e& and AWS Form $1 Billion Partnership to Boost Cloud Innovation in the UAE

The UAE's telecom and technology giant, e&, has signed a $1 billion agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to accelerate cloud-driven innovation and digital transformation across the region. The investment will be rolled out over the next six years, further enhancing cloud infrastructure and services.

 

This partnership builds on AWS's expansion in the UAE, following the launch of its second Middle East cloud region in 2022 and its ongoing $5 billion investment in the local economy through to 2036.

 

The collaboration will focus on delivering core cloud services, including storage, computing, networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). e& will leverage AWS's over 200 fully featured services to modernize key platforms like Starzplay Arabia, a TV streaming service in which e& holds a majority stake, and Careem, the Middle East's 'everything app', offering services like food delivery, mobility, and digital payments.

 

Additionally, e& plans to utilize Amazon's technology to expand its AI capabilities and enhance its Smart Home services. Customers will also benefit from the partnership, as they can earn Smiles points when shopping on Amazon.

 

Small and medium-sized businesses supported by e& will gain access to the AWS Marketplace, enabling them to discover, deploy, and manage software running on AWS, democratizing cloud access and fostering business growth in the region.

 

A report by PwC indicates that nearly 70% of Middle Eastern companies plan to migrate the majority of their operations to the cloud within the next two years. Furthermore, Telecom Advisory Services predicts that public cloud adoption could unlock $733 billion in economic value by 2033 across the Middle East and North Africa.

 

Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO of e&, stated, “This agreement with AWS highlights our shared vision to build a digital ecosystem that addresses today’s needs while laying the foundation for future growth. We’re enabling businesses to lead in an AI-powered, data-driven economy, and by investing in critical infrastructure and talent development, we’re strengthening the region’s digital resilience and economy.”

 

Tanuja Randery, Vice President of AWS in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, added, “This collaboration marks a significant step in our commitment to the UAE and the Middle East. Our partnership with e& supports UAE Vision 2031 by providing the necessary security infrastructure and AI/ML expertise to drive innovation and progress across the region.”

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