News
COLLABORATION FOR A STRONGER DATACENTER

By Editor
Gregg Petersen, Regional Director, Middle East and SAARC speaks on the collaboration with NetApp and Veeam’s ongoing mission to enable the always-on business by providing data protection to the modern data center.
Discuss the details of the product integration following this technology partnership?
NetApp is no doubt one of the major players in the storage world, and one of its best and most known feature is its snapshot technology. Efficient, space saving, with basically no impact on production workloads, NetApp users has always relied on this technology to protect their data. The power of NetApp has always been in its software: the ONTAP operating system offers a full-featured storage platform, and the snapshot technology is the starting point for more advanced protection solutions like SnapMirror (data replication towards another NetApp system) and SnapVault (data backups).
Our Veeam Backup & Replication also uses snapshots a lot. When it connects to a VMware infrastructure to protect your virtual machines, everything starts with a snapshot; regardless it’s going to be a backup or a replica. And it’s a software solution, just like ONTAP.
The Veeam and NetApp partnership is deeply technical and delivers three key capabilities:
The first is the ability to perform data backup with almost zero impact to the existing infrastructure by leveraging NetApp’s fantastic storage snapshot technology. This unlocks more frequent backups for offsite and archive.
Veeam allows recovery operators to reach into a storage snapshot and recover individual machines, files and application items. This means that our customers can have more recovery points to roll back from, down to minutes apart, but maintain the ability to perform granular recovery. It’s like having the ability to have a zero-impact ‘undo’ button for all virtual machines, email and files.
The ability to have Veeam move backups offsite using the power of the NetApp storage array. This helps customers conform to the 3-2-1 rule of data protection – Three copies of data (one in production), on two different media, one of which should be offsite.
Would this be provided as an appliance?
No, Veeam Backup & Replication is a software solution, we believe it’s a better design because it does not lock customers into fixed size configuration, but gives them the possibility to scale at will when needed. Release of v8 is planned for the second half of 2014.
What challenges does it resolve for a data centre when it comes to data backup?
Veeam Backup from Storage Snapshots connects directly to any NetApp FAS (Fabric-Attached Storage), V-series and Edge VSA with Data ONTAP 8.1 or later, without requiring an intermediate “proxying” ESXi server. It does not temporarily mount a LUN clone to a host as a datastore, but rather reads data directly from storage snapshots with our patent pending technology, removing many unneeded steps that take lots of time. Unlike competing solutions, our implementation can also leverage CBT, so collectively backup execution times can be lowered up to 20 times. This means for customers the shortest possible backup window, the lowest impact on production virtual machines, and the maximum RPO.
NetApp users often use their storage systems not only with block volumes, but with NFS too. Veeam is not going to change the way you use your storage: we developed proprietary, optimized NFS client, and we are able to run Backups from Storage Snapshots even when your VMware virtual machines are running off an NFS share hosted by NetApp.
Do you see this suiting data centers, small to big?
We see this integration as a perfect fit for any NetApp customer, regardless of their size. As Netapp built its success story with a unified operating system used across their entire array range, we offer a solution that works with any FAS and V array, from the smallest ones to the largest clustered mode installation. We know Netapp has a strong presence in datacenters, together with our capabilities to manage the two main hypervisors in the market, and also VMware vCloud Director, surely we see data centers of any size as a potential target.
What is recovery point objective? How is this improved in the solution that takes backup from storage snapshots?
Storage snapshots have always been the preferred solutions for those customers willing to achieve high RPO (Recovery Point Objective) values. This is especially true in environments with 24×7 operations like service providers, data protection activities are executed while workloads are running; lowering the load onto the storage as much as possible is then a high priority. One of the best ways to reach this is to operate directly at the storage layer, using storage snapshots that can be executed without involving the hypervisor.
Not all storage is equal, and the level of performance guaranteed by the storage snapshot technology changes by the vendor. NetApp has a rock solid reputation around its proven snapshot technology: it can be used as “point in time” recovery sources inside the primary storage itself, and its efficiency makes it possible for the creation of a large number of restore points, without any impact on production workloads, even during working hours. Those snapshots can be replicated to a secondary (and often remote) storage system using SnapMirror, and finally archived thanks to SnapVault.
Does this only address backups from a pure virtualized environment or is this also meant for a heterogeneous environment?
Veeam has focused from the very beginning on virtualized environments. We have always maintained that this would be the future, and every year that we witness growth in virtualized workloads is a validation of our vision.
In addition, the freedom that came from not supporting our legacy environment gave us the possibility to introduce ground-breaking technologies like our patented Instant VM Recovery that works best with virtualized environments.
Is this an exclusive one with NetApp or would Veeam look for such possible product integration with other storage Technology vendors?
Veeam has many technology alliances with other vendors, and we are always looking for additional supporting vendors. Netapp is one of our first partners to be included in the new storage integrations capabilities.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

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.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

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.”
Home Integrator
MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

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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