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Dubai’s Tech Tomorrow: How Smart Cities, AI, and Blockchain are Shaping the Future

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1 week ago

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Dubai has long been a magnet for imagination, adventure, and bold ideas. From desert skyscrapers to electric cars that never run out of battery, the city is turning bold plans into everyday reality. But what drives this rapid transformation? The answer lies in a powerful blend of smart‑city tech, artificial intelligence, and blockchain innovation. Together they create a network that can power everything from traffic lights to the way people work and play.

1. Smart Cities – The Nervous System of Tomorrow’s Urban Life

Think of a smart city as a giant body that can feel, think, and react. Sensors in buildings, streets, and even water systems send constant data to a central brain. That brain is made from software and AI that can spot problems before they hit anyone. Imagine a meter that decides when a water pipe needs fixing before it bursts, or a traffic signal that stretches or shortens its green light based on real‑time flow. That’s the idea behind Dubai’s “Smart City” project.

  • 90% of new buildings are now built with sensors that track temperature, light and energy use.
  • Dubai’s citywide radio network relays data from over 30,000 city sensors.
  • AI powers grocery delivery drones, autonomous taxis, and even robot concierges.

These systems don’t just save money. They also reduce stress on residents. No one needs to wait at a traffic light forever, thanks to real‑time route optimization. And your phone can get your bill automatically when your smart meter senses usage, managing the cost down the line.

Case Study: The Dubai Smart Water Initiative

Archaeological digs in the desert used to come to a halt beside breathing water shortages. Smart water management tackles that. In partnership with the UAE’s first data‑driven water board, Dubai installed sensors every 10 meters along its canals. That data helps forecast leaks, schedule repairs, and adjust desalination cycles. The result? A 25% drop in water loss over the past two years.

From a traveler’s perspective, that means reliable water in hotels, parks, and even on your toast. From a resident’s point of view, it means less water tax and more savings to spend, say, on a yacht charter in the Arabian Gulf.

2. Artificial Intelligence – A New Kind of Brain in the City

AI in Dubai works in two major ways: predictive analytics and autonomous decision-making. The predictive part learns patterns in traffic, weather, or energy consumption, and then nudges the system toward optimal outcomes.

Take the example of the Dubai Smart Transport System. Inside each electric bus, AI watches how many passengers board. The system learns whether a bus should go slower, stop longer, or change its route entirely. Over time, one full day of data can improve performance by up to 30%.

Autonomous decision-making is perhaps the most exciting. Self‑driving cars, drones delivering parcels, and even robotic security guards are all powered by AI. They can spot obstacles, weigh safety, and respond faster than humans, making the city safer and more efficient.

AI in Healthcare: Better Outcomes and Faster Treatments

Dubai’s hospitals now host AI algorithms that can detect early signs of heart disease in imaging scans. Instead of waiting weeks for test results, doctors can get a recommendation in minutes. In practice, this may shave hours off a critical patient’s waiting time before a heart attack, literally saving lives.

The AI system uses a database of over a million scans. Every time it sees a new image, it compares the patterns and signs to the database, offering a probability score for disease. Doctors use the score to decide on quick treatments.

3. Blockchain – The Ledger That Keeps It All Trustworthy

Blockchain is a digital ledger, a record that cannot be altered once it’s written. Think of it as an invisible accountant that everyone can see, but no one can cheat.

Dubai’s legal and financial sectors use blockchain for transactions that need trust and speed. For example, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has introduced BlocksCity – a platform where banks and fintech firms can trade digital assets securely.

Insurance companies also use blockchain to verify claims. When something happens, a data point is pushed onto the chain 24/7. That means fewer investigations and faster payouts.

Real Estate Transparent and Secure

One of the biggest influences of blockchain in Dubai is in property. With Property Vision, buyers can trace the history of a property from its foundation to the current deed. All sales and mortgages are recorded on the chain. When someone wants to buy a property, they can see in an instant whether the title is clean or if there are liens attached.

The process of selling and purchasing land will no longer require dozens of documents, years of waiting, or bribery. It becomes a quick click, all verified by an immutable ledger.

4. The Future Roadmap – What Happens Next?

Dubai’s roadmap includes three key priorities for the next five years: (1) expand the sensor grid to all buildings, (2) double the AI capacity in public services, and (3) make blockchain a core part of every governmental process.

You’ll see new applications like smart healthcare kiosks that use AI to provide quick diagnostics at street corners, sensors embedded in air vents to detect pollutants and instantly adjust ventilation schedules, and blockchain‑based voting for city council elections to boost transparency.

In a nutshell, the city is building a living ecosystem where every device, person, and service feeds into a single coherent network, creating an environment that’s safer, healthier, and more enjoyable.

Community Involvement – Why Your Voice Matters

For these systems to thrive, citizens need to participate. Dubai regularly hosts hackathons and maker spaces that let residents turn their ideas into prototype projects. Whether you’re a programmer, an engineer, or simply a curious traveler, there’s a slot for you on the city’s digital canvas.

These events provide hands‑on experience with real data, blockchain tools, and AI platforms. They also nurture a culture of collaboration where each new idea is built on the previous one, just as the city’s infrastructure grows.

5. Interlinking Other Resources You Might Like

If you want to dive deeper into how Dubai is shaping tomorrow’s tech, check out these stories that keep adding layers to the picture:

• Dubai 2025: The Pulse of Technology and What It Means for You
• Dubai’s Tech Renaissance: A Journey from Smart Cities to Everyday Innovation
• Dubai’s Technology Landscape: Innovation, AI, and Smart Cities in 2025

Conclusion – The City that’s Always Learning

From the deserts to the skyscrapers, Dubai is a living laboratory. Its integration of sensors, AI, and blockchain creates a cycle where data leads to improvements, which feed back into data. Residents get happier services; businesses benefit from smarter operations; and the city itself becomes more resilient and vibrant.

The exciting part isn’t just the tech itself – it’s how it reshapes everyday life. A smarter metro, healthier public spaces, cheaper electricity, and trustworthy finances are all building blocks that turn innovation into real joy for all who live here.

So next time you stroll past the Burj Khalifa, think of the invisible networks humming behind the glass. It’s the pulse of a future where technology is not a separate dream but the very heart of your everyday.

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Dubai’s Tech Landscape: From Smart Cities to an AI‑Driven Future

Published

2 hours ago

on

November 15, 2025

By

Why Dubai’s Tech Scene Matters to You

Dubai has grown from a desert trading post into a global technology hub. It now offers a mix of smart infrastructure, blockchain labs, and partner ecosystems that help businesses launch or scale worldwide. For entrepreneurs, investors or tech enthusiasts, understanding how the city’s tech landscape is built can open many doors.

Dubai’s government has created special free‑zones and incentives that attract international tech firms. These zones free companies from hefty taxes and simplify the visa process. Additionally, the real‑time data collected from city sensors is used to optimize traffic, utility services and public safety.

Because of this versatility, the tech industry in Dubai is not confined to one sector. You can find startups focusing on health tech, clean energy, fintech, AI services, and even cultural heritage solutions that digitise museums. Whatever your niche, the city offers platforms, expertise and capital to help it grow.

Smart City Foundations: How Data Powers Daily Life

Dubai’s smart‑city vision began with a focus on data. Sensors are embedded in streetlights, traffic cameras, public transit, and water pipelines. Every data point is collected, analysed and fed back to city planners. This creates a continuous loop of improvement that makes city life more efficient.

For instance, traffic patterns are monitored in real‑time. If a particular avenue shows heavier congestion, the traffic lights can be re‑timed to reduce waiting times. Similarly, public transport schedules are updated based on passenger flow.

Beyond logistics, these data streams help with environmental management. Air‑quality sensors send alerts when pollution levels rise, allowing authorities to issue warnings and recommend actions to the public.

This integration of technology and urban life is part of Dubai’s core mission: to transform everyday experiences into smarter, more connected routines.

Key Smart‑City Projects You Should Know

Blockchain: A Secure Backbone for the City

Blockchain technology was introduced to Dubai as a way to ensure transparency and security across many sectors. From land registry to identity verification, blockchain reduces the risk of fraud and speeds up transactions.

The Dubai government’s blockchain framework is open to companies, encouraging integration of distributed ledgers into existing systems. This openness has attracted global fintech firms that develop decentralized finance platforms and other digital asset services.

Moreover, multiple public‑private partnerships have launched pilot projects that test blockchain for supply chain tracking, medical records and even smart‑contract‑based parking systems. These initiatives are proving that blockchain can be both reliable and user‑friendly.

How Blockchain Affects Business in Dubai

  1. Fast, secure cross‑border payments for international trade.
  2. Reduced paperwork for real‑estate transactions.
  3. Improved supply‑chain visibility for logistics companies.
  4. Transparent voting and public‑service voting systems set up for local elections.

Because these capabilities meet real business needs, many global brands have chosen Dubai as a base for their blockchain labs. This helps reduce costs and improves scalability, giving local startups a competitive advantage.

Artificial Intelligence: Automating Services and Enhancing Innovation

Dubai’s AI agenda is already reflected in how services are delivered. City agencies employ AI to predict maintenance needs for infrastructure, optimize energy use, and guide emergency response teams. In the private sector, AI powers a growing number of start‑ups and data‑analysis firms.

One example is the use of AI in the shipping industry. Predictive analytics help shipping routes avoid weather disruptions, saving fuel and time. Similarly, AI-driven customer-service chatbots are becoming standard for banking, retail and hospitality firms.

The government’s AI strategy also includes investments in research and talent development. Universities collaborate with private tech firms to build AI programs, creating a talent pipeline that feeds into the city’s growing tech ecosystem.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Start‑Up Ecosystem in Dubai

Dubai offers a unique ecosystem for tech start‑ups. Incubators such as Dubai Science Park and Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre (Dtec) provide mentorship, office space and funding options.

Many international winners of global startup competitions have chosen to scale into Dubai, thanks to the city’s strategic location between East and West. Start‑ups also get access to a network of corporate partners who often look for tech solutions to modernise their operations.

With a 3‑D printed test‑bed, the city hosts numerous hackathons that bring together developers, designers and product managers to build prototypes in a short time frame. These events not only fuel creativity but also foster collaboration among cross‑disciplinary teams.

Funding and Investment Landscape

  • Venture capital funds such as Dubai Future Accelerators regularly host pitch sessions.
  • Government grants are available for AI, blockchain and sustainable tech projects.
  • Angel investors in the emirate often have backgrounds in finance, tech and logistics, providing judicious backing for high‑growth ventures.

Future Outlook: 2025 and Beyond

Dubai aims to be a leading smart city by 2025, with multiple ambitious targets: fully renewable energy consumption, a zero‑emission public transport fleet, and AI integration into all public services. The city’s long‑term vision is supported by steady investment in research, smart‑city infrastructure and talent development.

One interesting avenue is the use of drone delivery for e‑commerce. A large portion of the city’s supply network is already integrated with autonomous flight paths, allowing companies to reduce delivery times drastically.

Another promising development is the integration of sustainability metrics into the city’s blockchain system. By recording emissions data and green‑energy usage at every stage of production, Dubai can enable consumers to make more informed choices.

Key Indicators to Watch

  1. Availability of AI‑backed health solutions in public clinics.
  2. Expansion of blockchain‑based public procurement platforms.
  3. Growth of local tech talent pools and research output.
  4. Reduction in average commute times due to data‑driven transport planning.

These indicators will tell whether Dubai’s ambition is meeting its targets, and how the city can continue to innovate. The result is a tech ecosystem that is both economically vibrant and socially responsible.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re an investor, a tech professional or a local entrepreneur, Dubai offers several ways to engage. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Apply to an internship or internship‑plus stipend program at a Dubai‑based tech firm.
  • Participate in hackathons that tackle city challenges – you’ll also meet potential partners.
  • Join a startup accelerator that focuses on AI, blockchain or sustainability.
  • Invest in a venture fund that backs early‑stage tech ventures active in the UAE market.
  • Contribute to open‑source projects that the Dubai government is sponsoring.

By taking one of these steps, you can become part of a city that is turning technology into a tool for everyday life. The path forward is full of opportunity, and Dubai’s technology landscape is increasingly open to fresh ideas.

Conclusion: The Digital Pulse of Dubai

The future of Dubai is already unfolding. Its smart‑city infrastructure, blockchain ecosystem and AI research initiatives are setting new standards for urban life and business. The city is actively embracing emerging tech while putting an emphasis on community, sustainability and innovation.

When you look at the whole picture – from data‑driven traffic updates and drone deliveries to blockchain‑secure transactions – it becomes clear that Dubai is ready for the next wave of digital transformation. Investors looking for high‑growth opportunities, tech professionals who want to innovate at scale and entrepreneurs eager to launch disruptive ideas should keep an eye on this city.

If you’d like to dive deeper, check out our Smart Cities, AI and Blockchain Shaping Tomorrow article, and explore the broader Dubai’s Technology Landscape for additional context. With the right strategy, Dubai’s technical momentum can serve as a launchpad for your next big venture.

Continue Reading

Blog

Dubai’s Tech Landscape: From Smart Cities to an AI‑Driven Future

Published

2 hours ago

on

November 15, 2025

By

Why Dubai’s Tech Scene Matters to You

Dubai has grown from a desert trading post into a global technology hub. It now offers a mix of smart infrastructure, blockchain labs, and partner ecosystems that help businesses launch or scale worldwide. For entrepreneurs, investors or tech enthusiasts, understanding how the city’s tech landscape is built can open many doors.

Dubai’s government has created special free‑zones and incentives that attract international tech firms. These zones free companies from hefty taxes and simplify the visa process. Additionally, the real‑time data collected from city sensors is used to optimize traffic, utility services and public safety.

Because of this versatility, the tech industry in Dubai is not confined to one sector. You can find startups focusing on health tech, clean energy, fintech, AI services, and even cultural heritage solutions that digitise museums. Whatever your niche, the city offers platforms, expertise and capital to help it grow.

Smart City Foundations: How Data Powers Daily Life

Dubai’s smart‑city vision began with a focus on data. Sensors are embedded in streetlights, traffic cameras, public transit, and water pipelines. Every data point is collected, analysed and fed back to city planners. This creates a continuous loop of improvement that makes city life more efficient.

For instance, traffic patterns are monitored in real‑time. If a particular avenue shows heavier congestion, the traffic lights can be re‑timed to reduce waiting times. Similarly, public transport schedules are updated based on passenger flow.

Beyond logistics, these data streams help with environmental management. Air‑quality sensors send alerts when pollution levels rise, allowing authorities to issue warnings and recommend actions to the public.

This integration of technology and urban life is part of Dubai’s core mission: to transform everyday experiences into smarter, more connected routines.

Key Smart‑City Projects You Should Know

Blockchain: A Secure Backbone for the City

Blockchain technology was introduced to Dubai as a way to ensure transparency and security across many sectors. From land registry to identity verification, blockchain reduces the risk of fraud and speeds up transactions.

The Dubai government’s blockchain framework is open to companies, encouraging integration of distributed ledgers into existing systems. This openness has attracted global fintech firms that develop decentralized finance platforms and other digital asset services.

Moreover, multiple public‑private partnerships have launched pilot projects that test blockchain for supply chain tracking, medical records and even smart‑contract‑based parking systems. These initiatives are proving that blockchain can be both reliable and user‑friendly.

How Blockchain Affects Business in Dubai

  1. Fast, secure cross‑border payments for international trade.
  2. Reduced paperwork for real‑estate transactions.
  3. Improved supply‑chain visibility for logistics companies.
  4. Transparent voting and public‑service voting systems set up for local elections.

Because these capabilities meet real business needs, many global brands have chosen Dubai as a base for their blockchain labs. This helps reduce costs and improves scalability, giving local startups a competitive advantage.

Artificial Intelligence: Automating Services and Enhancing Innovation

Dubai’s AI agenda is already reflected in how services are delivered. City agencies employ AI to predict maintenance needs for infrastructure, optimize energy use, and guide emergency response teams. In the private sector, AI powers a growing number of start‑ups and data‑analysis firms.

One example is the use of AI in the shipping industry. Predictive analytics help shipping routes avoid weather disruptions, saving fuel and time. Similarly, AI-driven customer-service chatbots are becoming standard for banking, retail and hospitality firms.

The government’s AI strategy also includes investments in research and talent development. Universities collaborate with private tech firms to build AI programs, creating a talent pipeline that feeds into the city’s growing tech ecosystem.

Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Start‑Up Ecosystem in Dubai

Dubai offers a unique ecosystem for tech start‑ups. Incubators such as Dubai Science Park and Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre (Dtec) provide mentorship, office space and funding options.

Many international winners of global startup competitions have chosen to scale into Dubai, thanks to the city’s strategic location between East and West. Start‑ups also get access to a network of corporate partners who often look for tech solutions to modernise their operations.

With a 3‑D printed test‑bed, the city hosts numerous hackathons that bring together developers, designers and product managers to build prototypes in a short time frame. These events not only fuel creativity but also foster collaboration among cross‑disciplinary teams.

Funding and Investment Landscape

  • Venture capital funds such as Dubai Future Accelerators regularly host pitch sessions.
  • Government grants are available for AI, blockchain and sustainable tech projects.
  • Angel investors in the emirate often have backgrounds in finance, tech and logistics, providing judicious backing for high‑growth ventures.

Future Outlook: 2025 and Beyond

Dubai aims to be a leading smart city by 2025, with multiple ambitious targets: fully renewable energy consumption, a zero‑emission public transport fleet, and AI integration into all public services. The city’s long‑term vision is supported by steady investment in research, smart‑city infrastructure and talent development.

One interesting avenue is the use of drone delivery for e‑commerce. A large portion of the city’s supply network is already integrated with autonomous flight paths, allowing companies to reduce delivery times drastically.

Another promising development is the integration of sustainability metrics into the city’s blockchain system. By recording emissions data and green‑energy usage at every stage of production, Dubai can enable consumers to make more informed choices.

Key Indicators to Watch

  1. Availability of AI‑backed health solutions in public clinics.
  2. Expansion of blockchain‑based public procurement platforms.
  3. Growth of local tech talent pools and research output.
  4. Reduction in average commute times due to data‑driven transport planning.

These indicators will tell whether Dubai’s ambition is meeting its targets, and how the city can continue to innovate. The result is a tech ecosystem that is both economically vibrant and socially responsible.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re an investor, a tech professional or a local entrepreneur, Dubai offers several ways to engage. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Apply to an internship or internship‑plus stipend program at a Dubai‑based tech firm.
  • Participate in hackathons that tackle city challenges – you’ll also meet potential partners.
  • Join a startup accelerator that focuses on AI, blockchain or sustainability.
  • Invest in a venture fund that backs early‑stage tech ventures active in the UAE market.
  • Contribute to open‑source projects that the Dubai government is sponsoring.

By taking one of these steps, you can become part of a city that is turning technology into a tool for everyday life. The path forward is full of opportunity, and Dubai’s technology landscape is increasingly open to fresh ideas.

Conclusion: The Digital Pulse of Dubai

The future of Dubai is already unfolding. Its smart‑city infrastructure, blockchain ecosystem and AI research initiatives are setting new standards for urban life and business. The city is actively embracing emerging tech while putting an emphasis on community, sustainability and innovation.

When you look at the whole picture – from data‑driven traffic updates and drone deliveries to blockchain‑secure transactions – it becomes clear that Dubai is ready for the next wave of digital transformation. Investors looking for high‑growth opportunities, tech professionals who want to innovate at scale and entrepreneurs eager to launch disruptive ideas should keep an eye on this city.

If you’d like to dive deeper, check out our Smart Cities, AI and Blockchain Shaping Tomorrow article, and explore the broader Dubai’s Technology Landscape for additional context. With the right strategy, Dubai’s technical momentum can serve as a launchpad for your next big venture.

Continue Reading

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Dubai’s Tech Pulse: How Smart Cities, AI and Blockchain Are Shaping Tomorrow

Published

3 hours ago

on

November 15, 2025

By

Introduction


Dubai’s skyline is famous, but its future is built on something even more exciting – technology. From autonomous buses to smart homes, the city is turning its streets and skyline into a living laboratory. In this post, we’ll dive into how Dubai is combining smart city planning, artificial intelligence, and blockchain to create a better experience for residents, investors and visitors. We’ll also look at real examples from recent projects and discuss the challenges the city faces as it continues to grow.

Why Dubai is a Hotbed of Tech


Dubai’s government has always been forward‑thinking. New ideas are welcomed, funding is available, and the regulatory environment is friendly to startups. These factors create a safe space for entrepreneurs to experiment. The city also attracts a global workforce, giving teams diverse talent that fuels innovation. The result is a vibrant ecosystem where ideas can move quickly from concept to market.

Smart City Infrastructure


At the core of Dubai’s tech strategy is infrastructure. The city has invested heavily in high‑speed fiber, 5G networks, and smart meters. These foundations allow data to flow quickly across cities, powering everything from traffic lights to water usage monitoring.


The Role of AI and Machine Learning


AI is used to analyse the data that flows through the city. For example, traffic cameras feed into algorithms that predict congestion patterns, enabling the traffic management system to adjust signal timings in real time. AI also powers waste‑management drones that identify when bins are full and schedule pickups. This use of machine learning helps Dubai use its resources more efficiently.

Blockchain and Digital Identity


Blockchain gives the city a secure way to manage records and identities. Dubai’s digital identity platform uses blockchain to store personal data in a way that only the holder can access. This technology also helps with proof of residence, land titles, and even passports. By offering a tamper‑proof system, the city can reduce fraud and speed up administrative processes.

Innovation Ecosystem & Startups


Dubai hosts numerous accelerator programmes and co‑working spaces. Companies from fintech to robotics get seed funding and support from local investors. As a result, the city has seen some of the world’s first autonomous delivery robots and AI‑driven drone‑delivery startups.

Challenges & Opportunities


Data privacy remains a top concern. While more data is collected to improve services, residents want to control when and how it’s used. There’s also the issue of bridging the digital divide – ensuring everyone, not just the tech‑savvy, can benefit from these innovations. Finally, maintaining a balance between rapid development and sustainability is crucial.

Case Study 1: Smart Transport Solutions


Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority is running a pilot that uses AI to forecast traffic conditions one hour ahead. The system gathers data from thousands of sensors, then sends predictions to vehicle navigation apps. With real‑time updates, commuters can choose quicker routes, reducing travel time and emissions. For more on the city’s smart‑transport journey, see the Smart City Pulse page.

Case Study 2: Waste Management Automation


In waste management, Dubai has deployed drones that fly across the city on a scheduled route. Each drone spots a bin, uses computer vision to determine its fill level, and records the data in a blockchain‑based ledger. Waste collection vehicles receive the updated data, which optimises their routes and cuts fuel costs. If you’d like to learn more about how Dubai’s tech revolution is shaping everyday life, check out Innovation shaping tomorrow.

Case Study 3: Digital Identity and Security


Dubai’s digital identity platform makes it possible for residents to sign contracts online and access services with a single login. Blockchain ensures that only authorized parties can view sensitive data. This technology is already used for paying taxes, renewing visas, and managing health records. The successful rollout of this system demonstrates how blockchain can improve efficiency. For a deeper dive into the future of digital identity, read Technology Landscape article.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond


Dubai’s 2025 vision is to become a fully autonomous, zero‑emission city. The plan includes the widespread use of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and even AI‑managed buildings that adjust temperature and lighting automatically. Blockchain will play a role in smart contracts that govern everything from utility payments to property sales.


Investors interested in the city’s future will find numerous opportunities in AI, IoT, and blockchain. The government continues to offer incentives and a streamlined regulatory framework. Startups and large companies alike can collaborate to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Conclusion


Dubai’s journey from a trading hub to a global tech city is ongoing. By weaving smart city infrastructure, AI, and blockchain into everyday services, the city is creating a more efficient, inclusive, and future‑ready environment. Residents, businesses, and developers will all benefit from the continuous flow of data and new digital tools. As the city moves into 2025, its tech pulse will only grow stronger, making Dubai a prime example of how cities can thrive by embracing technology.

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