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KEEPING A STEADY PACE

Published

10 years ago

June 16, 2015

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Updated : December 30, 2013 00:38 am,
By R. Narayan

With UTMs firmly established a growth segment and security a top priority for IT decision makers, manufacturers are focusing on meeting rising expectations of functionalities

The rising number of cyber security threats keep driving demand for security solutions despite overall budgetary pressures. Keeping pace, manufacturers have been bringing to market appliances that incorporate enhanced features to tackle specialized threat prevention, distributed denial of service protection, and application control among other myriad threats.

“The market data seems to indicate that demand is starting to increase again after a long winter nap. We believe that some of this if not most of the increase in demand stems from the fact that Cyberwar and Espionage are prevalent in many CSO and CIO’s minds. Our lab data seems to indicate that botnet based attacks are on the rise along with increasingly more complex malware and viruses that are aimed at spyware and similar access obtaining methods,” says Michael Goedeker, Director Pre Sales ESG, CEEMEA at Sophos.

UTM products that consolidate multiple security technologies into a single network device have been one of the strongest growth segments in security, since these devices enable less TCO and feature centralized management and deeper integration between complementary security technologies. According to IDC, the Unified Threat Management (UTM) segment saw the largest year-over-year revenue increase at 29.2% and accounted for 39.4% of security appliance revenue in 3Q13 as multi-function appliances continue to drive growth in the overall market

Manufacturers are challenged to remain innovative as customers seek to adopt new technologies such as cloud computing, virtualization, and mobile devices. To keep up with a fast evolving security landscape in the region WatchGuard recently launched WatchGuard Dimension, a business intelligence and visibility solution.

Corey Nachreiner, Director of Security Strategy at Watchguard explains, “UTMs will log a lot of data as well as a lot of security events happening in the network. A lot of administrators were therefore suffering from a deluge of logs-they have a lot of network appliances that tell them a lot but are not able to get a lot of business intelligence out of all this information. Dimension is thus a zero install cloud-ready solution which is sold as a virtual platform so that a customer can run it in their own private virtualization network or in a public cloud and then point all WatchGuard appliances to it. All the log data will thus go to Dimension with users getting a visibility control switch.”

Dimension, Corey adds, will also allow users to see things like all the biggest trends happening in your network, what programs your users are using, the different domains they are going to, the biggest security events by region and by user among other features. “It’s a very useful visibility tool that is very easy to install as it’s already pre-packaged for you,” he adds.

With virtualization taking hold, WatchGuard’s virtual strategy is taking shape. The Fireware XTM V and XCS V, WatchGuard’s UTM and email and messaging security products respectively now have virtual versions that work on Hyper V and VMWare. “Many customers are adopting cloud services driven entirely by virtualization in the back-end so it helps secure their cloud environment by offering a virtual version of our UTM platform,” said Corey.

Earlier in the year, Sophos had announced the availability of Sophos UTM Connected, which introduces expanded UTM managed endpoint protection with unique Web in Endpoint functionality, broader wireless coverage for large scale wireless deployments and higher performance networking. The introduction of Web in Endpoint functionality lets Sophos UTM go a stage further and make security layers communicate and combine to deliver more effective protection. This approach simplifies user experience and delivers a higher level of overall protection on which customers can rely.

Michael says, “Web helps to minimize attacks that seek to reroute unsuspecting users to infected websites that then install malware. Web blocks this and adds another layer of security (in an easy way) to all customers that use our UTM products. Customers and partners alike love how we add important security layers in an easy way that just works.

Shahnawaz Sheikh, Regional Director at Dell Sonicwall says that the introduction of Next Generation Firewalls with Generation 6 appliances offered double the power and performance from its previous generation. As lower-midsize companies grow to become upper-midsize and enterprise size, their security needs will get more complex, and they will outgrow their UTM appliances and deploy enterprise network security platforms, such as next-generation firewalls and SWGs (secure web gateways).

He adds, “Today’s security needs are more precisely addressed by Next Generation Firewalls that can delicately balance between the business needs and user needs. The concept of Next Generation Firewall is an extension of UTM technology where it offers all the functionality of UTM from the perspective of threat protection and offers additional benefits like managing applications granularly and getting the visibility of traffic to better manage the security of the network by proactively monitoring the suspicious traffic.”

“Secondly considering the current trends of mobility, cloud computing and consolidation, the demand for BYOD is also the need of the hour for many organizations. Historically Email Security was offered on an appliance, as a software and virtual appliance, this year the launch of cloud based Email security offering has given multiple options to our customers who can choose between the premises deployed solutions from the likes of hardware, software or virtual appliance to cloud based solution that eliminates the need for local deployment and management taking away all the pain of hiring the needed expertise and capex based investment,” adds Sheikh.

Over the year, cyberoam enhanced its UTM product line offerings to meet the new-age risks that come with always on apps and usage of high speed internet on a plethora of devices that users bring into networks. Cyberoam launched its NG series UTM appliances and virtual UTMs in ealier part of this year to protect physical and virtual network environments. These solutions provide feature of next generation Firewalls including advanced Application Controls, granular Layer 8 identity-based controls, Web Application Firewall, Advanced Threat Protection, Flexi-Ports with flexible I/O slots complemented with ease of management.

“Cyberoam realizes that network security needs vary with the size of organizations and the industry they belong to. Cyberoam offers future-ready security to SOHO/ROBO, SMEs and Enterprises with its NG Series network security appliances, available as Next-Generation Firewalls and UTMs. Available as hardware and virtual security appliances, they offer next-generation security features to help organizations secure their networks against emerging security risks. Cyberoam Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW) with Layer 8 Identity-based technology offer actionable intelligence and controls to enterprises that allow complete security controls over L2-L8 for their future-ready security,” says Ravinder Janotra , Regional Sales Manager – Middle East Cyberoam Technologies.

The SMB story

The threat perception from a cyber attack is always real for Businesses and individuals. SMB customers can be as vulnerable as enterprises but a sizeable minority at least of this segment may not always take proactive security measures. They have a need to be provided easy to install and use IT security solutions and are therefore a strong focus for the UTM manufacturers. Further, SMBs may also need to look at deploying the higher grade next generation firewalls than traditional UTMs since they bring application classification and control as an integral feature and will be able to see and filter the rising web application traffic in the age of thriving social media.

However, According to the Risk of an Uncertain Security Strategy study conducted by Ponemon Institute, many small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are potentially putting their organizations at risk because of uncertainty about the state of their security and threats faced from cyber attacks. The senior management is failing to prioritize cyber security, which is preventing them from establishing a strong IT security posture. The research, sponsored by Sophos, also identified that the more senior the position of the decision maker in the business, the more uncertainty there was surrounding the seriousness of the potential threat.

Michael says, “SMBs are being attacked more and are the target of spyware attacks that seek to steal company technology, secrets or interesting data. Other spam and social engineering attacks are targeting more and more SMB’s so that the symbiotic relationship between the company, partners and the end customers is very important. As attacks and their complexity increase, SMB’s need partners or when done by the customer themselves, a solution that is easy to manage, setup and rollout. Users expect transparency in regards to higher security and minimal disruptions in everyday tasks. This means that new solutions need to be implemented that are easy for the user so that acceptance is increased.”

Michael adds “Our solutions are made to be easy, work and get you protected with minimal setup and rollout times. We also make sure that it is easy to manage and use our solutions.”

Like all other regions, businesses in Middle East are highly aware of threat landscape and have evolved to see security as an issue related to business survival says Ravinder. It occupies top slot in their list of priorities. In fact according to IDC the Middle East IT security and appliance market is anticipated to grow at CAGR of more than 34% between 2010 and 2013.

Ravinder says, “Security awareness and sensitivity amongst SMBs has been increasing and they are willing to invest in security. SMBs can look at security solutions like UTM appliances, Next-Generation Firewalls offering integrated security over single platform to protect their networks which helps them reduce OpEx and CapEx in comparison with use of multiple point network security solutions.”

SMB organizations now have enough possible choices when it comes to choosing solutions that are enterprise class and scalable, opines Shahnawaz.

Dell Sonicwall’s Shahnawaz adds, “In my opinion the SMB segment is well served from a technology perspective as most technologies cater to SMB needs; even the new technologies targeted towards enterprise customers, in a matter of time gets available for SMB customers. BYOD is one of such good examples. Most SMB customers understand the importance of securing their assets from Internet threats and hence they look for security systems that can enable their businesses and offer business continuity during crises.”

Looking ahead

According to industry reports, customers are rapidly adopting the Next Gen Firewalls given the need for granular application intelligence and visualization.

“There is an ongoing approach to educate the customers about the benefits of the next best technology to what they invested few years ago and the growing demand for BYOD solutions keeps our focus on products and services that are needed by masses,” comments Shahnawaz.

As scenarios become more challenging, customers will need quick to deploy solutions and some will look for those arrangements from a new breed of Managed service providers. Cloud versions will find more adoption but shipments of appliances will also rise. Replacement of UTM by cloud options will remain at less than 5% through 2016 according to Gartner however, by then, most UTM devices will leverage cloud-assisted security and management features.

Michael says, “Proactive and intelligent systems that are easy to configure, manage and rollout will be key (and needed) in every security strategy to decrease disruptions and daily business. Partners continue to be a very important key to the successful security strategy and implementation of customers. MSP’s (Managed Security Providers) will become more important to SMB customers as attacks continue to increase in both complexity and damage to business by disruptions. MSPs will help smaller customers with no security staff budget to increase security posture and additional consulting and design help going forward.”

The security market is headed steadily towards high growth curve. Businesses in MEA will choose to invest wisely and enough invest in IT Security driven by dynamic cyber threat landscape and regulatory compliance needs. UTMs and Next generation Firewalls will therefore continue to be one of the focus areas of customers looking to invest in security solutions.

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How Resorts Are Balancing Business and Leisure Travellers

Published

12 hours ago

November 7, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa beachfront property with swimming pool, sun loungers, palm trees, and resort facilities

Attributed to Ahmed Abdraboh, Director of Sales & Marketing at Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa

In the highly competitive hospitality sector, resorts are facing the growing challenge of serving two distinct, yet frequently overlapping, types of guests: business and leisure travellers. The rise of the “bleisure” traveller; a blend of business and leisure; highlights a wider trend in today’s travel landscape. These travellers merge work obligations with their desire for relaxation and adventure, compelling resorts to adjust their offerings to meet the needs of both demographics. Striking this balance can be complex, but the benefits of effectively catering to both segments can be substantial.

Understanding the Unique Needs

Before delving into strategies, it’s crucial to recognize the differing needs of business and leisure travellers. Business travellers often seek efficiency, connectivity, and amenities that facilitate work. High-speed internet, dedicated meeting spaces, and convenient location are paramount. They value streamlined services, express check-ins, and an atmosphere conducive to productivity.

On the other hand, leisure travellers prioritize relaxation, exploration, and experiences. They are looking for leisure activities, spa services, fine dining, and cultural experiences that allow them to unwind and immerse themselves in the local environment. The challenge for resorts lies in creating an environment that simultaneously serves the quick paced demands of the business traveller while providing the dreamlike experiences that leisure travellers seek.

Designing Dual-Purpose Spaces

Resorts are increasingly designing their spaces to accommodate both types of travellers. Flexible meeting spaces that can be easily converted into event venues during weekends or evenings are a great example of this dual-purpose approach. By utilizing movable partitions and adaptable furniture, resorts can create environments that can host a corporate seminar one day and an intimate wedding or social gathering the next.

Besides, resorts can incorporate leisure and relaxation features into areas that business travellers frequent. For example, comfortable lounges equipped with charging stations for devices allow guests to work while enjoying the ambiance. Poolside cabanas that double as meeting points or casual brainstorming areas cater to those who need a break from the traditional boardroom setting. Integrating these elements can enhance the guest experience for both business and leisure travellers.

Enhancing Connectivity

Strong and reliable connectivity is a must-have for business travellers, but leisure guests also benefit from staying connected. Offering robust Wi-Fi throughout the resort is essential. Beyond connectivity, resorts can create work-friendly environments, such as business centres equipped with printers and meeting rooms, where guests can hold casual meetings or work off-site without compromising on comfort.

Additionally, the rise of remote work has blurred the lines between personal and professional life. As a response, resorts are finding ways to make remote work more enjoyable by providing inspiring locations, private workspaces, and even outdoor areas that combine work with leisure. Setting up dedicated “workcation” packages that include accommodations with office amenities lets resorts cater to guests seeking to blend productivity with relaxation without boundaries.

Curating Unique Experiences

For leisure travellers, resorts have traditionally focused on creating unforgettable experiences. Nowadays, these experiences matter to business travellers as well. With “bleisure” travel on the rise, their desire for unique, local activities can significantly enhance their stay. Resorts can curate experiences that appeal to both demographics, such as offering guided tours of local attractions, cooking classes with local chefs, or wellness retreats.

In addition to traditional leisure activities, resorts can design workshops and networking events that facilitate connections among business travellers. By organizing guest speaker sessions, skill building workshops, and panel discussions, resorts can nurture an environment where business professionals can network and learn while on holiday.

Wellness and Relaxation

Both business and leisure travellers share an increasingly common interest in wellness and self-care. For business professionals, long hours of traveling can lead to stress and fatigue. Therefore, wellness facilities; such as spas, fitness centres, and meditation rooms; become attractive perks for this segment. By promoting relaxation and holistic well-being, resorts can cater to business travellers who want to rejuvenate during their stay.

Implementing wellness programs that combine fitness classes, mindfulness retreats, and spa treatments allows resorts to appeal to guests looking for self-care options. Additionally, some resorts are developing wellness retreats specifically aimed at the corporate sector, offering programs that promote teamwork, creativity, and mindfulness training often directly aligned with business goals.

Tailoring Packages and Promotions

Another effective strategy for resorts is to develop tailored packages that target specific groups within the business and leisure traveller spectrum. For example, offering promotions such as weekend corporate retreats, where businesses can host strategy sessions while their employees enjoy leisure opportunities, effectively blends both worlds. Creating promotional deals that include meeting space for companies alongside discounts for leisure activities can greatly enhance the appeal for business travellers looking to unwind after hours.

For leisure travellers, resorts can offer exclusive weekend packages that provide special bonuses for their business counterparts, turning a business trip into an inviting long weekend for the whole family. Childcare services, family friendly activities, and adult only zones create an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy their vacation, regardless of the reason for their stay.

The Role of Technology

In the digital age, leveraging technology is instrumental in balancing the needs of business and leisure travellers. From mobile apps that allow for easy check-in and room service to smart room controls that enhance the guest experience, technology can streamline processes, making them more efficient for business travellers. Meanwhile, technology also allows for leisure focused experiences, such as custom virtual tours or interactive activities that engage guests.

Moreover, resorts can utilize data and analytics to better understand and segment their guests. By analysing preferences, resorts can tailor their offerings and services to meet the expectations of both business and leisure travellers, ensuring no one feels overlooked.

Resorts are navigating the delicate balance between business and leisure travellers in an ever evolving landscape. By understanding the unique needs of each segment and adapting their offerings creatively, resorts can successfully cater to both groups. With strategic planning, innovative space design, and a focus on creating meaningful experiences, resorts not only enhance profitability but also enrich the overall guest experience.

The market for dual purpose travel continues to grow, presenting exciting possibilities for resorts willing to embrace change. As business and leisure become increasingly intertwined, the path ahead is one of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to exceptional hospitality that meets the needs of all travellers.

Home Integrator

Dubai Welcomes Adhara Star: Acube’s First Project Officially Handed Over

Published

1 day ago

November 6, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Acube Developments has marked a major milestone in its journey as one of Dubai’s fastest-emerging real estate developers with the official handover of Adhara Star, its debut project in Arjan. Completed in under two years since the company’s inception, the development reflects Acube’s rapid rise in Dubai’s competitive property landscape and its ability to deliver on promises of quality, lifestyle, and innovation. With the project fully sold out 3 months after launch. Adhara Star signals strong investor confidence and sets the tone for Acube’s ambitious pipeline of future launches.

The freehold mixed-use project brings together 113 residential units across 13 floors alongside ground-level retail and podium parking. Designed for modern urban living, Adhara Star offers a curated mix of one, 1, 1.5-, 2.5- and 3.5-bedroom apartments, complete with laundry rooms, branded European appliances, and luxury finishes. The project combines affordable luxury with a community-focused lifestyle, appealing to Dubai’s growing base of families and young professionals seeking both connectivity and comfort.

Residents of Adhara Star will benefit from a host of premium amenities, including a rooftop pool, Japanese Zen Garden, male and female health clubs with jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, Indoor Gym, a basketball court, padel court, outdoor yoga, and an open-air fitness zone. The development is also a certified Green Building, highlighting Acube’s commitment to sustainable construction and resource-efficient design.

Engr. Imad Eddin Khalil GM_Partner New System Engineering LLC,
Mrs. Archana Iyer Creative Director Acube Real Estate Development,
Mr. Ramjee Iyer CEO & Founder Acube Real Estate Development, Engr.(Left to right)

Commenting on the handover, Ramjee Iyer, Chairman & CEO of Acube Group, said: “The handover of Adhara Star is not only a landmark achievement for Acube Developments but also a reflection of Dubai’s dynamic property market, where speed, precision, and quality make all the difference. By completing our first project in less than two years, we have demonstrated the strength of our fully integrated approach, which allows us to maintain world-class standards. We are proud to deliver Adhara Star as a symbol of luxury, lifestyle, and sustainability, and look forward to continuing this journey with our upcoming projects.”

As Acube’s debut project, Adhara Star represents more than just a building, it embodies the company’s philosophy of creating developments that serve as guiding stars for the communities they shape. With its brand promise, “Live on a Star,” Acube is poised to continue delivering projects that combine aspirational living with enduring value.

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SOBHA FURNITURE UNVEILS A NEW STANDARD FOR UAE FURNITURE MANUFACTURING WITH ITS DEBUT AT DOWNTOWN DESIGN 2025

Published

1 day ago

November 6, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Sobha Furniture exhibition booth with wooden facade and illuminated display at design trade show

Sobha Furniture, the newest addition to the prestigious Sobha Group, has officially launched at Downtown Design, unveiling a new standard of large-scale, design-led furniture manufacturing, made in the UAE for the world.

Sobha Furniture is reimagining local furniture manufacturing. With over 73,000 sqm of fully integrated, Industry 4.0-enabled facilities across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including a 53,000 sqm flagship plant in Dubai Industrial City (the largest of its kind in the region), Sobha Furniture is combining production precision, material control, and delivery capability at a scale the UAE has not previously seen.

This manufacturing power is guided by a global design perspective. The brand’s Milan-based design studio leads design development, material direction, and product refinement, ensuring international design standards inform every detail produced in the UAE.

“We are not entering a market. We are redefining it,” said Anuj Jain, CEO of Sobha Furniture. “There has long been a gap between design ambition and furniture manufacturing capability in this region. We built Sobha Furniture to close that gap. This is a world-class furniture manufacturing ecosystem rooted in the UAE. It is designed to serve developers, interior designers, architects, and projects at a standard previously only accessible abroad.

From Bespoke Vision to Industrial Precision

The launch was inaugurated by Mr. PNC Menon, Founder of Sobha Group, whose entrepreneur journey as an interior decorator began nearly five decades ago.

“My journey began with bringing complete interior visions to life, where bespoke furniture played a central role in the process,” said Mr. Menon. “Sobha Furniture elevates that specific passion and commitment to the finest furniture detail, placing it once again at the forefront. We are applying the essence of that original, one-of-a-kind craftsmanship to a new, modern scale. This is our legacy of meticulous detail, now crafted for the world.”

The Booth: Built with Intention, Defined by Detail

The Sobha Furniture booth at Downtown Design is designed as a calm, structured environment, reflecting the brand’s approach to precision, balance, and design clarity. The space directs attention to the relationship between material, proportion, and use, allowing the products to be experienced with focus.

Sobha Furniture showcases one Kitchen and one Walk-In Closet, both illustrating material discipline and functional refinement. The Walk-In Closet integrates gunmetal aluminium framing with walnut accents and softly illuminated interiors. The Kitchen is anchored by a striking Taj Mahal Quartzite island, paired with walnut cabinetry and gunmetal detailing. At the centre of the booth, an installation titled ‘The Elements’ brings together wood, metal, texture, and tone in deliberate balance, expressing the brand’s core belief that every detail is intentional.

The booth offers a focused first experience of the Sobha Furniture world, where design, material, and purpose work together to shape elevated living.

Design Talks: Thought Leadership in Practice

As part of the launch programme, Sobha Furniture will host Design Talks on November 6 and 7, featuring:

Carlo Magistretti, Chief Strategic Advisor
Vincenzo Vinci, Chief Design Officer

The sessions will explore design responsibility, material intention, and the evolving role of advanced furniture manufacturing in shaping interior environments.