São Tomé and Príncipe and UAE-based technology company IOPn have collaborated to launch a blockchain-powered citizenship-by-investment (CBI).
Entrenching digital sovereignty in the UAE
The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe has partnered with United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based sovereign technology ecosystem IOPn to launch a citizenship-by-investment (CBI) program powered by blockchain. The groundbreaking partnership, implemented through the government’s exclusive implementing partner, STP Service Advisory (STPSA), makes the UAE a crucial exporter of sovereign digital infrastructure.
As stated in a press release, the new CBI program will use cutting-edge technologies including blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services, all built and managed in the UAE. IOPn’s OPN Chain and its advanced ATLAS platform will deliver a transparent, efficient and fully secure system for handling citizenship applications and approvals.
The project positions the UAE at the center of a global shift in the way governments manage identity and investments.
“This partnership is truly historic,” said Mojtaba, Chief Executive Officer of IOPn Ltd. “By introducing the world’s first Citizenship-by-Investment program on blockchain, São Tomé and Príncipe is setting a global benchmark for digital sovereignty, and the UAE is proudly at the heart of this transformation.”
Disney Ramos, director of the Citizenship-by-Investment Unit of São Tomé and Príncipe, highlighted the immediate benefits: “Our collaboration… ensures transparency, efficiency and international credibility – while opening new doors for collaboration with the Emirati innovation ecosystem.”
The initiative is seen as creating new demand for Emirati talent and enterprises in key sectors such as AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and digital transformation. Through IOPn’s growing network, UAE-based startups and specialists will also have opportunities to export homegrown technologies, participate in international tenders and contribute to digital nation-building projects in Africa and Asia.
The implementation of this digital-first framework from Abu Dhabi reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainable and technology-driven growth in developing economies, strengthening the UAE’s role as a bridge between technology and diplomacy. The initial agreement has a term of five years and is governed by a joint governance framework established by the Government of Sao Tome and Principe, STPSA and IOPn to ensure compliance and implementation.
🧭 Frequently asked questions
- Which countries are involved in the new blockchain-powered CBI program? The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe is partnering with UAE-based technology company IOPn for the programme.
- What technology is used for the CBI of São Tomé and Principe? The world’s first blockchain-powered CBI will leverage AI and cloud services built and managed in the UAE.
- How will this partnership benefit the UAE’s technology sector? The deal will make the UAE a major exporter of sovereign digital infrastructure, creating new demand for Emirati technology talent in Africa and Asia.
- What is the purpose of São Tomé and Principe new digital citizenship system? The program aims to set a global benchmark for digital sovereignty by ensuring a transparent, efficient and secure application process.