Dubai to pursue government use of blockchain in 'Future Accelerators' projects

The Dubai Future Foundation recently concluded the second round of Dubai Future Accelerators, a program that connects emerging technology companies with Dubai government entities to test new approaches at city scale.

According to a press release from the foundation, the round produced 28 memoranda of understanding between Dubai government departments and a dozen innovative companies from around the world.

In addition to projects aimed at testing autonomous flying vehicles, creating virtual learning environments for schools in Dubai, and developing solar-powered seawater desalinization, the DFA program has taken up two projects with blockchain technology partners:

• the Department of Naturalization and Residency Dubai will work with ObjectTech and Luther Systems, using biometric and blockchain technology to streamline the process for becoming a resident in Dubai; and
• Smart Dubai, Avanza Solutions and Consensys will collaborate on ways to standardize government services payment gateways using blockchain technology.

"The United Arab Emirates is now a world-class destination for innovators to come and work with our government institutions to shape the future of vital sectors," said H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai and chairman of the board of trustees at the Dubai Future Foundation. "The UAE is offering technology companies an ideal platform to test global technologies and future solutions, which cements its leading position in the future industry and in the global charge to shape the future of the most vital sectors today."