ACN | Summer 2025 3 EDITOR’S LET TER The ACN Team WELCOME TO THE NEW ACN The tech world has always evolved at a fast speed, but now things feel like they’re supercharged. And ACN (Arabian Computer News) is right there with it. With this exciting relaunch, we remain as dedicated as ever to bringing essential insights to IT professionals on the latest emerging technologies, digital transformations and everything shaping connectivity across the Middle East, and beyond. As part of this special relaunch edition, we’ve rounded up the top IT leaders in the Middle East. From CIOs to IT Directors, these are the pioneers at the core of development and data protection in the region. Our cover feature with Hisham Al Gurg, the CEO of Seed Group and The Private Offi ce of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, looks at the Gulf and how he has spent almost two decades building a strategic gateway for global companies into the region based on long-term partnerships. ZainTECH CEO Andrew Hanna opens up about how the company isn’t chasing buzzwords, but it is focused on building a regional ICT powerhouse the hard way. As ACN enters this thrilling new chapter, we remain committed to delivering insightful coverage and keeping you updated with essential information. We look forward to your thoughts. KEY TECHNOLOGY TRENDS... Quantum Computing This rapidly emerging technology is being touted as a super-speedy problem solver and diff erent fi elds are beginning to explore all of its uses. PAGE 10 AI-Driven Optimisation There are major discussions about artifi cial intelligence (AI) across all sectors and how it has the power to transform our lives. PAGE 18 Enhanced Cloud Security As cyber threats grow more advanced, AI and other emerging technologies are being used to combat attacks. PAGE 12 AI Data Centres Along with the technology, countries are investing heavily with plans to build record-breaking data centres across the globe. PAGE 8 Keep Connected! ACN_March2025_3_Editor Letter_13622501.indd 3ACN_March2025_3_Editor Letter_13622501.indd 303/06/2025 20:1103/06/2025 20:11Stay ahead with ITP Media’s flagship technology hub, featuring five powerhouse brands: ARABIAN COMPUTER NEWS, EDGE, COMMSMEA, CHANNEL and CHARGED. From breaking tech news to deep-dive insights, we bring you the latest innovations shaping the region. AN ITP MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION BEST TECH OF 2024 The ultimate guide to the year’s must- have gadget s CATERER FP.indd 1CATERER FP.indd 104/06/2025 11:4304/06/2025 11:43ACN | Summer 2025 5 CONTENTS BIG PICTURE Can quantum computing reshape the Middle East? The captivating technology has the power to redefi ne entire industries TIMELINE From computer chips to artifi cial intelligence, this is the fascinating story of IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) over the years COVER STORY Hisham Al Gurg, CEO of Seed Group and The Private Offi ce of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, on unlocking the Gulf TOP MIDDLE EAST IT LEADERS 2025 For the fi rst time, ACN unveils the top technology leaders across the region, from game-changers to innovators 10 16 16 26 10 32 26 32 ACN_March2025_5_CONTENTS_13590888.indd 5ACN_March2025_5_CONTENTS_13590888.indd 503/06/2025 20:1203/06/2025 20:126 ACN | Summer 2025 PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 (0)4 444 3000 Web: www.itp.com Offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, London, Mumbai, Riyadh & Geneva ITP MEDIA GROUP CEO: Ali Akawi Managing Director: Martin Chambers Head of Business and Technology: Thomas Shambler EDITORIAL Commercial Editor: Arya Devi +971 4 444 3175 / arya.devi@itp.com Project Editor: Heather Cichowski Associate Project Editor: Beatriz Valero ART Art Director: Amjad Ayche Art Editor: Tofi q Memon ADVERTISING Group Publishing Director: Natasha Pendleton +971 4 444 3248 / natasha.pendleton@itp.com Group Commercial Manager: Priyanka Pillai +971 4 444 3399 / priyanka.pillai@itp.com Client Services Manager: Cherylann DAbreo +971 4 444 3404 / cherlyann.dabreo@itp.com PHOTOGRAPHY Senior Video Editor: Liju Cheruvathur MARKETING Head of Events: Eleanor Ashton / eleanor.ashton@itp.com Events & Marketing Manager: Kate Galaktionova Events Manager: Beverly Stanforth Associate Events Manager: Vrinali Nazareth Associate Events Manager: Maria Trishina Events Executive: Ella Johnson Events Sales Executive: Jan Mokoala Events Sales Assistant: Joyce Salonga Events Administrative Assistant: Bobbie Rosario PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION Senior Production & Distribution Manager: Balasubramanian P Production Manager: Anand Sundaram Circulation Executive: Rajesh Pillai Distribution Coordinator: Avinash Pereira ITP GROUP CEO: Ali Akawi CFO: Toby Jay Spencer-Davies The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. PUBLISHED BY AND © 2025 ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC. Introducing the Power List 2025 – Recognising the Visionaries Driving Tech Forward in the Middle East MEET THE POWER PLAYERS OF TOMORROW The Power List 2025 is a celebration of ambition, innovation, and impact. We shine a spotlight on the Middle East’s most influential technology leaders: the thinkers, builders, and changemakers transforming industries and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Through rigorous research and selection, we honour individuals and organisations making waves in digital transformation, AI, fintech, sustainability, and more. These are the pioneers not just shaping the region, but positioning it at the forefront of the global tech conversation. Nominate now and help us recognise those redefining the digital future. SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS TODAY ITP.NET/POWER-LIST-2025 ACN_Ad_13631217.indd 1ACN_Ad_13631217.indd 103/06/2025 17:5603/06/2025 17:56ONLINE 8 ACN | Summer 2025 Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Executive Vice President of AI and Data Management Services Greg Pavlik revealed how the company’s AI strategy—spanning superclusters and seamless app integration—is empowering businesses to scale faster, boost productivity and solve industry challenges. AI71, CGIAR and the Gates Foundation are developing AgriLLM, an AI-powered platform to support Global South smallholder farmers. The initiative aims to provide accurate, transparent and actionable agricultural insights to help farmers with climate change and boost food security. Threat intelligence specialists at the Positive Technologies Expert Security Center (PT ESC) have identifi ed a new malware campaign targeting individuals in the Middle East and North Africa. Active since September 2024, it uses a modifi ed version of AsyncRAT to target victims. Estonia’s Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur discussed the nation’s bold new security strategy. Facing an increasingly complex threat landscape, Pevkur revealed how Estonia is harnessing cutting-edge cyber defence tactics and innovative technologies to counter emerging risks. Inside Oracle’s AI revolution AI71’s AgriLLM aims to revolutionise farming New malware campaign identified Estonia and the future of defence WHAT OUR READERS THINK... Women leading the Middle East technology sectorHow innovation is driving fi ntech “The industry is evolving rapidly and it’s inspiring to see women at the forefront of this transformation” —Maimuna Rashid, Co-Founder and CEO, Pupilar “Fintech innovations could lead to a more symbiotic relationship with banks” —Sonja Ramalingam, Head of Compliance, FNB South Africa WHAT’S TRENDING ONLINE www. i t p . n e t /a c n ACN_March2025_8-9_Online DPS_13583770.indd 8ACN_March2025_8-9_Online DPS_13583770.indd 803/06/2025 20:1403/06/2025 20:14ONLINE ACN | Summer 2025 9 Apple’s greatest successes—the iPod totally reshaping music consumption, the iPhone reinventing mobile computing, the iPad being a tactile new digital canvas—have always involved understanding human desires and cultural nuances as much as engineering specs. Cook emphasises Apple’s mission is to give artists, fi lmmakers, writers and calligraphers new kinds of creative freedom by refi ning complex technology until it becomes almost invisible. TIM COOK, APPLE AND THE NEW AGE OF CREATIVITY ONLINE ACN | Summer 2025 9 ACN_March2025_8-9_Online DPS_13583770.indd 9ACN_March2025_8-9_Online DPS_13583770.indd 903/06/2025 20:1403/06/2025 20:14Next >