Cross-border data flow to Middle East rises 150-fold in the last decade

Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri: IT plays key role in success of economy

Dubai, May 10, 2017:  Smartworld, a leading systems integrator and next generation ICT services provider, has been honoured with Dubai Quality Award, an award from the Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED), underlining the company’s strong commitment to excel and ceaselessly work toward delivering the best quality services to its clients across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The award, which started in 1994, is considered the quality roadmap for all oganisations in Dubai.

Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Smartworld, said: “We are honoured to have received the prestigious Dubai Quality Award. The UAE’s visionary leadership inspires us to always be the best and ensure happiness of our customers and this enhances our commitment to excellence alongwith a strong focus on continuous improvement and implementing innovative ways to ensuring best quality services to our customers. This recognition further motivates us to continue on our path to excellence.”

He added: “The UAE has been leading the digitization wave in the Middle East region, which has enhanced the role of IT in the success of economy. This role further enhances as we witness a multiple fold rise in data flow connecting the region to the world. Through our commitment to excellence, Smartworld aims to set exemplary standards of service in IT.” 

In the past decade, the cross-border data flow connecting the Middle East to the rest of the world has increased more than 150-fold, according to McKinsey & Co research. The digital market across the Middle East, led by the UAE, is estimated to contribute up to 3.8 percent annually in GDP—amounting to approximately $95 billion. 

Smartworld, an Etisalat and Dubai South joint venture company, recorded a double-digit growth in revenues in 2016 as it undertook several breakthrough initiatives including the launch of UAE’s first CIOMajlis. The company signed a record number of new contracts during the year with the top ones from aviation, telecommunication, construction and banking sectors.

The company has also received several certifications for maintaining high standards of service, including ISOI 9001: 2015 QMS, ISO 27001: 2013 ISMS, ISO 20000: 2011 ITSM and OHSAS 18001: 2007 Health and Safety.