The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking decisive steps to integrate Bitcoin into its financial strategy, as emphasized at the ongoing Bitcoin MENA 2025 conference. Mohammed Al Shamsi, representing UAE National Security, stated that the global economy is undergoing a “historical phase” of financial transformation, positioning Bitcoin beyond a mere “digital asset” to a “key pillar” of modern finance.

Central to this vision is Bitcoin mining, described by Shamsi as the “beating heart” of the network. Modern operations now prioritize energy efficiency, computational accuracy, and scalable infrastructure, reflecting a sophisticated, industrial approach rather than a hobbyist activity. The UAE aims to foster a sustainable mining ecosystem capable of supporting large-scale operations while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Supporting this strategic push, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC) significantly increased its Bitcoin holdings in Q3 2025. Under the Mubadala umbrella, ADIC more than tripled its stake in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, acquiring nearly 8 million shares valued at $518 million. This move occurred just before Bitcoin peaked near $92,000, demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s long-term approach to cryptocurrency as a strategic asset akin to gold.

Industry leaders at the conference highlighted the UAE’s potential to become the “Wall Street of cryptocurrencies,” driven by business-friendly regulations and a rapidly growing crypto ecosystem. Attracting top talent, major investors, and capital inflows is seen as essential to building a liquid, influential Bitcoin market in the region.

Conference attendees also gained insights from panels and discussions, including a session titled “Bitcoin Mining as a Grid Stabilizer in Emerging Markets”, scheduled for December 9. Moderated by Daniel Batten of CH4 Capital, the panel features Mohammed Alshiekh (CTO, DEMA Energy), Erik Hersman (CEO, Gridless), and Luca Infeld (Founder, Munich International Mining), underscoring the UAE’s commitment to innovation and thought leadership in the crypto space.