Microsoft appoints new general manager for the GCC

Microsoft has appointed Sayed Hashish as its new regional general manager for the Gulf region, it announced on Tuesday.

He takes over from Samer Abu Ltaif who held the post for six years, and was recently appointed as president for Microsoft Middle East and Africa.

Read more: Microsoft appoints new head for Middle East and Africa

Hashish, who joined Microsoft in 1998, has spent over 10 years in Dubai and was most recently general manager for the Public Sector in Middle East and Africa.

In his new role, he will oversee the company’s operations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE, focussing on the region’s digital agenda. He will continue to be based in Dubai.

“Technology can transform education, nurture community innovation and create employment opportunities that fuel a sustained cycle of social and economic development,” said Hashish.

“Digital transformation, applied strategically, can engage customers and citizens, empower employees, optimise operations and transform products and services. With Gulf governments marching forward with bold economic visions, this is an exciting time for us to play an important role.”

Microsoft, which set up an office in Dubai more than 15 years ago during the launch of Dubai Internet City, has substantially grown its presence in the regional market.

The company’s CEO Satya Nadella also visited Dubai in January 2016 when he met with the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister and Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The two discussed Dubai’s smart city agenda and ways to collaborate.

Read more here: Dubai’s ruler meets Microsoft CEO Nadella, discusses smart city plans