Abu Dhabi — A key panel discussion at Bitcoin MENA, jointly hosted by ADNEC Group and BTC Inc., shed light on the growing dominance of the MENA region—especially the UAE—in the global Bitcoin mining landscape. Speakers Faisal Al Hammadi, Managing Partner of Further, and Hicham Chahine, Founder & Co-CEO of NIP Group INC, outlined the factors accelerating the region’s reputation as a mining powerhouse, from energy innovation to supportive regulation and long-term investment strategies.
One of the strongest advantages highlighted was the UAE’s regulatory clarity and energy stability. The business-friendly environment, combined with clear digital asset policies, has provided global mining firms with confidence to set up long-term operations in the region. The UAE’s excess energy supply, particularly in low-demand seasons such as winter, further enhances cost efficiency and supports sustainable mining practices.
Hicham Chahine noted that the pro-industry regulatory framework, along with support from key investment institutions like the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), has enabled his company to establish one of the region’s largest mining operations. This institutional backing signals a national-level commitment to advancing the digital asset sector.
Faisal Al Hammadi spoke about his role in both mining and treasury strategies, noting momentum toward Bitcoin adoption within corporate and institutional treasury structures. While widespread adoption has yet to materialize, he explained that Further Ventures already includes Bitcoin as part of its treasury allocation, predicting that corporate and even government-level participation is on the horizon.
Both speakers agreed that conversations are already taking place across sovereign wealth funds and government entities, signaling forthcoming developments in institutional adoption.
The discussion also explored how the UAE plans to expand beyond mining and build a full-scale Bitcoin ecosystem. Faisal emphasized that true leadership in digital assets requires infrastructure for treasury allocation, auditing, usability, and technological development. As more institutional players recognize Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class, he expects accelerated growth across the ecosystem.
Hicham added that Bitcoin plays an essential role in diversification strategies for modern corporations. He also highlighted the integration of advanced AI technology within mining operations—allowing facilities to switch between Bitcoin mining and AI compute workloads depending on energy availability. This dual-use capability underscores the innovation-driven approach emerging in the region.
The panel concluded with a united perspective: the UAE’s blend of regulatory clarity, energy abundance, government investment, and technological innovation uniquely positions the country—and the wider MENA region—to become a global leader in Bitcoin mining and the digital asset industry at large. With continued development, the region is expected to not only lead in mining operations but also shape the future of the broader Bitcoin and blockchain economy.
