In a landmark development for digital finance, Abu Dhabi is poised to host the world’s first hybrid security-and-utility token offering following a strategic partnership between Emirates Coin Investment (EmCoin) and global workspace technology leader Hotdesk. The announcement, made during Abu Dhabi Finance Week, reveals plans for the DESK Token Initial Coin Offering (ICO) in 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
The DESK Token represents a groundbreaking financial instrument that merges real-world asset backing with practical utility. Unlike conventional digital assets, DESK Token will be supported by high-quality, income-generating real estate properties, including Grade A offices and coworking spaces. Simultaneously, token holders will gain seamless access to Hotdesk’s extensive global network of over 2,300 workspaces across 81 countries.
This innovative dual-value model creates an unprecedented asset class that combines yield generation with immediate practical application. The initiative will operate within a fully regulated framework, with EmCoin—the UAE’s first SCA-licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider—supporting the token within its compliant digital asset ecosystem. The project receives additional institutional backing from Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank) and Singularity Venture Hub.
Mohamed Khaled, Founder & CEO of Hotdesk, emphasized the project’s pioneering nature: “Our vision to launch the world’s first hybrid token ICO from Abu Dhabi leverages the emirate’s forward-thinking regulatory environment and innovation-driven ecosystem. DESK Token is designed to generate returns, deliver real-world utility, and create tangible value through its unique hybrid structure.”
Yasin Arafat, Chief Operating Officer of EmCoin, noted the transformative potential of the collaboration: “We’re bringing a pioneering workspace platform into the blockchain world through a token that combines practical utility with real-world asset backing.”
The DESK Token initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s strategic commitment to shaping the next wave of digital economy innovation, creating a new bridge between digital finance and the future of work while establishing new standards for asset-backed digital tokens.