Dubai Blockchain Center
- Founded
- 2018-01-01 in Dubai, UAE
- Headquarters
- Dubai, UAE
Dubai Blockchain Center (DBCC) is a government-backed innovation hub established in May 2018 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Headquartered in Area 2071 at Emirates Towers, Dubai, the center was created to accelerate the adoption of blockchain technology across the region and globally. It functions as a dedicated ecosystem where blockchain thought leaders, developers, investors, and educators converge to collaborate, innovate, and drive the industry forward. DBCC’s core mission is to facilitate growth, collaboration, and innovation in the blockchain space. It offers a comprehensive suite of services including startup incubation and acceleration, blockchain education and training programs, consultation and advisory services for enterprises, and research and development support. The center also acts as a global hub, attracting blockchain companies to Dubai and helping them navigate the city’s evolving regulatory environment. With a small, agile team of 2–10 employees, DBCC operates as an educational and advisory entity closely aligned with Dubai’s broader digital transformation agenda. It is led by CEO Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, a globally recognised authority in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital security, who also serves as a strategic advisor to the Dubai government. Through strategic partnerships—such as its collaboration with the Cardano Foundation and participation in events like Daos Digital Assets Week—DBCC plays a pivotal role in positioning Dubai as a premier global destination for blockchain and digital assets.
Detailed Review
History and Founding
Dubai Blockchain Center (DBCC) was officially inaugurated on 15 May 2018 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The center is physically located within Area 2071 at Emirates Towers, a purpose-built innovation campus in Dubai. Its establishment was driven by Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, who founded the region’s first innovation hub for blockchain technology. Before creating DBCC, Dr. Al Zarouni had been an early crypto investor, starting Bitcoin mining in 2013, and launched Dubai’s first crypto payment processing and blockchain software development company in January 2014. He also founded OTC Supply DMCC in February 2018, the region’s first fully licensed over-the-counter crypto commodity trading entity, and co-founded Quanterium, a social-impact technology company.
Programs and Services
DBCC’s primary role is to bring together blockchain stakeholders—developers, investors, regulators, and educators—and provide them with resources to foster innovation. Its main programs include a Global Hub for Blockchain Companies, which is a physical and virtual platform that attracts blockchain firms to Dubai, offering networking, visibility, and regulatory guidance. Incubation and Acceleration Programs support blockchain startups via mentorship, funding access, and co-working space. Blockchain Education and Training offers workshops, courses, and certifications covering blockchain fundamentals, use cases, and implementation. Consultation and Advisory Services provide expert guidance for enterprises and governments exploring blockchain adoption. Research and Development Support assists with blockchain R&D projects, innovation pilots, and proof-of-concept development.
Partnerships and Events
DBCC continuously hosts blockchain-related events, meetups, hackathons, and conferences, positioning itself as a central convener for the global Web3 community. A notable partnership was announced with the Cardano Foundation to develop customized educational programs for blockchain enthusiasts. DBCC also serves as a strategic ecosystem partner for industry events such as Daos Digital Assets Week.
Leadership and Team
The center operates with a lean team of 2–10 employees and is classified as an educational institution. It works in close coordination with Dubai’s government entities, including the Dubai Future Foundation and the Dubai Electronic Security Center. Dr. Al Zarouni serves as CEO and also holds senior roles at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (CEO of AI) and the Dubai Electronic Security Center (Director of Information Services). The COO is Maria Papadaki, a global leader with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Igor Arkhypenko leads the development of blockchain-based solutions.
Strategic Impact
DBCC’s strategic impact extends beyond education; it is instrumental in shaping Dubai’s regulatory framework for blockchain and digital assets, and it actively contributes to the emirate’s goal of becoming a top-three global blockchain hub.
Key Products
Global Hub for Blockchain Companies
A centralized platform facilitating growth, collaboration, and innovation for blockchain firms operating in Dubai and worldwide.
Incubation and Acceleration Programs
Structured support for blockchain startups, including mentorship, resources, networking, and access to investors and regulators.
Blockchain Education and Training
Workshops, courses, and training programs covering blockchain fundamentals, use cases, implementation strategies, and emerging trends.
Consultation and Advisory Services
Expert guidance for businesses and government entities exploring blockchain adoption, including feasibility studies, architecture design, and regulatory navigation.
Research and Development Support
Assistance with blockchain-related research projects, proof-of-concept development, and innovation partnerships.
Offices & Headcount
10 employees (approx.)
