Riyadh is set to become the new global capital of blockchain with the return of the Global Blockchain Show (GBS), scheduled for February 9-10, 2026 at Malfa Hall. Following the successful edition in Abu Dhabi, this event aims to bring together key industry players to explore the latest trends in blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and decentralized finance. Organized by VAP Group and supported by Times of Blockchain, GBS promises a platform where cutting-edge technology meets business expertise.
Key points to remember:
- GBS 2026 will take place on February 9-10 at Malfa Hall in Riyadh.
- Over 10,000 attendees, 250 speakers, 200 exhibitors, and 300 media representatives are expected.
- The event features keynotes, interactive panels, and hands-on workshops.
- Discussions will cover blockchain, crypto, Web3, artificial intelligence, metaverse, and digital transformation.
- Networking opportunities will connect investors, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers.
A global stage for Web3 leaders
The event will attract a wide range of professionals, from policymakers to entrepreneurs and investors, as well as technology enthusiasts. The main goal is to create an environment conducive to knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation around blockchain and Web3 solutions.
The previous edition in Abu Dhabi hosted renowned speakers such as H.E. Justin Sun, founder and global advisor of TRON, HTX, and Liberland, and Yat Siu, co-founder and chairman of Animoca Brands. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, executive chairman and CEO of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), and John Lilic, CEO of Hilbert Group, also shared their expertise.
Other notable figures included Dr. Marwan Alzarouni, CEO of Dubai Blockchain Center, Jason Allegrante, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at Fireblocks, Rachel Conlan, CMO of Binance, Sunny Lu, CEO of VeChain, Abdulla Al Dhaheri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Blockchain Center, and investor Murad Mahmudov. This diversity of profiles illustrates the international reach and credibility of the Global Blockchain Show.
Program, impact, and future perspectives
GBS 2026 will offer a comprehensive two-day program combining conferences, panels, workshops, and interactive sessions. Participants will deepen their knowledge on key topics such as blockchain innovation and real-world adoption, exploring how companies integrate blockchain into their processes while addressing scalability and security challenges.
Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the metaverse, will also be examined to understand the next wave of digital transformation. Sessions on Web3 ecosystem development will highlight collaborative strategies fostering global growth, infrastructure evolution, and sustainable innovation. Networking sessions will help build connections among policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts, opening opportunities for strategic partnerships.
These sessions will provide participants with a complete view of how decentralization and technological innovation are shaping the economies of tomorrow. Hands-on workshops will also allow participants to familiarize themselves with new tools and platforms, encouraging practical learning.
Choosing Riyadh as the host city underscores the Saudi capital’s ambition to become a global hub for emerging technologies. The city actively invests in developing the tech ecosystem and supports initiatives that foster innovation and international collaboration. The Global Blockchain Show further consolidates this dynamic and positions Riyadh as a central player in blockchain and Web3.
By hosting thousands of attendees and hundreds of speakers, the event offers a unique environment for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring business and technological opportunities. Companies and investors present can identify new growth paths, form strategic partnerships, and discover the latest innovations transforming the digital economy.
GBS 2026 goes beyond technology presentations. It also aims to stimulate practical adoption of blockchain solutions and encourage innovative projects that redefine existing business models. Discussions on decentralized finance, NFTs, cryptocurrencies, and Web3 infrastructure will give participants insight into future trends and challenges to maximize the potential of these technologies. By emphasizing innovation, security, and collaboration, the Global Blockchain Show helps prepare the next generation of tech leaders. The ideas exchanged during the event are expected to impact global business strategies and influence the development of industry policies and standards.
The Global Blockchain Show 2026 represents a unique opportunity for industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from leading global experts in blockchain and Web3. With Riyadh as the new innovation hub, the event highlights the growing importance of decentralized technologies in the global economic landscape. Between inspiring conferences, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, this edition promises to be a must-attend for anyone looking to shape the future of digital innovation.
