Have a question? +971 56 404 0503
News
GITEX Technology Week 2015 Drives Middle East’s Internet of Things Business Innovation with Drones, Robotics, and 3D Printing
The Middle East is primed to become a global driver in Internet of Things (IoT) connected innovations, as the GCC’s cloud market is set to grow from USD 118.5 million in 2014 to USD 668.5 million in 2020[1], industry experts announced today in the build-up to GITEX Technology Week 2015.
Connected cloud technology such as mobile apps, e-government, drones, 3D printing, and robotics will form the foundation of the region’s rapidly-growing Future Cities – a key spotlight at the landmark 35th GITEX Technology Week, running 18-22nd October. By 2025, the global Smart Cities market will reach USD 3.3 trillion, with nearly half of the world’s 26 Smart Cities arising in emerging markets such as the Middle East.[2]
“Spearheaded by regional investment and development, the Middle East continues to be a significant pace setter in driving forward innovative discussion, implementation and knowledge exchange around IoT agendas. In testament to this, the 35th anniversary of GITEX Technology Week will be our most expansive and international edition to date. Our roster of world-renowned thought leaders and global technology companies reflect the strong demand for how Internet of Things technologies such as drones, robotics, and 3D printing can impact daily lives and every industry vertical in the Middle East and beyond,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers of GITEX Technology Week 2015.
Celebrating transformative technology in the build-up to UAE Innovation Week and in line with the UAE’s Year of Innovation, GITEX Technology Week 2015 will be held under the theme of “The Internet Future of Everything,” revolving around the pillars of Innovation, Connected Cloud, Big Data, Mobility, and Security.
Focusing on driving collaboration and next-generation agenda setting, a host of new initiatives are being spearheaded for the 2015 event.
In tandem with the Year of Innovation, the GTX Horizons Zone will showcase leading edge demonstrations of next generation disruptive technologies across 3D Printing, Autonomous Vehicles, Drones and Robotics. Innovation, Interoperation and Disruption will continue as themes across the GTX Ignite conference, a powerhouse of global thought leadership, and GTX Innovation Tech Talks, free to attend sessions, that will host over 100 sessions with 150-plus global futurists, including the Prime Minister of Estonia, ICT ministers from Egypt, Kenya, and Nigeria, and senior executives from Accenture, BP, Boeing, and Facebook.
In partnership with the UAE Drones for Good Award, GTX Horizons’ Drones Zone will host a selection of this year’s award winners, and drones from top manufacturers such as DJI, the world’s largest manufacturer of drones.
The GTX Hub will form the umbrella of industry vertical-focused digital transformation, providing new research, networking, and solutions for the key verticals of banking, construction, education, healthcare, retail, and oil and gas. This is being driven by reports that the GCC’s vertical specific software market is set to nearly double from USD 756 million in 2014 to USD 1.45 billion in 2020.[1]
At the Robotics Zone, sponsored by DigiRobotics, attendees can learn how to enable robotics for the IoT era and witness the latest robotics across industry verticals.
The event’s first-ever 3D Printing area, sponsored by Jacky’s Business Solutions LLC, will showcase 3D printing across a variety of materials, and how it can impact fields such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Additional new and expanded GITEX Technology Week features include the world’s largest Google CSI Lab, All Night Hackathon, Hot Stuff Awards, Student Lab, and networking platforms the Connexions Majlis, Connexions Lounge, and Connexions Online.
Co-located events include the GSMA Mobile 360 Series, the region’s leading mobile community conference, and InfoComm MEA, the Middle East and Africa’s leading audio visual technology event.
Reinforcing GITEX Technology Week’s standing as the largest ICT exhibition in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, and the third largest in the world, the show is expecting more than 130,000 visitors from over 150 countries, with more than 20,000 C-level executives, and more than 3,600 exhibiting brands from 62 countries.
Global interest in the event is being further driven by the growth of Future Cities initiatives, which in the UAE is being spearheaded by the Smart Dubai Initiative and UAE Vision 2021 – key drivers of the country’s digital transformation.
“Dubai is committed to becoming a global benchmark for Smart Cities of the future. We are collaborating with leading public and private organizations to meet the needs of all residents and visitors, from government to education and healthcare, through a connected and responsive citywide infrastructure. Together with our partners, we are enabling smart economic conditions driving entrepreneurship and global competitiveness that will serve as a model for emerging nations. We are continually reviewing and refining the latest technology innovations, from mobile apps to drones, to understand how we may adopt these tools to make city experiences more seamless, safe, efficient and impactful for all,” said Dr. Aisha Butti Bin Bishr, Assistant Director General of The Executive Office and SmartDubai Taskforce leader.
As a marker of the strong Middle East adoption of IoT technologies, and the rise of the four technologically-advanced Economic Cities, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will serve as the Official Country Partner of GITEX Technology Week 2015, represented by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Interior.
“As the Official Country Partner for GITEX Technology Week 2015, the Kingdom will use this global platform to demonstrate best practices in government-led innovation to boost economic diversification, while encouraging foreign direct investment in the Kingdom’s ICT sector and supporting home-grown technology entrepreneurs to expand beyond our borders to deliver transformative services,” said Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Asiri, Official Spokesperson, National Information Center, Ministry of Interior, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
SAP, as Strategic Partner, will help guide digital transformation at GITEX Technology Week with the regional debut of the Run Simple Truck and demos of Big Data analytics solutions. SAP speakers at GTX Ignite include Jonathan Becher, Chief Digital Officer, SAP, and Oliver Bierhoff, General Manager of the German National Football Team, on how SAP solutions helped the team to win the 2014 World Cup.
“In order for Middle East organizations to succeed in the Internet of Things era and remain competitive in the Digital Economy, they must embark on a complete reimaging of their business across three dimensions: Business Models, Business Processes and how to organize Work within their organization. The most pressing issue facing Middle East organizations today is business complexity, which is causing organizations to lose 10 percent of their annual profits. With the regional Digital Economy set to double to USD 30 billion by 2018; real-time analytics of data will allow companies to reduce business complexity and run simple. At GITEX Technology Week, we will showcase roadmaps to support the digital transformation and demonstrate the power of Big Data analytics for real-time insights as the immediate entry that can drive digital growth and simplify business processes, from re-imaging the boardroom to Smart Cities and connected sports,” said Hannes Liebe, COO, SAP Middle East and North Africa.
Accenture, as the event’s Exclusive Digital Transformation Partner, will deliver compelling, industry-leading insights on how digital technology and the Internet of Things is transforming businesses and governments in the region, as well as globally. It will unveil the Middle East findings of its flagship Technology Vision research program and help facilitate a ‘digital discussion’ through social media wall installations at this year’s event. Its global thought leaders will also present on the Industrial Internet of Things and Smart Cities. Paul Daughtery, Chief Technology Officer, Accenture will be among the company’s thought leaders at GTX Ignite.
“Digital transformation can boost competitiveness and economic growth, and our research shows that unlocking this potential can add trillions to the GDP of top global economies. This region’s appetite for innovation makes it uniquely positioned to take advantage of the digital opportunity and we’re delighted to be at the heart of this conversation at GITEX,” said Omar Boulos, regional managing director of Accenture in the Middle East and North Africa.
IBM returns to GITEX Technology Week as a Lead Smarter Cities Partner, under the theme “Welcome to the Cognitive Era”. At GITEX, IBM will be sharing its industry leadership on how can companies, leaders and cities take this journey with IBM to become cognitive by capitalizing on all the work they’ve done to deploy cloud, mobile, analytics, social and security.
IBM will also focus on how cities can implement cognitive solutions to enhance its citizen services and experience such as building safer communities, providing cleaner water, more efficient transportation systems, healthier neighborhoods and smarter buildings.
Hospitality
Lavoya Restaurant Group expands its culinary portfolio in the GCC through the acquisition of Em Sherif Deli in UAE
Lavoya Restaurant Group has announced its acquisition of Em Sherif Deli franchise in the GCC, marking a significant step in the group’s strategic expansion within the culinary landscape. The partnership emphasizes Lavoya’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio and enhancing its presence in casual dining sector.
Em Sherif Deli, known for its authentic Mediterranean flavors and innovative deli offerings, has quickly gained recognition since its launch. With its flagship location in downtown Beirut, Em Sherif Deli respresents the rich culinary heritage of Lebanon while appealing to a modern audience.
Walid Hajj, Co-Founder and CEO of Lavoya, said: “This move represents a significant milestone for Lavoya. By integrating Em Sherif Deli into our portfolio, we are not only expanding our culinary offerings, but also reinforcing our dedication to fostering exceptional dining experiences. Em Sherif Deli’s commitment to quality and authenticity aligns perfectly with our vision for growth.”
Dani Chaccour, CEO of Em Sherif, said: “We are excited to be working with Lavoya to develop Em Sherif Deli in a market that we strongly believe in and have great plans for. Lavoya’s track record will in no doubt help us grow the footprint of this young, hip and new age brand. We look forward to our launch in the UAE soon”
As part of this collaboration, Lavoya plans to open multiple new locations for Em Sherif Deli in key locations across the UAE, further solidifying its position as a leader in the culinary sector. This move aligns with the UAE’s vision, which aims to promote economic diversification, grow the tourism and hospitality sectors, and solidify the country’s reputation as a premier dining destination.
Financial
Dubai Islamic Bank Celebrates Fifth Cohort of High Potential Programme, Paving the Way for Future Leadership
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) celebrated a notable milestone with the successful graduation of the 5th batch of high potential employees in DIB’s High Potential Employee Development Programme (HIPO).
In the bank’s ongoing endeavour to hone talent within the organisation and provide them with a platform to excel individually as well contribute in fulfilling the bank’s ambitious growth opportunities, the HIPO programme began in 2015 and has already delivered an army of nearly 150 professionals who are not just excelling in the workforce but leading by example.
The 5th batch of HIPO graduates were felicitated by the Group CEO, Dr. Adnan Chilwan, as well as other executives from the senior leadership team of the organisation.
The HIPO programme is an 18-month intensive leadership training schedule that includes a comprehensive suite of assessments, specialised training, mentorship, and coaching. Developed in partnership with globally recognised institutions, HIPO equips participants to excel in their roles and drive the bank’s strategic objectives.
To ensure the momentum is maintained, DIB has begun rolling out nominations for the next cohort for the next programme that is scheduled to commence in Q4 2024.
Commenting on the success and effectiveness of the journey undertaken so far, Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group Chief Executive Officer of DIB, said, “The High Potential Programme is central to our inclusive talent development approach within the organisation, designed to prepare the next wave of leaders in the banking and financial sector. This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering outstanding talent by empowering individuals who possess the inherent traits with advanced skill sets ensuring both professional and personal elevation as well as quality contribution to further the organisation’s strategic goals. Our ambition is to unleash these individuals into the financial world so that they support and positively impact the larger economic objectives of the UAE. I extend my warmest congratulations to all our graduates and look forward to their future contributions to our collective ambitions. We also extend our profound thanks to all our partners for their enduring commitment and involvement in our training endeavours, which are crucial in systematically cultivating quality professionals within our organisation.”
As DIB steadfastly invests in its workforce, the bank upholds its position of leadership in the banking sector as an Employer of Choice, committed to promoting professional development and fostering inclusivity at every level of the organisation including the vital Emiratisation Agenda.
In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Chairman of Dubai Airports,and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Airports announced a landmark collaboration with Etihad Clean Energy Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DEWA, to launch the world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation project at an airport.
To solidify this ambitious initiative, Dubai Airports and Etihad Energy Services Company formalised an agreement during the prestigious World Green Economy Summit organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the World Green Economy Organization. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 2 to 3 October 2024.
The agreement was signed by Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports and Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO.
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said: “This initiative aligns with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum vision to establish Dubai as one of the most sustainable cities in the world. While our roadmap outlines clear targets of achieving 25% of the energy mix from clean energy sources by 2030, and 100% by 2050, we are proactively accelerating our efforts. We anticipate surpassing these goals, potentially reaching 27% clean energy capacity as early as 2030, which would enable us to achieve our 2050 vision ahead of schedule. Undoubtedly, innovation and cutting-edge technologies are instrumental in expediting our progress towards a greener future.
This phased project of total 39MWp of clean energy, which will be fully operational by 2026, involves the installation of 62,904 solar panels across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports, set to generate 60,346MWh annually. It marks a significant stride toward decarbonising airport operations.
The solar panels, which will span passenger terminals and concourses across both airports, are expected to offset 23,000 tonnes of CO2 annually — equivalent to taking 5,000 cars off the road or powering 3,000 homes for a year. The energy generated will meet 6.5% of DXB’s power needs and 20% of DWC’s, reinforcing Dubai Airports’ long-term vision for cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable operations.
Sharing his insights on the initiative, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports said, “Airports are significant energy consumers, but with that comes tremendous opportunity and responsibility to drive real change. For us, this is not just about installing solar panels; it’s about embedding sustainability into the core of everything we do. Every kilowatt we generate from renewable sources brings us closer to shrinking our carbon footprint and future-proofing our operations. This is about setting the standard and leading the way for what a truly sustainable airport can achieve.”
Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, remarked, “Our longstanding partnership with Dubai Airports plays a pivotal role in our strategy to accelerate Dubai’s sustainability agenda. By broadening the solar footprint and implementing transformative initiatives like Shams Dubai, we are not only reducing energy demand but also driving the adoption of sustainable energy solutions across the emirate. This project, and others like it, demonstrates our commitment to building an integrated ecosystem that aligns with Dubai’s vision for a greener, more energy-efficient future.”
This solar initiative complements a series of ongoing environmental sustainability efforts by Dubai Airports, from strategic partnerships in the aviation sector to collaborative efforts within the oneDXB community, which includes airlines, service providers, and regulatory authorities managing the airport’s critical touchpoints. Whether it’s retrofitting hundreds of thousands of LED lights, optimising cooling systems, switching to biodiesel-powered ground vehicles, or cutting food waste to landfill, Dubai Airports is committed to making measurable, impactful changes — one step at a time.
The project builds on the successful installation of solar panels at DXB’s Terminal 2 and Concourse D, where solar power is already playing a vital role in reducing energy consumption and lowering emissions. While ambition and innovation drive progress, the key to achieving sustainable transformation lies in collaboration, foresight, and consistent action. Dubai Airports is focused on ensuring these values guide every initiative, aligning with Dubai’s and the UAE’s broader environmental objectives to create a better tomorrow, together.
Cash and Its Persistent Meaning
How GCC Telecoms Can Close the Digital Divide and Boost Digital Transformation
Lavoya Restaurant Group expands its culinary portfolio in the GCC through the acquisition of Em Sherif Deli in UAE
Denodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
Navigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
Brighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
Tech News3 months agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
Tech Interviews7 months agoNavigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News7 months agoBrighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
Features5 months agoSecurity in the Cloud Age: Combating Risks with Hybrid Cloud Solutions
-
Tech Features4 months agoThe Middle East to Lead with Next-generation Mission Critical Communication Advancement
-
Automotive8 months agoAl-Futtaim Automotive Builds On 23-Year Legacy of Trust & Leadership in UAE’s Pre-Owned Car Market to Sell Over 25,000 Used Vehicles in 2023
-
Tech News10 months agoSenet enters MENA’s Competitive Gaming Scene with ‘skill-to-earn’ Platform
-
Tech News9 months agoGoogle Appoints Ziad Jammal as Google Cloud Country Manager in the United Arab Emirates