News
Changing Trends in the MEA Server Market
The dynamics of the server market has been going through some major changes over the last couple of years in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). To paint a clearer picture, it is important to understand that servers are classified into different types based on their instruction sets – x86 and non-x86. The former of these are further broken down into four product categories: rack-optimized, tower, blade, and density-optimized servers. And while rack and tower servers – the traditional leaders of the pack – remain the most popular form factors, blades and density-optimized servers are both gaining ground.
Located towards the lower end of the pricing spectrum, rack servers are more likely to be adopted for projects within the government and education verticals, where price typically plays an important role in determining purchases. As such, they will continue to be the mainstays of the MEA market. Tower servers are beginning to decline in popularity, but they still hold a good share of the market, primarily due to the fact that this form factor is the cheapest.
Blades have recently become very popular in MEA, and IDC predicts that their share of the region’s market will overtake that of tower servers over the next five years. Density-optimized servers have also begun to pick up traction in the region, and IDC is expecting to see a couple of major projects in this space in Turkey and Qatar before the end of the year.
What’s interesting to note is that there has been a slowdown of server shipments to the region over the last couple of years. The major reason behind this slowdown is the growing uptake of virtualization technologies, which require less server units than was previously the case. This means that a growing number of organizations are now actively optimizing their existing installed base of servers rather than increasing their physical server capacity. And the figures back this up, with the region’s virtualization rate already standing at more than 35%.
Over on the other side of the market, non-x86 servers have been steadily declining over the last couple of years as new workloads are predominantly added on the x86 side. Typically, we are seeing a trend where organizations would rather purchase cheaper servers and virtualize them than purchase very expensive RISC, CISC, or EPIC servers.
While the MEA server market did see a slowdown in shipments during 2014, the decline of just 1% year on year compares favorably to the overall global trend, with HP and Dell respectively occupying the market’s first and second spots. This relatively strong performance was made possible by a number of significant deals that took place towards the end of the year. This includes the region’s biggest ever high-performance computing (HPC), awarded to Cray Inc. by Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to accelerate its supercomputing capabilities in both its laboratory and learning environments.
Unsurprisingly, average selling prices (ASPs) increased last year as vendors strived to hit their revenue targets at a time when volumes are falling. However, IDC is seeing a decline in ASPs this year as Lenovo and Huawei are offering prices that are 40% lower than their A-ranked rivals. To quantify this, the drop in ASP from Q4 2014 to Q1 2015 alone was 13% for all vendors combined. All that said, the MEA region continues to have a number of brand-loyal customers that prefer the more expensive options served up by HP and Dell.
While the region has seen a slowdown in server shipments over the last two years, the MEA market is expected to pick up again over the coming forecast period due to a number of reasons. Chief among these is Microsoft’s decision to end support for Windows Server 2003. Indeed, IDC expects the migration rate to pick up speed as there are still many organizations that have not yet made the switch due to the complexity of the process and the sheer number of servers that need to be rehabilitated.
The slowdown that has been seen in the purchase of servers has also driven vendors to become more innovative with their offerings, enabling them to handle different workloads and incorporate additional components like storage and networking as well. For example, Cisco’s UCS servers are sold alongside networking components. Such innovative developments will also play a considerable role in accelerating growth in the region over the coming years.
This return to growth in the MEA server market will be driven by demand for rack and blade units due to the growing requirement for Big Data computing capacity and converged systems. However, it is also worth pointing out that economic slowdowns, currency fluctuations, and government procurement issues will prevent the rate of growth from reaching its full potential in the MEA region, particularly in Africa.
The server space will doubtless continue to evolve over the next couple of years as new innovations emerge and customer demands become ever more complex. How will the major market players adapt to this change and who will emerge on top? Only time will tell, but you can be sure that it’s going to be an exciting ride finding out.
News
Deep Dive Dubai Launches Sunken City Walk, a Cinematic Underwater Experience that Makes Adventure Just a Step Away

Deep Dive Dubai has unveiled its newest attraction for experience seekers with the launch of Sunken City Walk. The guided underwater activity invites guests to step into a cinematic cityscape filled with surreal details. From an underwater swing and motorbike to a café table that looks straight out of a movie scene, this is Dubai’s latest must-try attraction.

The hour-long journey begins with a full briefing and safety overview, followed by guests changing into wetsuits and equipment provided on-site. They then join trained instructors for a 20-minute guided underwater walk through the Sunken City—an accessible, certification-free experience that requires no swimming skills, making it ideal for guests aged 10 and above. Currently offered at an introductory price of AED 600, with an optional 30-second keepsake video for AED 200, the experience is currently available in four daily slots at 11 AM, 12 PM, 2pm, and 3pm.
Jarrod Jablonski, Director, Deep Dive Dubai, said that “With Sunken City Walk, we’re continuing to shape Dubai’s reputation as a city of unforgettable experiences. It’s a unique attraction that reflects Dubai’s spirit, where visitors can discover adventure in ways they never thought possible.”
The launch reflects a global trend that travellers are choosing experiences over possessions. Supporting this, Shamal’s Experience Economy Report stated that 75% of UAE residents are more willing to spend on experiences, with 80% allocating a dedicated monthly budget. The launch also aligns with Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism appeal. According to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city welcomed 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, a six percent increase year-on-year, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading lifestyle and tourism hubs. Sunken City Walk at Deep Dive Dubai adds a new way for visitors to experience the city’s spirit of reinvention, where adventure is always just a step away.
While Sunken City Walk offers a first taste of underwater adventure, guests can plunge into the incredible world of diving at Deep Dive Dubai, choosing from experiences such as scuba diving, freediving, and specialised diving courses.
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.”
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