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FABRIC-BASED NETWORKS THE FUTURE, BROCADE SURVEY SAYS

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Updated : December 11, 2013 01:00  am,Dubai
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img17Fabrics gain recognition as the foundation for data centre evolution, but reactive approach to network investment risks business growth and stability

A recent survey conducted by Brocade of 350 global resellers and systems integrators, identified that their customer’s primary network-specific concern is ‘data centre availability’ (40 percent of respondents), driven by virtualization and mobility, as opposed to ‘network-complexity’ that was their biggest concern last year.  Despite the fact that legacy enterprise networks are not “fit for purpose,” and a significant number experience multiple outages every week, there still seems to be an ‘unwillingness’ to invest in upgrades. 62 percent of the channel believes that budget constraints are having a “significant impact” on customers’ ability to invest in technology, with 63 percent seeing vendor financing as “vital” or “more important” over the next few years.
Almost a third of the channel stated that their customers only invested in networks when they want to adopt a new technology and their network cannot support the deployment of the specific new application or service. More than one in 10 admitted that investment was made only when the network was already failing. However that trend is slowly changing. The survey identified that the five top drivers of network investment are the desire to adopt virtualization (41 percent); demand for faster access to data and applications (41 percent); demand for greater bandwidth (32 percent); the need to support increasing data volumes (25 percent); and the need to support mobility (24 percent).
Khaled Kamel, territory channel manager, MENA at Brocade comments, “Customers have now realized that they need to be more proactive when it comes to modernizing their network infrastructure rather than their current reactive mode. As they look to adopt virtualization, software-defined networking, BYOD culture and meet the needs of more demanding users, it is imperative for them to deploy an on-demand, highly flexible and robust network infrastructure. They will be looking to the channel as strategic advisors. It is clear from the survey that Ethernet fabric based data centre architectures will be the de-facto standard in the future and those partners who can assist customers in their journey to fabrics will undoubtedly have a huge competitive advantage.”
Channel businesses expect wide scale adoption of fabric networks by 2020, with over a fifth claiming it will be the “standard/norm” for data centres to be built on fabric networks, and almost half saying it will be “very common” to have fabric networks deployed in the data centre by this time. One significant challenge, however, is confusion among customers as to what a “fabric” network is with a third of the respondents admitting that customers “have little to no real understanding of fabrics”. This is where consultancy and services will play a major role and these are expected to be major revenue earners for the channel in the years to come.
Consultancy and/or services account for less than 20 percent of revenues for 40 percent of respondents. Less than one fifth reported revenues of more than 50 percent from these sources. This remains virtually unchanged from last years’ research findings, but with over a third expecting consultancy and services to deliver more than 75 of their revenue by 2020 (in the 2012 findings), the question remains how they will make this transition. This year 74 percent confirmed that consultancy/ services revenue growth is “critical” or “important” to the future of their organization. The three biggest challenges to evolving their business strategies cited are low awareness of consultancy value among customers, competition from vendors, and a lack of people experienced in consultancy/services sales. Marketing services and client education are where distribution and vendors can both deliver additional value and support, while addressing a lack of experienced sales personnel is also an area where they can perform a critical role, redefining and refocusing training and education programs to help fill the ‘skills gap’.
Other interesting survey findings on current market trends include:
·         A quarter of the channel believes SDN will be a significant trend by 2020, but currently a third admit to knowing little about SDN.
Flexibility, not cost savings, is the main reason customers adopt the cloud (cited by almost a third of respondents), followed by fast adoption of applications according to 18 percent.
“The survey demonstrates our commitment to enabling our partners to gather strategic insights into the enterprise market that will help them win in the networking arena. We give them the required tools in the form of our world-class Alliance Partner Network (APN) programme that is focused on accelerating partner revenue growth though effortless sales, technical and marketing enablement, streamlined sales processes, and targeted incentives and rebates. Brocade is global leader in data centre fabric innovation and deployment with its VCS fabric technology which provides a key strategic advantage for its channels. Complementing our world-class solutions portfolio, our Capital Solutions offerings featuring network subscriptions and lease programmes help our partners differentiate themselves from competition,” says Mr Kamel.
“In partnership with Brocade, Tech Data was honoured to participate in the development of the report”, said Ken Griffin, VP of Product Marketing, Tech Data.  “Tech Data and Brocade share a focus on adding value through customized education, training and marketing to meet the needs of solution providers in the channel. With the changing landscape in technology, channel partners are tasked with providing complete solutions around cloud, mobility, the Internet of Things and more – from the data centre to the living room. Through our partnership with Brocade, Tech Data is committed to delivering value through the channel enablement of our Brocade partners.”
The Brocade survey was conducted with the support of partners Avnet, TD Azlan, TechData, Arrow ES, edsLAN, immix group, Mindware and Westcon.
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Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

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Ourwatr

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.

From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.

“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.

“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”

Stamp of UAE quality

All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.

Mission in a bottle

With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”

Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.

Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.

A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.

“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste,  it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.

The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.

Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.

More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.

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Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

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Ardee Al Marjan

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.

Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.

Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.

With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.

Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.

Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.

Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.

Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”

To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.

“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”

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MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

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MERED

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.

“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”

Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.

Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.

MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.

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