IBM has launched its Innovation and Industry Client Centre in Abu Dhabi, UAE, aims to fast track the digital transformation of both public and private organizations through advanced technologies in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud, blockchain, security, analytics, Internet of Things and quantum computing.

The inauguration took place in the presence of Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, chairman at Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and Dr Rauda Saeed Al Saadi, director general of the Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions & Services Authority. It also coincided with the opening of IBM’s new office in Aldar Headquarters Building in Abu Dhabi.

The new IBM Innovation and Industry Client Centre joins a worldwide network of Innovation Centres in more than 33 countries, giving clients global access to high technical skills and expertise, advanced technologies and IBM research centres.

It will provide clients with a collaborative and digitally immersive environment to deliver customized briefings, and exploration and technical enablement sessions, proof of concepts and benchmark testing, as well as hackathons and educational training for students on new technologies. It will also offer Design Thinking workshops to solve customer challenges at the speed and scale of the modern digital enterprise.

Jassem Al Zaabi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Office, said: “The role Abu Dhabi is playing in innovation, specifically artificial intelligence, makes it attractive for international companies. IBM’s decision to have its Innovation and Industry Client Centre in the capital is a clear sign of trust that this emirate holds with major investors and international companies in various sectors.

“The UAE is carrying out the instructions of its wise leadership when it comes to innovation, making it a practice and a go-to approach in the way government bodies work. This ultimately will enhance the work flow and functions of the government, and secure a top spot for the UAE internationally in various innovation indicators.”

“Abu Dhabi’s investment in ICT will create a new market capable of attracting global investors, and support the private sector initiatives and enhance its contribution. In addition to building a strong foundation in R&D,” he concluded.

Dr Al Saadi said: "The launch of IBM’s Innovation and Industry Client Centre in the capital is a perfect example of Abu Dhabi Government’s commitment to adopt an approach that focuses on achieving technological development and prosperity, by nurturing and supporting ICT initiatives and projects that will push the envelope, and boost the economy and investment in the emirate.

“The government is laying the foundation to become a global leader in ICT, and supporting innovation and empowering it to grow. IBM’s new centre will support R&D in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to help enhance the quality of work, life and services.”

The new centre will be home to subject matter experts and will host a number of demos and IBM solutions across key industries, including government, healthcare, renewable energy, technology, aviation and transportation, and aerospace.

“Abu Dhabi is an important hub of business, industries and manufacturing. It has been a strong player in the global economy and is continuously leading innovation across industries,” said Amr Refaat, general manager, IBM Middle East and Pakistan.

“The new centre will contribute to Abu Dhabi’s efforts in paving the way for governments and private organizations to innovate and advance. It will also create a collaborative and a digitally immersive environment in which we put our clients first, enabling them to make decisions based on design thinking methodologies and real-life business scenarios.” – TradeArabia News Service