< Previous20 edge_ january 2024 cover story The company’s managing executive for Middle East, Burcak Soydan, reveals that proficiency in AI and machine learning (ML) stands out, with their applications spanning industries and driving innovation. Data science and analytics expertise will also continue to be invaluable as data-driven decision-making becomes integral in the coming months. With numerous innovations and technological developments in the horizon, cybersecurity challenges will also continue to escalate, he predicts. “The need for cybersecurity skills will surge as we combat evolving threats in an interconnected world.” Furthermore, cloud computing knowledge retains its critical role as it enables businesses to transition towards scalable and flexible infrastructures. “We can also anticipate a surge in demand for expertise and proficiency in the Internet of Things, blockchain, quantum computing, and augmented and virtual reality technologies, underlining the necessity for a robust foundation in programming languages,” Soydan explains. Soydan also predicts that Dark Network Operations Centre (NOC), or lights-out to organisations. To address these challenges, he proposes the development of digital immune systems, incorporating practices and technologies for software design, development, operations, and analytics to ensure code resilience by default. Jorge Longo, Vice President, Middle East and Africa, Dynatrace NOC, will become a reality with AIOps advancements and will transform networking infrastructures in 2024. DYNATRACE AI enters a new evolutionary phase In line with industry trends, Dynatrace predicts a surge in the adoption of a composite AI approach, combining generative AI with diverse AI forms and data sources. According to Jorge Longo, Vice President, Middle East and Africa at Dynatrace, this strategy aims to deliver precise and contextually rich outputs. He explains, “This approach will enable organisations to leverage advanced reasoning, bringing precision, context, and meaning to generative AI outputs.” For instance, combining generative AI with fact-based causal and predictive AI can empower DevOps teams to accelerate digital innovation and automate processes. As AI becomes ingrained in personal lives, Longo predicts a growing trend where employees seek to enhance productivity at work using AI, possibly leading to the emergence of a new role. He suggests, “Organisations may appoint a Chief AI Officer to ensure readiness for AI’s security, compliance, and governance implications.” Moreover, Longo emphasises the rising use of generative AI-powered autonomous agents among developers to write code, posing increased risks ENDAVA Make technology work for you As technology continues to rapidly advance, companies will need to ensure they have the right foundation in place. David Boast, General Manager - MENA, Endava, emphasises the value of implementing proven technologies like cloud computing for scalability, flexibility, and cost reduction. He further advocates for a holistic Agile DevOps model, stating, “Embrace the cross- functional nature of delivery teams to accelerate software delivery and improve quality.” The vision extends to DevSecFinOps, where security and financial considerations are integrated from the get-go, keeping “the CFO, CSO, COO, and the CIO happy!” he says. Underscoring the perpetual importance of data, edge_ january 2024 21 cover story systems will revolutionise the way public and private sectors safeguard and manage their most crucial information, leading to a fundamental rethinking of security measures,” he explains. Looking ahead, Eissa emphasises the ongoing significance of digital transformation in business strategies, with cybersecurity as a top priority. “Cloud computing, AI, and data analytics will play instrumental roles in driving these transformations, enabling companies to harness the power of data for informed decision-making and predictive analytics. As the security and data protection arena continues to evolve, tightening security protocols is imperative. Businesses must adopt advanced verification methods, including biometrics and device authentication, to fortify digital identity in the face of evolving threats.” Eissa notes that the collective innovations and solutions anticipated in the new year, arising from this era of technological leaps, are poised to redefine all industries, address societal challenges, and unlock unprecedented possibilities. “It’s an era brimming with potential, promising remarkable advancements, and offering contributions that lie on the horizon.” David Boast, General Manager - MENA, Endava Mohammed Eissa, Regional Sales Director, MEA, Entrust Boast highlights, “Having the right data strategy so firms can understand their customers, truly optimise the customer experience, and streamline operations.” Then there is AI, which ties in implicitly with data, from making customer interactions more automated and streamlining operations, to fraud prevention, preventative and reactive security capabilities, reducing risk, and driving cost out of operations. “The compute power, storage and peoples’ imagination developing software and algorithms means the possibilities are endless,” he says. Boast notes that it all fundamentally comes down to understanding the problem domain and integrating and building the right elements to enable the business to be successful. “Technology is pointless without a purpose,” he says. ENTRUST The year for quantum computing Artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing are reshaping the tech industry, levelling the competitive field through rapid development and adoption, according to Entrust regional sales director Mohammed Eissa. “Quantum computing is gaining the attention of governments and security professionals. The unparalleled computing power of quantum 22 edge_ january 2024 cover story ERICSSON 5G – the catalyst for innovation Connectivity has become interwoven into the very fabric of modern society, with 5.4 billion people now online globally, according to recent data from the International Telecommunication Union. More than 60 percent of the world is currently connected in some way. This interconnectivity places immense strain on current networking infrastructure and demands ever-greater bandwidth, lower Nicolas Blixell, VP and Head of Ericsson GCC, Ericsson Middle East and Africa “2024 will be the year to ‘Imagine Possible’” latency, and faster speeds. It is here that 5G, the next wireless revolution, is poised to play an integral part. “Just as 4G and smartphones paved the way for the app economy, 5G can enable life-altering advancements,” says Nicolas Blixell, VP and Head of Ericsson GCC, Ericsson Middle East and Africa. Blixell underscores that 5G is poised to provide millions of consumers and enterprises with access to cutting-edge applications based on the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), smart cities, and immersive communication over augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Furthermore, the technology will power immersive user experiences, fuelling AR and VR applications. “These technologies are redefining the way individuals interact with digital and physical environments, creating a seamless integration of the two realms. In our smart factories, we have begun using VR for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and onboarding,” says Blixell. While all eyes are on 5G at the moment, 6G is already waiting in the wings, according to Blixell. “We are conducting intensive research into 6G networks in partnership with The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia,” he reveals. Recognising the urgency of addressing climate change, Blixell highlights the growing need for low-emission and energy-efficient technologies and Ericsson’s commitment to this cause. Collaborating with operator partners, the company aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector while extending its solutions to help other industries, such as oil and gas, healthcare, retail, and banking, reduce their carbon footprint. As one of the key players in the tech landscape, Ericsson’s commitment extends beyond technological advancements, with a focus on tackling pressing global issues such as climate change and inequality. “Through our technology and expertise, we will implement new and expand existing programmes to help tackle these global challenges. We will also keep on researching and developing products and services that enhance the accessibility and affordability of communication infrastructure while driving sustainable economic growth,” he says.edge_ january 2024 23 cover story EVERDOME Immersive integrations As the world embraces emerging technologies at an increasing pace, 2024 promises to be a landmark year for innovations like the metaverse, blockchain, and artificial intelligence. The metaverse, fuelled by modern technologies and a focus on real-life experiences, is set to transform digital connections, opening up new avenues for engagement and commercial innovation, according to Everdome CEO Jeremy Lopez. In addition, Lopez also predicts that blockchain will play a crucial role in supporting this transformation by offering secure and transparent transaction platforms, ensuring integrity and trust in these digital spaces. “Organisations are anticipated to keep their business momentum in 2024 by incorporating cutting-edge technologies into their strategies. For Everdome, this entails utilising the metaverse to provide novel solutions for engagement and interaction,” says Lopez. With the profound impact of AI and automation across industries, such technologies will also enable more tailored experiences within the metaverse. This, in turn, will give rise to demands for talents who can manage the convergence of physical and digital environments. “Integration skills will be increasingly required in roles focusing on AI with existing technologies to enhance user experiences in the metaverse,” explains Lopez. He adds, “Such positions are critical in enabling a hyper-realistic, immersive metaverse in which AI assists in creating more lifelike, engaging user experiences.” Lopez anticipates that Everdome’s role in accelerating the regional tech landscape in 2024 will be significant. Pointing to the company’s Metaverse-as-a-Service (MaaS) solution, SPACES, he believes that it bridges the gap between traditional online users and the evolving world of web3. “Everdome’s actions in 2023, such as increasing its metaverse services and forming crucial relationships, provide the basis for the company to impact the digital environment in 2024 significantly. Everdome is poised to drive the expansion of the area’s tech economy by nurturing a unique blend of immersive experiences and practical applications,” he explains. Jeremy Lopez, CEO, Everdome “There will be a greater demand for those who can manage the convergence of creativity and technology in digital environments”24 edge_ january 2024 cover story GBM Cybersecurity remains a top priority As we enter 2024, GBM’s CEO predicts cybersecurity will continue to take centre stage amid ongoing digital transformation of organisations across the region. “The expanding attack surface that comes with new technologies means cyber threats are more prevalent than ever before,” he says. “Establishing robust security strategies – encompassing prediction, prevention, detection, and response – will be crucial in this evolving landscape.” Weston also reveals that AI and machine learning will further rise in popularity for capabilities like predictive threat detection and prevention. However, he warns that this also introduces new vulnerabilities if systems are not properly secured. His prediction aligns with the broader industry narrative, acknowledging that the ongoing digital shift will amplify the need for cybersecurity talents. “In this dynamic landscape, the demand for professionals with a fusion of technical expertise, adaptability, and a dedication to ethical and sustainable practices will be key. Cybersecurity experts adept at threat management, AI specialists driving strategic innovation, and sustainability leaders optimising resource utilisation are critical assets. As the industry shifts toward interdisciplinary collaboration, effective communication and collaboration skills are also becoming indispensable,” explains Weston. 2024 is also poised to be a pivotal moment, with AI and ML taking centre stage in reshaping business strategies, according to Weston. “Organisations will actively seek AI platforms for innovations like image recognition, natural language interfaces, and elevated customer experiences. This involves prioritising platforms with lightning-fast infrastructure and efficient tools for larger data models, revolutionising operational insights.” Weston notes that as an organisation with strong local roots and global standards, and with a rich legacy of three decades in the region, GBM’s knowledge stands as a cornerstone in spearheading digitalisation efforts. “We understand the various challenges faced by businesses, and our focus remains on collaborating with regional organisations to elevate their IT infrastructure and accelerate their digital transformation initiatives,” he says. He adds, “Our ongoing engagements with organisations are focused on helping them transform their operations by implementing leading end-to-end digital solutions, while also ensuring their systems are secure and can withstand any cyber threats.” Mike Weston, CEO, Gulf Business Machines (GBM) “Establishing robust security strategies – encompassing prediction, prevention, detection, and response – will be crucial in this evolving landscape”edge_ january 2024 25 cover story GENETEC Get ready for advanced threat detection Emerging technologies such as AI, advanced video analytics, and edge computing will accelerate threat detection, automating surveillance, and improving response times. “The integration of these technologies will reshape the competitive landscape by offering more efficient and comprehensive security solutions, potentially leading to increased demand for firms with advanced capabilities in these areas,” says Firas Jadalla, Regional Director – Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Genetec. According to the Genetec 2024 State of Physical Security Report, an overwhelming 86 percent of IT and security professionals acknowledge cybersecurity vulnerabilities as a top challenge in 2023, catapulting cybersecurity into a critical consideration for the new year. “The integration of advanced technologies will reshape the competitive landscape by offering more efficient and comprehensive security solutions, potentially leading to increased demand for firms with advanced capabilities in these areas,” explains Jadalla. In terms of regional impact, Jadalla believes that Genetec is poised to play a pivotal role in accelerating the tech landscape. The company’s monitoring and surveillance capabilities, integrating video surveillance, access control, and IoT devices with analytics, provide real-time insights. “Our role is to empower cities and nations with cutting-edge security solutions that not only mitigate risks but also contribute to the creation of smart, secure, and interconnected societies.” Firas Jadalla, Regional Director – Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Genetec Vijay Jaswal, Chief Technology Officer, APJ&MEA, IFS IFS Customer is still king Organisations can keep their momentum in 2024 by prioritising customer focus, embracing tech innovation, and cultivating agility, according to Vijay Jaswal, Chief Technology Officer, APJ&MEA, IFS. The IFS chief emphasises the pivotal role of technology in organisational strategies for 2024, stating, “AI will be instrumental in providing personalised customer experiences, while data will empower informed decision-making. Cloud technology will offer scalability, and collaboration tools will enhance teamwork within organisations,” he says. Addressing the anticipated technological shifts, the CTO highlighted the skills and expertise that will be in high demand in the tech industry. “Professionals need to focus on skills in AI, machine learning, and data 26 edge_ january 2024 cover story science,” Jaswal explains. Additionally, expertise in cybersecurity, collaboration tools, virtual communication platforms, cloud computing, and DevOps practices will be essential. Soft skills such as adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving remain integral in navigating the dynamic tech landscape, reflecting the continuous evolution of the industry. IFS anticipates that organisations embracing customer-centric strategies supported by advanced technologies will thrive in 2024. The CTO encourages professionals in the tech industry to cultivate a diverse skill set, combining technical expertise with soft skills, to stay ahead in an ever- evolving technological landscape. JUNIPER NETWORKS The year for LLMs In 2024, Large Language Models (LLM) are set to transform industries by automating cognitive tasks previously handled by human experts. According to Yarob Sakhnini, Vice President, Emerging Markets EMEA, Juniper Networks, LLMs will enhance IT networks by offering fast issue resolution and proactive maintenance through constant network monitoring and data analysis. Sakhnini explains, “Generative AI (GAI)/LLMs enhance IT networks, offering fast issue resolution Yarob Sakhnini, Vice President, Emerging Markets EMEA, Juniper Networks “AI will continue to unleash transformation in industries, redefining tasks and opportunities” Yarob Sakhnini, Juniper Networks “The tech industry is at an inflection point where progress accelerates exponentially” Samuel Huber, Landvault and proactive maintenance. Across departments, LLMs are projected to boost productivity, fostering collaboration and problem-solving by automating tasks and analysing data trends, ultimately revolutionising customer support.” Dispelling fears over AI taking over jobs, Sakhnini highlights that AI will augment the workforce through technologies like Juniper’s Cloud Services powered by Mist AI. He says, “AI can help IT teams optimise user experiences, simplify operations and move from reactive to more active intelligence and end-to-end insights.” This integration of AI into network management tools seeks to expedite issue resolution and enable autonomous operations. LANDVAULT A metaverse-driven future Generative AI, Web3, and analytics/monetisation tools will be the driving forces behind the metaverse’s anticipated growth in 2024. Landvault CEO Samuel Huber predicts that Gen AI will democratise 3D content creation, while Web3 will grant creators ownership and control, with analytics tools facilitating success measurement and revenue generation. “These advancements will reshape the edge_ january 2024 27 cover story Nicholas Argyrides, Vice President – Gulf, Mindware Samuel Huber, CEO, Landvault “Organisations seeking to thrive in 2024 will continue prioritising digital transformation” Nicholas Argyrides, Mindware competitive landscape, with new players emerging and existing ones adapting to focus on real-world applications rather than hype,” explains Huber. Looking ahead to 2024, Huber anticipates policy changes and regulations focused on data privacy, security, and intellectual property in the metaverse. “These regulations can present challenges initially, but they also have the potential to encourage innovation in areas like secure technologies, interoperability between platforms, and intellectual property protection. Overall, a well-considered regulatory framework can foster responsible innovation and ensure the metaverse’s sustainable development,” he says. He further notes that technology landscape’s evolution is pushing the internet to become more three-dimensional. “The industry is at an inflection point where progress seems to accelerate exponentially. As pioneers and entrepreneurs, we may get to decide which direction the industry is taking and its impact on the world. Let’s use it to solve big problems and create a more prosperous future for all,” he says. MINDWARE Robust cybersecurity amid distributed workplaces Security and enabling a remote workforce will remain top priorities for organisations in 2024 according to recent predictions from Nicholas Argyrides, Vice President – Gulf, Mindware. “In 2024, remote work and collaboration will remain crucial, requiring robust technology to facilitate seamless communication and to empower distributed teams. In line with this, having strong cybersecurity measures, including advancements in encryption, multi-factor authentication, and AI-powered threat detection, will be essential,” he explains. Argyrides highlights the central role of technology in gaining a competitive edge, with data-driven insights and personalisation enabling deeper customer understanding and targeted campaigns. He further notes that companies thriving in 2024 are those that continue to prioritise digital transformation through technologies such as cloud, AI, and data analytics to optimise operations and enhance customer experience.” As for the IT distribution space, Argyrides reveals that AI and automation will play a pivotal role. “Embracing automation in repetitive tasks creates room for growth in AI development, data analysis, and automation specialisation. Mindware’s strategic investment in AI tools, coupled with workforce upskilling, positions us as future IT distribution leaders, prioritising customer experience and seizing emerging opportunities,” he says.28 edge_ january 2024 cover story MICROSOFT Cloud-powered AI revolution As AI continues to transform industries, Microsoft predicts that greater attention will be paid to ensuring its responsible development and use. “We believe that AI is the defining technology of our time, and we are optimistic about what AI can do for people, industry, and society by revolutionising the way we keep our organisations secure and make them more creative and productive,” says Ihab Foudeh, General Manager, Microsoft Middle East. Strategic adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing and data analytics present both opportunities and challenges for organisations to optimise operations, unlock insights and deliver exceptional customer experiences in an increasingly digital world. Many organisations are already leveraging AI’s powerful abilities to analyse vast amounts of data and power new innovations. However, with this comes risks if proper safeguards and oversight are not in place. Foudeh notes that regulations around data privacy and security will also likely be strengthened globally as more systems move to cloud-based environments. “We expect to see greater conversations around AI ethics and accountability to address the potential societal impact of these advanced technologies. These conversations will provide an opportunity for the tech industry to demonstrate its commitment to responsible innovation and to build trust with users,” says Foudeh. He also foresees that AI and automation will not replace human searchers but will instead “We expect to see greater conversations around AI ethics and accountability to address the potential societal impact of these advanced technologies” augment their capabilities, offering faster and more relevant information. The integration of AI into web search algorithms aims to personalise results, providing richer and more interactive answers while optimising user experience. “All these technologies, which I believe will take centre stage in the coming months, are underpinned by organisation’s move to the cloud,” he says. He adds, “We believe that the cloud is powering the AI revolution, and that we will be seeing more companies shifting to full cloud capabilities in the future to make sure they can take full advantage of these new tools. Moving to full cloud- as opposed to cloud on premise- will become a matter of necessity to not be left behind in the productivity revolution we are witnessing.” In a nutshell, Foudeh notes that Microsoft believes that organisations in 2024 will continue to embrace and leverage technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics as a core component of their overall strategies to optimise their operations and deliver highly personalised customer experiences. “The ability of these organisations to adapt and innovate using these technologies will be crucial for sustaining business momentum in an ever-changing environment,” he says. Ihab Foudeh, General Manager, Microsoft Middle Eastedge_ january 2024 29 cover story NETAPP Hybrid and multi-cloud to drive flexibility As digital transformation further evolves business models and the global economy grows more data-driven, leveraging hybrid and multi-cloud environments will be integral. According to Walid Issa, Sr. Manager for Pre-Sales and Solutions Engineering at NetApp, organisations will continue embracing hybrid and multi-cloud strategies to remain flexible and secure as they power forward in the new year. “Achieving scalability, resilience and effective data security across multiple cloud platforms will be crucial for business momentum in 2024,” he says. Issa also emphasises the critical role of effective data management in ensuring business success, particularly in the face of escalating cyber threats. He explains, “With the increasing frequency and sophistications of cyber threats, organisations will need to continue emphasising on securing their data storage and align with the evolving needs for robust cybersecurity measures.” The integration of AI also stands out as a key driver of operational efficiency in 2024, according to Issa. He reveals that by leveraging AI, organisations will further “enhance their operational efficiency, be more innovative, and be more data-driven in decision making.” This will, in turn, drive the demand for AI expertise, reshaping the workplaces. NETSKOPE AI-enabled cybersecurity talents With technology evolving rapidly, cybersecurity continues to be a key concern for organisations globally. According to Jonathan Mepsted, Vice President - Middle East & Africa at Netskope, one of the biggest trends in 2024 will be “a significant shift in the people who will be performing cybersecurity roles.” Mepsted predicts that rather than focusing only on candidates with specific qualifications, companies will focus more on upskilling individuals with diverse backgrounds to address talent shortages in the field. He explains, “Rather than specific cyber qualifications, we’ll see companies invest in vocational training and boot camps to bridge the skills gap.” Addressing the role of AI, Mepsted acknowledges its support in managing operational challenges. While AI and automation will become integral through personal AI assistants, he stresses the continued necessity for human cybersecurity professionals. “We will see more Walid Issa, Sr. Manager for Pre-Sales and Solutions Engineering for MENA and East Europe, NetApp Jonathan Mepsted, Vice President - Middle East & Africa, Netskope companies realise the importance of nurturing talent through career progression and investment in newcomers. This is a strategic pivot in hiring practices and is set to reshape the competitive landscape by redefining what skills are necessary with the tech industry,” he says. Looking at policy changes, Mepsted emphasises the global impact of the 2023 AI Act, likening it to GDPR’s influence on privacy standards. He assures tech innovators that, unlike strict limitations, the EU’s approach is geared towards fostering regional innovation amid regulatory measures.Next >