Technology Integrator

EDITORIAL

INSIGHTS FROM GITEX, COP28 AND HK FINTECH WEEK

A

convergence of emerging technologies is underway, and the Integrator team embraces this convergence with optimism. In a world fraught with challenges, we believe that optimism is our moral duty. This issue of the Technology Integrator primarily focuses on post-GITEX events, shedding light not only on GITEX but also on the upcoming COP28 event in the UAE. Additionally, we are excited to share insights into the 16th edition of the ICT Champions Awards conducted just before GITEX 2023.

It's crucial to convey that we operate with a vision, aspiring to be one of the premier media houses connecting the Middle Eastern world to the global stage. Our Assistant Editor's participation in the Hong Kong Fintech Week facilitated connections between the Technology Integrator and Hong Kong authorities. Our goal is to serve as a beacon, linking the Middle East's businesses with the rest of the world. Explore the Hong Kong fintech stories featured in this edition. While we are a compact team, our aspirations aren’t anything small. We believe we can overcome challenges with your team by our side.

Integrator magazine actively seeks compelling narratives that resonate within the technology realm. If you hold stories that push the boundaries of technology, we welcome you to share them with us. Specifically, we are eager to delve into topics like semiconductors and intellectual property rights associated with the use of generative AI. Additionally, we are on the lookout for exceptional technology-related photography. If you are a skilled photographer, feel free to send us your pictures along with these stories.

In today's dynamic job landscape, CSOs, who play a pivotal role in organizational sustainability initiatives, are also on our radar. We encourage you to send suggestions for themes you'd like to see in our 2024 calendar year, as we are in the process of developing next year's calendar. As always, we do appreciate your time exploring this edition.

Vivek Sharma Founder Adil Siddiqui Head of Media Srijith K N Assistant Editor Sidra Kamal Content Contributor Roshni Menon Content Writer Faiz Ahmed Graphic Designer Priyanshu Ranjan Sales Head Sidharth Bhardwaj Media Sales Manager Gladwyn Pereira Sr. Media Sales Executive Zain Fazal Sankay Media Sales Executive Arbaaz Khan Media Sales Executive Trishla Bhattacharya Media Sales Executive

Published by: JNS Media International (OMA Group Company) (To be rebranded as Integrator Media) OMA House, P.O. Box: 3314, Sharjah, UAE. Tel: +971 6 573 0000 | www.VARonline.com

For All Inquiries: jns@omaemirates.com Mobile: +971 56 404 0503

Vivek Sharma Founder

Disclaimer: While the publishers have made every attempt possible to get accurate information on published content in this magazine. They cannot be held liable for any errors herein. www.VARonline.com

NOVEMBER 2023

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Is your Vision of Sustainable Technology Vast Enough?

SPOTLIGHT

IN CONVERSATION

FEATURE

CONTENT

4

22

In the name of progress, watch your endpoints before, during, and after a ransomware attack

51 Mbuzz to Distribute High-Capacity Surveillance and Enterprise Storage Solutions from Toshiba

52 Hong Kong

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Fintech Week 2023 Concludes UAE Cybersecurity with Major Initiatives for Council and CPX Fintech and Real Economy Call for Immediate Development Collaboration

NOVEMBER 2023

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08 AI, what is Hidden Beneath its Success?

12 These Financial Buzzwords are Transforming the Banking Industry!

20 Bridging the Gap

with Synthetic Data: A Pillar for Artificial Intelligence

10

A Clever Approach to Pioneering True Sustainability?

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40 Aqirys: Bridging

Technology and Passion in Gaming

42 Envision’s way for

Tech-Driven Transformation in Transportation

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Fostering Collaborative Financial Innovation for an Interconnected Future 56 The Crucial Role of

News Data in Financial Decision-Making

HOSPITALITY

FINANCIAL

Aukey's Tech Evolution and 44 Catalyst Empowering Digital Transformation Market Strategies and Fortifying Cybersecurity in a Explored Rapidly Evolving in Gitex 2023 Landscape

58 Tabby Partners

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with Almosafer to Offer Flexible Payments to Travelers

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RAKTDA and Omran Group Forge Strategic Partnership at WTM 2023 London NOVEMBER 2023

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SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY

INSIDER'S ANGLE

IS YOUR VISION OF

SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY VAST ENOUGH? Have you ever paused to wonder if our approach to sustainable technology is too confined, too narrow? Are we, perhaps, thinking too small about the monumental impact it could have on our world?

In a world where we expect a lot from technology, driving innovation and economic growth, it's time to hit pause and think.

How can we help?

The one-word answer is—responsibility. And in order to build a better future, it's time we carefully select sustainable technology, often known as ethical technology.

For example- Climate change is a bigger problem today than ever. The environmental situation is precarious, with CO2 emissions from the US alone estimated to touch 4,807 million metric tons by 2050.

What's needed? Thought leaders who can change the climate change game and a group of business minds dedicated to turning sustainable tech into a reality.

What exactly is Sustainable Technology?

It's more than just a trendy term; it's a new way of thinking.

Sustainable technology is an umbrella term that describes innovation that considers natural resources and fosters economic and social development.

Let's break it down into Substitution, Prevention, and Efficiency.

Substitution: The technology that encourages a transition from non-biodegradable to biodegradable materials in its production. It also swaps out non-renewable resources with renewable ones.

Prevention: Sustainable technology averts deterioration, contamination, and other adverse environmental effects during its use or production.

Efficiency: The technology excels in using energy and resources effectively.

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www.VARonline.com

By: Roshni Menon, Content Writer

Why should businesses get on board with Sustainable Technology?

Sustainable environmental technology has the potential to transform how businesses and public systems do work.

Sustainable technology aims to minimize any negative social and environmental impacts, which is good for a business’s bottom line, and its reputation.

5. Innovation Opportunities: Investing in sustainable technology often drives innovation. Companies that lead in sustainable practices are well-positioned to explore and capitalize on emerging markets and opportunities.

1. Cost Savings: Adopting sustainable practices often leads to reduced resource consumption, energy efficiency, and waste minimization, resulting in significant cost savings over time.

6. Risk Mitigation: Dependence on finite resources and environmentally harmful practices poses risks to long-term business viability. Sustainable technology mitigates these risks by promoting responsible resource use and waste reduction.

2. Regulatory Compliance: Many regions are imposing stricter environmental regulations. Embracing sustainable technology ensures businesses remain compliant, avoiding legal issues and potential fines.

How will it transform the Industrial World?

Sustainable technology is poised to bring about a transformative shift in the industrial world. As industries adopt eco-friendly practices, the conventional manufacturing landscape will undergo significant changes.

The integration of sustainable technologies, such as energyefficient processes and waste reduction measures, will not only contribute to a greener environment but also result in increased operational efficiency. Companies embracing sustainable practices can anticipate a reduction in resource consumption, leading to cost savings over time. Moreover, the move towards cleaner energy sources and environmentally responsible production methods aligns with the growing demand for corporate social responsibility. Sustainable technology in the industrial sector is not merely a trend but a pivotal force shaping a future where industries operate in harmony with the planet, fostering a more sustainable and resilient global economy.

3. Enhanced Reputation: Consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious. Businesses that prioritize sustainability build a positive brand image, attracting environmentally aware customers and fostering brand loyalty.

4. Market Competitiveness: Sustainable practices can give businesses a competitive edge. Being environmentally

responsible can differentiate a company in the market and attract a broader customer base.

SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY

INSIDER'S ANGLE

A Call to Think Big Let's challenge ourselves to look beyond what's happening now and imagine a future where Sustainable Technology isn't a compromise but a celebration of human cleverness.

The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are as vast as our imaginations.

Are you ready to think big about Sustainable Technology?

The answer lies in the untapped areas of innovation, where fresh discoveries and breakthroughs are waiting to be explored.

www.VARonline.com

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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

INSIDER'S ANGLE

AI

WHAT IS HIDDEN BENEATH ITS SUCCESS?

I

n the buzzing world of artificial intelligence (AI), where success stories often take the spotlight, it's crucial to shine a light on the overlooked narrative of failures. The concepts of AI projects are built upon a foundation of trial and error, with each setback serving as a steppingstone toward ultimate success. From misjudgments to miscalculations, the failures in the development of AI systems provide invaluable lessons that often go unnoticed.

This section delves into the unseen journey, highlighting the significance of acknowledging and learning from the failures that propel AI forward.

By: Sidra Kamal, Content Contributor

AI’S BLIND SPOT Recently, in South Korea, an AI robot mistaken the employee as the food box and crushed him to death. While machines excel at processing vast amounts of data and mimicking human behavior, they falter when it comes to understanding

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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

INSIDER'S ANGLE

and responding to human emotions. In any area of expertise, every once a while there is a situation where the decisions have to be made in nanoseconds and if they are not morally and ethically correct can lead to fatal incidents.

ETHICS IN THE AGE OF AI As AI becomes an integral part of our lives, questions about its moral and ethical implications loom large. Unlike humans who navigate the world with a sense of morality, AI operates solely on algorithms, devoid of an intrinsic moral compass.

From autonomous vehicles to healthcare decisions, the absence of ethical judgment in AI raises concerns about unintended outcomes and conflicts with human values.

NAVIGATING MORALITY IN SELF-DRIVING AI As self-driving cars take to the roads, the ethical questions surrounding AI become even more pressing. How does an AI system decide between the safety of its passengers and pedestrians? People are trusting the AI not because of the output it is presenting but because they have faith in the company that is presenting them. Tesla is known for having an Autopilot system so people have faith in the AI algorithms used in the car, it takes them some time to adjust and accept any other brand.

DUAL IMPACT OF AI IN EDUCATION SECTOR When it comes to the education sector, the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undeniably transformed the learning landscape for children, streamlining processes and saving valuable time. Students are amazed as now they can save time and get the relevant information in a few seconds, but is it worth saving time when they are unable to gain any extra information? Previously, students would have had to spend more time searching for the particular thing but during that entire road they were filled with all the new pool of information, unlike with AI where their knowledge is very specific.

In the rapidly advancing landscape of artificial intelligence, the journey is far from flawless. Behind the scenes of every successful AI project lies a chain of failures, each contributing to the refinement of these intelligent systems. The challenges of emotional intelligence and ethical judgment underscore the complexity of integrating AI into our lives. As we celebrate the successes, let us not forget to scrutinize the failures, and in doing so, pave the way for a future where AI not only excels technically but also aligns with our moral and ethical principles. www.VARonline.com

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COP28

INSIDER'S ANGLE

By: Editorial Team

IS THERE A CLEVER APPROACH TO PIONEERING TRUE SUSTAINABILITY

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n a world increasingly conscious of its ecological footprint, the technology industry stands at the crossroads of innovation and responsibility. Beyond the prevalent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, the quest for genuine sustainability in the tech sector demands a nuanced and clever approach. As COP28 is approaching, which will be hosted by UAE, the world will unite towards making practical and ambitious solutions for all the sustainable challenges we are facing. These are four insightful strategies that can build real sustainability in the technology industry within the region.

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1.

ECO-CONSCIOUS INNOVATION AS A DRIVING FORCE

To truly embed sustainability in the fabric of regional tech, the focus should extend beyond compliance.

Cleverly integrating eco-conscious innovation into product development and design becomes paramount. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, tech companies can reimagine their products and services, ensuring they not only meet market demands but also adhere to the principles of environmental stewardship. This shift from reactive compliance to proactive innovation serves as the cornerstone of real sustainability.

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COP28

INSIDER'S ANGLE

4.

TRANSPARENT COMMUNICATION: BUILDING TRUST AND ACCOUNTABILITY

2.

COLLABORATIVE SYNERGY FOR SHARED PROGRESS

When it comes to fostering sustainability, collaboration becomes a potent catalyst for change. Establishing partnerships and alliances within the regional tech ecosystem creates a collective synergy that propels sustainable initiatives forward.

Imagine a network where companies collaboratively share best practices, resources, and expertise, amplifying the impact of individual efforts. This collaborative approach not only accelerates the pace of sustainable development but also builds a resilient ecosystem capable of tackling shared challenges.

3.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY INTEGRATION: TRANSFORMING WASTE INTO WEALTH

A clever and holistic sustainability strategy involves embracing circular economy principles. Tech companies can go beyond the linear 'take-makedispose' model and implement innovative solutions for recycling, repurposing, and reusing resources.

This approach not only minimizes waste but transforms it into a valuable resource, aligning with the principles of a circular economy. By adopting a mindset that views waste as an opportunity, regional tech can pave the way for a more sustainable and resource-efficient industry.

Noteworthy is Acronis’ dedication to environmentally friendly practices, evident in the use of recyclable materials that, in 2022 alone, equated to saving the environment from the impact of 1,826,000 plastic bottles. www.VARonline.com

Clever sustainability practices in regional tech necessitate transparent communication. Companies should openly share their sustainability goals, progress, and challenges with stakeholders. Building trust through honest and transparent communication not only enhances a company's reputation but also fosters a sense of accountability. When customers, investors, and employees are informed about the sustainable strides a tech company is making, they become active participants in the journey towards genuine sustainability.

According to Milestone Systems Regional Director MENAT, Paul Park's perspective, the security sector's unique role is becoming increasingly pivotal as it champions eco-conscious practices and responsible resource utilization.

This underscores the industry's commitment to a future firmly rooted in sustainability. He highlights the escalating concern for sustainability in the security sector through engaging conversations with manufacturers and users. He emphasized the transformative potential of data-driven video technology in providing users with advanced operational insights, thereby enabling efficient resource management as industries embrace a future grounded in sustainability.

In conclusion, building real sustainability in the regional technology industry requires a clever and comprehensive approach. By integrating eco-conscious innovation, fostering collaborative synergy, embracing circular economy principles, and communicating transparently, tech companies can pave the way for a future where innovation and sustainability coexist harmoniously. As the regional tech landscape evolves, these clever strategies ensure that sustainability is not just a goal but an inherent part of the industry's DNA.

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HK FINTECH

FEATURE

THESE FINANCIAL BUZZWORDS ARE TRANSFORMING THE BANKING INDUSTRY! By: Srijith K N, Assistant Editor

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n 2016, the term "fintech" was introduced, and it was initially a casual term that left many people in the industry somewhat bewildered as to its exact meaning.

However, over time, fintech has evolved from being just a buzzword into an integral part of people's lives worldwide. The industry and its various branches have become more specialized and less ambiguous, giving rise to distinct categories such as wealth tech, green tech, legal tech, insure tech, and more.

This is an exciting era for us, with the potential to enhance transparency and efficiency through innovations like tokenized forms of currency. These asset tokens have the potential for fractional ownership, enabling even small investors to buy a piece of a larger whole.

Today, banks are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) across various aspects of their operations. They

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use AI for risk analysis, the development of new tradable financial products, and trading management. They are also actively developing technologies like Chat GPT, which assists institutional investors in navigating financial markets using real-time and historical trading data sets.

Sundera Rosha, Group Executive and Co-chief executive of Asia-Pacific at HSBC, highlighted the road to the digital economy during his address at the Hong Kong Fintech Week. He specifically mentioned the exciting potential of quantum computing (McKinsey estimates that quantum computing would be a $1.3 trillion industry by 2035 and two-third of that will come from finance.) HSBC is already collaborating with technology partners to explore applications in portfolio optimization, fraud detection, and cybersecurity. These technologies are poised to revolutionize the financial services sector soon. www.VARonline.com

The fintech landscape has grown highly competitive, with banks investing significant resources and capital to stay ahead of the latest developments.

Technology entrepreneurs are challenging and disrupting established industry leaders. Banks that have withstood the test of time recognize the importance of fintech startups and online lenders in driving digital evolution. Fintechs are the most critical catalysts for positive change within banks.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that banks have historically played a vital role during crises. Institutions like HSBC, Standard Chartered, and JP Morgan possess diverse business portfolios that can support fintechs as they grow. They understand that a coexistence model is the way forward, where banks become users of fintech services and platforms for fintech products and solutions across their networks.

MAXIMIZING EFFICIENCY & RELIABILITY:

ENVISION

FEATURE

THE POWER OF ENTERPRISE ASSET MANAGEMENT IBM MAXIMO By: Kiranmai GM Marketing, Envision Middle East Solutions FZ-LLC

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n this digital transportation journey, the ports industry is facing challenges varying from high capex cost to high opex cost. We, Envision, provide customers with the experience of reducing these cost aspects by assisting them in maintaining their assets at peak performance and reducing downtime.

This enables the consumer to have a high total equipment efficiency. IBM Maximo provides distinct Flavors for diverse industrial solutions, that contributes to the asset's health lifetime and, as a result, the return on investment for each of these assets can be maximized.

We've seen that equipment health and predictive maintenance have become the talk of the town in the last 3 to 4 years. Usually, the customer always looks to improve total equipment availability, while increasing overall equipment efficiency performance with minimal downtime and estimate downtime well in advance, allowing for high equipment availability rates.

Keeping this in consideration, the solution provided by Envision assists the customer in extracting the best performance from all assets deployed in the organisation in a better manner.

The latest Maximo version is a great fitment for every customer with essential machinery on the ground, whose availability is very critical.

The new edition of the Maximo application suite is majorly developed for managing assets, monitoring asset health, predicting asset failure much in advance, providing visual inspection, and improving the customer experience of maintaining each piece of equipment that the customer owns. Envision has a robust, experienced staff to provide customers with Maximo application suit experiences.

Envision has built various addons on the top of Maximo, that adds value to customers, such as "maxARC," which is an archiving solution for customer integrations with equipment for realtime data acquisitions, using IOT platforms, cloud migration of various customers, and providing global support desk 24/7 for various customers across the globe in different time zones.

This allows the customer to receive consistent service across multiple geographies.

Envision has been deploying Maximo solutions since 2006, with a strong pool of Maximo consultants, allowing the customer to have a seamless experience while adopting Maximo across their organisation. The major key market player globally has opted Envision as their implementation partner for the better ROI.

ENVISION FACTS Customer Engagements

130+

New EAM Implementations

40+

Maximo Upgrades

70+

Global Implementations

30+

Maximo Integrations

30+ www.VARonline.com

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DATAIKU

FEATURE

GENERATIVE

HAS MADE ITS MARK; IT’S TIME TO SCALE IT FOR THE ENTERPRISE By: Sid Bhatia General Manager & Regional VP, Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Dataiku

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W

hen something is new, we immediately split into two camps. One cries “Hype!”, the other, “Next big thing!” I will probably be accused of hype for siding with the latter, but the surveys and anecdotes are compelling. A recent global Dataiku-Databricks study showed almost two in three (64%) organizations were at some stage of evaluating generative AI for adoption in the next 12 months. Some 45% are already experimenting with it.

Before long, it seems, gen AI will be part of IT think. And because digital adoption is in many ways a race to value, enterprises must come up with an adoption strategy that includes consideration of short-term time-to-value, long-term ROI, CAPEX-vsOPEX analysis, and an evaluation of on-hand physical, digital, and human resources. To ensure value, the organization must also identify use cases up front, allowing both for mundane apps that optimize and tweak, and moonshots that transform the business. A medium-term roadmap and budget should align with a specific adoption path. There are four from which to choose.

1.

SERVICES

You can outsource development and deployment of a gen-AI suite to a third party. A high degree of requirements fit, a guarantee of tight integration, and a great number of customization options lie down this path. The service provider you choose will doubtless be the one that plugs your own AI skills gaps.

However, this last benefit speaks to a parallel disadvantage — to maintain your gen-AI system, you must accept an ongoing dependency. Costs will be high and, to maximize ROI, AI project leaders will be pressured to select the more ambitious projects that come with greater risk attached.

2.

POINT SOLUTIONS

You can buy it off the shelf. Many modern AI applications cover a wide range of use cases for the www.VARonline.com

DATAIKU

FEATURE

augmentation of operations and processes. If the organization opts for this route, it can accelerate time to value if its chosen use cases are well covered by the out-of-the-box functionality of the selected solution.

The downside of point solutions is their limited potential for scalability. They may cover the optimization of one process but not be applicable to an associated process. Technical debt accumulates as many tools pile up and become integral to core business processes, leading to mounting costs in support and vendor dependencies. The off-the-shelf option also fails to solve the skills-gap problem as it makes no significant moves towards Everyday AI, where everyone knows how to use these technologies.

3.

DIY

4.

PLATFORM

Of course, you could always role up your sleeves and do-it-yourself (DIY), developing the internal AI and software development capabilities to build solutions that make sense to you and align with your Everyday AI strategy. Not everything would have to be built from scratch. You could combine open-source software with components provided by cloud-computing partners. The results would be well-integrated systems that are in tune with your IT orchestra and fulfil the needs of the business to a T. The organization would also retain full IP.

Some market offerings allow businesses to build machine-learning and AI capabilities, including generative AI, into their day-to-day operations. The most successful AI programs democratize the use of tools to build trust. Non-technologists learn new skills as they become citizen developers, using low-code and no-code development platforms to infuse models with business-centric design. And while lowering technical barriers to entry, these platforms also cater to a wide range of technical skills, from the casual expressionbuilder to the experienced coder. Because everybody is creating AI projects, reuse becomes second nature.

Each project gets off the ground more efficiently and makes it to market more quickly. A common platform also allows for critical governance to be woven into the day-to-day use of AI and enforced, reducing the risk associated with AI scale-up.

AI, EVERY DAY Generative AI is an extraordinary milestone in the history of our technological development. It can automate the mundane (yet creative) tasks that keep humans from innovating. With due care, it can take a place of honor among all the other innovations that power modern digital business and lead us into a new paradigm of Everyday AI.

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PROOFPOINT

FEATURE

CYBERCRIMINALS CHASE NEW TECHNOLOGIES: INCREASING CYBER THREATS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

By: Emile Abou Saleh Senior Regional Director, META, Proofpoint

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n an age where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, the realm of cyber threats is constantly evolving. The Middle East, including the UAE, is no exception to this growing threat. As global technologies advance, threat actors waste no time capitalizing on these emerging tools to escalate the speed, effectiveness, and impact of their cyberattacks.

Insights from Proofpoint’s 2023 Voice of the CISO Report reveal the extent of these threats and highlight the urgent need for organizations to protect themselves in this increasingly hostile digital landscape. According to the report, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in the UAE are witnessing a resurgence of elevated concerns, with 75 percent feeling at risk of experiencing a material cyberattack in the next 12 months, compared with 44 percent in 2022.

Email fraud, cloud account compromise, malware, and smishing/ vishing are perceived as the most significant threats, demanding immediate attention from CISOs in the region. But how are cybercriminals using new technology to bolster these already concerning threats?

THE USE OF AI Threat actors are now progressively using AI-driven tools to streamline their attacks, giving them the potential

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to operate with increased speed and efficiency. One example is the use of AI-generated phishing emails that are crafted to mimic the style and tone of legitimate correspondence, making them exceptionally difficult to spot.

This is a growing concern to business leaders globally, in fact, Proofpoint’s 2023 Board Perspectives report revealed that 59 percent of global Board Members believe that generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are a security risk for their organization.

EXPLOITING VULNERABILITIES IN EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES As technology advances, so too do the attack surfaces available to cyber criminals. Take cloud services as an example. As global organizations navigated the new way of working that the pandemic brought with it, much business activity moved to the cloud.

This increased use of cloud platforms in turn widened cybercriminals’ attack surfaces and opened new avenues for possible exploitation.

As an example, this year, Proofpoint’s researchers have seen a huge surge of successful cloud account takeover incidents, some of which impact high-level executives at leading global organizations. Interestingly, within this specific campaign cybercriminals successfully circumvented multi-factor (MFA) protected accounts, and a huge www.VARonline.com

PROOFPOINT

FEATURE

35% of all compromised users during the past year had MFA enabled.

As cyber-criminals continually ramped up their social engineering efforts, MFA quickly became the barrier of choice between a tricked user and a successful credential phishing attack. However, as security professionals are all too aware, nothing stops opportunistic threat actors in their tracks for long and MFA appears to be yet another technology that cybercriminals are taking advantage of.

What can organizations do to protect themselves? A proactive approach to cybersecurity is not just a defensive measure; it is a strategic investment in the longevity and resilience of any organization operating in the modern digital landscape.

The concept of cybersecurity spans the critical trifecta of people, processes, and technology. To effectively mitigate risks and stay ahead in the evolving cyber threat landscape, security leaders must acknowledge the pivotal role that individuals play in the overall security posture of the organization.

Adopting a people-centric security model is crucial.

By embracing these multifaceted strategies and recognizing the synergy between people, processes, and technology, organizations can fortify their defences and keep pace with the ever-opportunistic cybercriminals.

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SERVICENOW

FEATURE

FLIGHT PLAN FOR ETHICAL AI — NAVIGATING GOVERNANCE IN UNCHARTED SKIES

By: Dave Wright Chief Innovation Officer, ServiceNow

L

ong before generative AI models like DALLE-2 and ChatGPT catapulted artificial intelligence into public awareness, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) understood the potential of AI, going as far as appointing the world’s first state minister of artificial intelligence in 2017. The European Union is currently considering the Artificial Intelligence Act, the first major regulation of AI technologies, while the U.S. government’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has created the AI Risk Management Framework, a blueprint for applying regulations to AI. It is going to take both government and private enterprises to ensure AI technology is effectively deployed. While many governments are trying to legislate guardrails, private enterprises need to take the lead on responsible AI usage. If business leaders race to adopt AI and blindly rely on it for decision-making, we could be facing a future of mutually automated destruction.

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How can we use technology to help our creativity reach new heights — safely?

AUDIT TRAILS AND GUARDRAILS While you can’t deny that AI is a powerful tool for innovation, there’s also reason to be cautious. Google’s Bard got a science question wrong; Microsoft’s Bing tried to break up a journalist’s marriage. ChatGPT may face legal action for defaming an Australian mayor.

Sometimes AI even doubles down on its mistake and refuses to admit erring on something as simple as counting up to 15. In short: generative AI might have heightened the public’s expectations, but artificial intelligence is far from perfect.

DATA AND MODEL TRANSPARENCY As we usher artificial intelligence into the workplace, we’ve got to recognize that trust cannot exist without

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SERVICENOW

FEATURE

transparency. The risk of “black box” AI means companies will need to understand how AI processes data and delivers results.

While it becomes harder and harder to understand how outcomes were derived, it is possible to maintain where the source for that data was. The ability to understand reference sources will be something that people want to consider, and the concept of Master Data Management will evolve as a result.

BETTER AND CONSTANT DATA CURATION Companies are going to have to look at the nature of data that they want to include in models. Does that data contain information that should not be in public domain and should stay within the walls of the company? Does it contain personal information that could be used to reveal identities or impersonate people? Does it contain proprietary information that could give insights into the companies’ strategies?

Remember that AI is only as good as the data on which it feeds. If that data records human biases, then the AI may exhibit the same biases. An enterprise’s brand may be damaged if its systems suggest (or even, through automation, execute) unjust actions. So it’s crucial to not only be very careful about what kind of data becomes included in models, but also that companies thoroughly test the AI model away from such prejudices.

RETHINKING ACCESS CONTROL

GENERATIVE AI MIGHT HAVE HEIGHTENED THE PUBLIC’S EXPECTATIONS, BUT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS FAR FROM PERFECT.

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In addition, organizations must effectively control access to data and systems by defining what roles are allowed access to what types of data. The AI itself should not be allowed to be part of this control.

The UAE is known for its complex data protection laws, with different legal frameworks for various zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre and Dubai Healthcare City. In an enterprise environment, we have to guard against employees being able to use vague “imagine”-style statements to the AI system that would allow it to bypass restrictions on their behalf, as we have seen in the real world.

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FROST & SULLIVAN

FEATURE

BRIDGING THE GAP WITH SYNTHETIC DATA:

A PILLAR FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE By: Heena Juneja Industry Analyst, TechVision, Frost & Sullivan

S

ynthetic Data is a technology used to artificially generate data, curated for specific business requirements. Why do we need synthetic data?

At present, all companies rely heavily on data to run their operations, gain profit, and improve customer experience. However, there might be gaps, anomalies, or deficiencies in manually collated data. Real-world data is either unstructured or does not cover all possible scenarios that may occur in real life. This is where synthetic data comes into play, it overcomes challenges related to data gaps, data scarcity, data privacy, and structure data as needed for training and validation. On the other hand, manual data collection and annotation is a lengthy and costly process.

Synthetic data eliminates these challenges, and not only saves costs for businesses but also helps them maintain user privacy by masking the confidential data of their customers.

Synthesized data serves as a substitute for real-world data and is as effective as real-world conditions. Synthetic data augments the data by generating additional training data. It not only creates new data but also enriches the existing dataset to improve model robustness and generalization. It empowers

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BY THE YEAR 2030 SYNTHETIC DATA WILL BECOME THE MAINSTREAM IN AI DEVELOPMENT ACROSS INDUSTRIES

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AI systems to make informed decisions thereby improving efficiency, safety, and innovation in different sectors. The models developed to generate synthetic data are iterative in nature and keep regenerating a set until it is refined enough to serve the business’s purpose.

Synthetic data is widely used across industries, like automotive, retail, real estate, legal, etc. to enhance the use of AI applications. For example, Google's Waymo uses synthetic data in training models of self-driving cars. In the financial sector, American Express and J.P. Morgan are elevating fraud detection using synthetic data. Also, Syntho AI collaborated with Erasmus Medical Center, a hospital to enlarge sampling data for testing and conducting analytics.

Additionally, companies are forming strategic partnerships to vastly upscale the use of artificially curated data, thereby speeding up its impact in various applications. Tonic AI has partnered with Snowflake to provide their mutual customers with the ability to create and scale datasets curated for different use cases. The integration will enable users to create secure, fully functional versions of data.

It will help them with data minimization and regulatory compliance to achieve effective results.

However, some risks still pertain around the use of synthetic data, such as leakage of bias, data reliability, or the possibility of false projections. This calls for a requirement of a regulatory framework that governs the creation and use of synthetic data. Many companies and institutes like Ethics Grade, Credo AI, Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (Harvard University) and Center for the Governance of AI (Oxford university) are focusing on setting up regulations surrounding the quality and authenticity of synthetic data, which will ensure its responsible use across industries.

R&D SCENARIO

of synthetic datasets and improve their efficacy. Artificially curated data provides an environment to conduct experiments in a controlled fashion. This will enable researchers and developers to try and test various scenarios on AI models by manipulating data characteristics. Such experiments will significantly accelerate innovation and the development of AI solutions across industries.

Ongoing research aims to reduce historical biases in real data and enhance synthetic data generation to encompass multiple data modalities, including text, images, and audio. This will enable comprehensive AI models that can read and produce multimodal data. Also, the research focuses on adversarial attacks and robustness testing. Also, the focus is on generating robust synthetic data and using it for exploring techniques to defend against adversarial attacks. This will elevate the effectiveness of AI models to withstand attacks and anomalies.

FROST & SULLIVAN

FEATURE

CONCLUSION As per Frost & Sullivan, by the year 2030 synthetic data will become the mainstream in AI development across industries. Synthetic data is a weapon that will fuel innovation and eliminate data-related struggles that will allow easy experimentation to build creative and responsible practices. Synthetic data will become commoditized over time and will enhance ML algorithms as its easily available nature will make model training easy. As there will be an exponential rise in the usage of AI across business applications, opensource initiatives will also increase which will in turn lead to the launch of standardized tools and libraries to make industry approved datasets to be used for different applications.

This will benefit society by improving data privacy and quality leading to increased adoption of synthetic data.

Ethical AI solutions will further drive responsible and safe adoption.

Institutes and organizations are still researching how to maximize the use www.VARonline.com

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21

TRELLIX

FEATURE

IN THE NAME OF PROGRESS, WATCH YOUR ENDPOINTS BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER A

RANSOMWARE ATTACK

By: Vibin Shaju VP Solutions Engineering EMEA, Trellix

T

WHEN IT COMES TO SECURITY, EXTENDED DETECTION AND RESPONSE (XDR) IS TODAY’S DE FACTO GOLD STANDARD. 22

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here is little rest, it seems, for CISOs in the Arab Gulf region. In its latest Cost of a Breach analysis, IBM estimated a combined average for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia of more than US$5.3 million per incident. Figures like these are stressors for GCC cybersecurity leaders, who face an uphill struggle to stave off the advances of threat actors amid the creep of IT complexity, the widening of skills gaps, and the dwindling of on-hand resources — according to Trellix’s recent “Mind of the CISO” report, 66% of CISOs in the UAE and KSA still believe their organizations lack the right people and processes to be cyber resilient and almost three quarters (74%) believe their current technology setup is insufficient.

Today’s endpoint detection and response (EDR) technologies are a significant step beyond the preventionoriented security tools of old. They concentrate on giving security analysts and threat hunters a window into attacker activity in progress, allowing detection and investigation. But they also grant before-and-after agency over endpoints to SOCs, empowering the CISO and their team to manage and protect devices prior to the attacker making their move and

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respond after the payload is dropped.

Separating the ransomware campaign into these phases is a great starting point for a winning strategy.

BEFORE Prevention is cheaper than a cure.

Management and optimal use of protection tools can minimize the cost of investigation and recovery.

This is because protection helps to screen out the false positives that distract security teams from genuine threats. Teams operate in a sea of complexity — a swelling attack surface and more overlap with third-party environments than ever before. They need management platforms that give them a comprehensive view of their network, including managed and unmanaged endpoints. They must be able to enforce policies across cloud and hybrid environments as well as traditional premises.

Many security teams, when analyzing an incident, discover that if an available protection tool had been installed and enabled at the entry point, the campaign could have been prevented. Productivity and protection exist on a seesaw of judgement, and teams often need guidance on how to balance the two to align with the organization’s risk strategy.

DURING This is traditional ground for EDR and is often what non-security people imagine if they ever ponder what IT security professionals do — an attacker breaches the perimeter, security analysts detect them, and a game of cat and mouse ensues. This is only true, however, for cats equipped with the tools to sniff out the mouse, and even then, the EDR tools must be effective enough to allow the mouse to be run to ground before it gets the cheese. www.VARonline.com

TRELLIX

FEATURE

AFTER Rapid containment is predicated upon understanding the root cause of the attack. National and regional surveys across the GCC have shown that it is common for ransomware victims to be reinfected by the same RansomOps gang. What use is it to clean house only to have threat actors muddy the floors again the following month? To restore normal business operations by simply containing an endpoint, stopping a process, or restoring from backup invites instability and uncertainty.

Teams must forage for facts. What was the gap in coverage? Where was the misconfiguration? Use EDR’s advanced visibility and control to understand scope, track down the cause, and plug the leak. Be sure you have access to forensic data like suspicious files, and histories for browsers, command shell executions, and deleted files.

XDR When it comes to security, extended detection and response (XDR) is today’s de facto gold standard. Not surprisingly, according to the same Trellix research I cited earlier, 56% of organizations across the UAE and KSA already have XDR as part of their security strategy. It meets the requirements for management and protection before, detection and investigation during, and response after attacks on endpoints.

We all want a safer digital world.

We spend much of our time there — working, playing, and socializing. By considering the before, the during, and the after, enterprises can strengthen their security posture and finally outmaneuver the ransomware actor.

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ICT AWARDS 2023

16TH EDITION OF

ICT CHAMPION AWARDS

I

CT Champion Awards, a hallmark of The Integrator Media, reached a remarkable milestone with its 16th edition, held on the 12th of October 2023. Each year, The Integrator Media proudly acknowledges and celebrates the tireless efforts of leaders in the ICT industry. This year, 32 coveted categories recognized the exceptional accomplishments of champions and leading companies.

In our continuous pursuit of making the event captivating and enlightening for our attendees, this year marked a significant milestone. We hosted a captivating panel discussion and a thought-provoking fireside chat with esteemed representatives from Epson, Zurich Insurance, Sony and Lenovo. These experts illuminated various facets of AI, Technology, and Innovation,

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ICT AWARDS 2023

drawing from their extensive experience gained through years of dedication to these renowned organizations.

ICT Champion Awards opened its nomination portal online for a full month, allowing companies to showcase their excellence and nominate themselves.

The selection process involved three distinct phases: nominations from clients and consumers, a meticulous evaluation by our editorial team, and the discerning judgment of three jury members, each boasting over three

Ramessh Ramakrishnann Chief Information Officer

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decades of experience as pioneers in the ICT industry.

During this momentous event, Mohd Adil Siddiqui, Head of Media, proudly unveiled our newly launched website, integratormedia.com. In his words, "Milestones are the markers of our journey, and ICT Champion Awards has been a beacon of excellence for 16 remarkable years. In every award given, we glimpse the future of ICT, and it's a future worth celebrating.”

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ICT AWARDS 2023

Pen Display Brand of the Year

Innovative Brand in Network Security

Data Protection Service Provider in Hybrid Cloud

Enterprise Security Solution Provider of the Year

IT Accessories Brand of the Year

Best Innovator in Digital Business Transactions

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ICT AWARDS 2023

AI Integration Excellence Award

The Most Promising Accessories Brand of the Year

Ransomware Recovery Vendor of the Year

Unified Cloud Platform Provider of the Year

Cloud Security Brand of the Year

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ICT AWARDS 2023

PC Computing Brand of the Year

Networking Brand of the Year Storage Brand of the Year

Infrastructure Distributor of the Year

Projector Brand of the Year

Enterprise Memory Brand of the Year 28

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ICT AWARDS 2023

System Integrator of the Year

Cloud ERP Vendor of the Year

Display Brand of the Year

Regional Brand of the Year

Printer Brand of the Year

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ICT AWARDS 2023

AV Integrator of the Year

AI Ecosystem Provider of the Year

Security Technology Provider of the Year

Best Trading Platform of the Year

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Sustainable Tech Innovator Award

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ICT AWARDS 2023

Systems Distributor of the Year

Video Collaboration Brand of the Year

Distributor of the Year

Sound Brand of the Year in Home Entertainment

VR Platform of the Year

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31

AUKEY

IN CONVERSATION

AUKEY'S

TECH EVOLUTION AND MARKET STRATEGIES EXPLORED IN GITEX 2023 The Integrator recently conducted an interview with David Wu, BG Vice President and Head of the Aukey Brand. The interview focused on AUKEY's upcoming plans, its presence at GITEX 2023, and the latest technological innovations introduced to the market.

You have recently been promoted to Vice President.

Could you please introduce the impact of this promotion/ liability?

Yes, this promotion has provided me with the capability to take on more responsibilities. Previously, I was responsible for distribution sales. Now I oversee supply chain management, product development, marketing, as well as online and offline sales, and all the operations works.

David Wu, BG, Vice President & Aukey Brand Head

Can you outline AUKEY's global strategy and how it aligns with the ever-evolving dynamics and business requirements of this region?

We keep to develop and use advanced technology, incorporating it into our high-quality innovative products, and delivering an exceptional user experience to our customers. This commitment has helped us establish a reputation for providing reliable and reputable products both in our MEA region and worldwide, through the online e-commerce and offline brick and mortar channels.

What significance does GITEX Technology Week hold for Aukey, and can you please highlight the theme of GITEX 2023?

Certainly, GITEX Technology Week holds great significance for Aukey. This event is like witnessing the world's transformation, especially for us. Like the wireless charging technologies, it evolves from Qi 1.3 to Qi 2. We are well prepared with a full range of wireless charging products, incorporating advanced charging technologies, to meet the user needs as well as the new trends. These products offer faster charging, utilizing the latest advancements in charging technology.

Is there any game-changing technology, innovations, or products and solutions that Aukey is showcasing at this year's GITEX? Yes, indeed. For our charging products, we have integrated

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multiple safety protections and enhanced charging technologies. We have also incorporated several other advanced technologies into the next version of our products. Additionally, for our wireless charging products, we are incorporating the latest and newest technologies into our products, with innovative designs for better user experiences. The wireless charging products with cooling systems built in also make it uniq and practical.

What has Aukey done to achieve brand success in recent years?

It hasn't been easy, but we made it.

We prioritize the customer experience by integrating technologies into our products to enhance user satisfaction. I believe that this mindset is the key to the success. Meanwhile, we strive to developing mutual beneficial partnerships with

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AUKEY

IN CONVERSATION

our partners to make sure we can keep catching up and leading the technologies development. Great products with good customer service making us stand out.

Being a Vice President, how do you envision the role of technology evolving over the next ten years?

Our vision is that consumer experiences and technologies will be further significantly advanced in the near future, products will be becoming smarter, more efficient, and environmentally improved and enhanced. We continuously monitor new technologies that we can develop and incorporate into our products, as well as gather feedback from consumers to deliver fantastic technology products to them. We believe that technologies will make our life healthier, more beautiful and more interesting.

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KISSFLOW

IN CONVERSATION

AI AND LOW CODE

SET TO TRANSFORM ENTERPRISES IN 2024 The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Sriram Ganeshan, Associate Director - EMEA, Kissflow

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ChatGPT can greatly aid coders, there is vast difference between generating a few snippets of code and creating a full-fledged enterprise-grade application. Like any digital transformation initiative, generative AI is part of the tech stack; it alone can't transform any business.

What are some of the things low code / no code can help enterprises with?

The major concern that enterprises have been facing globally is that they are not able to cater to the demands and requirements of their business users. These organisations have been spending huge amounts for procuring enterprise solutions to streamline their operations. However, what return they get is a more complex IT environment which themselves takes multiple years to be implemented.

The solutions, though powerful, are not able to provide the impact that the customers require.

Low-code and No-code tools are the answer to this challenge. This paradigm is changing the way businesses create software and opening up a whole new pool of qualified resources – citizen developers.

Because these employees are also the actual target user group for the applications, they are best positioned to know what features and functionality will best serve their needs. Consider a typical finance department which has numerous processes in place for functions like vendor onboarding, accounts receivables, payables and more. Even today, these processes are largely manual – reliant on paper-based forms and emailbased communications and reminders.

With generative AI, will it be possible to create codes at the snap of a finger?

Since its launch in November 2022, developers have been quick to leverage ChatGPT to aid them in coding. However, at present, using AI to generate code is still something that resides in the domain of technical experts. These professionals need to specify the function they want the code to achieve, and the parameters for it to work within. The outputs are technical and often just a part of a larger solution.

So, it should be noted that while LLMs such as www.VARonline.com

How will AI help the low code industry?

Low-code and no-code have bridged the gap between systems and humans to create applications with minimal or no intervention required from professional developers and IT departments. This of course has been the driving factor behind the surging popularity of these platforms. A low entry barrier means that democratisation of application development can become a reality - shifting the paradigm from being a buzzword to a widespread real-world technology with deep and meaningful impact. AI represents the next logical step in this paradigm. Generative AI has already proven highly effective in closing the skills gap. When combined with Low-code, this has the potential to be a true game-changer. Once the full capabilities of both technologies are unlocked, it will pave the way for a new tech revolution.

How is AI and low code set to revolutionise 2024?

In the cooking year, we will see the ongoing convergence of AI and Low code. This will enable systems to manage the work rather than humans having to work for the systems. This 'power of two' is going to bring a lot of possibilities for the enterprise. As AI and low-code technology come together, the development gap closes. Low-code software increases the accessibility of development across organisations (i.e., citizen development) while generative AI increases organisational efficiency and congruence.

Low-code and no-code application development platforms allow non-technical users or no-coders to reimagine and digitise their business processes without obtaining steep IT experience or spending exorbitantly on IT infrastructure. Combining AI with Low-code platforms will help organisations solve potential business problems faster and more efficiently. As the benefits of a visual drag-and-drop editor are combined with AI models, end users can choose between using visual elements or natural language processing for app development.

Ultimately, the months ahead for this domain look highly promising and exciting. AI will accelerate the entire Low-code application development process, reduce errors with automation, decrease development time, and improve overall quality. Most importantly, it will further reduce the learning curve for low-code platforms.

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35

INTWO

IN CONVERSATION

INTWO'S

INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGIES PROPELS BUSINESSES INTO THE FUTURE The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Anilesh Kumar, EVP Business Applications at Intwo

Can you provide an overview of inTwo's core services?

Intwo is a prominent Cloud Services Provider (CSP) specializing in Microsoft Dynamics 365, Power Platform, Azure, Analytics and AI. With over two decades of experience, we serve more than 1,000 enterprise clients across 40 countries, operating from nine global offices. Our mission centres on empowering businesses through cloud technology from Microsoft. We're dedicated to delivering innovative technology solutions that drive business value and take our customers in to the future.

With a team of over 350 people globally, we have extensive expertise across the Microsoft Cloud ecosystem, including Azure, Modern Workplace, Dynamics 365, and Data & AI. This positions us to guide businesses towards a secure, resilient, and efficient digital future.

In recognition of our proficiency, Intwo is part of the Global Azure Expert Managed Services Provider program and holds various Microsoft Solutions Partner designations. We're also a member of the Microsoft Business Applications Inner Circle which represents the top 1% of Microsoft’s partner ecosystem for Dynamics 365 and Power Platform.

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How does intwo align business strategies with digital execution to help clients achieve higher levels of business growth?

At Intwo, we connect business strategies with digital execution by tailoring Microsoft technologies to suit each client's unique needs. Our consultative approach prioritizes best practices, scalability, datadriven insights, security, user adoption, and ongoing optimization to drive business growth.

Our solutions are designed to be intelligent, secure, efficient, always available and cost-effective. This enables our clients to spend less time managing their systems and operations and more time focusing on building a competitive advantage with their customers and employees via AI-embedded applications and analytics.

How does inTwo customize its IT solutions to meet the specific needs of businesses?

Intwo delivers IT solutions by combining the best people with best-in-class Microsoft technologies. We achieve this through several key steps: We start by mapping a client's business strategy to our solution.

We transform isolated digital systems into intelligent and integrated ones.

Our expertise in secure modern workplace and collaboration platforms optimizes employee productivity.

We enhance business performance and customer experience using powerful Dynamics 365 business apps and cloud solutions.

Leveraging Microsoft Power Apps and Power Automate, we create easy-to-build apps and automation, reducing costs and errors.

We harness data sources to provide real-time insights for better decision-making.

And, now, we are leveraging the power of open AI through Microsoft’s co-pilot offerings embedded in M365 and Dynamics 365.

What exclusive Microsoft programs is Intwo actively involved in?

Intwo is deeply engaged in various exclusive Microsoft programs and holds advanced specializations, including: Microsoft Solutions Partner for Infrastructure • (Azure) • Microsoft Solutions Partner for Data & AI (Azure) Microsoft Solutions Partner for Digital & App • Innovation (Azure)

INTWO

IN CONVERSATION

Microsoft Solutions Partner for Business Applications • Microsoft Solutions Partner for Modern Work • Microsoft Solutions Partner for Security • Microsoft Solutions Partner for Microsoft Cloud • Azure Windows Server Specialization Windows and SQL Server Advanced Migration • Specialization • Azure Virtual Desktop Advanced Specialization Furthermore, we are active members of prestigious Microsoft groups such as the Azure Elite Group, Azure Expert MSP, and Microsoft Business Applications Inner Circle.

•

How does Intwowo address cybersecurity challenges and what measures are in place to protect clients' data and systems?

Intwo takes cybersecurity seriously and offers comprehensive solutions through our Security Concierge line of products and services. This includes cybersecurity assessments, design, mitigation services, and a 24/7 managed extended detect and response solution.

Our Security Concierge ensures continuous, nondisruptive protection for all types of assets, whether on-premises or in the cloud. We monitor and respond to security threats to keep clients' businesses secure and protected. Customized reports also help clients stay informed about cybersecurity trends and developments. Our cybersecurity solutions guard against a wide range of threats, including malware, phishing attacks, ransomware, and more. We are also Soc 1Type 2 certified and efforts are underway to implement ISO 27001.

How does Intwo help clients consolidate data sources to enable real-time insights?

Intwo assists clients in consolidating data sources and obtaining real-time insights using Azure data tools such as Synpase Analytics, Microsoft Fabric and Microsoft Power Platform. This suite of tools, including Power BI, PowerApps, Power Automate, and Power Virtual Agents, empowers non-technical staff to manipulate, surface, automate, and analyze data.

In summary, Intwo leverages its expertise in Microsoft technologies and partnerships, a clientcentric approach, and a strong commitment to cybersecurity and data management to deliver tailored solutions that empower businesses with strong datadriven decision-making.

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ALPH TECH

IN CONVERSATION

AQIRYS: BRIDGING TECHNOLOGY AND PASSION IN GAMING The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Julien Arnolda, Managing Director of Alpha Tech

Can you provide us with a brief overview of AQIRYS and elaborate on the core values that guide your company within the gaming and IT industry?

Sure, of course. AQIRYS is a company that was established 15 years ago, with its base located in Romania. The brand itself was founded by gamers, which equips them with a deep understanding of the technology that goes into their products. This rich

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expertise and experience form the backbone of the brand's history.

For Alpha Tech, our primary focus has always been on enterprise business solutions. However, we have recognized the tremendous growth in the gaming industry over the past few years. This realization led us to partner with AQIRYS. Together, we aim to offer a range of exciting products for gamers, providing premium quality at a more affordable price point. www.VARonline.com

Can you please share some of your standout products from your lineup, highlighting their key features that make them appealing to gamers and enthusiasts?

Certainly. We place a strong emphasis on our range of peripherals, including keyboards, headsets, microphones, mice, and more. In addition, we offer custom shells that allow you to build your own gaming PC. We provide a comprehensive gaming solution.

Additionally, we feature a selection of gaming chairs and a variety of gaming chargers. Our aim is to provide gamers with a complete package that caters to their needs.

Your products have a very cool and dynamic appearance. Can you explain how you achieve this in your product design and how you present these qualities to your customers?

Absolutely. We believe that gaming is inclusive and open to all, spanning across generations. It's not just the young, but even the older generation enjoys gaming from time to time. To cater to this diverse audience, we focus on staying up-to-date and in-tune with current trends. Our products feature a wide range of vibrant colors and offer robust functionality. These elements truly set our product range apart and contribute to the cool and dynamic appearance that our customers appreciate.

How does AQIRYS manage to strike a balance between product quality and affordability for your consumers?

As I mentioned, we aim to position ourselves as a premium brand without an excessively high price point. We're mindful that some brands out there www.VARonline.com

ALPH TECH

IN CONVERSATION

come with exorbitant prices, but that's not our approach. We strive to provide solutions that are not only high in quality but also affordable for our users. This is the key message that we want to convey to our customers.

What are your plans and expectations from GITEX 2023?

Our expectations are quite significant.

We've received numerous inquiries from across the GCC region, and we see substantial growth potential in that market. I believe that being at GITEX 2023, even though it's only the first two days, with three more days ahead, holds great promise. We are looking forward to a successful event.

Beyond GITEX, what are AQIRYS' broader plans for product development and market expansion?

Certainly, in the ever-evolving gaming industry, we're constantly keeping an eye on emerging technologies, including the integration of AI. As a brand, we aim to harness these technologies to create products that truly cater to the needs of gamers and make sense in this dynamic landscape.

Can you share some advice or tips for individuals who are passionate about PC gaming, drawing from your expertise and experience in the industry?

Again, I would like to emphasize that we have products designed specifically for individual gamers, with meticulous attention to detail. Even in our packaging, we are very conscious of how we present our brand. We strive to maintain a premium image while ensuring affordability. That's the balance we aim to strike for the benefit of gamers.

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ENVISION

IN CONVERSATION

ENVISION’S WAY FOR TECHDRIVEN TRANSFORMATION IN TRANSPORTATION The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Girish Eleadath, Vice President, Envision Middle East Solutions FZ-LLC How was your experience at the GITEX, in the largest tech event of Middle East?

We were delighted to take part in the summit. In terms of transportation, the world is undergoing significant transformation, all government agencies are concentrating on increasing the speed of the logistics supply chain, encouraging sustainable urban mobility, and emphasising digitization for operational reliability and transparency.

Envision is excited to embark on this adventure as a technological solution provider for ports, terminals, metro rail, and other applications. We had the opportunity to communicate with industry leaders, government executives, and supplier ecosystems about the newest advancements throughout the session.

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Girish Eleadath, VP, Envision ME Solutions FZ-LLC

How do you see the future of the Ports, Terminals &Rail/ Metro Industry from your company’s perspective?

Nowadays, the logistics sector and government bodies are promoting massive investments in seaport automation, rail network modernization for freight movement with dedicated freight corridors, and fast altering inter-city travel with fantastic initiatives. Similarly, the Metro Rail network began quickly and is now growing to other developing cities throughout the world. We see huge potential; development in the next ten years will be multi-fold when compared to the previous 50 years. Envision has always believed in longterm thinking since its founding in 2006. Apart from IBM solutions, we invested in various indigenously produced automation solutions. We continue to play an important role in providing best-of-breed solutions to the industry.

What are the future technologies that can impend the metro rail industry in increasing the performance?

Envision anticipates tremendous advancement in new technologies with no bounds and boundaries with the advent of sophisticated technologies and IoT implementation.

Exclusive systems are going to forfeit their competitive advantage, and new standards will emerge with seamless integration and AI / ML being widely used for asset life cycle management, greater operational efficiency for substantial savings, and better control.

What are the focus areas for Envision? How would you bring value to your engagements?

Envision has proven its expertise in delivering Asset Management and IoT-based solutions on numerous occasions, attracting the attention of large operators and OEMs to examine our offers. During this process, we developed unique talents and established ourselves as a strong contender in the offerings of Sea Ports, Terminals, Metro Rail Asset, and Associated Solutions. We are continuously working to improve operations through better planning, scheduling, and optimization of Crews, Technicians, and other people across the network for better operations and lower costs.

We understand that Envision built a centre of excellence for Ports, Terminals, Rail and Metro Rail industry, can you tell us more about it?

Since its inception, Envision has been at the forefront of identifying unique areas where we can demonstrate our expertise and bring out the best in the organisation. At our centre of excellence, we have a dedicated team working on Sea Ports, Terminals, Rali, and Metro-related solutions.

We always strive to improve the solution functionally and technically with the help of many domain experts and external advisers. We are one of the organisations making significant investments in long-term value generation for this industry.

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DUBAI AIRSHOW

SPAIN'S CRISALION MOBILITY TO DEBUT AT DUBAI AIRSHOW WITH ITS NEW EVTOL AIRCRAFT:

INTEGRITY

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CATALYST

IN CONVERSATION

CATALYST EMPOWERING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND FORTIFYING CYBERSECURITY IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING LANDSCAPE The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Jean-Baptiste Blanc, Executive Vice President at Catalyst Business Solutions.

Can you provide a brief overview of Catalyst Business Solutions for those who may not be familiar with the company?

Catalyst has been helping its clients transform their information systems and enhance their cybersecurity for the past 21 years. In essence, we assist our clients in their transformation and protection efforts through four core areas. First, we focus on business applications, including ERP, EPM, and CRM, with Oracle as our primary partner in this space. Second, we've developed our own Catalyst Business Platforms to address industry-specific needs.

Third, we assist clients in migrating to the cloud, working with Oracle, Microsoft, AWS, and Google Cloud. Lastly, we help clients bolster their cybersecurity posture, covering protection, governance, and compliance.

Can you share a little about your company’s services, starting with your digital transformation services?

Certainly. We've been an Oracle platinum partner since our inception in 2002. Our focus has been on Oracle E-Business Suite and Hyperion, and over the last decade, we've developed expertise in Oracle Fusion Cloud and Oracle NetSuite.

Consequently, we are one of the few Oracle partners capable of offering expertise in On-Premise applications, cloud applications, and Oracle cloud infrastructure. Additionally, we've created our own platforms to help public sector organizations enhance security and revenue in areas like Social Security, pension tax, customs, shipping, and logistics.

Many of our platforms can be implemented within weeks

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CATALYST

IN CONVERSATION

without prior investment from these institutions. Lastly, we help clients transition to the cloud through various means, such as migrating On-Premise applications, deploying new applications in the cloud, or subscribing to cloud-based cybersecurity solutions. We're also increasingly assisting them in developing and executing multi-cloud strategies. For instance, Oracle and Microsoft recently announced Oracle Database @ Azure, enabling clients to use Oracle database services on Azure infrastructure.

Jean-Baptiste Balnc, Executive Vice President, Catalyst Business Solutions

Speaking of Oracle, what specific value does Catalyst Business Solutions provide to its clients concerning Oracle?

The significant development is that we can now offer Oracle SaaS solutions to the mid-market segment at an affordable cost, both through Oracle Fusion and Oracle NetSuite. Oracle NetSuite, as the first native Cloud ERP in the market, is an excellent choice for small and medium-sized organizations, while Oracle Fusion Cloud caters to larger enterprises.

To illustrate, one of our clients recently eliminated 350 customizations by transitioning from Oracle EBS to Fusion Cloud. However, successful implementation and maximizing its potential requires considerable expertise and experience, which we have gained over the past ten years. We differentiate ourselves through our extensive references, ROI-centric implementation approach, and our investment in local service centers across various regions, including the UAE, Mauritius, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, and Cameroon, allowing us to deliver projects in English, French, and Arabic at affordable costs.

We all know that cybersecurity is a growing concern. What cybersecurity challenges were your clients facing, and what specific value does Catalyst provide to its clients and potential clients in this area?

There are several challenges in cybersecurity. First, the threat landscape is continually expanding. Second, clients have invested significantly in cybersecurity, leading to increased costs, partly due to the scarcity and expense of expertise. Third, clients often have complex and poorly integrated cybersecurity architectures. Fourth, many manual activities persist in managing IT assets, inventory, risk quantification, alert management, and false positives.

Despite these investments, organizations often find themselves inadequately protected against zero-day attacks.

Catalyst addresses all these challenges, with the most significant value being the transformation of clients' cybersecurity efforts into a competitive advantage. We create an ecosystem that demonstrates an organization's security, compliance, and trustworthiness. www.VARonline.com

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PURE STORAGE

IN CONVERSATION

HOW CAN BUSINESSES CAPITALISE ON THE

AI GOLD RUSH WITHOUT COMPROMISING

SUSTAINABILITY GOALS?

The Integrator had an exclusive interview with Patrick Smith, CTO EMEA, Pure Storage

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How can businesses succeed with AI projects?

In order to power AI, and AI-based data analytics, organisations need a flexible, reliable, performant, and perhaps most importantly, sustainable data storage infrastructure in place.

1. Performance is key because AI relies on sending massive amounts of data into GPUs, over and over again. The faster organisations do that, the quicker and better results they get. AI resources (GPUs, data scientists) are expensive and in high-demand, so keeping them waiting on access to data can lead to a hefty bill.

2. Flexibility comes in as AI is easily the most rapidly evolving space in technology — tools, techniques, datasets and use-cases are evolving every single day.

3. Enterprise reliability and controls are more important to organisations than ever with AI environments. These are mission critical environments, and any downtime can lead to exorbitant costs.

4. Last but certainly not least is one of the planet’s most pressing concerns, sustainability.

Why do businesses need to run AI sustainably?

Current estimates have data centres accounting for between 1-4% of all global energy consumption. In fact, in some countries data centre expansion has been halted because they cannot access adequate power. AI is not going anywhere, and overall, it will be an overwhelmingly positive tool for humanity, helping us automate repetitive tasks, treat diseases more effectively, and better understand our world through weather and climate patterns. However, from an environmental perspective, it only adds to energy consumption and carbon footprint concerns. In the wake of this immense challenge and opportunity, building an efficient and sustainable technology infrastructure for AI is critical to mitigating global warming and the worst impacts of climate change.

How can customers capitalise on AI in a sustainable way?

As data volumes grow and high performance becomes mainstream as a requirement for AI, sustainability concerns come to the fore. As these needs increase, so do costs in terms of power, cooling and the space to house equipment. In today’s context of soaring energy prices, this is not only an environmental issue, but an operational and financial challenge for businesses too.

Fortunately, some companies are designing and building products and delivering services that allow customers to dramatically decrease their own environmental footprints. For example, all-flash

PURE STORAGE

IN CONVERSATION

storage solutions are considerably more efficient than their spinning disk (HDD) counterparts. In some cases, all-flash solutions can help companies achieve up to 80% reduction in direct energy usage by data systems compared to competitive products. What’s more, flash storage is much better suited to running AI projects.

This is because the key to results is connecting AI models or AI powered applications to data. To do this successfully you need lots of data, this data can’t be cold, and crucially data needs to be easily accessible, across silos and applications. This simply isn’t possible with HDD based storage underpinning your operations, all-flash is needed.

What does success look like?

Many companies are already applying these best practices to embark on their AI journeys. Meta, for example, wanted to help its AI researchers build new and better AI models that can learn from trillions of examples, work across hundreds of different languages, seamlessly analyse text, images, and video together, develop new augmented reality tools, and much more. As a result the company set out to create its AI Research SuperCluster (RSC), with the intention of being the world’s fastest AI supercomputer.

Meta chose Pure Storage as it needed a partner that could deliver robust and scalable storage capabilities to power RSC. With FlashArray and FlashBlade systems from Pure Storage, RSC has unparalleled performance to rapidly analyse both structured and unstructured data, underpinned by Pure Storage’s foundation of performance, reliability, flexibility and sustainability.

How can you replicate this success?

To prepare for a world in which ever-growing amounts of unstructured data will be the subject of muchincreased use of AI-based analytics, companies will need storage in colossal volumes that offers rapid access and is efficient in sustainability terms.

Businesses should look for vendors with a roadmap for high density flash storage capacity that can handle workloads from the most performance-hungry to those currently categorised as secondary, but which will gain in importance with the rise of constant AI processing. Companies should also evaluate vendor purchasing options that can build in seamless capacity and technology upgrades for years ahead.

Lastly, organisations should look for all-flash storage providers that can demonstrate third-party verified ESG metrics, so that AI projects can be executed without damaging the environment, and their bottom line.

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NOVEMBER 2023

47

CPX

SPOTLIGHT

UAE CYBERSECURITY COUNCIL AND CPX CALL FOR IMMEDIATE COLLABORATION

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yber Security Council and CPX Holding, a leading provider of digital-first cybersecurity solutions and services, jointly launched a new report titled “Securing the Future: A Whitepaper on Cybersecurity in an AIDriven World”.

The report examined the intricate dynamics of AI-driven cyber threats and the vulnerabilities associated with AI systems and presented strategies to bolster resilience while mitigating risks.

With AI models like ChatGPT gaining immense popularity, the technology’s influence continues to expand across industries, making a robust cybersecurity strategy indispensable and essential for business growth and longevity.

The report found that if entities fail to establish policies and appropriate measures around AI and cybersecurity, the development of malicious AI could outpace their ability to counter it, leading to a myriad of consequences, including financial losses, reputational damage, and even threats to public safety.

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, said: “We are excited to contribute to the dialogue surrounding AI and cybersecurity. This whitepaper is a crucial step toward securing our digital economy while also harnessing AI’s transformative power, both of which are top priorities for the UAE. The Cybersecurity Council invites all stakeholders to engage with this whitepaper, exploring the insights and recommendations it offers.”

Paul Lawson, Executive Director

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Cyber Defense, CPX, said: “At a time when AI’s potential and innovative use cases are undeniable, its integration must be coupled with rigorous security measures. CPX is pleased to collaborate with the UAE Cybersecurity Council on this ground-breaking whitepaper that seeks to bridge the gap between AI and cybersecurity, offering guidance on the most pressing issues around the topic today. We extend our gratitude to the authors whose dedication and insights have shaped a document that promises to be a cornerstone in understanding the evolving nature of cybersecurity and AI”.

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ZOOM

SPOTLIGHT

ZOOM AI COMPANION HITS ONE MILLION MEETING SUMMARIES MILESTONE

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oom Video Communications, Inc. announced that Zoom AI Companion, the company’s generative AI assistant, has reached a milestone less than two months after its launch, with more than 125,000 accounts using AI Companion, generating more than one million meeting summaries. Zoom also announced new capabilities, additional language support, and further enhancements to existing capabilities for AI Companion.

“Providing the best value to our customers across our platform is core to our mission, which is why we made AI Companion available at no additional cost,1 and we continue to introduce new AI capabilities at Zoom speed, so more of our customers can get the most out of Zoom’s AI innovations,” said Smita Hashim, chief product officer at Zoom. “Our unique federated approach allows us to dynamically utilize different models, helping to reduce AI overhead costs and provide broad access to generative AI.”

NEW ZOOM AI COMPANION CAPABILITIES

Smita Hashim Chief Product Officer, Zoom

Beginning today, AI Companion users will be able to use the in-meeting questions capability in new languages, as well as receive short meeting summary overviews at the beginning of full meeting summaries.  Users can now use AI Companion’s in-meeting questions capability in seven new languages (preview).  Based on feedback from users, the meeting summaries capability now includes an overview at the top of the summary in email summaries, providing users with a shorter version of the meeting summary in addition to the full meeting summary.

AI COMPANION CAPABILITIES AVAILABLE IN NOVEMBER Zoom will continue to improve AI Companion, with the following new capabilities planned to be available in November:  Both AI Companion meeting summary and in-meeting questions capabilities will support a total of 32 new languages, in preview.

AI Companion will provide users with meeting coach capabilities, beginning with speech analytics in Smart Recordings.

Speech analytics will include the meeting host’s talk-listen ratio, talk speed, and speech fillers so that hosts can glean valuable insights into how they engage with meeting participants during Zoom Meetings.

AI Companion will be available in Zoom Events, with chat compose capabilities for lobby chats and assistance with composing emails for registration, marketing, and ticketing communications. Zoom will introduce an optional control for customers to specify that AI Companion capabilities for their organization only use the Zoom large language model.

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MBUZZ TO DISTRIBUTE STORAGE SOLUTIONS FROM TOSHIBA

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oshiba GULF FZE has announced the appointment of MBUZZ as a distributor of its storage solutions across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In addition, MBUZZ will also be the regional distributor for Toshiba’s range of NAS products.

The demand for storage continues to be driven by the exponential growth in data being generated. Hard drives continue to address most of this demand, and it is forecast that by 2025, 58% of data storage will be on hard drives with SSDs accounting for 16% of data storage and NAND making up 10% of the storage.

The partnership between Toshiba Gulf and MBUZZ will seek to address the growing requirement for storage in the region with advanced solutions from Toshiba. Especially across the region, as Smart City projects accelerate, there is an exponential growth of video footage being generated by surveillance systems, which in turn is creating a huge demand for reliable, high-capacity storage solutions.

“This collaboration between MBUZZ and Toshiba Gulf comes at a crucial time when the demand for Smart Secure Cities and reliable video storage solutions is skyrocketing.

In addition to this Big Data is driving demand for more

TOSHIBA

SPOTLIGHT

distributed storage in the cloud & on-premise enterprise server & storage systems. Toshiba HDD products provide higher capacity and advanced technology to meet the special demands of datacenter and cloud-scale Infrastructure,” said Santosh Varghese, Vice President at Toshiba GULF FZE. Through its successful ‘Build your own Data Centre’ initiative in the past year, Toshiba has helped educate the channel including System Integrators and VARs about how enterprise customers can ramp up their Business-critical Enterprise Server Storage Systems, Cloud Storage, Industrial Server, and Storage systems with high-capacity hard drives and meet their growing Data Centre storage requirements.

"We are excited to represent Toshiba, a global leader in storage and to bring their industry-leading storage solutions to our customers," said Sabir Saleem, CEO at MBUZZ Technologies. "Combining Toshiba's cutting-edge technology with our expertise in delivering comprehensive solutions allows us to meet the growing needs and provide our customers with top-of-the-line video storage solutions."

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NOVEMBER 2023

51

HK FINTECH

SPOTLIGHT

HONG KONG FINTECH WEEK 2023 CONCLUDES WITH MAJOR INITIATIVES

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ne of the annual flagship events of the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB), the Hong Kong FinTech Week 2023, had concluded on November 5th, Themed "Fintech Redefined.", the event this year features more than 500 speakers, 650 exhibitors and tens of thousands of participants from over 90 economies either in person or virtually.

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, announced three major initiatives to foster co-development of fintech and real economy at the Main Conference of the FinTech Week on November 2. These include launching a new Integrated Fund Platform (IFP), welcoming crossboundary e-CNY applications to benefit inbound and outbound visitors between the Mainland and Hong Kong and promoting real economy-related

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applications and innovations by the Virtual Assets (VA) and Web3.0 sector, as well as further development of the regulatory framework.

"To elaborate on our three major initiatives, the FSTB published details on Nov 6th regarding each of the initiatives for better understanding by all stakeholders," Mr Hui said.

The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) welcomes the plan to establish a new IFP for retail fund distribution, noting that this will reinforce Hong Kong's position as a leading international asset and wealth management center.

The e-CNY applications announced represent cross-boundary financial innovations, connecting the e-CNY ecosystem with payment vehicle and banking payment system in Hong Kong. These innovations focus on retail payments, facilitating cross-boundary www.VARonline.com

consumption and interconnectivity within the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong.

On facilitating innovations by the VA and Web3.0 sector, the Government of Hong Kong will seek to promote real economy-related applications and innovations by the sector, for example tokenization of Real-World Assets and traditional financial assets, and further development of the regulatory framework for VA-related activities.

"I am glad to learn that our initiatives are well supported. Looking ahead, the Government will join hands with regulators and major market players to press ahead with the initiatives, with a view to injecting new energy to our ever-growing fintech ecosystem," Mr Hui said.

HK FINTECH STORY

FINANCIAL

FOSTERING COLLABORATIVE FINANCIAL INNOVATION FOR AN INTERCONNECTED FUTURE By: Srijith K N, Assistant Editor

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intech encompasses more than just the convergence of finance and technology; it is an interdisciplinary field that intersects with various other disciplines, including law, sociology, and politics. To ensure the continued success of the fintech industry, adopting an interdisciplinary mindset and approach is imperative.

During my recent visit to Hong Kong, I encountered a diverse array of payment methods, including cards, cash, payment apps, and e-wallet top-ups. This experience highlighted that the realm of payments extends beyond the boundaries of finance and technology. Clarity in regulations and standards can significantly enhance global financial transactions, making them even more seamless. Collaborative efforts from diverse fields and across borders can improve the lives of individuals and bring added value to companies operating in the fintech sector. The collaborative nature of the fintech industry should be geared towards seizing opportunities rather than fixating on threats.

Implementing collaboration in the fintech space can be approached from two angles: cross-sector collaboration and cross-border collaboration. Cross-sector collaboration

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offers substantial value as it allows each sector to focus on its strengths, ultimately maximizing project efficiency. For example, the medical sector needs a seamless way to handle payments, there is a growing prominence for digital health records and telehealth. Today, fintech has even touched a farmer’s lives. Now farmers can use fintech solutions for crop insurance, digital payments and even accessing marketplace to sell their produce.

The digitalization of the supply chain industry using technologies like blockchain, and smart contracts will enhance traceability and transparency and would be a promoter for growth opportunities in the automotive sector.

On the other hand, cross-border collaboration is gaining prominence as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, and cross-border interactions among individuals are on the rise. The cross-border landscape is on the verge of significant improvements at both wholesale and retail levels, resulting in faster and more convenient payments.

Blockchain technology offers a pathway to interoperability, paying way for seamless collaboration between disparate payment systems. The pace of blockchain innovation,

HK FINTECH STORY

FINANCIAL

particularly in the field of tokenization, is expected to accelerate in the coming years. Use cases such as tokenized bonds have already moved beyond the proof-of-concept stage and are being adopted in real transactions. The utilization of blockchain-based payment methods, including stablecoins, wallets, and tokenized deposits offered by banks, is anticipated to increase.

As fintech continues its relentless expansion, transcending industries and international borders, a pressing demand arises for cooperation among governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), financial institutions, and technology pioneers. These collaborations often find their epicenters in innovative hubs like the DIFC Fintech Hive, transforming cities like Dubai into major international financial hubs. Well in Hong Kong too, I witnessed innovation hubs like Cyberport hosting over 2,000 startups within its digital ecosystem. And today we can confidently predict that the future of fintech hinges on a cross-disciplinary and sustained commitment to collaboration among these diverse stakeholders.

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NOVEMBER 2023

55

INRISKABLE

FINANCIAL

THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF NEWS DATA IN FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING By: Megan Chau, Co-founder, InRiskable

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n the contemporary business landscape, financial institutions and banks bear the pivotal responsibility of discerning news updates and diligently scrutinizing customer profiles to pinpoint prospective credit vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, they grapple with the formidable task of overseeing numerous data sources, compounded by constant influx of daily information.

News data plays a vital role in the financial realm. The rapid flow of information and interconnected global markets necessitate data-driven decision-making to effectively mitigate risks. Notable incidents like the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and the stock volatility of GameStop (GME) underscore the importance of accurate and timely data.

SVB's collapse resulted in estimated losses of $20 billion, illustrating the magnitude of financial risks when proper risk assessment is lacking.

HARNESSING NEWS DATA WITH INRISKABLE InRiskable, a Hong Kong startup, harnesses big data and AI technology to revolutionize risk analysis in the financial sector. Their advanced technology enables banks and financial institutions to proactively identify credit risks, track market trends, and make informed real-time decisions.

AI TECHNOLOGY: Using real-time news data, InRiskable assesses credit risks and identifies potential pitfalls. Their advanced AI engine analyzes vast quantities of news data from global sources, accurately categorizing risks across 23 categories with over 90% accuracy. Through their AI-powered API, they deliver real-time risk data, enabling banks to promptly capture emerging risks, take prompt action, and minimize losses.

Additionally, InRiskable offers a streamlined SaaS platform that enhances risk management procedures by 80%.

"Because data is fundamental to every analysis, what slows us down is messy data," said Megan, the co-founder of InRiskable. The team was founded in Hong Kong by two AI developers who previously worked in financial institutions.

The messy data tends to be the pain of every data scientist and data analyst, hindering the efficiency of their analysis.

They provide extensive coverage from 600+ verified news sources in Hong Kong, China, APAC, the Middle East, and the United States, including popular news outlets, crypto news, government press releases, and court cases. Their generative AI offers article summaries, breaking language barriers for global users.

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RAKTDA

HOSPITALITY

RAKTDA & OMRAN GROUP FORGE PARTNERSHIP AT WTM 2023 LONDON

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as Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion and marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.

The agreement was signed in London, UK, between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group during a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market, one of the most influential annual global exhibitions on travel and tourism.

The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading global tourism destinations in the Middle East.

The agreement will see leaders of both organisations work together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in a single trip.

Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: “This first of its kind agreement is built upon a formidable synergy between Ras Al Khaimah and the neighbouring Musandam Governorate.

We look forward to working together with OMRAN on crossdestination promotions which will not only showcase each of our destinations’ distinct tourism offerings, but also raise awareness among international visitors about the wide range of tourism attractions in the Middle East.”

Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, OMRAN Group’s Chief Executive Officer, said: "It gives us great pleasure to partner with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. This MoU underscores the pivotal role tourism authorities play in championing natural assets and cultural heritage. Through our joint efforts, we aim to craft distinctive and innovative experiences for global travellers, further enhancing the allure of our region."

Taken together, the new strategic partnership will offer travellers a seamless experience which showcases the rich diversity of tourism offerings within the Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, making it easier than ever to explore and enjoy both destinations.

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NOVEMBER 2023

57

TABBY

HOSPITALITY

TABBY PARTNERS WITH ALMOSAFER TO OFFER FLEXIBLE PAYMENTS TO TRAVELERS

TRAVELERS CAN NOW USE TABBY TO PAY FOR THEIR TRIPS IN 4 MONTHLY PAYMENTS ACROSS ALMOSAFER’S CONSUMER PLATFORMS

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abby, the MENA’s leading shopping and financial services app, is now available as a payment option on Almosafer.

Tabby has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s leading consumer travel brand, Almosafer, to offer travelers the option to split their travel expenses into four interest-free payments, allowing them more flexibility when planning their trips across Almosafer’s consumer channels.

Hosam Arab, CEO and Co-Founder of Tabby said: "We are delighted to partner with Almosafer to provide flexible payments to their customers, especially at a time when many are looking for ways to regain financial control and purchasing power in the face of rising travel costs.”

Pallav Singhvi, VP Consumer Travel at Almosafer, added: “We are continuously striving to offer our customers exceptional value and

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enhance their experiences by expanding the range of essential services we provide. Our partnership with Tabby will now enable more customers across KSA, Kuwait and the UAE to enjoy a hasslefree booking experience with easier and convenient payment solutions.”

With over 1.5 million hotel booking options around the globe, flight options with over 450 airlines, car rentals, complete holiday packages and more, Almosafer offers a wide range of convenient booking options to suit every type of travel need. With Tabby as a payment option, this process will become an even more seamless booking experience across Almosafer’s online channels, branches and call center.

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