The Smart Dubai Office (SDO) has won an award for its Dubai Blockchain Strategy initiative.

Announced during the Smart Cities Expo and World Congress that took place in Barcelona last week, the City Project Award recognizes the most “innovative and successful” projects being implemented in an urban development area.

Dubai’s Blockchain Strategy was set up to move all of the government’s transactions online using blockchain tech by the year 2020. The effort won the award amid stiff competition from 308 projects from 58 countries, an Emirates News Agency (WAM) report said.

According to Wesam Lootah, CEO of the Smart Dubai Government, the move marks a “testament” to the country’s status in adopting new technologies. He added that Smart Dubai is planning to apply blockchain beyond its own applications, saying:

“In fact, we are currently working to outline the first set of international standards for blockchain application in government.”

During the event, the SDO and its partners showcased the country’s success in adopting and implementing smart technologies, with a Smart Dubai booth also demonstrating its developments.

Dubai image via Shutterstock