Latest news with #HaythamAlohali
Tahawul Tech
12-02-2025
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
Cisco expands in Saudi Arabia with cloud data centers, AI talent development, and manufacturing plans
Riyadh — Cisco, the global leader in networking and security, unveiled a series of strategic initiatives to advance AI in partnership with the Kingdom at LEAP 2025. By introducing advanced cloud data centers, AI talent development, and phased plans for local manufacturing, Cisco is deepening its commitment and strengthening its partnership with Saudi Arabia. The initiatives are designed to enhance Cisco's regional presence and support the Kingdom's ambitious digitization goals under Vision 2030, accelerating its evolution into a technology-driven economy that leads in innovation and advanced digital infrastructure. 'Our partnership with Cisco highlights the Kingdom's commitment to accelerating its digital economy through innovation. These initiatives will enhance Saudi Arabia's competitiveness both regionally and internationally by promoting innovation and the adoption of AI and cloud computing technologies.' said Vice Minister at the Saudi Ministry of Communications and IT, Haytham Alohali. 'Cisco is proud to partner with the Kingdom to accelerate its Vision 2030,' said Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins. 'Through our investments and innovation, we are protecting organizations, preparing the Saudi workforce for the AI era, and contributing to the local economy and manufacturing ecosystem. Together, we will pave the way for a more connected and secure future.' Cisco is deepening its commitment in Saudi Arabia by establishing cloud services data centres, promoting AI talent development, and launching a phased plan for a local manufacturing base. With data centres, now fully operational for cloud-delivered security services and the Webex collaboration platform, Cisco is advancing its commitment to further drive the Kingdom's digital transformation. These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, supporting its goals to evolve into a technology-driven economy. Cloud Services Data Centers Delivering on its commitment, Cisco announces its data centers for cloud security services as well as the Webex Collaboration Platform are now operational. The security data center underpins Cisco's cloud-based security services including its new Secure Service Edge (SSE) solution, Cisco Secure Access and Umbrella DNS. The center helps customers protect their users, infrastructure, and investments against threat actors and empowers them with flexible security services and data protection for devices, remote users, and distributed locations. The collaboration data centers bring extensive services from the Webex Suite such as Meetings and Calling closer to customers in KSA and the region. Customers experience the benefits of AI-powered collaboration tools, holistic built-in security, data protection, and privacy by design and by default when processing customers' data. The centers provide a rich collaboration experience, real-time media performance, underpinned with industry-leading security and privacy principles with end-to-end encryption and strong identity verification. AI Talent Development Cisco will continue to advance AI and digital skills across the region as part of its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, aligning to the goals of the Saudi Research and Development National Strategy. According to Cisco's AI Readiness Index, 72% of organizations in KSA have a strategy to deploy AI powered solutions but only 46% of companies report that their talent is highly prepared. This highlights a need to cultivate AI-ready local talent. In collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Cisco will invest in additional Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certifications, one of the industry's most widely recognized and respected certifications, to enhance the Kingdom's talent pool of highly skilled local IT professionals that can support complex networking infrastructures in the AI era. Initially launched in the Kingdom in 2016, Cisco's CDA program supports digitization efforts across key industries, fostering digital skills and developing the innovation ecosystem in the country. To date, the program has implemented more than 20 projects of national impact across vital sectors, including healthcare, education, smart cities and government digitization. The program focuses on digital economy, industry 4.0 and sustainability, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and the national digital transformation agenda. Manufacturing Plans With a regional head office in Riyadh, Cisco intends to build on its long-standing partnerships in the Kingdom by initiating a manufacturing base, with groundwork beginning in 2025. The initial phase will focus on fulfillment operations for wireless technologies to meet local demand, with the intent to scale up in response to evolving market needs. Saudi Arabia joins key regions including North America, Asia and Europe within Cisco's extensive global supply chain network. This leverages Cisco's innovation and technology leadership to deliver solutions that address the needs of the Saudi market and contribute to the development of a sustainable and diverse economy. 'By aligning with key initiatives of Vision 2030, Cisco is committed to being a catalyst for digital transformation across various sectors in the Kingdom. As these projects advance, they will help strengthen digital infrastructure and drive economic growth to positively shape Saudi Arabia's future,' said Salman Faqeeh, Managing Director, Cisco Saudi Arabia.
Arab News
11-02-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Dell opens merge and fulfillment hub in Dammam
Dell Technologies has opened its first merge and fulfillment center in Saudi Arabia. Located in Dammam, the hub is engineered to handle up to 600,000 units per year, across all Dell's product lines as customer demand grows. The Dammam center also features a second touch manufacturing facility for product customization of Dell's servers to ensure they meet specific customer needs. This makes the servers ready-to-use, reduces time-to-market, and enhances customer satisfaction. Dell has also relocated its Flat Panel Monitor Hub to the Dammam facility to serve local customers, offering shipment deliveries within two days to reduce lead times and enhance operational excellence. The opening of the new center represents a pivotal step in advancing the Kingdom's ICT ecosystem. The Saudi facility is Dell's fifth in the EMEA region and reinforces the company's commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 in driving economic diversification through technological innovation. The strategic investment builds on Dell's regional headquarters license to operate in Saudi Arabia and will support the Kingdom in creating new jobs across logistics, manufacturing and technical fields, training local talent and nurturing a culture of innovation. Haytham Alohali, vice minister of communications and information technology, said: 'Dell's decision to establish its merge and fulfillment center in Saudi Arabia highlights the Kingdom's emergence as a regional hub for logistics and innovation. This facility will help create jobs and strengthen our local manufacturing and supply chain capabilities aligned with Vision 2030. Together, Saudi Arabia and Dell are building a dynamic and resilient digital economy.' Adrian McDonald, president — EMEA, Dell Technologies, added: 'Opening Dell's first fulfillment hub in Dammam marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision for the future. By leveraging over 30 years of Dell's supply chain expertise, combined with investments in local talent, infrastructure and training, we are dedicated to empowering local and regional businesses to thrive in a digital-first economy.' Led by Saudi nationals, the center leverages their expertise to oversee logistics, manufacturing, and operations, driving excellence while promoting sustainable growth. The Dammam hub will also work directly with Dell's local channel partners to streamline product distribution and meet customer demands in Saudi Arabia. The facility will also host specialized training programs to equip Saudi professionals with advanced skills in technology and supply chain management, cultivating a robust local workforce.
Arab News
11-02-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia's digitization goals
At LEAP 2025, Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, unveiled a series of strategic initiatives to advance AI in partnership with the Kingdom. By introducing advanced cloud data centers, AI talent development, and phased plans for local manufacturing, Cisco is deepening its commitment and strengthening its partnership with Saudi Arabia. These initiatives are designed to enhance Cisco's regional presence and support the Kingdom's ambitious digitization goals under Vision 2030, accelerating its evolution into a technology-driven economy. 'Our partnership with Cisco highlights the Kingdom's commitment to accelerating its digital economy through innovation. These initiatives will enhance Saudi Arabia's competitiveness both regionally and internationally by promoting innovation and the adoption of AI and cloud computing technologies.' said Vice Minister at the Saudi Ministry of Communications and IT Haytham Alohali. 'Cisco is proud to partner with the Kingdom to accelerate its Vision 2030,' said Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins. 'Through our investments and innovation, we are protecting organizations, preparing the Saudi workforce for the AI era, and contributing to the local economy and manufacturing ecosystem. Together, we will pave the way for a more connected and secure future.' 'By aligning with key initiatives of Vision 2030, Cisco is committed to being a catalyst for digital transformation across various sectors in the Kingdom. As these projects advance, they will help strengthen digital infrastructure and drive economic growth to positively shape Saudi Arabia's future,' said Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco Saudi Arabia. Delivering on its commitment, Cisco announced that its data centers for cloud security services as well as the Webex Collaboration Platform are now operational. The security data center underpins Cisco's cloud-based security services including its new secure service edge solution, Cisco Secure Access and Umbrella DNS. The center helps customers protect their users, infrastructure, and investments against threat actors and empowers them with flexible security services and data protection for devices, remote users, and distributed locations. The collaboration data centers bring extensive services from the Webex suite such as meetings and calling closer to customers in the Kingdom and region. Cisco will continue to advance AI and digital skills across the region as part of its Country Digital Acceleration program, aligning with the goals of the Saudi Research and Development National Strategy. In collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the company will invest in additional Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certifications, one of the industry's most widely recognized and respected certifications, to enhance the Kingdom's talent pool of highly skilled local IT professionals that can support complex networking infrastructures in the AI era. Initially launched in the Kingdom in 2016, Cisco's CDA program supports digitization efforts across key industries, fostering digital skills and developing the innovation ecosystem in the country. To date, the program has implemented more than 20 projects of national impact across vital sectors. With a regional head office in Riyadh, Cisco intends to build on its long-standing partnerships in the Kingdom by initiating a manufacturing base, with groundwork beginning in 2025. The initial phase will focus on fulfillment operations for wireless technologies to meet local demand, with the intent to scale up in response to evolving market needs.
TECHx
11-02-2025
- Business
- TECHx
Dell Opens Fulfillment Center in Saudi Arabia
Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) has announced the launch of its first Merge and Fulfillment Center in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its commitment to the Kingdom's growing ICT sector. Located in Dammam, the facility is designed to process up to 600,000 units annually across Dell's product portfolio, supporting increasing customer demand. The new center also features a second-touch manufacturing facility for Dell servers, enabling customization to meet specific client requirements. This enhances operational efficiency by ensuring servers are ready for immediate deployment, reducing time-to-market, and improving customer satisfaction. Additionally, Dell has relocated its Flat Panel Monitor Hub to Dammam, facilitating two-day shipment deliveries for local customers. This move aims to reduce lead times and enhance operational excellence across the region. The establishment of the Dammam hub marks a strategic milestone in Dell's commitment to Saudi Vision 2030, aligning with the Kingdom's goals of economic diversification and technological innovation. As Dell's fifth facility in the EMEA region, the center is set to create new job opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, and technical fields while fostering local talent and innovation. H.E. Eng. Haytham Alohali, Vice Minister of Communications and Information Technology, stated: 'Dell's decision to establish its Merge and Fulfillment Center in Saudi Arabia highlights the Kingdom's emergence as a regional hub for logistics and innovation. This facility will help create jobs and strengthen our local manufacturing and supply chain capabilities aligned with Vision 2030. Together, Saudi Arabia and Dell are building a dynamic and resilient digital economy.' Adrian McDonald, President – EMEA, Dell Technologies, added: 'Opening Dell's first fulfillment hub in Dammam marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision for the future. By leveraging over 30 years of Dell's supply chain expertise, combined with investments in local talent, infrastructure, and training, we are dedicated to empowering local and regional businesses to thrive in a digital-first economy.' The Dammam facility is managed by Saudi professionals overseeing logistics, manufacturing, and operations, ensuring excellence while driving sustainable growth. Additionally, the center will collaborate with Dell's local channel partners to streamline distribution and enhance customer service. Specialized training programs will also be hosted at the facility to equip Saudi professionals with advanced skills in technology and supply chain management, fostering a skilled and innovative workforce.
TECHx
10-02-2025
- Business
- TECHx
TECHx Media Cisco Unveils AI Initiatives at LEAP 2025
At LEAP 2025, Cisco, a global networking and security company, announced a series of strategic initiatives to accelerate AI adoption in Saudi Arabia. These initiatives include launching cloud data centers, investing in AI talent development, and establishing local manufacturing operations, reinforcing Cisco's commitment to Saudi Arabia's digital transformation under Vision 2030. By strengthening its presence, Cisco aims to support the Kingdom's ambition of becoming a global technology hub. Vice Minister at the Saudi Ministry of Communications and IT, Haytham Alohali, highlighted the significance of these initiatives, stating that Cisco's partnership will help accelerate Saudi Arabia's digital economy by driving innovation and advancing AI and cloud computing adoption. Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins emphasized the company's role in securing organizations, preparing the Saudi workforce for AI, and contributing to the local economy and manufacturing ecosystem. As part of its expansion, Cisco has launched cloud security data centers and the Webex Collaboration Platform in Saudi Arabia. These facilities enhance cybersecurity through Secure Service Edge (SSE), Secure Access, and Umbrella DNS, protecting infrastructure, users, and investments. Cisco's Webex Suite now offers AI-powered meetings and calling with end-to-end encryption and advanced security, improving digital collaboration across the region. To support AI talent development, Cisco is strengthening its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, aligning with the Saudi Research and Development National Strategy. Cisco's AI Readiness Index reports that while 72% of organizations in Saudi Arabia have an AI deployment strategy, only 46% have highly prepared talent. In partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Cisco will invest in Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certifications to enhance the local workforce's AI and networking capabilities. Since its launch in Saudi Arabia in 2016, Cisco's CDA program has delivered over 20 projects in healthcare, education, smart cities, and government digitization, fostering digital transformation in line with Vision 2030. Cisco is also expanding its manufacturing footprint in Saudi Arabia with plans to establish local operations in 2025. The initial phase will focus on wireless technology fulfillment, with plans to scale based on market demand. This move positions Saudi Arabia within Cisco's global supply chain network, alongside North America, Asia, and Europe, and supports the Kingdom's economic diversification goals. Cisco Saudi Arabia's Managing Director, Salman Faqeeh, emphasized that these initiatives will enhance Saudi Arabia's digital infrastructure, drive AI adoption, and contribute to economic growth. By deepening its commitment to Saudi Arabia, Cisco is playing a crucial role in advancing AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leader in technology and innovation.
