Microsoft cloud ecosystem to contribute over $74bn to UAE economy

At GITEX Global 2024, a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC) revealed that Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem will significantly boost the UAE’s economy, contributing more than $74bn in revenues and creating over 150,000 jobs by 2028.

The IDC study, titled ‘Microsoft Cloud Dividend Snapshot’ and sponsored by Microsoft, outlined the critical role that Microsoft’s cloud services and its extensive partner ecosystem play in driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation across the UAE.

The findings emphasise the synergy between cloud technology and artificial intelligence (AI) as essential drivers for businesses looking to stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Microsoft data centre regions provide an impetus

According to the report, Microsoft, its partners, and customer companies using cloud technologies will generate $74.4bn in new revenue for the UAE over the next four years. Microsoft’s data centre regions in the UAE alone will account for $5.bn in local spending on products and services, stimulating the economy and further integrating AI and cloud infrastructure into various industries.

Naim Yazbeck, general manager of Microsoft UAE, highlighted the strategic importance of cloud technology in driving this transformation.

“As organisations across the UAE and the region seek to leverage the latest advancements in AI, the cloud remains the foundation upon which these innovations are built. Our investment in local data centres, our partner ecosystem, and the broader digital economy reflects our ongoing dedication to empowering government institutions and businesses to innovate, drive economic growth, and create sustainable jobs for the future,” said Yazbeck.

Job creation and skill development

Beyond economic growth, the tech giant’s cloud ecosystem is expected to create 152,530 new jobs in the UAE by 2028. This includes 41,800 highly skilled IT positions, further accelerating the UAE’s evolution from a technology consumer to a global innovator.

With cloud adoption transforming both public and private sectors, these jobs will span various industries, supporting sectors like healthcare, finance, and government in embracing AI and digital transformation.

Partner ecosystem growth

The report also emphasised the financial benefits to Microsoft’s partners. For every dollar generated by Microsoft’s UAE cloud operations in 2025, partners are projected to earn $6.29, with this figure rising to $7.99 by 2028.

This growth underscores the economic potential of cloud solutions for businesses across the UAE and highlights the mutually beneficial relationship between the tech company and its regional partner

Microsoft’s presence at GITEX Global 2024, along with 36 partners, showcases how its cloud services, including AI-powered platforms, are contributing to local communities and businesses.

The tech giant’s exhibit features interactive arenas, including a demo area, an Xbox gaming stage, and a platform for networking, all designed to highlight the role of AI in shaping the future of work and society.