Bybit, the world’s second largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has signed a MoU with Ghaf Labs, a Web3 advisory and consultancy firm based in the Middle East and North Africa.
The agreement outlines a multi year strategic partnership aimed at promoting cryptocurrency adoption, supporting the growth of the digital asset ecosystem, and exploring practical applications for blockchain technology across the region.
The partnership reflects a shared intention to support the development of the MENA region as a centre for Web3 innovation by encouraging regulatory clarity and facilitating the integration of blockchain in everyday life.
Ghaf Labs, supported by Ghaf Capital Partners, a Dubai based private capital firm focused on blockchain, provides advisory and incubation services to Web3 startups in the region.
With its network and understanding of the local regulatory landscape, the firm will work with Bybit to support the development of new projects.
Bybit and Ghaf Labs plan to offer equity free grants, startup assistance, and access to resources for ventures involved in blockchain, artificial intelligence, and sustainability.
These sectors are seen as central to the ongoing digital transformation in the region.
“Our partnership with Ghaf Labs is rooted in a shared vision for the MENA region, one where crypto is not just adopted, but lived,”
said Helen Liu, Chief Operating Officer and Partner at Bybit.
“From developer tooling to lifestyle integration, we are building the bridges that bring crypto into everyday life.”
The collaboration will also focus on education, with initiatives such as partnerships with universities, bootcamps, and hackathons designed to develop local talent in the Web3 space.
Educational content will be created in both Arabic and English to increase blockchain literacy across different communities in 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.
In addition to development and education, the partnership includes real world applications of cryptocurrency, such as the Bybit Card, which links digital assets with services including hospitality and retail.
This includes collaborations with partners such as Grand Millennium Hotels in Dubai.
The two organisations also intend to support regional events such as The Crypto Polo Cup and Crypto Fight Night, which combine sports, luxury, and Web3 culture.
With the agreement in place, Bybit and Ghaf Labs will explore further opportunities in innovation funding, institutional use of blockchain, and applications across various sectors such as finance, hospitality, and education.
Featured image credit: Bybit
