AWS signs a $1 billion deal with UAE’s e& to boost cloud services in the region
AWS and UAE’s e& Sign $1 Billion Deal for Digital Growth
Amazon Web Services (AWS) and UAE’s e& signed a six-year partnership worth over $1 billion (AED 3.7 billion) to speed up cloud-based innovation and digital transformation in the region.
What the Partnership Involves
According to both companies, the agreement is part of a new strategic collaboration. They plan to provide cloud services that meet industry regulations, ensuring secure and scalable infrastructure. The partnership will focus on key cloud offerings like data storage, computing, networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML).
e& will use AWS’s full range of services to upgrade platforms such as Starzplay Arabia and Careem’s Everything App. It will also apply Amazon’s technologies to improve its AI capabilities and Smart Home services. Additionally, e& customers can now earn Smiles points when they shop on Amazon.
Through this partnership, AWS will help hundreds of small and medium-sized businesses supported by e& access the AWS Marketplace, where they can find, use, and manage software running on AWS.
Hatem Dowidar, group CEO of e&, said, “By investing in critical infrastructure and developing talent, we’re helping the region’s economy, digital strength, and, most importantly, its people. This will support the UAE’s goal of becoming a global digital leader.”
Investments in the Region
AWS opened its second cloud center in the UAE in 2022. The company plans to invest $5 billion (AED 20 billion) into the local economy by 2036.
Tanuja Randery, AWS’ Vice President for EMEA, said this partnership shows AWS’ dedication to supporting the UAE and the wider Middle East, especially to help the UAE achieve its Vision 2031 goals.
In March, AWS also announced a $5.3 billion (SAR 19.88 billion) investment in Saudi Arabia to build new cloud infrastructure by 2026, responding to the growing demand for cloud services across the region.
Forbes Ranking
The company e& is ranked 13th in Forbes Middle East’s list of the Top 100 Listed Companies for 2024.
Forbes Valuation
As of October 15, Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, has a net worth of $205.4 billion, making him the third richest person in the world, according to Forbes.
Published: 16th October 2024
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