Abu Dhabi’s Two-Pronged Approach: Harnessing Web3 and Energy to Propel Economic Change

Abu Dhabi Hosts Web2 to Web3 Conference: Bridging Finance and Digital Innovation

Abu Dhabi recently welcomed the Web2 to Web3 Conference, an event designed to connect the worlds of traditional finance and digital assets. The gathering attracted influential figures from around the globe to explore new opportunities for innovation and partnership. As the emirate continues to establish itself as a leading center for financial technology, the conference reflects a broader movement toward digital finance and investment in energy sectors.

One notable example of Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification is the rapid expansion of the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) industry. This sector is experiencing a remarkable 19.4% annual growth rate, with projections indicating it could reach a value of $5.79 billion by 2025. Such momentum highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment to embracing fintech advancements, a central theme throughout the conference.

The event also took place against the backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s active engagement in the global energy market. The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) is currently negotiating to acquire Russia’s share in the Serbian energy company NIS, a move made possible by U.S. sanctions on Russian energy entities. These strategic investments demonstrate the emirate’s dual emphasis on both conventional energy resources and the emerging digital asset landscape, underscoring its comprehensive economic strategy.

During the conference, industry experts highlighted the necessity of clear regulations and collaboration across different sectors, especially as Web3 technologies continue to develop. The Middle East’s BNPL market, fueled by platforms such as Tabby and Postpay, showcases how digital financial services can work alongside blockchain innovations. These trends indicate that Abu Dhabi is not only adapting to the Web3 era but is also leveraging its established fintech infrastructure to drive further progress.

Looking to the future, conference organizers pointed out that the region’s regulatory framework is evolving to better support digital assets. This paves the way for potential partnerships between established financial institutions and blockchain startups. Additionally, the recent announcement by Saudi Arabia regarding OPEC+’s adoption of a transparent production capacity assessment system highlights the Gulf’s expanding role in both the energy and financial sectors. By aligning its strategies in these areas, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a significant influencer in shaping the direction of the global economy.