Bybit & Ghaf Labs Partner to Boost Middle East Web3 Adoption

Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has entered a strategic multi-year partnership with Ghaf Labs, a leading Web3 advisory and consultancy firm based in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The two organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on accelerating crypto adoption and enhancing blockchain utility across the region.

Shared Vision for a Thriving Web3 Ecosystem

This partnership is anchored in a common goal: to establish MENA as a global leader in the Web3 landscape. Bybit and Ghaf Labs aim to champion innovation, promote regulatory clarity, and support practical blockchain applications that enhance everyday life in the region.

Empowering Startups and Growing the Ecosystem

Backed by Ghaf Capital Partners—Dubai’s first private capital firm focused on blockchain—Ghaf Labs brings robust advisory services and incubation programs tailored to Web3 startups. With deep regional expertise and a strong regulatory understanding, Ghaf Labs is well-positioned to help blockchain ventures scale in one of the world's fastest-evolving digital markets.

Funding and Support for Emerging Technologies

The partnership will offer equity-free grants, hands-on support, and access to key resources for startups working in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. These sectors are critical pillars of MENA’s digital transformation agenda.

“Our partnership with Ghaf Labs is rooted in a shared vision for the MENA region — one where crypto isn’t just adopted, but lived,” said Helen Liu, COO of Bybit. “From developer tooling to lifestyle integration, we’re building the bridges that bring crypto into everyday life.”

Educating and Empowering Local Talent

In a move to build regional expertise, the collaboration will roll out educational programs, including university partnerships, coding bootcamps, and blockchain hackathons. These initiatives are designed to nurture a new generation of Web3 professionals in MENA.

Boosting Web3 Awareness Through Bilingual Content

To promote widespread understanding of blockchain technology, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will co-create educational content in both Arabic and English. This effort is aimed at broadening Web3 literacy among diverse communities across the region.

“This partnership with Bybit reflects our shared commitment to advancing Web3 infrastructure, education, and institutional engagement across the MENA region. Together, we aim to accelerate innovation and continue to position the UAE as a global hub for digital assets.” said Feras Al Sadek, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Ghaf Labs.

Real-World Crypto Applications and Lifestyle Integration

Highlighting the practical benefits of digital assets, the partnership will showcase crypto’s real-world uses through offerings like the Bybit Card. This card bridges digital finance with premium experiences, such as exclusive access to luxury partners like Grand Millennium Hotels in Dubai, illustrating how crypto can enhance travel, leisure, and everyday purchases.

Web3 Culture Meets High-End Events

The alliance will also make its mark on the event landscape by co-branding high-profile gatherings such as The Crypto Polo Cup and Crypto Fight Night. These events blend luxury, sport, and Web3 innovation to drive public engagement and cultural relevance.

Laying the Groundwork for a Resilient Digital Future

With the MoU in effect, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will explore opportunities in innovation funding, institutional blockchain integration, and use cases across key sectors like finance, education, and hospitality. Their efforts aim to strengthen the region’s Web3 infrastructure and long-term resilience.

UAE at the Forefront of Digital Advancement

This strategic collaboration not only amplifies Bybit’s long-term commitment to MENA but also reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital transformation and progressive regulatory practices.