e&, the telecommunications giant based in the United Arab Emirates, has entered into a $1 billion partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) aimed at enhancing cloud adoption and digital transformation across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The six-year agreement will focus on delivering essential cloud services, including storage, computing, networking, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. By combining AWS’s robust cloud infrastructure with e&’s extensive regional network, the partnership seeks to meet the growing demand for secure and scalable cloud solutions in regulated sectors such as healthcare, finance, and oil and gas.
This strategic move aligns with a broader trend in the region, as a recent PwC report indicated that 70% of companies in the MENA area plan to transition most of their operations to the cloud within the next two years.
As part of the collaboration, e& will utilize AWS services to modernize its platforms, including Starzplay Arabia, a popular TV streaming service, and Careem, the Middle East’s all-encompassing app. e& holds significant stakes in both companies. Additionally, the partnership will offer cloud technology and AI training to thousands of individuals, including UAE nationals, supporting the nation’s Vision 2031 objectives.
