IBM has announced an expanded collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) designed to help organisations across the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia accelerate their digital transformation journeys. The partnership focuses on modernising core systems, implementing hybrid cloud strategies, and scaling responsible AI in direct alignment with the region’s national digital ambitions.
Localizing Cloud And AI Solutions
A key component of this initiative is making IBM’s enterprise software, including its watsonx data and AI platform, available as-a-Service (SaaS) on local AWS cloud regions in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This localization simplifies the procurement and deployment process for regional businesses, while crucially ensuring compliance with local data-hosting and regulatory requirements. The move combines IBM’s advanced data, AI, and automation solutions with the secure and scalable cloud infrastructure of AWS.
Aligning With National Digital Agendas
This strategic collaboration is timed to support the ambitious digital transformation goals set by the UAE and Saudi Arabia. By providing powerful tools for AI and cloud adoption on a local, compliant platform, the partnership aims to empower clients to move beyond experimentation and into enterprise-scale implementation. This helps accelerate innovation and supports the development of a robust, secure, and sustainable digital economy in line with national visions.
A Strategic Extension For Enterprise Growth
The move represents the first time IBM has localized its enterprise software on AWS within the region, extending a long-standing global partnership. Ana Paula Assis, Senior Vice President and Chair for EMEA and Growth Markets at IBM, stated, “Our clients want to build and scale AI and cloud solutions with speed and confidence, and this collaboration makes that possible.” Tanuja Randery, Managing Director and Vice President for EMEA at AWS, highlighted that the collaboration will help advance the UAE’s strategic digital goals by combining IBM’s software with the security, agility, and resilience of the AWS Cloud.
About IBM
International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) is a global technology company that provides hardware, software, cloud-based services, and cognitive computing. Founded in 1911, IBM has been a leading innovator in technology, producing and selling computer hardware, middleware, and software, and providing hosting and consulting services in areas ranging from mainframe computers to nanotechnology.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
