CYBER RESILIENCE REDEFINING
KASPERSKY’S RASHED AL MOMANI ON LEVERAGING THE POWER OF THREAT INTELLIGENCE TO STAY AHEAD OF COMPLEX ATTACKS
www.cxoinsightme.com
26 SCALING FOR SUCCESS
Elitser Technologies’ Jignasu Rathod highlights the company’s commitment to innovation and top-notch managed services
28 DATA-DRIVEN EXCELLENCE
Denodo’s Gabriele Obino shares insights into how data is revolutionising customer experiences
30 THE GROWTH FORMULA
ITQAN’s Feras Al Jabi delves into the value of aligning digital and business strategies to drive sustainable growth
20 SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION
Pure Storage shares five reasons sustainability should be a top priority for Middle East businesses
36 HARNESSING DATA
Whizmo on how a data-focused approach is driving targeted growth and fostering organic business success
38 REVOLUTIONISING ENTERPRISE INFRASTRUCTURE
Nokia highlights the vital role of connectivity in data centres as the demand for scalable and sustainable networks continues to grow
44 BUILDING SMARTER CITIES
Lenovo on how AI can break down barriers and enable governments to turn smart city ambitions into reality
46 The latest gears and gadgets to keep you ahead of the curve
REDEFINING CYBER RESILIENCE
Kaspersky’s Rashed Al Momani on how leveraging threat intelligence helps shield enterprises against complex attacks
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DECODING DATA
Data is more than just numbers and metrics—it’s the lifeblood of modern business strategy and decision-making. Currently, we’re witnessing a tremendous data influx, with over 400 million terabytes generated daily by 24.4 billion connected devices. By 2025, this will escalate to 180 zettabytes from more than 30 billion devices, transforming how multiple industries operate. This wealth of data presents an opportunity, enabling businesses to craft personalised experiences, make strategic decisions grounded in robust analytics, and maintain agility in a fiercely competitive market.
Beyond driving growth and customer engagement, data stands a critical asset in defending against cyber threats. As enterprises face an increasingly complex threat landscape, harnessing data is essential for identifying, understanding, and mitigating risks. Here, threat intelligence, emerges as a powerful tool, enabling organisations to anticipate and counteract malicious activities with precision.
In this latest edition of CXO Insight Middle East, our cover story delves into this very topic, featuring an in-depth conversation with Rashed Al Momani from Kaspersky. He sheds light on how leveraging threat intelligence can act as a shield against complex cyber-attacks. What makes threat
intelligence so powerful, according to Al Momani, is its unique ability to convert a flood of raw data into crystal-clear insights. By staying one step ahead of threat actors, businesses can enhance their overall cybersecurity posture, transforming from reactive responders to proactive defenders.
This issue also includes insights from Lenovo, Pure Storage, and Nokia on the evolution of connectivity, IT infrastructure, and sustainable innovations.
Before signing off, I encourage you to submit your nominations for the ICT Leadership Awards 2024. Visit our website for more details. With GITEX GLOBAL right around the corner, I invite you all to engage with us during the world’s largest tech and startup event. Please reach out to the CXO Insight ME team to explore how we can collaborate and share your stories of innovation and success.
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Adelle Geronimo
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While the publisher has made all efforts to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors
Adelle
Oracle inks deal with AWS to offer database services
Oracle and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have unveiled a new collaboration called Oracle Database@ AWS, which allows customers to run Oracle Autonomous Database and Oracle Exadata Database Service on AWS infrastructure. This new offering aims to make it easier for enterprises to manage Oracle databases in AWS’s cloud environment, providing a seamless experience between Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and AWS. The partnership enables customers to connect Oracle databases with AWS services such as Amazon EC2, analytics tools, and AI/ML services like Amazon Bedrock, with a low-latency connection
between Oracle databases and AWS applications.
“We are seeing huge demand from customers that want to use multiple clouds,” said Larry Ellison, Chairman and CTO, Oracle. “To meet this demand and give customers the choice and flexibility they want, Amazon and Oracle are seamlessly connecting AWS services with the very latest Oracle Database technology, including the Oracle Autonomous Database. With Oracle Cloud Infrastructure deployed inside of AWS data centres, we can provide customers with the best possible database and network performance.”
Matt Garman, CEO, AWS, said, “This
With Oracle Cloud Infrastructure deployed inside of AWS data centres, we can provide customers with the best possible database and network performance.
LARRY ELLISON ORACLE
new, deeper partnership will provide Oracle Database services within AWS to allow customers to take advantage of the flexibility, reliability, and scalability of the world’s most widely adopted cloud alongside enterprise software they rely on.”
Customers can also migrate their Oracle databases to the cloud with tools like Oracle Zero Downtime Migration and purchase Oracle Database services through the AWS Marketplace. The integration includes disaster recovery features through Amazon S3 and offers simplified administration via the AWS Management Console and AWS CloudFormation.
Sharjah Police, Digital Office collaborate on data governance
Sharjah Police and the Sharjah Digital Office have discussed strengthening cooperation in data management and governance to help government entities implement standardised practices.
Recently, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Digital Office, and Major General Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-inChief of Sharjah Police, emphasised the importance of this collaboration in advancing Sharjah’s digital leadership goals.
The Sharjah Digital Office showcased an innovative project
aimed at improving data quality and streamlining processes across government departments. Major General
Al Shamsi praised the Office’s efforts in driving the emirate’s digital transformation and reiterated the police’s commitment to supporting these initiatives.
Both parties stressed the need for continued cooperation and knowledge sharing to achieve long-term development and reinforce Sharjah’s position as a leader in digital governance. The meeting was attended by other top officials, including Major General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police.
IBM: Data breach costs surge in the Middle East in 2024
IBM’s latest Cost of a Data Breach Report has revealed that the average cost of a data breach for businesses in the Middle East has reached $8.73 million (SAR 32.80 million) in 2024, marking a nearly 10 percent increase from $7.96 million (SAR 29.90 million) in 2023. The report, conducted by the Ponemon Institute and sponsored by IBM, analysed breaches at 604 organisations globally, including 39 in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
The report identifies security skills shortages, non-compliance with regulations, and the complexity of security systems as the top factors driving up breach costs. Additionally, the Middle East saw a rise in costs due to
$8.73 million
The average cost of data breach in the Middle East in 2024
lost business, detection and escalation, post-breach response, and notification expenses.
The energy sector experienced the highest breach costs in the region, with an average of SAR 36.90 million per incident, followed by the financial sector at SAR 35.81 million.
“The alarming and continued escalation of data breach costs in the Middle East highlights the urgent need for advanced cybersecurity measures,” said Santhosh Koratt, MEA Cybersecurity Services Leader at IBM.
The report also highlights the effectiveness of AI-driven technologies in reducing breach costs. Organisations that deployed security AI and automation saw lower average breach costs, around SAR 26.54 million, compared to SAR 38.85 million for those that did not use such technologies.
The findings underscore the importance of addressing cybersecurity staff shortages, enhancing regulatory compliance, and investing in AI and automation to mitigate growing cyber risks in the region.
Ooredoo Qatar successfully tests next-gen Wi-Fi 7 fibreto-the-room service
Ooredoo Qatar has successfully completed its trial of Wi-Fi 7 technology, marking the first time it has been tested on Fibre-To-The-Room (FTTR) devices in the region. The telecommunications company plans to roll out Wi-Fi 7 commercially in 2024, following the trial’s positive results.
Wi-Fi 7 is expected to bring significant advancements in internet performance, including speeds up to four times faster than current Wi-Fi standards, wider coverage, improved reliability, and reduced latency. These enhancements are designed to support the increasing demand for bandwidth-heavy applications such as 8K video streaming, augmented and virtual reality (AR/ VR), and high-definition online gaming.
The benefits of Wi-Fi 7 extend beyond household use, with potential applications in sectors like telemedicine, cloud computing, and Industrial Internet of Things (IoT). These improvements align with Qatar’s broader digital transformation goals.
Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, highlighted the importance of keeping pace with technological advancements, noting that the trial is a step towards addressing the country’s connectivity challenges.
“We remain committed to delivering solutions that are specifically tailored to the unique demands of our market that addresses home connectivity challenges efficiently and innovatively using the Wi-Fi 7, which is the most advanced Wi-Fi technology,” he said.
The initial launch of Wi-Fi 7 will focus on FTTR solutions to enhance connectivity in larger homes, ensuring improved internet performance across all rooms.
Dubai AI Campus, Google Cloud support startup growth
The Dubai AI Campus, based at the DIFC Innovation Hub, has announced a partnership with Google Cloud aimed at fostering the development of the region’s startup ecosystem. The collaboration is set to provide startups with access to Google Cloud’s resources, including mentorship programs and AI-driven tools.
As the largest cluster of AI companies in the region, the Dubai AI Campus offers infrastructure and support for startups specialising in AI and Web3 innovation. This partnership will introduce initiatives like Google Cloud’s Gen AI
Check Point to acquire threat intelligence firm Cyberint
Check Point Software Technologies has entered into an agreement to acquire Cyberint Technologies, a move aimed at enhancing its Security Operations Centre (SOC) capabilities. The acquisition will expand Check Point’s managed threat intelligence services, with Cyberint’s tools set to integrate into Check Point’s Infinity Platform. This platform is used for threat prevention and management, and Cyberint’s solutions will also be offered as a managed service.
Yochai Corem, CEO, Cyberint, highlighted the importance of realtime intelligence in addressing modern
Startup School, offering selected startups mentorship and access to Google Cloud’s resources. Early-stage startups within the Campus will also benefit from the Google for Startups Cloud Programme, which provides tools and support for startup founders to utilise Google Cloud’s AI technologies.
Mohammad Alblooshi, Chief Executive Officer, DIFC Innovation Hub, said, “We are pleased to join forces with Google Cloud to create an optimal ecosystem equipped with resources to enable startups to drive innovation in
cyber threats. “Leaked credentials and fake websites designed for malicious purposes are staggeringly prevalent today, with over 90 percent of organisations facing these threats. This highlights the urgent need for realtime intelligence and proactive defense
AI. This partnership is a strategic step in harnessing the potential of emerging technologies. We are confident this collaborative agreement will strengthen the Dubai AI Campus as a favourable destination for startups across the world to scale their AI capabilities. Furthermore, it will solidify Dubai’s position as a hub for technology-focused companies and attract more world class talent and diversified investors to the region.”
Ziad Jammal, Country Manager for Google Cloud in the UAE, said, “Today, half of all funded generative AI startups are Google Cloud customers, including 70 percent of generative AI ‘unicorns’. Google Cloud can provide the infrastructure that startups actually need through our combination of security, scalability, and AI services. This collaboration reaffirms our deep commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. By providing startups with access to Google Cloud’s cutting-edge technology, mentorship, and resources, we aim to accelerate their growth and enable them to make a lasting impact on the global stage. We believe that AI has the potential to transform industries and solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, and we’re excited to work with Dubai AI Campus to unlock that potential in Dubai.”
strategies, which our technology is able to mitigate in an effective way,” Corem said. He added that joining Check Point would allow Cyberint to offer a more comprehensive security solution.
Sharon Schusheim, Chief Services Officer, Check Point, said Cyberint’s solutions would boost their SOC operations. “We will be able to turn identified risks into autonomous preventative actions and work collaboratively across Check Point and third-party security products to contain compromised assets and mitigate external exposures,” she said. Cyberint’s offerings include external risk management solutions, AI-powered threat detection, and managed services. The deal, which is expected to close by the end of 2024, remains subject to customary closing conditions.
(LtoR) Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO, DIFC Innovation Hub and Ziad Jammal, Country Manager for Google Cloud – UAE
Group-IB, SecurityHQ partner to bolster SOC innovations
Group-IB has announced a new global partnership with managed security service provider SecurityHQ. The collaboration is set to enhance the security measures within SecurityHQ’s global Security Operation Centres (SOCs).
Through this partnership, SecurityHQ will integrate Group-IB’s expertise in Threat Intelligence, Attack Surface Management, and Digital Risk Protection into their services. The goal is to strengthen the defenses of clients, particularly in the financial services sector, against increasing cyber threats.
The agreement was signed by Vladimir Goliashev, Group-IB’s Director of Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services, and Aaron Hambleton, SecurityHQ’s Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
“We are thrilled to partner with SecurityHQ, a recognised leader in the managed security services landscape. This collaboration is a significant step forward in advancing global cybersecurity efforts. By integrating our cutting-edge solutions in Attack Surface Management, Threat Intelligence, and Digital Risk Protection with SecurityHQ’s extensive expertise and operational reach, we are enhancing the capabilities of Security
Operation Centres (SOCs) worldwide,” said Vladimir Goliashev, Director of MSSP and MDR of Group-IB. “This partnership not only strengthens our mutual commitment to safeguarding critical digital assets but also underscores our shared vision of delivering unparalleled security solutions. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to our clients.”
Aaron Hambleton expressed similar enthusiasm, noting the value of GroupIB’s threat intelligence in enhancing
Gartner: Global information security spending to reach $212 billion by 2025
Worldwide end-user spending on information security is projected to reach $212 billion in 2025, marking a 15.1 percent increase from the estimated $183.9 billion in 2024, according to a new forecast by research firm Gartner.
The rise in spending is driven by an increasingly threatening cyber environment, the continued shift to cloud infrastructure, and a global shortage of cybersecurity talent.
“The continued heightened threat environment, cloud movement and talent crunch are pushing security to the top of the priorities list and pressing chief information security officers (CISOs) to increase their organisation’s security spend,” said Shailendra Upadhyay, Senior Research Principal at Gartner.
Companies are also reassessing their endpoint protection platforms (EPP) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems in the wake of incidents like the CrowdStrike outage.
SecurityHQ’s service offerings. “Our alignment in objectives reinforced our decision to partner with Group-IB as we believe that, together, we can provide unparalleled service and protection to our clients.”
Group-IB’s MSSP and MDR Partner Program offers a range of tools and services designed to help security providers like SecurityHQ address and prevent digital threats effectively. The programme also supports flexible payas-you-go licensing, enabling partners to scale their services as needed.
The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI) is also contributing to the rise in cybersecurity investments, with Gartner projecting a 15 percent increase in security software spending through 2025. By 2027, 17 percent of cyber-attacks are expected to involve the use of generative AI, particularly in social engineering attacks.
As organisations continue to migrate to the cloud, demand for cloud security solutions is growing. The market for cloud access security brokers (CASB) and cloud workload protection platforms (CWPP) is forecast to reach $8.7 billion in 2025, up from $6.7 billion in 2024.
In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, spending on information security is expected to grow by 14 percent, reaching $3.2 billion in 2025.
(LtoR) Aaron Hambleton, Director (MEA), SecurityHQ, and Vladimir Goliashev, Director of MSSP and MDR, Group-IB
UAE EGA launches digital system to track greenhouse gas emissions
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has implemented a new digital system to track greenhouse gas emissions, marking a significant step in the company’s decarbonisation efforts. This system is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to enhance transparency and meet climate targets through the National Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Transparency System.
The system allows EGA to monitor its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions via a centralised digital platform. The platform automates the process of emissions tracking, documentation, and validation by independent third-party auditors. The data is presented through standardised dashboards and shared with relevant stakeholders, including government organisations and customers.
The UAE is the first country in the region to develop an integrated emissions and air quality monitoring, reporting, and verification system. The National MRV Transparency System supports the country’s National Climate Action Plan and helps track progress on its commitments, including those under the National Air Quality Agenda 2031.
This tool is an important step in achieving our bold aspiration of embedding sustainability in everything we do and reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of EGA, noted: “Our GHG MRV solution will help EGA to meet evolving regulatory requirements while maintaining transparency and auditability of our emissions data throughout the value chain of our production processes. This tool is an important step in achieving our bold aspiration of embedding sustainability in everything we do and reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
The Ministry of Climate Change & Environment requires companies to report greenhouse gas emissions data as part of the UAE’s national efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, in line with the country’s strategic initiative.
HPE, Khazna launch UAE’s first liquid-cooled AI data centre
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has introduced a new managed data centre hosting service in the UAE in partnership with Khazna Data Centres. The service is designed to support the UAE’s national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and offers access to high-performance computing (HPC) technologies specifically built for AI workloads. The data centre features direct liquid-cooling (DLC), a more energy-efficient cooling method compared to traditional air-based systems. According to the International Energy Agency, AI-related power demand is expected to grow significantly by 2026. The DLC technology used in this facility provides a 20.7 percent performance increase per kilowatt over air-cooled solutions and reduces space requirements by up to 77.5 percent, allowing for more compact server setups.
HPE has optimised the data centre to accelerate AI and HPC deployment, offering flexible scaling and payment options through HPE GreenLake. Ahmad Alkhallafi, Managing Director for UAE and Africa, HPE, said, “HPE is bringing its world-leading direct-liquid cooled HPC capabilities to launch the first data centre facility of this kind in the UAE to make it widely accessible for customers in the region to run AI and other compute-intensive workloads.”
Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO, Khazna, highlighted the importance of efficient systems in advancing initiatives in sectors like energy and healthcare while adopting sustainable practices. “Access to highly efficient data centre systems will play a key role in helping the UAE anticipate and take advantage of revolutionary technologies such as AI,” he said.
HPE has a long history with liquid cooling systems and continues to implement this technology globally to increase energy efficiency.
Fortinet enhances OT security platform
Fortinet has announced updates to its Operational Technology (OT) security platform, introducing new secure networking and security operations features. These updates aim to protect critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, defense, water supply systems, and transportation. Fortinet’s platform is designed to address the growing threats posed to cyber-physical systems (CPS) and improve protection for OT environments.
The announcement follows Fortinet’s recognition as a Representative Vendor in the 2023 Gartner Market Guide for CPS Protection Platforms. The company highlighted that as more operational infrastructures become connected, the attack surface expands, leading to greater risks.
“As more operational infrastructure becomes connected, the attack surface
increases, leading to greater cyber risk. Traditional information technology (IT) security tools are ineffective and worse, cannot even be deployed in an operational technology (OT) environment,” said John Maddison, Chief Marketing Officer at Fortinet.
Among the key updates are enhanced asset identification and expanded virtual patching capabilities. Fortinet also introduced two new rugged switches designed to support industrial environments and improved remote access protection for OT systems.
In addition, Fortinet is expanding its AI-driven security operations tools, providing better network visibility, threat detection, and regulatory compliance. The company has also strengthened partnerships with OT vendors, including new integrations with Armis and
Claroty, to improve asset management and security.
These updates reflect the growing need for specialised cybersecurity solutions in OT environments as threats continue to rise globally.
Trend Micro partners with NVIDIA to secure AI-driven data centres
Trend Micro has announced a strategic collaboration with NVIDIA to bolster the security of AI-powered private data centres across both regional and global markets. This partnership aims to provide organisations with
This initiative not only fortifies our customers’ defences but also empowers them to harness the full potential of AI with unparalleled confidence.
the necessary tools to secure AI technologies while maintaining strong business resilience.
The collaboration integrates NVIDIA’s NIM microservices into Trend Micro’s Vision One Sovereign Private Cloud, part of the NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform. The goal is to enable enterprises and governments to adopt AI with confidence, focusing on minimizing security risks such as misconfigurations and data breaches.
“With AI adoption in the Middle East projected to contribute over $320 billion to the region’s economy by 2030,
securing these technologies is no longer optional but essential,” said Dr. Moataz Bin Ali, Regional Vice President and Managing Director, MMEA, Trend Micro. “With the integration of NVIDIA NIM microservices into our Trend Vision One Sovereign Private Cloud, we are setting a new standard for AI security. This initiative not only fortifies our customers’ defences but also empowers them to harness the full potential of AI with unparalleled confidence.”
NVIDIA’s AI Enterprise and Morpheus cybersecurity frameworks are key components of this partnership, enhancing threat detection and response capabilities. These solutions are designed to help critical infrastructure organisations and governments implement AI while meeting stringent data sovereignty requirements.
By addressing the growing complexities of AI adoption, the partnership between Trend Micro and NVIDIA marks a significant step toward securing AI-driven operations.
John Maddison, CMO, Fortinet
Dr. Moataz Bin Ali, Regional Vice President and Managing Director, MMEA, Trend Micro
REDEFINING CYBER RESILIENCE
Rashed Al Momani, General Manager for Middle East, Kaspersky, shares insights into how leveraging threat intelligence helps shield enterprises against complex attacks
As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, threat intelligence has proven to be a critical tool for businesses to defend themselves. At its core, threat intelligence refers to the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on current or potential cyber threats that can impact an organisation’s digital assets. This data provides valuable insights into the identity, intentions, and tactics of attackers, enabling organisations to anticipate, prepare for, and effectively respond to cyber-attacks before they can cause significant harm. What makes threat intelligence so powerful is its ability to transform raw data into actionable insights. By understanding the latest trends and techniques used by threat actors, businesses can strengthen their security defences, prioritise vulnerabilities, and deploy appropriate countermeasures to mitigate risks. This proactive approach helps organizations go beyond responding to attacks faster to prevent them altogether. In an age where data breaches, ransomware, and espionage are becoming commonplace, threat intelligence equips companies with a strategic advantage, enhancing their overall cybersecurity posture.
Among the top players in the industry offering intelligence solutions to bolster holistic cybersecurity strategies is Kaspersky. Over the years, the cybersecurity company has delivered solutions enabling businesses with the latest insights that will allow them to get a real-time view of the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.
We caught up with Rashed Al Momani, General Manager for Middle East, Kaspersky, to discuss how the company’s threat intelligence solutions are empowering organisations maximise their security strategies and boost their cyber resilience.
Can you elaborate on the significance of threat intelligence in strengthening organisations’ cybersecurity? In what ways do Kaspersky’s TI offerings stand out from other players in the market?
Threat intelligence is vital in strengthening an organisation’s cybersecurity posture; it offers actionable threat insights for companies and equips them with the knowledge base to defend against serious cyber threats. One of our main strengths at Kaspersky is that we are comprised of experts with advanced skillsets. Having a talented group of analysts to work with 25+ years of threat intelligence research is truly invaluable because we are able to gain detailed insights that will help us determine the type of threats and possible origins. All encompassed in a fully-fledged Threat Intelligence Portal, Kaspersky offers a wide range of reliable and immediate threat-related analytical services, like crimeware analysis, APT tracking and threat attribution, ICS threats, and insights into threats originating from other sources, such as the dark web. Even more so, our threat intelligence is unique in that it covers and tracks threat actors from all around the globe, providing us with clear visibility from East to West, including key countries such as China, Russia, and the US. We take pride
in our unmatched visibility, tracking a range of threat actors regardless of their origin or motivation.
How is threat intelligence applicable to different industries?
According to our researchers, cybercriminals, like APT groups, usually target a wide range of industries, both private and public. Some of the most targeted industries include governmental, diplomatic entities, telecommunications,
healthcare, manufacturing, aviation, and more, all of which contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of a country or region. It is, therefore, crucial for these industries to be protected, and this is where Kaspersky’s insights make a real impact. We offer companies the visibility needed as to what tools, techniques, and procedures threat actors may be using to target the entity, industry, or company in which they are operating. For instance,
a telecommunications company would have valuable access to analysis on threats that could be targeting their organisation, other telecommunications companies in the region, as well as the country they operate in. Both on a macro and micro level, highly detailed information on the risks associated with your organisation’s footprint allows security teams to create actionable insights and adjust security controls that help best protect the entity.
Data sovereignty is a significant concern for businesses in this region. How do Kaspersky’s onpremise solutions address this issue?
Data sovereignty is increasingly becoming a primary goal for companies and governments in the region as well as around the world. Kaspersky’s extensive portfolio addresses this concern seamlessly as we offer on-premises, cloud, and hybrid solutions for those companies
that enjoy the efficiency and flexibility of the cloud. In addition, Kaspersky works alongside specific organisations and entities to meet the local data requirements and regulations put in place by the respective government.
What are the top emerging threats you’re currently monitoring?
At Kaspersky, our researchers are tracking about 19 threat actors that are actively targeting organisations
We offer companies the visibility needed as to what tools, techniques, and procedures threat actors may be using to target the entity, industry, or company in which they are operating.
across the META region. Our team keeps a close eye on any emerging threats in the region, and we have seen that the top targeted industries are government and diplomatic institutions, telecommunications, and finance. The threats posed to these industries are primarily driven by espionage and monetary gain, with APT groups employing a wide range of techniques to infiltrate their victims in the region. It is, therefore, imperative that we continue to investigate any emerging threats and their movement, publishing comprehensive reports on the Threat Intelligence Portal. Our Global Research and Analysis Team’s (GReAT) work is crucial for security teams and corporations across the region, enabling effective mitigation and remediation.
How are governments benefitting from Kaspersky’s extensive research to be able to combat organised crime in cybersecurity?
Governments most definitely benefit from our in-depth research, and we are working with local teams now more than ever due to the current geopolitical tensions that amplify attacks on governmental bodies. Kaspersky’s research enables governments and their security teams to understand the threat landscape in their region and stay ahead of cybercrime. Our work also
Data sovereignty is increasingly becoming a primary goal for companies and governments in the region as well as around the world.
helps law enforcement, both locally and internationally, to track down, disrupt, and prosecute threat actors. We truly believe that it’s crucial for governmental bodies and private companies to cooperate and share efforts in order to curb the growing threat of cyber-attacks on a regional and international level.
How is Kaspersky leveraging emerging technologies like AI and machine learning to enhance its cybersecurity solutions?
AI and machine learning have been integrated into Kaspersky’s solutions for more than 20 years. With more than 7 billion attacks being detected globally, these emerging technologies are crucial in order to analyse such a vast number of threats. They also allow us to empower our own learning. Like any other emerging technology, AI also has its drawbacks. We have been seeing cybercriminals leveraging technologies like AI and machine learning to create sophisticated phishing emails and even to produce malicious code. Kaspersky experts constantly evaluate the potential threats linked to emerging technologies and work on ways to help our customers be best protected.
5 REASONS SUSTAINABILITY SHOULD BE A TOP PRIORITY FOR MIDDLE EAST BUSINESSES
Modern arguments have moved beyond ethical concerns to acknowledge bottom-line economics
By Omar Akar, Regional VP for CEE & META, Pure Storage
Amid the ongoing battle against climate change, the Middle East has recently come into global focus; partially spurred on by the COP27 summit being held in Egypt and COP28 in the United Arab Emirates. But the focus is about more than playing host to world leaders. It concerns the traction being achieved by the region’s regulators and enterprises on their journeys to net
zero. More broadly, the progress being made covers the gamut of ESG (environment, social, and governance).
A 2023 study by PwC showed more than 60 percent of Middle East businesses were in favor of increasing time spent on addressing ESG. Published ahead of COP28, the report mentioned risk management, compliance, and the circular economy as top priorities for the year ahead.
At the time of the survey, one third of regional companies employed a Chief Sustainability Officer. A more recent PwC report from June this year noted the transition “from ambition to action”. Now, 75 percent of respondents are expecting stricter ESG regulations.
For those that have yet to join the regional movement towards sustainable practices, here are five reasons why it should be a top priority.
1Frameworks tell a story
The pace of change can seem slow and cumbersome as there are so many paths from which to choose and many different methodologies to follow. Start with measurement –Scope 1, 2 and 3 – to understand an
organisation’s individual starting point. Once there’s understanding of the situation, look at external frameworks to help reduce emissions and map progress.
The UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, for example, not only includes the goal to reduce the country’s emissions but to increase its GDP by as much as 5 percent and its exports by some US$6.8 billion. The benefits of sustainability are included in the government’s literature. Other guidelines from other nations can also offer a way forward. There are the GRI and SASB reporting frameworks as well as the United Nations’
Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Some are designed to help investors when assessing the impact that companies have on society and the environment, but they also guide organisations when they make purchasing decisions.
2Customers want what customers want
ESG is no longer a box-ticking exercise; it has become a business-level criterion for selecting suppliers. A few years ago, customers were not asking for information on how sustainable
technology was or what vendors and suppliers can do to help them meet their sustainability goals. However, now Pure Storage sees green credentials incorporated into every RFP response. It is not just for show. It is a key part of how decisions are being made. Global companies are telling technology suppliers that they have to adhere to certain standards and demonstrate accurate figures for reduced energy use or they will not be considered. Additionally, technology channel partners are developing their own practices dedicated to sustainability. The winners are going to be the ones who have developed expertise, know
how to identify technology that is truly green, and can advise customers on the best path. Flash technology for data storage is one such area. Some flash solutions are engineered to be up to 85 percent more energy-efficient and take up less space in data centres as well as requiring less power to run and cool. E-waste is a further consideration. Organisations should select suppliers who can significantly reduce the volume and regularity of devices sent to landfill.
3Economic considerations
There will be a wave of new companies springing up to cater for
a growing demand in the market to support sustainability strategies. Accordingly, the organisations that have been delivering more sustainable solutions for years will reap the benefits in terms of customer satisfaction and reducing both their and their customer’s carbon use.
being excluded from deals already. Businesses need to start approaching ESG issues from all angles. Without leaning too much on an old business trope, this is the time for out-of-thebox thinking.
4The moral imperative
The evidence is there – the planet has exceeded 1.5 degrees of global warming across an entire year. For the sake of future generations and a healthy planet, more must be done to manage and reduce emissions and energy consumption. If not, global warming will quickly become a more expensive problem with thousands, if not millions, of people displaced. Governments across the region are closely monitoring false claims. And while the UAE has yet to issue any decrees on greenwashing (the corporate practice of exaggerating environmental achievements), some legal experts believe the country’s strict laws on false advertising may cover inaccurate statements on sustainability.
5Get talent
The workforce of the future does not wish to work for companies only out for profit. How an organisation approaches and enacts sustainability is drawing more attention. Especially for those of the younger generation. Employees and future team members are important stakeholders who should not be overlooked when it comes to making decisions based on sustainability criteria, or the social responsibility and corporate governance aspects of ESG.
Those companies who cannot prove they are taking strides to reduce their carbon emissions will be financial losers as they are being excluded from deals already.
Some calculations predict as many as 4.3 million new jobs and US$2 trillion in economic growth for the Middle East in sustainable construction alone. We can only imagine the potential prosperity of any industry following that example.
Remember, customers are asking for this. ESG goals, emissions targets, and adherence to national and international standards are all being added to RFPs. Those companies who cannot prove they are taking strides to reduce their carbon emissions will be financial losers as they are
Step lively
That sustainability is an economic benefit rather than just an ethical option is no longer a matter for debate. The boosts to the bottom line, to trade, and to economic growth have been recognized by private companies and governments throughout the Middle East. For them, the next steps are clear – more of the same. For those still sitting in neutral, the next steps are the first in a journey towards untold profitability and brand goodwill.
go.kaspersky.com/next
POWERING VISION 2030
How Huawei Cloud is fuelling Saudi Arabia’s digital future
The push to embrace cloud technology has become increasingly evident amid a rapidly evolving business landscape. We’re no longer at a point where cloud adoption is simply beneficial – it’s now a crucial requirement for businesses to thrive in the modern digital economy.
In Saudi Arabia, as the Kingdom strides toward its Vision 2030 objectives, the cloud market is growing significantly, fuelled by rising investments from the public and private sector organisations. A recent study by IDC revealed that annual spending on public cloud services in the Kingdom is
expected to reach $3.9 billion by 2027. This highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to making cloud technology a cornerstone of its digital transformation journey.
Several factors are propelling the cloud boom in Saudi Arabia. The most prominent is the government’s Vision 2030 programme, which aims to lessen the nation’s reliance on oil and move the economy toward diversification and knowledgebased industries. The government’s proactive approach to creating a supportive regulatory environment has been key, attracting major players and cloud service providers to set up shop in the country.
Cloud computing is playing a pivotal role in the rise of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). AI applications require vast computational power and data storage. By tapping into cloud technology, businesses, and government agencies can leverage powerful AI tools that are essential for predictive analytics, automation, and creating personalised customer experiences.
Among the key players in Saudi Arabia’s cloud landscape is Huawei, which has made significant strides in advancing the Kingdom’s digital revolution. The company invests significantly in the Kingdom’s local tech infrastructure, advancing its digital economy.
“As a global digital leader, the country has released numerous policies showcasing its digital transformation, such as Vision 2030, Cloud-First Strategy, National Strategy for Data & AI, Cloud Adoption Acceleration Program,
For over 20 years, Huawei has been deeply involved in Saudi Arabia’s development, valuing the opportunity to grow together and give back to the local community.
JACQUELINE SHI HUAWEI CLOUD
and many more. ‘Saudi speed’ has captured global attention, reflecting a clear and firm policy direction. For over 20 years, Huawei has been deeply involved in Saudi Arabia’s development, valuing the opportunity to grow together and give back to the local community. Saudi Arabia remains a key strategic market for Huawei,” said Jacqueline Shi, President, Huawei Cloud Global Marketing and Sales Service.
Last year, Huawei Cloud launched its Riyadh’s cloud region to support the rise of the country’s digital-led economic growth. The move was in line with the company’s growing strategic focus in the market. Previously, the Chinese firm also revealed that it would invest 400 million dollars in the Saudi Arabia cloud region over the next five years.
Most recently, at its Huawei Cloud Summit Saudi Arabia 2024, announced a suite of AI-Powered Industry Solutions, designed to meet the distinct requirements of
industries like energy, finance, and healthcare. These solutions aim to boost operational efficiency, refine decision-making, and foster innovation within these essential sectors. Moreover, the new AI capabilities include technologies for providing ubiquitous computing, reduced costs, more secure data, and a better service experience from the edge cloud.
Roy Luo, Vice President, Cloud Consulting Solution Sales Dept., Huawei Cloud ME&CA, said, “As a company driven by technological innovation, Huawei is committed to being the foundation and enabler of enterprise transformation, delivering cutting-edge industry technologies and products—from AI-ready cloud infrastructure to global innovation ecosystems—creating greater competitive value for local customers.”
Beyond advancing technological innovation, the launch of Huawei’s latest initiatives presents advanced AI capabilities and significant investments in local talent and enterprises, positioning Huawei Cloud as a key enabler of the Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts.
Highlighting the company’s two-decade-long presence in the Kingdom, Lawrence Liu, CEO,
Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia, underscored their commitment to adhering to the principle of “in Saudi Arabia, for Saudi Arabia.
“We aim to collaborate with the country to nurture digital talent and strengthen the local ecosystem, with plans to train over 3,000 ICT undergraduates this year,” he said. “We place a high priority on developing cloud and AI talents, having enabled more than 3,000 college students to obtain industry certifications related to Huawei Cloud since last year. Additionally, Huawei Cloud has developed over 100 local partners, accelerating their success and fostering top partnerships in Saudi Arabia.
As Saudi Arabia forges ahead with its digital transformation journey, cloud innovations are instrumental in driving a digitally diverse economic future. Strategic investments in cloud and advanced technologies such as AI, backed by supportive government policies, are unlocking new horizons of growth and opportunities. Huawei Cloud, among other technology players in the country plays a crucial role in this dynamic landscape, setting the stage for Saudi Arabia to become a leading digital economy in the Middle East.
L-R) Lawrence Liu, CEO, Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia; Jacqueline Shi, President, Huawei Cloud Global Marketing and Sales Service; and Abdulaziz Khalid Alotaibi, Vice President, Huawei Cloud Saudi
SCALING FOR SUCCESS
Jignasu Rathod, CEO, Elitser Technologies, discusses the company’s strategic evolution over the past two decades, highlighting their commitment to innovation and top-notch managed services
Elitser has been in the IT services space for over two decades. How has the company’s strategic focus evolved over the years?
Elitser Technologies (Elitser) is a key player in information technology, consulting, and business process services, delivering cutting-edge technologies and services to over 1,000 clients across the UAE, Bahrain, India, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Indonesia. We have always been a service-oriented company and have partnered with industry-leading vendors to keep pace with evolving technologies. Whenever a new technology emerges in the market, we collaborate with top product vendors in the same domain and invest in developing our team’s capabilities to deliver the best solutions to our clients. Over the years, we have integrated the power of process consulting, computing, automation, robotics, cloud, analytics,
and emerging technologies to help our clients adapt to the digital world and contribute to their success.
What differentiates Elitser from its counterparts in the market?
Elitser, along with our strategic vendors, has been supporting System Integrators and Managed Services Providers in efficient service delivery for many years. Our primary differentiator is the combination of people, processes, and technology. Our offerings include defining the right process policies for our clients. Our expert tools consultants implement these policies using various tools, then hand them over to the client’s operations team. If the client wants us to manage operations, our managed services team will deploy experts to oversee both the tools and operations.
How does Elitser ensure high availability and uptime in its managed services offerings, particularly for mission-critical systems in industries like healthcare and energy?
In collaboration with our OEM partner ManageEngine, we have mastered this domain. We regularly monitor our clients’ networks, servers, applications, databases, and business services to ensure the high availability of their critical infrastructure. We also offer 24x7 Network Operations Center (NOC) services from our India and UAE operations, which monitor the client’s critical business services and ensure committed availability.
How does Elitser’s managed services approach cybersecurity, particularly with solutions like endpoint security and privileged access management? With cyber-attacks on the rise and
the average cost of data breaches reaching an all-time high, Privileged Access Management (PAM) has become a critical component of any security program. PAM is also a necessary requirement for obtaining cybersecurity insurance. Elitser offers PAM solutions to enforce the principle of least privilege across user accounts, systems, and endpoints in our clients’ IT ecosystems. Enterprise endpoints are often the most vulnerable in terms of security. Elitser’s Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solutions ensure 100 percent security for clients’ desktops, laptops, mobiles, and servers. Our on-premise and cloud offerings, along with expert 24x7 monitoring of endpoints, help clients secure their end-user environments.
Which emerging technologies do you believe will have the most significant impact on the IT services industry in the next five years, and how are you preparing for these changes?
We believe Generative AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) will significantly impact IT operations over the next five years. These technologies will be used across various areas of IT to reduce costs and minimise manual intervention. We are very optimistic about the future of AI/ML and have partnered with the right vendors to meet our clients’ evolving needs. In the managed services space, AI-powered monitoring is gaining traction, using advanced AI for selfhealing of IT infrastructure. These solutions have increased the overall availability of IT business services. Observability platforms are also in high demand, providing integrated monitoring and visibility.
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DATA-DRIVEN EXCELLENCE
Gabriele Obino, Regional Vice President and General Manager, Middle East, Denodo, shares his insights into harnessing the power of data to revolutionise customer experiences and drive business transformation
How vital is data in creating exceptional customer experiences?
Customer experience is a priority for any organisation, including the Government sector, where citizens also expect seamless interactions. Data plays a critical role in making customer experience exceptional. Customers or citizens want to feel recognised, and data ensures that organisations can deliver personalised services, update information in real-time, and handle data securely. This ultimately fosters confidence in the organisation.
What key actions should organisations take to build a solid data foundation that elevates the customer experience?
A solid data foundation requires a smart, flexible, and modern architecture. Data needs to be accessible from several distributed sources, both internal and external. More important is the ability to correctly manage the meaning of the data i.e. metadata.
By leveraging metadata, AI systems can understand the context of customer interactions, enabling organisations to meet customer needs more effectively.
How can businesses seamlessly integrate data from legacy systems with modern sources to enhance customer experience?
Businesses can leverage data virtualisation to seamlessly integrate data from legacy systems with modern sources, creating a unified, real-time view of customer data that enhances the overall customer experience. This approach minimises disruption, reduces costs, and accelerates time-to-value compared to traditional data integration methods.
What steps can companies take to ensure their data foundation is prepared to leverage AI and advanced analytics effectively?
To effectively leverage AI and advanced analytics, companies need to build a strong data foundation using modern data architectures like data virtualisation. This approach starts with assessing data quality to ensure all sources provide accurate, consistent, and complete information, supported by robust data governance practices. Next, it’s crucial to establish a unified data model, creating a cohesive data schema across both legacy and modern systems. This facilitates seamless integration and easier access for AI models. Real-time data processing is also key, enabling models to utilise the most current information for analysis. Finally, strengthening data security and compliance is essential, involving strict access controls and adherence to data protection regulations to safeguard sensitive information throughout the virtualisation layer.
In highly regulated sectors like finance and healthcare, what best practices should organisations follow to uphold data quality and governance while improving customer experience?
Data plays a critical role, especially in highly regulated sectors such as finance and healthcare, where sensitive information must be handled with the highest security standards. In these industries, data governance takes on paramount
importance, often surpassing other essential features that a data platform must provide. Effective governance ensures that data is managed, protected, and utilised in compliance with the strictest standards.
By implementing strict governance frameworks, ensuring data quality, automating compliance monitoring, enhancing data security, and focusing on customer-centric data use, organisations can meet regulatory requirements while delivering exceptional customer experiences. These best practices not only ensure compliance but also foster trust, leading to stronger customer relationships and long-term success.
As customer expectations continue to evolve, which data management trends should organisations focus on to stay ahead in delivering outstanding customer experiences?
Organisations must prioritise several key data management trends to deliver outstanding customer experiences. One critical trend is the adoption of real-time data analytics, which enables businesses to respond swiftly to customer needs and personalise interactions. Additionally, organisations should focus on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning to gain deeper insights into customer behavior and preferences. These technologies facilitate predictive analytics, allowing companies to anticipate customer needs before they arise. Furthermore, data privacy and security remain paramount, as customers increasingly demand transparency and control over their personal information. Implementing robust data governance frameworks ensures compliance with regulations and builds trust with customers. The use of unified logical data platforms that consolidate data from various sources without heavy and costly replication, provides a comprehensive view of the customer journey, empowering organisations to deliver seamless, consistent, and personalised experiences across all touchpoints.
Organisations should focus on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning to gain deeper insights into customer behavior and preferences.
What was the strategy behind choosing Saudi Arabia as the hub for Denodo’s operations in the Middle East?
Denodo is investing heavily in the ME region and choosing Saudi Arabia as the hub for Denodo Operations was a natural decision. Saudi Arabia’s enthusiasm for AI, along with the country’s growing market for data solutions, has driven rapid expansion. Early adopters of Denodo’s technology are already experiencing significant benefits, particularly leveraging Generative AI in their workflows.
With Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming an AI hub, how does Denodo plan to support local businesses in leveraging data and AI to transform customer experiences?
Denodo’s team is growing at the pace of business growth - rapidly! More importantly, we have built a strong partner ecosystem in Saudi and other GCC countries to assure our customers and prospects the best support possible in making their project successful.
Our plan to support local businesses is simple - by the power of continuous education using webinars and seminars, we empower the regional data community while growing the ranks of data experts in the region.
THE GROWTH FORMULA
Feras Al Jabi, General Manager of ITQAN, delves into the value of aligning digital and business strategies to drive sustainable growth
In your view, what’s the foundation of a successful digital transformation journey?
The motion of transformation should start with the business itself, driven by its strategic vision. Every business must first evaluate how competitive it wants to be and then explore how technology can support that vision. It’s crucial to see technology as an enabler, not the driver. For example, a Chief Information Officer (CIO) should collaborate with other executives like the CFO and COO to support the CEO in implementing this vision.
We’ve seen the rise of roles like Chief AI Officers in governments, such as in Dubai, which is a proactive step in addressing transformation challenges. In essence, businesses
must define their goals clearly before adopting any technology, ensuring it serves their objectives and not the other way around.
Are business leaders still resistant to digital transformation, considering how widespread the concept has become?
Digital transformation is a key focus for most companies. However, challenges remain, particularly around cybersecurity. When cyber threats arise, they don’t just affect IT; they impact the entire organisation. Implementing technology without aligning it with the needs of the end-users often results in resistance and project failures. It’s essential to recognise that technology is an
It’s essential to recognise that technology is an enabler, not a mandate.
enabler, not a mandate. Business leaders need to ensure that transformation initiatives are clearly communicated and embraced across the organisation, fostering buy-in and reducing resistance to change.
How have recent technological innovations reshaped the trajectory of traditional industries?
Uber is an excellent example of how technological innovation can redefine a traditional industry. Rather than investing in an extensive IT setup like many large organisations, Uber leveraged cutting-edge tools such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and mobile technology to revolutionise the transportation sector. By using platforms like Oracle for scalability, they were able to expand their services globally without the typical infrastructure constraints. What set them apart was a clear, customercentric vision: to create a seamless, efficient travel experience. They strategically used technology to turn this vision into reality, demonstrating that the true power of digital transformation lies in aligning technology with well-defined business goals. This approach has not only disrupted the transportation industry but also set a new standard for what’s possible when technology is used as a strategic enabler rather than just a tool.
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SAVVY SECURITY: HOW FINTECH APPS MANAGE YOUR DATA
As financial data becomes increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks, the shift from reactive to proactive security measures underscores the critical need for robust, multi-layered security strategies
By Abdul Husein, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Sav
In this digital era, budgeting apps have become essential tools for managing wealth and personal finances effectively. By harnessing the latest technological advancements, they offer unparalleled convenience at our fingertips. However, this comfort and luxury raises a crucial question: how do these apps protect our personal financial information, especially given the alarming rise in cyberattacks on fintech companies – of which UAEbased organisations experienced 53 percent in the last quarter of 2024 alone.
The evolving landscape of fintech security
According to a 2023 report by Veritas, companies in the UAE have been increasing budgets over the past 12 months by 29-35 percent on average as compared to 28-30 percent per cent globally). This is in response to assurance to the public that their personal data and money are safeguarded. This growing awareness has triggered a paradigm shift in the fintech industry, moving from reactive data security measures to a proactive approach. Such pre-emptive threat
detection necessitates sophisticated technologies to identify and mitigate threats before damage occurs.
A multi-layered security approach
A comprehensive security strategy requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes fundamental security measures like:
• Encryption: Utilising industrystandard algorithms to encrypt all sensitive data and traffic.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implementing MFA and adapting security levels based on real-time inputs from the threatprotection system.
• Access control: Establishing stringent controls to safeguard customer data, ideally requiring maker-checker processes and time restrictions when accessing sensitive information.
• Security audits: Investing in external audits to ensure the security infrastructure is rigorously peer-reviewed by experts.
• Network security: Employing nextgeneration firewall systems with advanced intrusion protection.
• Incident response procedure: Implementing a robust incident response process to address any security breaches effectively.
Artificial Intelligence: A gamechanger in fintech security
One of the most significant breakthroughs in security is integrating artificial intelligence (AI). Advanced AI models now possess the capability to analyse vast and diverse data sets in real time, detecting anomalies and patterns that could signal fraudulent activity or cyber threats. By monitoring transactions as they occur, AI can swiftly flag suspicious behaviour, prompting additional authentication measures to ensure the transaction’s legitimacy.
As threat complexities have escalated, these controls are no longer a ‘good to have’ luxury but a ‘must-have’ necessity. Companies must invest in technological prowess to keep pace with the evolving threat landscape.
NDR VS. EDR:
WHICH DEFENCE FITS YOUR NETWORK?
Understanding how these technologies create a robust, multi-layered defense against evolving threats
IBy Emad Fahmy, Director of Systems Engineering in the Middle East, NETSCOUT
n cybersecurity, Network Detection and Response (NDR) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) are two essential tools that, although different, work best when used together. Each focus on different areas of security and understanding their differences—and how they support each other—is important for creating a strong defence.
To begin with, it’s key to understand the differences between the two technologies. EDR focuses on individual devices like computers, smartphones, and servers. EDR tools are installed on these devices
to monitor activities such as file changes and software behaviour. They help spot threats like malware or ransomware that affect these devices. Meanwhile, NDR works at the network level, watching over all the traffic between devices, servers, and external connections. Instead of focusing on individual devices, NDR looks at the flow of data across the network to find unusual or harmful patterns. This helps catch threats that might slip past device-level monitoring.
In terms of data collection and analysis, EDR gathers detailed information from devices, including
logs of user actions and changes to system settings. This helps identify and respond to threats directly affecting those devices. Whereas, NDR monitors network traffic data, such as data packets, to track interactions between devices and detect suspicious activities. This includes spotting attempts to steal data or move within the network.
Benefits of using NDR and EDR together
1. Better threat detection. Combining EDR and NDR gives a fuller picture of security. If EDR detects unusual activity on a device, NDR can analyse the network traffic related to that activity to see if it’s part of a larger attack. This combined view helps identify and understand complex threats.
2. Enhanced visibility and faster response times. NDR’s broad view of network traffic complements EDR’s detailed device monitoring. In the Middle East, where attacks on critical infrastructure are rising, NDR can spot coordinated attacks across multiple devices. EDR can then provide detailed information on the affected devices, leading to a more effective response. This helps control threats more effectively and reduce potential damage.
Importance in the Middle East
Cybersecurity in the Middle East is becoming more challenging due to increased cyber-attacks targeting various industries. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reported in 2023 that the region is experiencing a rise in cyber incidents due to political tensions and rapid technological growth. High-profile attacks on infrastructure highlight the need for strong security measures.
Using both EDR and NDR as part of a security strategy creates a layered defence that covers both devices and network traffic. This integrated approach is essential in regions like the Middle East, where cyber threats are growing more sophisticated. By combining EDR and NDR, organisations can achieve a more complete and resilient cybersecurity posture.
HARNESSING DATA: TRANSFORMING BUSINESS STRATEGY AND PERFORMANCE
Exploring the significance of a data-focused approach in driving targeted growth and fostering organic business success
By Eric Karobia, CEO, Whizmo
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to harness the power of data has become a decisive factor for success. For companies operating in the UAE, a region known for its ambitious growth and innovation, data-driven decision making is not just a strategic advantage but a necessity. Leveraging data before making significant decisions allows organisations to navigate through complex market dynamics with precision, anticipate trends before they emerge, and optimise their operations to meet the ever-changing demands of a competitive business ecosystem. Leaders play a pivotal role in guiding their workforce through challenges and opportunities by adopting a data-centric approach, which is crucial for achieving targeted growth and driving organic success in their business initiatives.
Recognising data as a strategic asset
Traditionally, data was viewed as a mere repository of information, primarily housing customer details and other elements such as their financial & transactional history. However, a paradigm shift has elevated its status to that of a strategic asset, comparable to tangible resources. When utilised effectively, it becomes a catalyst for business growth and performance enhancement. This evolution necessitates a profound understanding of data valuation, acquisition, management, and ultimately, its commercialisation.
Efficient data collection and management
Data, when effectively collected and managed, serves as a cornerstone for organisational success. To fully optimise its use, businesses must invest in sophisticated
Data, when effectively collected and managed, serves as a cornerstone for organisational success.
technologies capable of capturing comprehensive data from a multitude of sources. This data, when coupled with robust security measures and a sound governance framework, becomes an invaluable asset. With data-driven insights, organisations can gain a profound understanding of customer needs, optimise operational efficiencies, and anticipate market dynamics. This strategic approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions that drive growth, innovation, and fosters a competitive advantage, thus, transiting from conjecture to certainty.
Data and decision-making
To assess the true value of data, it must be seamlessly integrated into decision-making processes at each stage. Embracing a business culture rooted in long-term, data-driven analysis allows people to rely on an evidence-based system rather than mere assumptions. This demands the use of sophisticated analytical tools, carefully written procedures and sometimes even AI & machine learning to interpret facts and generate actionable insights. Datadriven decisions indeed enhance accuracy, mitigate risks, and elevate performance. For any organisation, incorporating data analysis into decision-making can unveil emerging trends, pinpoint inefficiencies, and forecast future outcomes. This calculated use of data also empowers companies to refine their marketing efforts and customer outreach.
Monetising data for strategic advantage
Effective data monetisation involves creating products and services that not only meet the specific needs of customers but also enhance their overall experience. By analysing customer interactions, businesses can uncover valuable insights into patterns and preferences. This knowledge allows for the development of tailored offerings and helps pinpoint areas where customers face challenges, leading to targeted improvements.
In the fintech sector, examining transaction data can reveal unique customer needs and preferences, allowing an organisation to offer personalised financial products or services, particularly that of lending and credit assistance. Additionally, data analysis also helps identify friction points in the customer journey, supporting them to design solutions that address these issues effectively. Companies also leverage macro and micro data from various sources, including information rolled out by the government bodies, to spot market opportunities ahead of their competitors. This allows organisations to adapt their strategies in response to shifting market dynamics, ensuring they remain agile and aggressive.
Enhancing customer relationships By thoroughly analysing customer behaviour and sentiment, organisations can tailor their offerings to individual inclinations and needs. In financial services, for instance, companies are using data analytics tools to identify potential customer challenges. A decline in transaction volume or value can signal dissatisfaction, prompting proactive outreach to address concerns. Such timely interventions not only mitigate customer attrition but also deepen engagement.
Performance marketers provide another classic example of datadriven assessment by evaluating the metrics of each advertisement and campaign individually. This approach offers a direct view of what potential customers may prefer or dislike among various service or product offerings.
Risk management and operational efficiency
A sturdy data management framework is indispensable for mitigating risks. Through advanced algorithms and continuous monitoring, organisations can detect anomalies, predict potential disruptions, and implement timely counter measures. This proactive approach ensures business continuity and safeguards against unforeseen crises.
The dynamic regulatory landscape, particularly in regions like the Middle East, underscores the criticality of datadriven compliance and adherence to prescribed personal data protection laws. Fintech firms, for instance, generally use data analytics to stay abreast of evolving regulations, foster trust with regulators, and on the other hand maintain customer confidence. Beyond risk management, data analytics also serves as a catalyst for operational excellence. By examining process efficiency and identifying bottlenecks, companies in the financial services sector can optimise workflows, speed up transaction processing, and significantly boost overall productivity. For example, if a tech team working in the financial services domain notices fluctuations in transaction processing speed (TPS) by analysing operational data and observes an unwarranted increase in transaction completion time, they can proactively implement the necessary fixes to mitigate the risk of a major system failure. Similarly, a call centre can anticipate the call flow, allocate resources, optimise customer grievance redressal timelines based on historical data analysis.
In a nutshell
Data has emerged as the backbone of enterprise operations in modern organisations. Fostering a data-driven culture is imperative for achieving sustainable growth and creating vantage points. By transforming data into actionable insights, we can drive innovation, optimise operations, and make informed decisions. This not only propels individual businesses forward but also contributes significantly to the broader economic landscape of a region.
REVOLUTIONISING ENTERPRISE INFRASTRUCTURE
As Middle Eastern economies diversify and the need for robust, scalable, and sustainable network solutions grows, the role of connectivity in data centres has become more crucial than ever
IBy Roque Lozano, Senior Vice President of Network Infrastructure for Middle East & Africa, Nokia
n the digital era, connectivity in data centres has become critical for businesses seeking scalable and energy-efficient solutions. As Middle Eastern economies move away from oil dependence, the demand for technological infrastructure that fosters sustainable and inclusive growth is on the rise. .
Data centres, especially with the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, require strong connectivity to ensure secure and efficient operations. Nokia plays a key role in delivering this connectivity across network layers, from submarine stations and central clouds to edge locations.
These networks must prioritise energy efficiency, automation, and intelligent management, all of which are essential for achieving the region’s sustainability goals and fully leveraging the benefits of digital transformation. Scalability and flexibility are fundamental for modern data centres, addressing the diverse needs of industries such as rail, defense, utilities and oil & gas. Scalable data centres improve operational efficiency and data management. By utilising modern network operating systems (NOS), automation platforms, and AI, enterprises can simplify network management, reduce errors, and
accelerate configurations. Adaptive cloud networking and data centre fabric are crucial in enabling enterprises to remain agile and responsive to market changes and growth.
Innovations in data centre infrastructure also contribute significantly to energy efficiency. Regional initiatives and case studies have shown that energy-efficient network solutions can lead to reduced operational costs and lower carbon footprints, aligning perfectly with the Middle East’s sustainability objectives.
An open, extensible NOS approach allows for rapid adaptation and integration of new technologies. For example, intent-based automation enhances energy efficiency by enabling smarter and more responsive network management.
As the MENA region’s data demands surge, so does the need for additional data centres, fiber networks, and subsea landing points. AI adoption across the region drives the necessity for enhanced connectivity and scalable data centres to support data-intensive applications. AI and machine learning are increasingly being integrated into data centre operations to predict maintenance needs, optimise energy usage, and ensure reliability.
The future potential of AI in revolutionising data centre operations is immense, especially in the context of the Middle East’s smart city initiatives. Integrating AI LLM platforms, like ChatGPT, with network AIOps capabilities opens up new possibilities for advanced network automation and enhanced operations. This includes automation of manual tasks, reduction of trouble tickets, faster fault detection, and proactive issue resolution through digital twins and intent-based automation.
Advanced network solutions are pivotal in supporting the digital ambitions of the Middle East, emphasising energy efficiency and sustainability.
With leadership in open, scalable, and automated network solutions, enterprises are well-positioned to unlock new levels of security, efficiency and agility in their data centre operations, paving the way for a futureready infrastructure.
breaches,” says Sanjeev Singh, Managing Director of Spectrum Networks.
Spectrum Networks unveils special Microsoft security training offers for Cybersecurity Month and GITEX 2024: Addressing rising regional threats
As the Middle East grapples with a surge in cyber threats, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is critical. Spectrum Networks, a leading Microsoft training partner, has announced exclusive offers and informative webinars for October, which is globally recognised as Cybersecurity Month.
Urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity skills
The average cost of a data breach in the Middle East has surged to an alarming $6.93 million per incident, second only to North America, according to a recent IBM report. This rising tide of cyberattacks underscores the urgent need for robust security measures, making Spectrum Networks’ Microsoft Security Training programmes essential for organisations looking to safeguard their digital assets.
Cutting-edge Microsoft security training solutions
To help organisations counter these threats, Spectrum Networks offers Microsoft Security training, including Microsoft Defender, Sentinel, Intune, and Security Copilot. These solutions provide comprehensive protection in multi-cloud environments. Spectrum Networks has delivered specialised security training to governments and large enterprises, addressing their challenges and equipping teams with the skills needed to manage and mitigate advanced cyber threats.
Spectrum Networks: A proven partner in cybersecurity training
“As cyber threats intensify globally, particularly in the Middle East, robust security training has become crucial. We are committed to helping organisations strengthen their defenses and stay ahead of potential
Under his leadership, Spectrum Networks has built a strong reputation as a leading provider of Microsoftcertified security training across various sectors. The company offers a holistic approach to training, including Skill Gap Analysis to customise programmes, pre- and post- Assessments to track progress, exam prep sessions, hackathons, a Digital Learning Platform (LMS) for seamless access to resources, and the Supervity AI Coach to enhance learning and promote user adoption. Additionally, stakeholderlevel business analytics and reporting are available to measure impact, and training deliveries are multi-lingual, multi-modal, and flexible to meet diverse learning needs.
Exclusive October offers, webinars, and GITEX 2024 participation
To mark Cybersecurity Month, Spectrum Networks is offering FREE Microsoft Fundamental Security Trainings, alongside free webinars and more than 50 percent off on select Microsoft Security courses and certification bundles throughout October. The timing of these offers coincides with GITEX 2024, where Spectrum Networks will be participating from October 14-18, 2024. Organisations attending GITEX can meet with the team to discuss IT security concerns and training opportunities, making it an excellent chance to take advantage of the special discounts.
Find Out More About Spectrum Networks’ October Cybersecurity Training Offers
Organisations interested in improving their cybersecurity posture can contact Spectrum Networks at info@specnt.com. For further details on training programs and GITEX participation, readers are encouraged to visit Spectrum Networks’ website or reach out directly to the team.
Sanjeev Singh, Managing Director, Spectrum Networks
14 - 18 OCT 2024
NAVIGATING THE POWER OF SYNTHETIC DATA
With AI becoming more integrated across industries, the rise of AIdriven synthetic data is redefining transportation research, by offering faster insights and improving decision-making
By Badshah Mukherjee, AI and Analytics Practice Lead and D[n]A Factory Technology Lead, SAS
In the pursuit of more effective transportation solutions, the challenge of managing traffic congestion and travel delays demands innovative approaches. The advent of synthetic data generation has opened new avenues for research and simulation, offering fresh perspectives on traffic patterns and infrastructure impacts.
Navigating the data challenges in transportation
Transportation research relies heavily on accurate data to model traffic patterns, assess the impact of infrastructure changes, and evaluate congestion mitigation strategies. Traditional data collection methods
often struggle with limitations such as cost, time, and privacy concerns. As a result, researchers and policymakers are faced with the challenge of finding reliable, comprehensive data to guide their decisions.
Solutions such as SAS Data Maker are set to address these challenges by providing a state-of-the-art solution for synthetic data generation. Synthetic data, created through sophisticated algorithms rather than traditional data collection, mirrors the statistical properties and characteristics of real-world datasets. This approach not only ensures data privacy but also overcomes the limitations associated with conventional data gathering methods.
The impact of synthetic data generation on transportation research
1Enhanced simulation accuracy: Synthetic data closely replicates real-world traffic conditions, enabling researchers to conduct more accurate simulations. This capability is crucial for testing various scenarios, such as optimising traffic signal timings or evaluating the effects of new transit routes.
2Efficiency and cost savings: Traditional data collection processes can be resource-intensive and timeconsuming. Readily available synthetic datasets can streamline the research process, allowing researchers to focus on analysis and innovation rather than data acquisition.
3Privacy protection: Privacy concerns are paramount when dealing with real-world travel data. Synthetic data maintains the integrity of privacy by providing realistic data without exposing sensitive information.
4Scalability and flexibility: The ability to generate extensive volumes of synthetic data allows researchers to explore a wide range of traffic scenarios and test various hypotheses. This scalability enhances the depth and breadth of transportation research.
Looking
ahead
Synthetic data is already making a significant impact across various sectors, including transportation. According to Gartner predictions, by 2026, 75 percent of businesses will use generative AI to create synthetic customer data, up from less than 5 percent in 2023. SAS experts illustrated the functionality of synthetic data generation at a recent, local Big Data Event, showing how it could be used to simulate mobile phone records for transportation research. This exercise highlighted the methodology for generating data, addressing challenges and post-processing required before data can be used.
SAS D[n]A Factory is similarly working around different use cases of synthetic data, creating innovative new applications to solve region- and industry-specific challenges whilst also improving overall profitability for businesses in the UAE.
BUILDING BETTER SMART CITIES
How AI can break down barriers and enable governments to turn smart city ambitions into reality
By Alaa Bawab, General Manager, Lenovo Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG), Middle East and Africa
The idea of a smart city has been around for decades, but in practice many municipalities end up just delivering individual services, for instance shared public bike services or ‘smart’ bins. However, a truly ‘smart’ city is much more than this. The infrastructure that underpins its smart services is critical, and it must be designed from inception to manage a range of different tasks, from traffic management to water services to administration. Smart cities need to be built around infrastructure that can deliver such services intelligently, and they must harness the power of AI so that different groups within city governments can work together effectively.
Achieving this isn’t always straightforward. Careful thought about the services that people really want, and the technology required to deliver them can create both happier and more efficient cities. There needs to be a driving vision in terms of ideas and design, and attention paid to the right technological infrastructure, from the start.
A coherent approach
What is stopping cities adopting ‘smart’ technology? Funding and cooperation are often an all-too-familiar problem. It takes many different departments working together, sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. For example, if local government wants to improve its transport network, it might also
need to look at power and internet connections to handle the new city infrastructure. These all typically fall into different domains. However, if cities adopt the right infrastructure, AI has the potential to integrate information from siloed departments and foster cooperation, empowering cities with the technological coherence needed to drive innovation. Dubai’s smart city project uses AI to streamline processes between departments and citizens. With over 130 smart projects and 1,000 services, including eliminating government paperwork, Dubai aims to be ‘the happiest city on Earth.’ AI helps departments integrate, removing paper forms and manual processes. In this example of Dubai, it isn’t about the city being smart, it’s about making the processes smart. Taking this approach delivers efficiency whether you are using the functions of the city as a tourist or a resident. If you’re processing your visa, paying your water bill or moving your phone contract, it’s all much easier than before. Dubai is now looking to a generative AI assistant to help people find the government services they need in real-time, delivering a personalised touch for citizens. Contrary to AI scaremongering, breaking down these barriers doesn’t take away jobs but makes time use more efficient. In Abu Dhabi, sensors monitor water levels in tanks, replacing the manual process of inspectors making visual checks. AI algorithms use this data to trigger
refills and suggest maintenance. Inspectors can now focus on more important tasks like assessing water quality or enforcing regulations.
Building trust in AI
AI can deliver public safety, but it is key to build trust around this technology, highlight important benefits and ensure residents and visitors don’t feel like they are being ‘watched’. With traditional surveillance cameras, there’s a huge amount of data that remains unused and is never analysed. Applying AI to this mass of data, in a privacy-minded
way, has helped cities make people safer and even saves lives. In fact, half of government officials say that public safety is the main reason for the adoption of smart city technology, according to 451 Research.
In Denmark, railway authorities use AI to monitor platforms and alert staff when someone might be at risk, like trying to retrieve a phone from the tracks. AI learns risk patterns and triggers alerts to prevent accidents. People need reassurance that AI respects privacy and, when shown to boost safety without being intrusive, they are more comfortable with its
use. Smart cities can balance safety and privacy, ensuring people don’t feel like they’re living under “Big Brother” surveillance.
Data in the streets
In a smart city, street cabinets and streetlights become edge data centres that process everything from whether a parking space is empty to when there are dangerous levels of pollutants in the air. But the secret sauce is the overall design and deploying compute to where the data is generated. Cities can then capture data at street level, whether it’s a
There needs to be a driving vision in terms of ideas and design, and attention paid to the right technological infrastructure, from the start.
car moving from a space to a traffic jam forming. Using AI and machine learning, they can filter what is relevant and what is not at that street level, discarding irrelevant information and creating very strong and clean data pipes.
The key is orchestration. With traditional compute, where one application runs on a single node, a smart parking system would need many nodes, making it inefficient and costly. Modern techniques like Kubernetes allow multiple applications per node through containerization. Orchestration helps scale, manage, monitor, and secure these applications across the city. Once planned, you can deploy applications into street cabinets. This infrastructure is crucial for building an effective smart city.
The cities of tomorrow
In any smart city, success hinges on several factors. Firstly, a focus on delivering a vision, and services which will genuinely make residents happier, from streamlining government services to improving safety, with a constant focus on privacy. Departments must ‘pull together’ to deliver for citizens (an area where AI can help by breaking down silos and enabling data-sharing between different departments). But most importantly, a smart city requires the right infrastructure, a technological coherence which enables city leaders to deliver and improve services for their citizens, and this requires careful thought and planning, right from the beginning.
Apple: iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus bring notable upgrades with the new A18 chip, which significantly boosts both performance and energy efficiency. Both models feature a 48MP Fusion camera that offers a 2x optical Telephoto option, essentially giving users two high-quality camera lenses in one device. Additionally, the 12MP Ultra Wide camera supports macro photography and gathers up to 2.6 times more light for improved image quality, making it ideal for capturing detailed close-ups and wide-angle shots. Camera Control, a new feature, introduces an innovative tactile control system for quickly launching
the camera, adjusting settings, and capturing photos or videos with intuitive gestures.
Both devices now support spatial photos and videos, allowing users to capture memories with enhanced depth, especially when viewed using Apple Vision Pro. The iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the iPhone 16 Plus comes with a larger 6.7-inch screen, both using OLED technology and integrating Dynamic Island for an immersive viewing experience.
A new Action button allows users to access various functions with a single press, such as the camera,
flashlight, Voice Memos, and accessibility features. The iPhones are built with industry-leading durability, including Ceramic Shield for increased toughness and water and dust resistance. Internally, the design has been reengineered to allow for larger batteries, delivering improved battery life and heat dissipation.
Available in five colours—black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine—both models offer storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. These devices combine performance, advanced camera capabilities, and durability, making them versatile options for users seeking a balance of power and functionality.
Scan here to Register
14th October 2024
Taj Dubai, Business Bay - Dubai
OPPO: A60 5G
The OPPO A60 5G offers Military-Grade Shock Resistance (MIL-STD 810H), Multiple Liquid Resistance, and Splash Touch, ensuring durability against drops, impacts, and everyday wear. The phone also features a doubletempered glass screen, earning a 5-star rating in SGS Standard Certification for Drop Resistance.
The device is equipped with a 5100mAh battery, supporting 14 hours of video playback on a full charge. With 45W SUPERVOOC Flash Charge, it maintains 80 percent battery capacity after 1,600 charge cycles, extending battery life for up to four years. For performance, the phone
has a 120Hz Ultra Bright Display with 1,000 nits peak brightness. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, 6GB RAM (expandable with 6GB virtual RAM), and 128GB storage. The Trinity Engine optimises performance, while the 36-Month Fluency Protection ensures longterm smoothness.
The OPPO A60 5G also features Ultra Volume Mode, increasing speaker volume by up to 300 percent. Additionally, the phone includes a 50MP rear camera, 5MP selfie camera, and Turbo Torch with four brightness levels for enhanced photography and visibility.
Kingston: NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
Kingston Digital Europe has announced the availability of the NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD for users looking for high capacity 4×4 NVMe PCIe performance in a compact form factor.
The NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is a robust next-gen storage solution powered by a Gen 4×4 NVMe controller. The Kingston NV3 delivers read/write speeds of up to 6,000/5,000MB/s, ensuring a faster system capable of handling a variety of workloads, from editing to gaming. The drive optimises system performance and delivers value without compromise. Its compact single-sided M.2 2280 (22x80mm) design allows for storage expansion up to 4TB while saving space for other components. As a cost-effective storage solution, the NV3 is ideal for creators and gamers looking to enhance their PC performance.
Available in capacities from 500GB – 4TB, NV3 will give users the storage space they need for applications, documents, photos, videos, games and more. NV3 will also include 1-year free Acronis True Image for Kingston software, alongside the Kingston SSD Manager application, enabling users to monitor drive health and disk usage, update drive firmware, and securely erase data.
Yango: Yasmina Midi
The Yasmina Midi and Mini smart speakers feature a bilingual AI assistant designed for the Middle East, fluent in Khaleeji Arabic and English. The speakers recognise up to four voices, allowing Yasmina to tailor content based on individual preferences and provide age-appropriate material for children. Multimodal interaction is possible through an LED display that shows information and uses dynamic lighting to enhance the mood. Yasmina
also integrates cultural features, such as reciting Quranic surahs, announcing prayer times, and providing Hijri calendar dates. The Midi model, equipped with three speakers, covers spaces up to 300 square feet, while the Mini is optimised for smaller rooms up to 200 square feet. Both models offer privacy with a mute button and serve as smart home hubs, with the Midi supporting Zigbee and Wi-Fi, and the Mini connecting through Wi-Fi.
26th September 2024
V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton, 6 pm onwards
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GITEX GLOBAL: THE GATEWAY TO INNOVATION
Sunil Paul, MD of Finesse, explores how GITEX Global has become a driving force for innovation, strategic partnerships, and technology transformation in the Middle East and beyond
As we gear up for another edition of GITEX GLOBAL, it’s impossible not to reflect on the transformative journey this event has taken over the years. For Finesse, being a steadfast participant at GITEX GLOBAL has been more than just about showcasing our innovations; it’s been about witnessing and contributing to the evolution of the tech landscape. We’ve seen GITEX grow from a regional tech gathering into a global phenomenon, and each year, it
reaffirms its value as a cornerstone in the technology sector.
With a history spanning 40 years, GITEX GLOBAL initially catered to a niche audience of tech professionals and IT companies. Its primary purpose was to introduce the region to the latest computing technologies, which were still largely confined to more advanced markets in the West. But as Dubai’s economy grew, so did GITEX GLOBAL.
Today, the event is no longer just a local showcase of gadgets and
IT solutions. It has cemented its reputation as a premier platform for unveiling cutting-edge technologies, forging strategic partnerships, and launching new businesses. The event has expanded not only in size but also in scope, embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT). In 2023, the event attracted over 187,000 attendees and more than 6,000 exhibitors from every corner of the world.
The economic impact of GITEX is nothing short of remarkable. Last year, the event generated an impressive $2 billion in economic output, underscoring its role as a significant driver of growth and innovation. This economic contribution highlights GITEX’s ability not only to showcase technology but also to catalyse realworld business opportunities and partnerships that extend far beyond the exhibition halls.
For Finesse, GITEX is more than just an event; it’s a strategic platform where we can showcase our latest innovations, engage with industry leaders, and gain insights that propel our strategic vision forward.
The event’s expansion into new markets, such as GITEX Africa, is a testament to its commitment to fostering innovation across continents and connecting innovators from diverse backgrounds. By reaching emerging markets like Nigeria and major global tech centers such as Singapore and Berlin, GITEX further emphasises its crucial role in connecting innovators from different regions, fostering collaboration, and opening new opportunities for growth in untapped markets.
We at Finesse are thrilled to once again join this vibrant event. GITEX GLOBAL is a strategic convergence of minds, a melting pot of ideas where the future of technology is shaped. This year, as we prepare to engage with industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries, we are reminded of the event’s unparalleled ability to facilitate meaningful connections and foster groundbreaking collaborations. It’s a platform where the seeds of innovation are sown, and the fruits of strategic partnerships are reaped.
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