Telecom Lead Middle East: Technology major IBM has
opened its new branch office in Doha, Qatar. The increased presence in the
Middle East region is in line with IBM’s growth markets strategies.
The company’s investment in Qatar is part of a broader
plan to tap into new markets across the Middle East and Africa. IBM last month
opened branch office in Mauritius. In 2011, branch offices were opened in
Angola, Senegal and Tanzania. The new Qatar subsidiary underlines IBM’s plan to
increase its presence in growth markets.
IBM is placing a strong emphasis on investment in the
Middle East. Its expansion strategy in the region is significant and ongoing.
Qatar is looking at creating a sustainable and diversified economy by
2030.
“We are looking forward to contributing to Qatar’s
vision of transitioning to a competitive knowledge-based economy, by expanding
IBM’s expertise in IT services and solutions with the aim of strengthening
organizations and helping businesses achieve their objectives,” said Amr
Refaat, IBM General Manager for Middle East and Pakistan.
“ICT end-users and channel partners will benefit
greatly from IBM’s expanded presence, as the country continues to attract
foreign ICT investment by creating an attractive business environment through
pushing improvements in competitive infrastructure. These are particularly
prevalent in the telecommunications environment, as well as in business
incentives, regulation, and transparency,” said Jyoti Lalchandani, vice
president and regional MD, IDC MEA.
IBM first entered the Middle East in the 1940’s and has
been delivering solutions and services to clients and partners across key
industries including the public sector, banking, healthcare, and education.
IBM works with educational institutions and governments
as part of the Smarter Planet initiative, and has led regional initiatives and
development partnerships in the fields of cloud computing, nanotechnology,
desalination, solar power, and e-Government.
