Omnix International, a Dubai-based IT solutions and services provider, has partnered with Autodesk, a leading 3D design software provider, to help the UAE Ministry of Economy (UAE MoE) reinforce its campaign against the proliferation of design software piracy.

The alliance hosted a training workshop for the ministry’s inspectors at the Al Hamra Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah.

The event was designed to increase awareness on how to distinguish between genuine and authentic Autodesk software and counterfeit copies; to learn more about the Autodesk License Compliance Process; and essential information on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

Speakers during the event highlighted the negative impact made by software piracy on the social and economic development of the country. They also shared that computers utilising genuine software work better and faster than those using pirated software.

“In the Middle East region, the UAE has been rated with the lowest instances of software piracy. Despite this, the country is still implementing key measures that will put a full stop, zero occurrence of piracy in business through the MoE,” said Ahmed Sanobar, license compliance manager – Gulf, Autodesk.

“Reducing the piracy rate in the region translates to greater economic benefits. We have been sending correspondence to our customers on the importance of IPR protection. We are also now joining MoE inspectors on their visits to various companies in the UAE and are helping increase awareness of the negative impact made by using counterfeit software,” he added.

The workshop highlighted the many benefits to be gained from using authentic Autodesk AutoCAD family products and Autodesk suites.

The day-long workshop also covered other key topics like following through on the paperwork process of the department of publishing and copyrights; the UAE IPR law; and an introduction to Autodesk as a company and their product portfolio.

With the growing popularity and demand for cultural products like films, audio and software, the increase of piracy has become a major concern among governments and consumers, said a report.

Widespread counterfeit software have caused a total of over $60 billion in global losses, with the Gulf region suffering a loss of about $850 million, according to the report. - TradeArabia News Service