News
GETTING TO THE THIRD PLATFORM

By Editor
Throu
gh a federated approach, EMC is laying out the road to the new era of computing which is now being increasingly referred to as the third platform of IT, a term originally referred to by IDC. Habib Mahakian, Regional General Manager, Gulf and Pakistan, EMC discusses the new areas of focus
What is the third platform about?
In the early years of the industry, we went through the Mainframe era wherein we had a few applications and thousands of users. Then we moved into the client-server era wherein we had thousands of apps and hundred of thousands of users. With the introduction of social Media, mobile computing etc, there is a lot of pressure on the current infrastructure which may not be able to accommodate the big push of data. The four trends, namely mobile, cloud computing, Big Data and social networking comprise the “third platform” of IT as IDC defines its. The third platform will be enabled to handle millions of applications and millions of users. Earlier, typically there was the structured database type of information coming in but now unstructured data is coming and you need an elastic and agile platform to address the burst of applications and users. Today even kids are users of applications thanks to the tablets and smartphones and so we need the shift to a new architecture.
Discuss what the EMC federation is all about?
The EMC federation comprises EMC II, VMware, Pivotal and RSA that collaborate towards enabling the emerging ‘3rd platform’ of mobile, cloud, big data and social. This federation is leading the industry on the road to the third platform.
This enablement will take place on different fronts. For instance, while Virtualization started out with server virtualisation, it is now heading into network, storage etc and the datacenter. VMware which is 80% owned by the EMC federation, leads the federation’s hybrid cloud and software-defined data center initiatives. On the other hand, Pivotal which is 100 % owned by EMC, is focused on next generation application development and will focus on bringing the Third Platform to the enterprise. EMC II (EMC Information Infrastructure) focuses on storage infrastructure that is being redefined with software defined storage. Further, we need trust about secured infrastructure, which is where RSA comes in and enables identity access management and actionable insights into security threats.
Are rollouts of such emerging third platform technologies unfolding in the region?
We have implementations already in the region. Also when you look at trends like e-governance for instance, three countries in the region, namely the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are well ahead. Pivotal will play a huge role in these three countries and enabling the smart services that Smart cities will need to be able to come up with services for the public. If you need to manage roads for instance in a smarter way, in real time, you need a platform equipped to provide the analysis and similarly to do analysis of social media, you need to have the necessary platform. The second platform of IT is not equipped to provide such realtime solutions.
How do the different entities within the federation collaborate?
VMware is within the federation but works independently. There are several coupled solutions between EMC and VMware like the hybrid cloud announcement recently. Pivotal is 100% owned by EMC but some of its solutions have also been adopted by IBM and the cloud foundry – so it is becoming the de-facto platform of the next wave of applications.
EMC II has storage, data protection, infrastructure and security with the RSA unit that is within EMC. EMC II is the biggest revenue generator within the federation and we will continue strongly by bringing out the next wave of products that will support the whole federation. For example the ViPR, a software-defined storage solution that abstracts, pools and automates the storage infrastructure are the kind of solutions that will connect the dots when it comes to developing a solution framework for the third platform.
The EMC federation supports open platforms. We don’t limit the customer to buying from one stack of solutions. So our software define storage platform supports even third party storage arrays.
What are the strong verticals for EMC in the region?
The major three industries are telcos, Banking, public sector. We are staring in some countries like Saudi and in UAE for mid-market solutions where we were not there. We are seeing good traction. The surveillance and security solutions is seeing good growth across the industry.
What is EMC’s focus on mid-market customers?
We recently announced the launch of VNXE 3200 midrange unified storage solution whose attributes are efficiency, security and agility. This meets the purpose of small and medium customers. We are working with service providers also to provide solutions to small and medium sized Businesses.
Do you see traction for Bi Data analytics deployments?
A lot of customers are realizing that they need to have Realtime analytics to be able to meet business objectives. Regular IT solutions aren’t enough to give Business the edge in meeting customer requirements. Whether it Banks, insurance companies etc, they need to be able to offer realtime solutions. The traction is there. That is we need more data scientists today to go out and meet these customers, map their requirements and help us design those solutions.
Flight tracker apps for instance tell you in realtime how planes are moving and you don’t need to check with your airlines when the flights will arrive. A lot of applications in Business are changing to accommodate for that big shift. Customers are aware that who lead today will prevail. If you lag behind, you will be out of Business.
Discuss your partner program focus?
The Business Partner Program (BPP) which replaces the Velocity channel program empowers and supports business partners in their current market space while also providing the tools they need to succeed in the dynamic “3rd Platform” that’s characterized by mobile, cloud, big data and social. The way we had partners classified previously was on basis of products and that suited the second platform. Now with the third platform, it is based on solutions.
While each company in the EMC Federation will have their own program, a lot of solutions will be cross track solutions. Training points from pivotal for instance can be used with EMC because we want to encourage solution selling for the third platform. We intend to be more flexible to make it easier for partners. It will be effective 1st of January 2015. We announced so that partners can be ready to meet new program requirements.
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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