Nour Saied-Ahmad

At the Middle East CIO & CISO Executive Summit, Taha Tkito, CIO at Americana Foods, shared lessons learned from his team's journey in unifying IT infrastructure across a vast manufacturing organization. Here, he discusses key takeaways and the 5 defining moments of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) digital transformation. #EvantaCIO #CIO #IT #Technology

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Tune Your Mindset for Success in the UAE. Navigating business in the UAE is rich, diverse, and full of nuances. As the Chief Engineer of a US-based company, I'd like to share my experiences managing business projects in the United Arab Emirates. The project lasted over 10 years and went through several stages, changing my mindset as well. In the UAE, you'll find that 9 out of 10 people are visitors and expats, with many coming from India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. You will meet folks from all over, including Europe, South Africa, and Australia. It's a melting pot, which makes it quite intriguing, so use the opportunity to learn about diverse cultures. And believe me, there are differences. At first, it may be odd to hear "Inshallah" (God willing) all the time in business conversations. It's a window into the local mindset, but it also reminds you to stay on top of things to make sure they happen as you want. A very popular Arabic gesture is "Shway" with pinched five fingers pointing up. This is a cool gesture: politely suggesting to slow down; there's no rush. My company worked with the government telecommunications operator Etisalat. Their employees' normal working hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the weekend is Friday and Saturday. Plan your work around these business hours, and be prepared to skip lunch to save time and complete your daily tasks. Keep this in mind since, unlike contractors, residents (locals) are here to stay. Plan your next-day activities with your local business partner and local managers. Do it as quickly as possible; don't wait till 4 p.m. Learning and using a few Arabic words like "Shukran" (thank you) and "Marhaba" (hello) are great for warm communications. It shows respect and helps build rapport. Respect, respect, respect—especially elderly people, women, and kids. This is crucial in Emirati culture and will earn you a lot of goodwill. Do not be an idiot, especially with booze. The UAE has severe drinking rules, so being respectful and cautious is essential. Make sure to socialize with the locals a few times per week. Parks and beaches with volleyball and tennis courts are ideal for this. Skip the lazy, closed-minded coworkers who only go to Western bars and restaurants after work. Dive into Emirati life and take it all in. You'll discover what you enjoy and dislike. The best sign that you're doing well will be the local contacts you have in your phone book. Don't be afraid to explore local restaurants. People may eat with their hands; it is a cultural norm. You'll discover incredible foods and seasonings. Just be cautious about the spice levels; if an Indian guy says it's medium, it could be quite hot for you. There are automated speed cameras everywhere. Follow speed limits on roadways. Slower traffic uses the right lanes. Seriously, slower traffic keep right! Tune your mindset for the UAE, and embrace the journey ahead. #linkedintips #linkedinuae

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💲 Saudi Arabia's Petrodollar Agreement Expires 👇 In an era where financial news is dominated by market trends and tech booms, a seismic shift in global economics seems to be going largely unnoticed. Several reports have highlighted that, on June 9th, Saudi Arabia's 50-year-old petrodollar agreement with the United States quietly expired, with no new contract yet in place. Established in 1974, the petrodollar system was born three years after the U.S. abandoned the gold standard. This agreement ensured that Saudi Arabia would sell oil exclusively in U.S. dollars in return for U.S. military and economic support. This pact not only bolstered the U.S. dollar’s position as the world's dominant reserve currency, but also cemented America's economic influence globally. Now, as a member of BRICS, Saudi Arabia seems to be exploring new avenues. Without renewing the petrodollar agreement, it can sell oil in multiple currencies, including the Chinese Yuan, Rubles, Yen, and Rupee. This shift signals a potential acceleration of the de-dollarization trend that has been quietly unfolding over the past three years. The implications of this move are profound. It challenges the long-standing dollar dominance in global oil markets and could lead to significant shifts in international trade and finance. While negotiations for a new agreement are reportedly ongoing, the current uncertainty underscores the potential for a new economic era. As the world watches, the expiration of the petrodollar agreement might be the most impactful financial event of the decade, heralding a future where the U.S. dollar's reign is no longer unchallenged. The expiration of the petrodollar agreement could mark a pivotal moment in global finance, potentially reshaping the future of international trade. For the sake of objectivity, this transformative development has been circulating widely on the internet for a couple of days now, but has not yet been reported by major news outlets. 🤝 🔗 Don't miss out on the latest global developments - finance, IT, ESG, and beyond. Follow along for a well-rounded perspective on insights and trends that shape our world today and tomorrow: 🔗https://lnkd.in/ewE-wsEE ♻ Plz repost this and help spread the knowledge! Source: The Business Standard #Global #Economics #Petrodollar #US #Dominance #SaudiArabia #BRICS #DeDollarization #MohammadAlsaheb #InternationalTrade #FinancialShift #EconomicInsight #GlobalFinance #Oil #Dollar

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At the Riyadh CIPS MENA Procurement Conference, I had an insightful conversation with Wisam Yahya - MBA, PMP® about procurement and its recent developments. Stay tuned to watch the full podcast soon! #marckloepfel #procurementksa #cipsmena #middleeastprocurement #transformationinprocurement #kloepfelconsulting

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🎙️Don't miss this snippet! Join Akil Ask as he shares his innovative approach to extracting valuable insights from interviews. This short clip will delve into the transformative techniques he uses to turn mundane questions into extraordinary insights! 🎧 For a deeper exploration, watch the full episode on: YouTube: https://cstu.io/d072c8 Spotify: https://cstu.io/3b5831 Make sure to subscribe to our channel for more enriching content on technology and career development! #TechLeadership #SuccessfulInterviewing #Recruitment #CTOInsights #Podcast #TechIndustry #CareerGrowth #VenturaTec

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🚀 The Game-Changer for Small Businesses in the UAE & Gulf: Why Consulting & Coaching Matter 🚀 Small businesses are the lifeblood of any economy, and the UAE & Gulf region is no exception. Yet, despite this promise, the journey is often challenging. 🌍 Here's why consulting and coaching can be the difference between surviving and thriving: 1️⃣ Navigate Complex Regulations: Each country in the region has unique legal and regulatory frameworks. Expert consulting simplifies compliance, helping you avoid costly missteps. 2️⃣ Tailored Market Strategies: A one-size-fits-all strategy won’t cut it. Coaches offer insight into local consumer behavior, giving your business a competitive edge. 3️⃣ Cultural Intelligence Matters: Understanding cultural norms and business etiquette is crucial. Consultants provide the keys to unlocking authentic relationships with local stakeholders. 4️⃣ Scaling Beyond Borders: Thinking of expanding across GCC markets? Consultants provide a roadmap for sustainable growth, helping you identify new opportunities while managing risks. 5️⃣ Maximize ROI: Every decision counts when resources are tight. Coaching optimizes operations, refines marketing tactics, and ensures your investments yield the best returns. 6️⃣ Support Network: The right mentor can open doors to invaluable partnerships and networks. Their experience becomes your shortcut to success. Ready to invest in your small business's future? A coach or consultant could be your most strategic partner. Your next step toward success starts here. 🚀 #SmallBusiness #UAE #Gulf #Consulting #Coaching #BusinessGrowth #Mentorship

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Leadership at its best! Leadership of UAE have always demonstrated how is important to put the right set od leaders on top of the right technology to transform citizen experience.

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KSA and the wider region have invested heavily in AI, and it’s paying off. However, “While CEOs recognize AI’s potential and many already are redesigning work to improve productivity, streamline operations, or gain a competitive advantage, they underestimate many aspects of the technology” Read more in this Arab News article featuring Ana Kreacic and the Oliver Wyman Forum #ai #genai #owquotient

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If you unconditionally help others, it comes back to you like a bouncing ball. - Vasudeva 🌟 #Success #WorkplaceJourney #KeepPushing #CelebrateAchievements #CareerSkills #ProfessionalDevelopment #jobsuccess #career #careerdevelopment #workplacesuccess #workplacemantra #vasudeva10x 🌟

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In recent years, the UAE has positioned itself as a formidable player on the global tech stage, particularly through its strategic investments in the semiconductor industry. As a retail marketing specialist with a keen eye on technological advancements, here is a unique perspective on how these developments are set to transform the market landscape. Key Points: Boosting Technological Infrastructure: The UAE’s investment in semiconductor technology is not just a financial move but a strategic effort to enhance its technological infrastructure. This development is pivotal in creating a robust ecosystem that supports innovation and growth in various sectors, including retail. Enhancing Consumer Experiences: The advancements in semiconductor technology are set to revolutionize consumer experiences. Faster processing speeds, enhanced data security, and improved device performance will provide consumers with seamless and enriched interactions, from smarter retail transactions to enhanced customer service. Driving Economic Diversification: By focusing on the semiconductor industry, the UAE is diversifying its economy, reducing its reliance on oil, and paving the way for sustainable economic growth. This strategic shift attracts global tech giants, fostering collaborations that bring advanced technologies and expertise to the region. Empowering Local Talent: Investment in high-tech industries like semiconductors encourages the development of local talent. The UAE is creating opportunities for its youth, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a technology-driven future. This not only boosts employment but also ensures a steady pipeline of skilled professionals to sustain industry growth. Strengthening Global Competitiveness: The UAE's proactive approach in the semiconductor sector positions it as a competitive player on the global stage. By leading in tech innovation and production, the UAE is attracting international attention and investment, further solidifying its status as a global tech powerhouse. These strategic investments are not just about building infrastructure but about laying the foundation for a future where technology enhances every aspect of life. The UAE’s forward-thinking approach and strategic investments in the semiconductor industry are a testament to its commitment to innovation, economic diversification, and global leadership. As these developments unfold, the UAE is set to become a central hub for technological advancements, benefiting both businesses and consumers alike. For full article click the below link and comment your views: https://lnkd.in/dnYHGNep #UAEInnovation #TechPowerhouse #SemiconductorIndustry #GlobalTech #EconomicDiversification #RetailMarketing #ConsumerExperience #TechInfrastructure #FutureOfRetail #LocalTalentDevelopment #GlobalCompetitiveness #TechInvestments

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e& UAE has achieved an extraordinary milestone by setting the world record for the fastest 5G network speed. This incredible accomplishment places e& UAE at the forefront of global connectivity! Such an achievement underpins the expertise of the e& UAE team. Without their hard work and vision, this record-breaking feat wouldn’t have been possible. By setting this new standard, e& UAE continues to lead the way in delivering cutting-edge technology and most importantly, continued superb experiences for all of its customers. This success not only solidifies e& UAE's reputation as an industry leader but also amplifies its FAME status on the global stage. By consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation, e& UAE achieves technological breakthroughs and secures business success through its forward-thinking approach. As the company’s FAME grows, so does its influence and ability to attract new opportunities and partnerships. Such is a classic example of FAME’s capacity to skyrocket any business to global recognition. Let the FAME King himself help your brand become a worldwide hit. Get in touch with him https://lnkd.in/gegnU-r. Thanks to e& UAE, the future of connectivity is here, and it’s faster than ever!  #5GNetwork #RecordBreaking #Connectivity #TechnologyLeader #Innovation #GlobalRecognition #FameBySheeraz #e&UAE #BusinessSuccess #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfConnectivity #TechBreakthroughs #Networking #BusinessGrowth #FameKing #Sheeraz #TechAchievements

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Sam Achampong FCIPS has shared few great tips for negotiation. Undoubtedly, Negotiation is life blood of procurement profession and I would like to add few tips: 1. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS You should have real clarity about your numbers in black and white. Be that about the past or your future targets. 2. CONSULTATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS Draw an in-house consensus with your stakeholders prior to having negotiation. That would give you insights from other minds and would prepare you well for the session. Also then, you will be more confident while negotiating on behalf of your organisation. 3. DON'T TAKE YOURSELF TOO SERIOUSLY There would come moments during negotiation where you find yourself being less listened or not given that importance; that could drag you out of negotiation if you take yourself more seriously than your target(s). #negotiation #procurement #procurementexcellence

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Commenting on the intense stress of entrance exams, students require support beyond academic achievements. The shift from chasing a dream to facing disappointment over exam outcomes can be profoundly challenging. Encouraging students to engage with broader perspectives and opportunities within the medical field can help them navigate setbacks, By Connecting the emerging trends in the medical field towards brighter horizons. Here, PH Theory of Humanity towards Sustainability presents the list of various medical field possibilities.

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The Middle East's digital economy is on track for remarkable expansion. The growth is fueled by the region's rapid uptake of digital commerce and online transactions, fundamentally reshaping market dynamics. By 2025, mobile platforms are expected to drive 70% of total online transaction value in the MENA region, signaling a shift towards mobile commerce dominance. Furthermore, the B2C eCommerce market is forecasted to reach double-digit billion euros by 2026, offering significant opportunities in this swiftly evolving landscape. Saudi Arabia and the UAE lead the charge in the region's digital transformation, achieving significant milestones in their eCommerce sectors. By 2027, Saudi Arabia's B2C eCommerce revenue is set to exceed €20 billion, representing a substantial share of total retail sales. Likewise, the UAE's digital commerce landscape is thriving, with B2C eCommerce revenue expected to nearly double-digit EUR billion by 2028”. (Middle East & Africa B2C E-Commerce Market Report 2024) Let’s look at the numbers for Ramadan 2024: the season in the MENA region witnessed notable surges in online sales, marked by a 23% surge in transaction volume and a 13% elevation in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) compared to the previous year. How to get the most out of your next Ramadan campaigns? 1. Start in advance and plan your campaign early. Set your brand up for success during Ramadan. 2. Think about your audience. Update your ad copy and creatives to showcase your products or services effectively. 3. Stay updated on your industry by tracking trends in your sector. This will help you stay connected with your audience. 4. Take advantage of the opportunity. Target potential customers with high interest during the peak season. It's never too early to start planning your Ramadan campaign. Set your ads for success with VIDEN! 

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Procurement is not all about going with the cheapest suppliers in terms of cost . It’s about looking at the total cost of ownership which constitutes of many factors. Personally I look for suppliers that create value as a long term partner. What do you look for ? #Procurement #uae #dubai #value #strategic

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Imagine the impact when even the best supply chains face nature’s fury Two days ago, Dubai saw unprecedented rains, receiving 2.5 times its annual rainfall in a mere 24 hours. With a downpour that could bring any city in the world to a standstill, things did get tricky pretty quickly : the local news outlets were soon filled with stories of people stranded far from home, cars marooned on impassable roads, widespread flight delays, water entering homes and shops. I personally witnessed a lot of this as I drove back after dropping my 81 year old Dad at the airport on 16th April (His flight made it out of the airport despite the chaos caused by the rain!) And there were many things that went right : Power and water supplies in most places were uninterrupted, good samaritans and city workers pulled in a Herculean effort to make sure that things kept moving, schools and offices moved seamlessly to online mode and there were constant updates from the government on the evolving situation. The question that I found myself asking was : What would I do as a supply chain leader, if every part of an intricately constructed supply chain gets hit by a natural disaster? There is no easy answer and we are always intelligent in hindsight but there are a few foundational best practices. 1. Celebrate and reinforce wins: many things worked well. Schools and offices moved online seamlessly. Their hybrid protocols worked well.  2. Invest in the right team culture and the right team itself : Most of the people that helped during the aforementioned incident, were good natured strangers and public service workers pulling in 2-3 shifts at a stretch. Them going above and beyond in the absence of a playbook made a difference. 3. Use Advanced warning systems and technology appropriately: Even though everyone knew this storm was coming and despite many warnings many took it lightly. How do we calibrate the nature of warnings and bring in more advanced tech to forecast issues? How do we celebrate conservatism in the face of extreme unreliability as against machismo and one-upmanship? 4. Invest in Supplier relationships : How quickly the roads are repaired and the pipelines put in place and the infrastructure gets back in shape is also a function of how well your suppliers are able to support you. At the end of the day this comes down to senior level connections between leaders, working level connections between procurement managers and the relevant sales folks on the other side. These of course are a few easily forgotten topics in the face of supply chains of shocks, and need to be seen on top of other basics (such as sub-tier vendor transparency etc) What do you think? What else would you do? #SupplyChainResilience #NaturalDisasterResponse #TeamCulture #Leadership #TechnologyIntegration #RiskManagement #SupplierManagement #Partnerships #SupplyChainManagement #CrisisResponse

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The recent collaboration and partnership between Microsoft and G42 are paving the way for numerous positive advancements in the UAE. Here's why it matters: 1️⃣ Boost for AI Industry and Innovation: - Microsoft's monumental $1.5 billion investment in G42, a prominent UAE AI company, signals a significant uplift for the nation's AI sector. - This infusion of capital is poised to ignite further research and development (R&D) initiatives in AI across the UAE, propelling the creation of cutting-edge AI solutions. 2️⃣ Potential for Regional AI Leadership: - Beyond the UAE, the collaboration aims to develop solutions catering to the entire Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. This positions the UAE as a frontrunner in AI development and deployment for the region. 3️⃣ Responsible AI Development: - Emphasis on adhering to international regulations for responsible AI development underscores the commitment to implementing these solutions ethically and securely, fostering trust and widespread adoption. 4️⃣ Increased Investment and Job Creation: - The combined expertise of Microsoft and G42 is poised to attract further investment in the UAE's tech sector, potentially leading to the creation of numerous new jobs and opportunities for skilled professionals. 5️⃣ Global Recognition: - This high-profile partnership with Microsoft shines a spotlight on the UAE's prowess in AI, garnering global recognition and positioning it as a burgeoning tech hub. In essence, this partnership solidifies the UAE's standing as a major contender in the global AI landscape and has the potential to catapult its technological advancement to new heights. 🌟 #AI #TechInnovation #UAELeadership

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Do you live in Dubai? Or come here from time to time? Then this new initiative will surely interest you! Sheikh Hamdan approved the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 (indeed, another strategy that is underpinned by D33, and is also aligned with the 2040 Dubai Urban Master Plan). This was the most comprehensive article I found on the topic, but here a few highlights of the strategy's key characteristics: ➡ Ambitious: aims to establish Dubai as a global leader in quality of life and enhance its status as the world’s preferred destination to live, work and visit. ➡ Inclusive: targeted at seven key demographic categories: women, seniors, nationals, people of determination, children, youth, and white-collar workers ➡ Sustainable: focuses attention on the 20-minute city and incorporates initiatives like trees & parks and conservation of nature and biodiversity ➡ Holistic: includes 200+ projects, initiatives and plans across 19 government entities It covers 10 key pillars related to well-being: 1️⃣ Culture and entertainment 2️⃣ Natural environment 3️⃣ Urban environment 4️⃣ Mobility 5️⃣ Society and family 6️⃣ Economic environment 7️⃣ Employment and work conditions 8️⃣ Education 9️⃣ Safety and security 1️⃣0️⃣ Health More beaches, more parks, more events, more cycling/walking paths, more access to services, more investment opportunities. As a long-time resident (10+ years) I am excited about the plans and look forward to the even higher quality of life this will bring to me and my family. #mydubai #wellbeing #dubaibusiness https://lnkd.in/d3tpWJ-v

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