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BEING THE DATA AUTHORITY OF THE HYBRID CLOUD
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s data dominates the way modern business are run and managed, NetApp is assuring its customers that their data is in safe hands. A big claim comes from NetApp— The data authority for the hybrid cloud. A short interview with Fadi Kanafani, Regional Director Middle East & Africa at NetApp tells us how the company is all set to head to the forefront of data management with its latest innovations. The company is participating in GITEX Technology Week for the fourth time in a row. This year, the spotlight is on the latest range of cloud and nextgeneration data center solutions
– including its broad portfolio of solutions like cloud, hyper converged infrastructure, flash, software-defined storage, and Data Analytics. “Our clear expectation is that this year’s cloud services market in the MENA will grow at doubledigits as compared to 2016. This is in line with industry and analyst consensus for the MENA region. Drivers for this growth include the constant shift to the cloud to bring in more agility to the IT infrastructure; efforts to remain competitive and focused on business growth; but also, data sovereignty laws in the UAE, which stipulate where the data can be stored and that it is required
to remain within the country. “NetApp is a data management company. We believe we are the data authority for the hybrid cloud and we try to help our customers meet their quest and journey to digital transformation by allowing them to experience NetApp data fabric and the solutions.” Talking about their recently launched hyper converged infrastructure that launched in Vegas, Mr. Fadi says “With the new generation we have freed up the compute layer as well from the storage layer, so customers can scale up irrespective of either their compute layer or the storage layer without having to make big investments.
26 startups participate in day one of Supernova Challenge semifinals at GITEX Future Stars As GITEX Future Stars opened, over 700+ innovators startups from 75 countries including Japan, Italy, Sweden, Spain, South Africa, Nigeria, Bulgaria, UAE, and India engaged with investors, fellow entrepreneurs and technology leaders. Day one of the Supernova Challenge kicked off with over 26 startups pitching in the semifinals. Entrepreneurs from the UAE and around the world are participating in the challenge to win financing and other prizes. In addition to the top prize - the Best Global Startup - category, participants can win across categories including sectors and geographies. Addressing MENA’s Unicorn Aspirations Moderated by Christopher Schroeder, Author of Startup Rising and a leading voice in the region’s innovation ecosystem, the fireside chat on “Unicorn Breeding Ground-Fantasy or Reality?” saw discussion on the region’s potential and pressures to create the next unicorn after Careem. With participation from Ankur Shah, CFO, Careem, Maria Barsuk, Head of Venture Capital Investment Program, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Dr. Sayd Farook, Advisor, Director General’s Office, The Executive Office, the discussion saw high engagement from aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to receive funding advice from the best in the business.
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LAYERED SECURITY ON DOCUMENTS
SCREENCHECK SHOWCASES ZEBRA’S ZC10L LARGE SIZED CARD PRINTER AT GITEX ScreenCheck is showcasing the innovative large format card printing solutions from Zebra first time in the region - at the GITEX Technology Week in Dubai. Zebra ZC10L ID Card printer which can print on large sized cards with edge to edge printing capability. Motaz Melhem, Territory Sales Manager for Middle East, Identity Solutions, Zebra Technologies says “We are very excited by the new product launch of the ZC10L. It`s specifically aimed at event organizers, trade shows & exhibitions and allows users to print large-format, edge-to-edge colour cards in one printing process. The easy integration, small foot print and the consumable cost makes it ideal for small to large events.” “It is the right time Zebra launched the new printer” says Faisal Mohamed, General Manager, ScreenCheck Middle East. “Dubai Expo 2020 and other major events nearing the event ID market is going to grow fast. With Zebra’s brand name and its unique features we are confident that it will be a game changer in the event ID industry” headed. “The Zebra ZC10L is the right solution for the long awaited need in the event and entertainment market” adds Shaji Khadar, Business Head, ScreenCheck Middle East.
On the GITEX 2017 day 1, we sat down with David Colson, Director of Marketing at Troy Security Solutions to know their business roadmap and security solutions portfolio. (Excerpts) “Troy Security solutions is a global company and we are HP business partners. Securing documents is our primary line of business. Our software, combined with HP’s hardware, adds variable security elements to documents at the point of issue. Our software solutions enable you to add variable security solutions to do everything from data protection to copy proof the documents. We also do serialization on documents and use UV links to do hidden watermarks and also imbibe solutions to make sure that the item is copy proof,” says David. Security Printing Solutions from HP and TROY claim to deliver the ultimate level of security for localized, distributed and production workgroup applications. Using an HP and TROY Security Printer or MFP with secure locking trays, you can capture the full value of secure, distributed, on-demand printing of high-value documents, while lowering costs and maintaining tighter security and control. GITEX 2017 Spotlight: Secure Docx—TROY SecureDocs is a platform designed to add personalized, on demand, layered security to a company’s documents and records. SecureDocs allows companies to incorporate the platform into their existing process. This platform also offers a solution for companies that do not rely on preprinted security forms, but are looking to add security to the personal data added to the document at point of print.
A FORCE TO RECKON WITH In a brief rendezvous with Abbas Mukadam, General Manager, Strategy, the VAD told us how the company aspires to live the reality of connecting the right set of partners with the right set of solutions across the globe. “Strategy is a Value Added Distributor headquartered in UAE with a strong portfolio in diversified technologies like structured cabling, surveillance, intercoms, home automation, fire alarms etc to mention a few. We cater to India, GCC, North Africa and we are also expanding steadily to South and East Africa as well.” Abbas said that the company has been operational in the Middle East since 2012. Though they had participated in the 2015 edition of GITEX, they are considering this year to be a very focused one where they are much aligned and concentrated.
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SECURING THE NATION Innovative Solutions has been participating at GITEX for the last 5 to 6 years with a strategic goal which is to secure the nation. They have been assisting their clients in building and developing cyber security. The Deepi Suite is the latest offering by Innovative Solutions, which provides Managed Security Services (MSS). In addition, they have got inhouse built products like InfoShield which is a cyber security awareness platform which has been deployed in the financial regulator and other critical government institutions. As a part of vision 2030, in Saudi Arabia, innovative solutions are building and developing local resources and are offering those to their partners and clients. The other key area they are focusing is the managed security services. “We are pioneers in the cybersecurity. We have been in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the last 15 years and we have got solid strategic partnership nationally and internationally. Our resources are local and we keep on developing and enhancing our services. Most of our services are done within the nation” said Dr. Loai Al Omari, Cyber Security Service, Innovative Solutions. “Due to the new wave of cyberattacks, rapid technological advancements, and growing regulations, we have to constantly look at new and out of the box solutions to meet growing needs of the community. The solutions offered by Innovative Solutions must be agile and flexible to fulfil diverse needs” concluded Loai.
MICROSOFT IGNITES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION WITH INTELLIGENT CLOUD AT GITEX 2017 Microsoft’s GITEX focus this year is “Igniting Your Digital Transformation”. The company has segmented its stand to showcase the devices, apps and solutions that are allowing millions of organisations worldwide to engage customers, empower employees, optimise operations and transform products and services. Exhibits
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include Intelligent Cloud, Modern Workplace, Windows 10 Creators Update and Devices, and the Partners Zone. Microsoft-owned LinkedIn also showcased its Sales Navigator combined with the power of Dynamics 365 to empower sales teams in building strong relationships. Microsoft’s Intelligent Cloud exhibit focused on the all-new Azure Stack and
Azure 10, on which enterprises of all types and sizes can build their hybrid clouds, by combining public and private cloud environment to seamlessly share data and applications. The Azure 10 exhibit showcased a specially selected group of 10 Azure solutions, identified by marketing, sales, and engineering thought-leaders as having the
broadest possible applicability among customers. Microsoft’s Partners Zone hosted 32 regional partners and ISVs at its GITEX Stand. Each of them showcased solutions and services for all industries, built on top of Microsoft’s intelligent cloud platform, including IoT, machine learning, Mixed Reality, disaster recovery and Web apps.
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GITEX 2017
ARUBA TO DEMONSTRATE ITS INTELLIGENT MOBILITY SOLUTIONS AT GITEX The company will be demonstrating its mobility and IoT solutions that empower organizations to serve GenMobile – mobile-savvy users who rely on cloud-based business apps for
every aspect of their work and personal lives – and to harness the power of insights to transform business processes. Mr. Jose Vasco, Managing Director MEMA and CCEI at
Aruba comments: “The surge in mobile and IoT means that the network must deliver more than just connectivity. It is expected to provide actionable insights about the use of mobile and IoT
to justify future investments, so that businesses can adopt new technologies and serve the needs of GenMobile -while keeping the network secure and taking into account cost efficiencies.”
‘DAFZA ANNOUNCES THE FIRST SMART CUSTOMS FREE ZONE AT GITEX
TRRIPLE TO SHOWCASE DIGITAL PAYMENT INNOVATIONS AT GITEX
DAFZA’s GITEX pavilion this year will showcase a group of smart innovative initiatives in customer experience and organizational leadership aimed at supporting Dubai Plan goal of establishing a leading platform and a smart city. It will also highlight cooperation between DAFZA and Dubai Customs in making DAFZA’s industrial complex the first smart area in security and customs services. The area will provide security and customs services in an innovative and integrated manner through a Smart Center which will streamline commercial activities within DAFZA’s industrial area without the need for human intervention that automates procedures around the clock.
Digital payments will dethrone “cash as king” in the Middle East, and boost regional GDP by nearly USD 100 billion, industry experts revealed it ahead of GITEX Technology Week. As Middle East countries accelerate their digital transformation agendas with nationwide high-speed technology connectivity, one of the biggest benefits will be quick and easy mobile payments. In the near future, Middle East residents will be able to pay for parking tickets and in-store purchases, top up mobile phone minutes and data, and send remittances via mobile apps. Paolo Gagliardi, Chief Business Officer of Trriple, said: “Using digital payments, consumers and merchants can save time and money, and gain real-time insights on transaction history and spending trends.”
STARLINK UNVEILS ITS SDDC TECHNOLOGY ARCHITECTURE AT GITEX StarLink’s theme for GITEX 2017 is: Unify people, process and product by automating incident response with orchestration and machine learning. A cross-section of StarLink’s key vendors will showcase best-of-breed technologies that are embedded into the fabric of SDDC Security. “We don’t go to the market with a vendor or product centric view. We go with a solution centric view. The theme of our GITEX stand this year is ‘How to accelerate incident response’ using automation and orchestration that is based on machine learning technology. The more you can take the human out of the security problem, the more is the chance of protecting against breaches. Equifax for example, though having a patch management, they did not manage it well, due to human error. The solution to the problem is deploying proactive security, making sure you have proper tools in place to help combat the threat,” says Avinash Advani, SVP Strategic Alliances & International Markets at StarLink. So what differentiates them as a VAD? Avinash replies, “To be a VAD, you need to add value across the value chain- The partner, the vendor and the customer. We develop our model by adding value to the entire ecosystem. For vendor, we are a full extension on ground; for partner we develop programs to help partners become autonomous and helping them become more valuable; to the customer, we have a direct touch engine which has a soul purpose that is pipeline generation for the partners.”
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GITEX 2017
INFINET WIRELESS TO SHOWCASE SMART CITY SOLUTIONS AT GITEX InfiNet Wireless is at GITEX Technology Week 2017, marking the 10th consecutive year that the company has exhibited its solutions at GITEX. InfiNet will use this years’ event to showcase its complete portfolio of point-to-point (PTP) and pointto-multipoint (PTMP) wireless solutions for ‘Smart City’ applications including homeland security, traffic management and optimization, remoteenvironmental and health monitoring. “Our journey towards the smart cities of tomorrow must be less of a sprint and more of a methodical march. Healthcare, education, environment and public safety all await the innovators. Their applications – if built on the back of a robust, flexible, responsive and reliable wireless platform – will usher in that new smart city age we have all been waiting for” said Kamal Mokrani, Global Vice President, InfiNet Wireless.
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & PREVENTION TO PRESENT LATEST SMART SERVICES H.E. Awad Saghir Al Ketbi, Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services, said that the Ministry’s participation at GITEX Week under the UAE Smart Government’s umbrella will present an innovative range of smart initiatives and services that will impress visitors, following the Ministry’s visions for healthcare and the government’s National Strategy for Innovation. This is part of its strategic objectives to develop health information systems, implement global standards in infrastructure management in health facilities, develop appropriate technology to manage the healthcare system and improve the results of the Intelligent Transformation Index and Quality of Health Care for the happiness of the society. Al Ketbi highlighted the quality services and projects being led by the Ministry, which provides an innovative platform to showcase the latest smart health services including a simulation of the future of health care in partnership with some of the world’s leading technology providers. He urged participants to visit MOHAP’s stand to see and experience the various futuristic health technology solutions. He added that the Ministry will also present its outstanding portfolio of advanced technical services and solutions such as ClinicalKey, an efficient and easy access to the latest clinical information based on research and evidences from patients’ conditions. Another feature is the Intelligent Patient Education Service, which offers patients a unique experience when it comes to accessing information regarding their health condition, in accordance with the patient’s health education standards and following international standards. The information is provided in multiple languages, supported by illustrations and easy to understand terminologies. MOHAP will also showcase VitalLink, a technology that allows doctors to make conclusions and decisions based on data inputs and patterns based on recorded readings, which aims to reduce misreading and human errors. It will also highlight its Patient Portal, which aims to provide patients with electronic access to their health records, including all clinical health information, booking appointments and communication with healthcare providers. Another initiative to be featured in the technology event is an electronic import system which facilitates and streamlines the procedures for pharmaceutical companies and medical equipment providers, providing them an interactive platform to conduct transactions including an electronic payment features and electronic customs clearance. The Ministry of Health and Prevention has developed a number of smart services as part of its efforts to add value and improve the quality of performance in the sector, with the end goal of ensuring the satisfaction of customers, while keeping pace with global best practices. These services include the licensing of various aspects of health care management such as private health facilities, private health professions, health advertising, health professional regulations and certification of staff.
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MOBILY BUSINESS EXPANDS ITS CLOUD COMPUTING FOOTPRINT WITH VIRTUSTREAM AND DELL EMC Etihad Etisalat (Mobily), a leading mobile and data service provider in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia along with Virtustream, the enterprise-class cloud company and a Dell Technologies business, and Dell EMC today announced a new strategic agreement to support the development of Saudi Arabia’s cloud computing market. As part of the new agreement, cloud computing services will be established at the Mobily Melgha 2 data center in Riyadh, which will be linked to the two existing cloud computing data centres located at Dammam and Jeddah. With this development, Mobily Business will own the largest cloud computing network in the Kingdom, enabling the company to offer unprecedented levels of secure cloud services to the Kingdom’s business sector. At present, Mobily Business provides cloud computing services from its data centers situated in Dammam and Jeddah. By expanding its cloud footprint to its Riyadh-based Melgha 2 data center, Mobily Business’s customers will have the flexibility to choose the most suitable location to operate their applications and systems, without any impact to the standard of service. Mobily Business’s cloud computing services are currently being used by businesses across various sectors for its high operational efficiency, enhanced productivity and significant reduction of operating expenses. Virtustream will provide professional services to upgrade Mobily Business’s existing cloud footprint and will build new cloud environments for future cloud services. Commenting on the signing of the agreement, Eng. Ismail Alghamdi, Mobily CBO said, “Four years ago, Mobily Business embarked on its journey to provide cloud computing services across the Kingdom. Today, we ascertain our commitment by expanding our offerings in cloud services by signing a strategic partnership with the world’s leading technology companies, Virtustream and Dell EMC, to provide highly-reliable services to meet the strong growth in cloud adoption in Saudi Arabia.”
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GITEX 2017
CISCO AND MIRAL SIGN MOU TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES TO ADVANCE THE DIGITIZATION JOURNEY FOR YAS ISLAND, ABU DHABI
A NEW REALITY IN SECURITY Karl Heinz Warum, VP, CEEMEA, while talking to us on Day 1 of GITEX, puts across a great metaphor for their hallmark concept of Synchronized security. He says, “Imagine a soccer game where 11 players are playing a game of their own with no synchronization. What would be the result? The same happens in an organization if the security architecture is not synchronized. We have to realize that data is the new goal of every
hacker and everybody wants to steal data. Security market has changed dramatically over the couple of years. The bad guys are getting very intelligent. If you are not prepared to fight this with Intelligent systems, then your organization is definitely at risk.” The way that Sophos looks into synchronized security is; Imagine a robber breaking into your house. He will definitely not knock at the main door. He will
look for the first window, then go for the second… and then so on and so forth. The same happens with an organization. A hacker will first attack your network, then hover around to the endpoint and then somewhere else until he reaches the vulnerability point. Karl adds, “Business today needs a more cleverer approach. As long as we do not not have the right intelligent systems, it is like going to a gun fight with a knife.”
FINESSE PREDICTS THE USAGE OF AI AND PREDICTIVE ANALYSIS IN TODAY’S BUSINESSES Increasing significance of artificial intelligence in recent years makes us wonder how it will define future technologies, and have an impact in our lives. Artificial intelligence is a predictive technology. In it, the machine is trained to accurately predict the most optimal outcome. In the last few years, we have seen many major corporations and industries (including here in the Gulf) turn to AI to handle certain processes. The increasing adoption of AI has resulted in lowering the cost of prediction technologies. What we will soon see is not only more accuracy in machine based predictions, but also cheaper availability of machine based predictions and forecasting, substituting those offered by humans. With the easy availability of artificial intelligence and predictive technologies, we at Finesse believe that we will see them used more frequently across various fields including healthcare, where health disorders can be detected more accurately, and treated at the onset. We can already see the impact of machine learning today in the field of navigation. A lot of tech giants that have invested heavily in AI, are also in the process of building autonomous driverless vehicles.
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Cisco today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s creator of destinations, to further explore opportunities to enhance Miral’s digital offerings across its portfolio of leisure destinations on Yas Island. The MoU establishes a framework for closer collaboration between the two parties by leveraging Cisco’s broad portfolio of technology products and solutions to support Miral’s vision to create unique and exciting destinations. The agreement outlines a number of potential areas for cooperation that aim to enhance and differentiate Miral’s destinations through the use of innovative, intelligent technology and best practice within the IoT space. “At Miral, we are proud to have an innovation-driven culture that enriches our product offerings and world-class customer experiences. Adopting the latest seamless technology is central to our strategy to establish Yas Island as a top global destination in which to live, work, play and invest.” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral. “Our partnership with Cisco will allow us to explore and identify tangible outcomes through a digitization journey that will enhance the global attractiveness of our destinations and theme parks, enabling us to create a seamless customer experience that drives loyalty and return visits.”
THE CRITICAL
INFRASTRUCTURE FORUM 2017 28TH NOV 2017
THE NEXUS OF GCC COUNTRIES FOR FUTURE ECONOMY Unveiling the investments, roadmap, technolgies and key infrastructure pillars that put GCC on the map of global competitiveness
H E L D U N D E R T H E PAT R O N A G E O F THE MINISTRY OF ECONOMY, UAE
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