A Historic Gathering for the Blockchain World
Dubai is set to become the global epicenter of blockchain and Web3 innovation as it hosts the landmark 30th edition of HODL, the world’s longest-running crypto summit series, on May 14–15, 2025. Taking place at Madinat Jumeirah, the summit will bring together over 5,000 global leaders, including policymakers, tech pioneers, and investors.
Organised by Trescon, HODL continues the legacy of the World Blockchain Summit, a global series that has previously been held in cities like Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai. This milestone event solidifies HODL’s position as a leading force in shaping the blockchain industry’s future.
Innovation, Regulation, and Infrastructure in Focus
This year’s summit will spotlight a wide range of pressing topics including real-world asset tokenisation, modular blockchain architecture, decentralised finance (DeFi), and AI-powered infrastructure. Key discussions will also address regulatory evolution and security advancements across the digital asset space.
“These trends are accelerating global momentum toward institutional and enterprise blockchain adoption,” the organisers noted, setting the tone for a summit designed not just to inform, but to catalyze change.
Leaders and Visionaries Take the Stage
HODL 2025 will feature an impressive lineup of speakers from leading blockchain organisations and financial institutions. Among those confirmed are Corbin Fraser, CEO of Bitcoin.com, Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, and Nils Andersen-Röed, Global Head of FIU at Binance.
“HODL 2025 is where the future of Web3 and crypto innovation takes shape. I am thrilled to collaborate with pioneers shaping this exciting digital revolution,” said Corbin Fraser. Meanwhile, Andersen-Röed shared his excitement: “Excited to share insights on blockchain and connect with leaders driving GameFi, NFTs, and Web3 advancements at HODL 2025.”
Startup World Cup Adds a Competitive Edge
In a significant move for start-up innovation, HODL 2025 will host the UAE Regional Round of the Startup World Cup, in partnership with Pegasus Tech Ventures. This competition gives blockchain start-ups a rare chance to pitch for a place at the global finals and compete for a $1 million investment.
Pegasus has a strong track record, having invested in over 260 companies, with 71 exits and 22 IPOs, offering a formidable launchpad for emerging ventures in the blockchain space.
Connecting Investors, Regulators, and Enterprises
More than 500 institutional investors are expected to attend, creating ample opportunities for capital formation, partnership building, and policy engagement. HODL aims to be a bridge between innovation and institutional adoption, enabling conversations that shape the next wave of digital finance.
Mohammed Saleem, Founder and Chairman of Trescon, captured the event’s significance: “HODL has become the definitive platform for blockchain innovation in the Middle East and beyond. This 30th edition marks a turning point as institutional adoption meets breakthrough tech.”
Backed by Industry Giants
The summit has received broad industry backing, with Liquid Loans serving as Platinum Sponsor and Coinvoyagehosting the After Party. Gold sponsors include Tata Consultancy Services and Gofaizen & Sherle, while Facephileads the Silver tier. Bronze sponsors range from Skygate Network and FMCPAY to Pays.Solutions and P2P.
With support from over 60 global media and listing partners, participating organisations will gain widespread visibility. CNN Business Arabic is the Official Media Partner, and Khaleej Times is the Exclusive Media Partner. ZEX PR WIRE will handle digital PR distribution.
Continuing the Legacy of WBS
HODL’s evolution from the World Blockchain Summit, first held in 2017, underscores its commitment to fostering blockchain innovation. With 29 editions already hosted globally, the summit has helped connect start-ups, enterprises, and governments, driving deal-making and technological advancement in the Web3 space.
As the world’s longest-running blockchain event series, HODL is more than just a summit—it’s a reflection of how far the crypto industry has come, and where it is headed next.
Looking Ahead to HODL 2025
Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s booming tech landscape, HODL 2025 is poised to be a milestone event. By combining breakthrough technologies, regulatory insight, and investment opportunities, the summit invites the global blockchain community to shape the future of decentralisation.
For those looking to engage with leading voices and ground-breaking ideas in Web3, HODL Dubai 2025 is where the conversation begins.
