Microsoft Appoints Amr Kamel As General Manager, UAE
A respected and seasoned executive with nearly 20 years of experience at Microsoft, Kamel brings deep regional expertise, strategic acumen, and a strong track record of delivering business transformation and innovation at scale. In his new role, he will lead Microsoft's efforts to support the UAE's national digital and AI priorities, foster sustainable economic growth, and empower customers, partners, and developers to realize the full potential of cloud and Artificial Intelligence.
Kamel most recently served as General Manager – Global Partner Solutions for Microsoft across Central & Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, where he was instrumental in accelerating the company's partner ecosystem and delivering cutting-edge solutions to organizations across the region. He also led the strategic relationship between Microsoft and UAE-based AI technology holding company G42, advancing secure, trusted, and responsible AI capabilities. This partnership has delivered a first-of-its-kind sovereign cloud offering that empowers the public sector and regulated industries with tailored AI innovation while ensuring data compliance and security. Amr will continue leading the G42 relationship as part of his new remit.
Throughout his career at Microsoft, Kamel has held a series of impactful roles across the Middle East and Africa, including as Enterprise Commercial Leader for South Africa, where he transformed the enterprise business and drove significant business growth. He is known for his authentic and inclusive leadership style, commitment to people development, and passion for leveraging technology to drive lasting change.
As he takes the helm in the UAE, Kamel will continue leading Microsoft's agenda to support the country's ambitious digital and AI transformation journey – driving innovation, empowering organizations, and championing Microsoft's commitment to responsible AI. His focus will include deepening the company's longstanding partnership with the UAE government – advancing national priorities by harnessing trusted cloud and AI technologies to accelerate innovation in critical sectors such as healthcare, energy, education, and finance, while supporting the country's strategic vision to build a knowledge-based, diversified economy beyond oil. Kamel will also drive efforts to empower the next generation of developers, entrepreneurs, and organizations, reinforcing Microsoft's bold goal to skill one million people in the UAE with essential AI capabilities by 2027.
'I've always believed in the power of technology to unlock human potential, drive innovation, and create meaningful, lasting impact – from education and employment to economic opportunity and quality of life,' said Kamel. 'It's both a passion and a personal mission to contribute to this transformation at scale. Having called the UAE home for a number of years, I've seen firsthand the incredible digital ambition here. I'm thrilled to now lead the Microsoft UAE team at such a pivotal time, enabling our customers and partners to harness cloud and AI to support the UAE's ambitious national agenda and deliver on Microsoft's mission to empower every person and organization to achieve more.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
26 minutes ago
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi's AD Ports Group establishes its first international office in China
Giving further wings to its ambitious global expansion plans, Abu Dhabi-based AD Ports Group has officially launched its first international office in the Beijing-Tianjin area of China. The office, which adds to the Group's network of more than 140 offices worldwide, is located at the heart of China's policymaking and planning and will help coordinate the AD Port Group's commercial and investment activities across the country and the broader Asia region. AD Ports Group strengthens China presence A presence in China's capital will enable closer engagement with key government stakeholders, strategic partners, clients and investors, and help AD Ports Group align with the nation's development priorities and respond swiftly to emerging trade and logistics opportunities. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, commented: 'As the world's largest exporter and driver of supply chain development, China is actively reshaping international trade. AD Ports Group shares China's vision for greater cross-border integration. 'Through our newly established Beijing office, we will work closely with our Chinese partners to support the expansion of key local, regional and international trade corridors and deliver cutting-edge shipping, infrastructure, and logistics solutions. 'We look forward to furthering our mutual investment flows and unlocking lasting value for our customers, investors and communities, creating a more connected, resilient and prosperous future for all.' The office will also play a key role in advancing the Group's presence domestically and along China's Belt and Road network, which includes maritime routes linking Asia, Africa, and Europe, and multimodal overland corridors connecting markets across several key markets. Noatum Logistics, the logistics arm for the Group, will also operate its new commercial branch for the Beijing-Tianjin region from the same office. As part of its China growth strategy, AD Ports Group will be expanding Noatum Logistics in-country capacities to offer a full suite of end-to-end logistics solutions tailored specifically to the needs of China's own rapidly expanding domestic market. The country's GDP is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5 per cent through 2030. With its logistics market projected to rise at a 4.6 per cent CAGR through 2030, the Group aims to become a major logistics player serving China's key industry sectors across their supply chain. The new office was officially opened by Samir Chaturvedi, Chief International Business Officer, AD Ports Group and CEO of Noatum Logistics; Abdulaziz Zayed Al-Shamsi, Regional CEO, AD Ports Group, and Ellie Hioe, General Manager of Noatum Logistics – Greater China. The launch builds on the Group's long-standing partnerships with Chinese businesses. Specifically, the Group and Jiangsu Overseas Cooperation Investment operate one of the most successful economic zones in Abu Dhabi, while COSCO Shipping Ports (CSP) operates a major container terminal via a joint venture at Khalifa Port. A growing number of Chinese companies have invested in manufacturing and trading entities within KEZAD, the largest operator of integrated economic zones in the UAE.
Khaleej Times
2 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
JAECOO J5 set to make UAE debut with stylish, tech-forward urban SUV
In a market where cutting-edge design, advanced technology, and elevated comfort drive consumer choice, OMODA&JAECOO UAE has officially announced the upcoming launch of the highly anticipated JAECOO J5 — a striking new SUV set to hit UAE roads this August. Combining head-turning, off-road-inspired design with city-friendly features, the JAECOO J5 presents a bold, lifestyle-oriented alternative to traditional SUVs offered at a significantly more accessible price point. Blending the aesthetic DNA of iconic brands like Land Rover with forward-thinking innovation, the JAECOO J5 1.5T FWD is crafted for discerning city drivers who seek style, safety, and smart technology without compromising on comfort or affordability. Though classified as an urban SUV, the JAECOO J5's design language draws heavily from rugged, adventure-ready icons — most notably the Land Rover Discovery Sport. That's no coincidence. The vehicle's design team includes former Land Rover designers, evident in its muscular stance, squared-off edges, and strong silhouette. The result? A commanding road presence that perfectly fits the aesthetic tastes of the UAE's style-conscious drivers. Further enhancing its appeal is the optional Eco Kit — a factory-style package that adds sporty cladding and adventure-inspired exterior details, while retaining the ease and comfort required for urban life. Under the hood, the UAE-spec JAECOO J5 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering smooth, responsive performance ideal for daily city drives and weekend getaways. Its front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup ensures a stable, fuel-efficient ride suited to the region's modern roads. Inside, the JAECOO J5 offers a contemporary, tech-forward cabin focused on intuitive design and everyday comfort. Highlights include an electronic column shifter, a sleek, minimalist dashboard, and seamless digital displays, all reflecting a premium interior ethos rarely found in this segment. A 1.45㎡ panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light —perfect for soaking in Dubai's sunsets or Abu Dhabi's skyline. For entertainment enthusiasts, the JAECOO J5 takes things up a notch with an available karaoke audio system, complete with noise-cancelling microphones and an optional subwoofer turning every drive into a personal sound studio experience. On the safety front, the JAECOO J5 impresses with a 540° panoramic camera system, offering a complete view around and beneath the vehicle ideal for navigating tight parking spots or busy urban settings. Set for its official UAE launch in August 2025, the JAECOO J5 positions itself as a value-driven, lifestyle-enhancing SUV that blends luxury-inspired design with everyday practicality. Whether you're cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road, heading to brunch, or making a stylish entrance at the valet —the JAECOO J5 is designed to turn heads and elevate the everyday drive.
Arabian Post
2 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Multiply Group Completes Major Stake Purchase in Tendam
Abu Dhabi-based Multiply Group has concluded the acquisition of a 67.91% majority stake in Spanish fashion retailer Tendam, valued at AED 5.6 billion. This move marks a significant leap into the European retail market for the UAE-listed conglomerate, solidifying its position in the global apparel industry. The deal with Tendam, which operates several prominent fashion brands including Cortefiel, Pedro del Hierro, and Springfield, will elevate Multiply Group's international presence. Tendam is an established player in the omnichannel retail space, combining physical stores with an increasingly sophisticated digital sales infrastructure, which positions the company as a strong contender in the fast-evolving European fashion market. Multiply Group's entry into this space is seen as part of a broader strategy to diversify its portfolio and tap into lucrative international markets. Samia Bouazza, the Group CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, highlighted the strategic nature of the acquisition. She noted that by securing control over a leading omnichannel business, Multiply is embracing a forward-thinking business model that is not only resilient but also adaptable to changing market conditions. ADVERTISEMENT The acquisition comes at a time when global retail trends are shifting towards an integrated, omnichannel approach, allowing companies to reach consumers across both physical and digital platforms. Tendam's long-standing expertise in this area makes the company an attractive investment for Multiply Group as it seeks to expand its footprint in Europe. Analysts suggest that the acquisition will bolster Multiply's operational EBITDA, driving growth in the firm's retail segment. Multiply Group, which has made waves in sectors ranging from technology to entertainment, views the purchase as a step towards achieving its long-term growth objectives. The acquisition is expected to provide significant synergies across Multiply's existing portfolio, with the potential to scale Tendam's brands across different European regions and beyond. The move also indicates Multiply Group's growing focus on consumer-facing businesses, which is a departure from its traditional concentration on investments in industrial and commercial sectors. By diversifying into the fashion industry, the group is positioning itself to benefit from the continued shift in consumer behaviour, where e-commerce and digital sales channels are becoming dominant drivers of growth. Industry experts believe the timing of the acquisition is particularly strategic. With the fashion industry adapting to evolving consumer preferences—especially in terms of sustainability and technological integration—the future of retail is poised for transformation. Tendam's strong digital presence, combined with its established retail stores, provides a balanced model that can better withstand economic fluctuations, making it an attractive proposition for investors. The deal strengthens Multiply Group's ties to the European market, offering more opportunities to collaborate with local businesses and expand its network of strategic partnerships. The UAE's growing influence in global investment circles, particularly in retail and fashion, is highlighted by this acquisition, which is expected to attract additional attention from global investors looking to enter the region.
