Blockchain is an open-source distributed database using state-of-the-art cryptography through a distributed ledger that enables trust among disparate individuals or third parties. Blockchain transforms the way transactions happen in the Internet age. A blockchain block is immutable, the information and details of the data contained on the blockchain are virtually impossible to change. The impact on every segment of industry and services verticals is hard to calculate. Blockchain is a new and emerging technology family positioned on the leading edge of the technology hype curve. It is not bleeding or cutting-edge technology; nor is it fully formed, standardized, or supported by best practices. The Blockchain Technical Community is highly fragmented and badly needs what the IEEE can deliver; a stabilizing think space of seasoned professionals specifically trained and positioned to make a difference. Blockchain is by far the most forward thinking, impactful, and disruptive emerging technology family that the Future Directions Committee and the IEEE has sought to embrace.

The IEEE UAE Blockchain Group will invite and attract experts from all stakeholders from industry, government, academia and research to this initiative to foster best practices and user guidelines to deploy Blockchain for the benefit of the UAE.