Saeed Abdulmuhsen Albastaki

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency have been the most significant technological advancements in the last decade, and their importance has only grown in recent years. As someone who has always been interested in new technologies, I was immediately drawn to these developments and knew that I wanted to learn more.

My decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Blockchain and Digital Currency stems from my enthusiasm for exploring new technologies and the United Arab Emirates’ emphasis on adopting innovative advancements. I strongly believe that acquiring knowledge about blockchain and digital assets is crucial, particularly considering Dubai’s emergence as a crypto hub and its commitment to the Dubai Blockchain Strategy, which aims to establish Dubai as the world’s first fully blockchain-powered city.

Accordingly, as part of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision to position Dubai as a frontrunner in blockchain technology, the Dubai Police have actively dedicated their resources to enhance the knowledge of their officers in order to effectively address cases related to crypto. These factors greatly piqued my interest and motivated me to enrol in this field’s leading graduate program.

My journey of pursuing the MSc in Blockchain and Digital Currency at the University of Nicosia (UNIC) was truly remarkable. The courses were engaging, and I greatly appreciated the knowledge and experience I gained throughout the program. The highlight of my experience was becoming the first Emirati to hold a Master’s degree in Blockchain and Digital Currencies. This accomplishment has instilled in me the confidence to pursue my passions and embrace new professional challenges.

With the recent launch of the “Dubai Metaverse Strategy” by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aiming to Dubai as one of the world’s top ten metaverse economies and a global hub for the metaverse community, I felt compelled to also enrol in the world’s first MOOC: NFTs and the Metaverse course offered by UNIC. I am delighted to have successfully completed this course and be now well-versed in the world of the metaverse.

Currently, I am back in the United Arab Emirates and I am pleased that my studies have not only equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to investigate cases related to digital assets but also provided me with a new role in Dubai Police in conducting research on blockchain and cryptoassets. I am also proud that my enthusiasm enabled me to collaborate with the University of Nicosia to launch a specialized diploma called “financial investigations in digital assets” for Dubai Police. This program will help train and prepare officers to investigate financial crimes related to digital currencies.

In conclusion, my journey in the world of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies has been nothing short of exciting, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to pursue my interests through the MSc program at the University of Nicosia.

The collaboration between Dubai Police and the University of Nicosia is also a significant step towards ensuring that Dubai’s law enforcement officers are well-equipped to handle any issues that may arise in the crypto industry. As a law enforcement officer, I am proud to be a part of this initiative, and I look forward to using my knowledge, skills and experience to serve my community.