles’ Facebook page
UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)
More from Rashmee Roshan Lall
AI traffic lights to ease congestion at seven points to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street
The seven points are:
Shakhbout bin Sultan Street
Dhafeer Street
Hadbat Al Ghubainah Street (outbound)
Salama bint Butti Street
Al Dhafra Street
Rabdan Street
Umm Yifina Street exit (inbound)
The President's Cake
Director: Hasan Hadi
Starring: Baneen Ahmad Nayyef, Waheed Thabet Khreibat, Sajad Mohamad Qasem
Rating: 4/5
Classification of skills
A worker is categorised as skilled by the MOHRE based on nine levels given in the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organisation.
A skilled worker would be someone at a professional level (levels 1 – 5) which includes managers, professionals, technicians and associate professionals, clerical support workers, and service and sales workers.
The worker must also have an attested educational certificate higher than secondary or an equivalent certification, and earn a monthly salary of at least Dh4,000.
PLAY-OFF%20DRAW
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Engine: 5.6-litre V8
Transmission: seven-speed automatic
Power: 400hp
Torque: 560Nm
Price: Dh234,000 - Dh329,000
On sale: now
Bournemouth 0
Manchester United 2
Smalling (28'), Lukaku (70')
Essentials
The flights
Emirates, Etihad and Malaysia Airlines all fly direct from the UAE to Kuala Lumpur and on to Penang from about Dh2,300 return, including taxes.
Where to stay
In Kuala Lumpur, Element is a recently opened, futuristic hotel high up in a Norman Foster-designed skyscraper. Rooms cost from Dh400 per night, including taxes. Hotel Stripes, also in KL, is a great value design hotel, with an infinity rooftop pool. Rooms cost from Dh310, including taxes.
In Penang, Ren i Tang is a boutique b&b in what was once an ancient Chinese Medicine Hall in the centre of Little India. Rooms cost from Dh220, including taxes.
23 Love Lane in Penang is a luxury boutique heritage hotel in a converted mansion, with private tropical gardens. Rooms cost from Dh400, including taxes.
In Langkawi, Temple Tree is a unique architectural villa hotel consisting of antique houses from all across Malaysia. Rooms cost from Dh350, including taxes.
FIGHT%20CARD
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RESULTS
Bantamweight
Victor Nunes (BRA) beat Siyovush Gulmamadov (TJK)
(Split decision)
Featherweight
Hussein Salim (IRQ) beat Shakhriyor Juraev (UZB)
(Round 1 submission, armbar)
Catchweight 80kg
Rashed Dawood (UAE) beat Otabek Kadirov (UZB)
(Round-1 submission, rear naked choke)
Lightweight
Ho Taek-oh (KOR) beat Ronald Girones (CUB)
(Round 3 submission, triangle choke)
Lightweight
Arthur Zaynukov (RUS) beat Damien Lapilus (FRA)
(Unanimous points)
Bantamweight
Vinicius de Oliveira (BRA) beat Furkatbek Yokubov (RUS)
(Round 1 TKO)
Featherweight
Movlid Khaybulaev (RUS) v Zaka Fatullazade (AZE)
(Round 1 rear naked choke)
Flyweight
Shannon Ross (TUR) beat Donovon Freelow (USA)
(Unanimous decision)
Lightweight
Dan Collins (GBR) beat Mohammad Yahya (UAE)
(Round 2 submission D’arce choke)
Catchweight 73kg
Martun Mezhulmyan (ARM) beat Islam Mamedov (RUS)
(Round 3 submission, kneebar)
Bantamweight world title
Xavier Alaoui (MAR) beat Jaures Dea (CAM)
(Unanimous points 48-46, 49-45, 49-45)
Flyweight world title
Manon Fiorot (FRA) v Gabriela Campo (ARG)
(Round 1 RSC)
What can victims do?
Always use only regulated platforms
Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion
Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)
Report to local authorities
Warn others to prevent further harm
Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence
Major honours
ARSENAL
BARCELONA
- La Liga - 2013
- Copa del Rey - 2012
- Fifa Club World Cup - 2011
CHELSEA
- Premier League - 2015, 2017
- FA Cup - 2018
- League Cup - 2015
SPAIN
- World Cup - 2010
- European Championship - 2008, 2012
Benefits of first-time home buyers' scheme
- Priority access to new homes from participating developers
- Discounts on sales price of off-plan units
- Flexible payment plans from developers
- Mortgages with better interest rates, faster approval times and reduced fees
- DLD registration fee can be paid through banks or credit cards at zero interest rates
TOURNAMENT INFO
Opening fixtures:
Friday, Oct 5
8pm: Kabul Zwanan v Paktia Panthers
Saturday, Oct 6
4pm: Nangarhar Leopards v Kandahar Knights
8pm: Kabul Zwanan v Balkh Legends
Tickets
Tickets can be bought online at https://www.q-tickets.com/apl/eventlist and at the ticket office at the stadium.
TV info
The tournament will be broadcast live in the UAE on OSN Sports.
Skoda Superb Specs
Engine: 2-litre TSI petrol
Power: 190hp
Torque: 320Nm
Price: From Dh147,000
Available: Now
Polarised public
31% in UK say BBC is biased to left-wing views
19% in UK say BBC is biased to right-wing views
19% in UK say BBC is not biased at all
Source: YouGov
Porsche Macan T: The Specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo
Power: 265hp from 5,000-6,500rpm
Torque: 400Nm from 1,800-4,500rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch auto
Speed: 0-100kph in 6.2sec
Top speed: 232kph
Fuel consumption: 10.7L/100km
On sale: May or June
Price: From Dh259,900
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Ferrari 12Cilindri specs
Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12
Power: 819hp
Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm
Price: From Dh1,700,000
Available: Now
Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
The Way It Was: My Life with Frank Sinatra by Eliot Weisman and Jennifer Valoppi
Hachette Books
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.
the pledge
I pledge to uphold the duty of tolerance
I pledge to take a first stand against hate and injustice
I pledge to respect and accept people whose abilities, beliefs and culture are different from my own
I pledge to wish for others what I wish for myself
I pledge to live in harmony with my community
I pledge to always be open to dialogue and forgiveness
I pledge to do my part to create peace for all
I pledge to exercise benevolence and choose kindness in all my dealings with my community
I pledge to always stand up for these values: Zayed's values for tolerance and human fraternity
Trump v Khan
2016: Feud begins after Khan criticised Trump’s proposed Muslim travel ban to US
2017: Trump criticises Khan’s ‘no reason to be alarmed’ response to London Bridge terror attacks
2019: Trump calls Khan a “stone cold loser” before first state visit
2019: Trump tweets about “Khan’s Londonistan”, calling him “a national disgrace”
2022: Khan’s office attributes rise in Islamophobic abuse against the major to hostility stoked during Trump’s presidency
July 2025 During a golfing trip to Scotland, Trump calls Khan “a nasty person”
Sept 2025 Trump blames Khan for London’s “stabbings and the dirt and the filth”.
Dec 2025 Trump suggests migrants got Khan elected, calls him a “horrible, vicious, disgusting mayor”
The studios taking part (so far)
- Punch
- Vogue Fitness
- Sweat
- Bodytree Studio
- The Hot House
- The Room
- Inspire Sports (Ladies Only)
- Cryo
The Voice of Hind Rajab
Starring: Saja Kilani, Clara Khoury, Motaz Malhees
Director: Kaouther Ben Hania
Rating: 4/5
Multitasking pays off for money goals
Tackling money goals one at a time cost financial literacy expert Barbara O'Neill at least $1 million.
That's how much Ms O'Neill, a distinguished professor at Rutgers University in the US, figures she lost by starting saving for retirement only after she had created an emergency fund, bought a car with cash and purchased a home.
"I tell students that eventually, 30 years later, I hit the million-dollar mark, but I could've had $2 million," Ms O'Neill says.
Too often, financial experts say, people want to attack their money goals one at a time: "As soon as I pay off my credit card debt, then I'll start saving for a home," or, "As soon as I pay off my student loan debt, then I'll start saving for retirement"."
People do not realise how costly the words "as soon as" can be. Paying off debt is a worthy goal, but it should not come at the expense of other goals, particularly saving for retirement. The sooner money is contributed, the longer it can benefit from compounded returns. Compounded returns are when your investment gains earn their own gains, which can dramatically increase your balances over time.
"By putting off saving for the future, you are really inhibiting yourself from benefiting from that wonderful magic," says Kimberly Zimmerman Rand , an accredited financial counsellor and principal at Dragonfly Financial Solutions in Boston. "If you can start saving today ... you are going to have a lot more five years from now than if you decide to pay off debt for three years and start saving in year four."
