The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is entering a decisive, services-led growth phase in its IT sector, as enterprises and governments accelerate large-scale digital transformation initiatives. Investments in cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, and cybersecurity are reshaping technology priorities, with implementation, integration, and managed services gaining prominence over traditional software-led models.

Industry analysis by Grand View Research (GVR) reveals that IT services currently account for around 21–22% of total IT spending across MENA, a share expected to rise to between 26 and 28% by the end of the decade. The region’s professional IT services market, valued at USD 33.9 billion (Dh124.5 billion) in 2024, is forecast to grow to nearly USD 58.3 billion (Dh214 billion) by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 9.5%.

Sourav Bhanja, Middle East Head of GVR, said: “Many B2B IT services firms in the region continue to underinvest in digital engagement. Professional platforms such as LinkedIn remain underutilised, while company websites often lack strong case studies, sector-specific storytelling, and clear positioning.”

Government-led digitalisation programmes, sovereign cloud deployments, smart city initiatives, and national data strategies, coupled with rising enterprise adoption across sectors such as banking and financial services, healthcare, energy, logistics, and public infrastructure, are driving this shift. As hyperscalers and global technology firms expand their regional footprint, demand for localised integration, migration, and managed services continues to accelerate.

Bhanja also emphasised the importance of leadership visibility in the region’s competitive IT market: “Technical capability alone is no longer enough. Firms that combine deep technical expertise with consistent marketing, strong leadership visibility, and clear communication of value are the ones most likely to succeed in the MENA market.”

The analysis highlights that with growing competition among IT services providers, market visibility and differentiation have emerged as critical growth drivers. Integrated, always-on digital marketing strategies are increasingly vital, as many B2B IT services firms underutilise channels such as LinkedIn, websites, thought leadership content, newsletters, blogs, infographics, and short-form video to engage decision-makers.

Market data also indicates a broader shift towards digital-first engagement. Digital advertising spend in the Middle East, estimated at USD 32 billion (Dh117 billion) in 2024, is projected to rise sharply to USD 81.4 billion (Dh298.9 billion) by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 16.7%. In contrast, the regional events and conferences market is expected to expand at a more modest 7.1% CAGR, reflecting changing enterprise marketing priorities.

Grand View Research concluded that IT services firms combining technical depth with strong market communication, data-driven marketing, and visible leadership will be best positioned to capture the next phase of growth across MENA.

The 30th edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual F&B event, is underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre until February 21, 2025. Under the theme The Next Frontier in Food, this global gathering brings together industry pioneers, top chefs, and leading food brands for an unparalleled showcase of innovation, networking, and, of course, incredible flavours.
Here’s what you can experience at the festival:
A Feast for the senses
Over 150,000 new products from more than 190 countries on display.
Discover the latest trends in beverages, dairy, meat and poultry, pulses and grains, fats and oils, brands, and international cuisine.
Whether you’re an industry professional or a passionate foodie, expect to see cutting-edge developments that will shape the future of food.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGP0Ueqtjdh/?igsh=b3J1ZTNweXkxNGs1

Unmissable highlights
Gulfood Top Table – The world’s biggest live culinary showcase featuring Michelin-starred chefs, tastings, and masterclasses.
YouthX Young Chef Challenge – Witness rising stars compete for culinary glory.
Gulfood Innovation Awards – Recognizing groundbreaking advancements in food and beverage.
Dubai World Cuisine – A celebration of homegrown talent as top chefs collaborate on unforgettable dining experiences.

After hours events
The excitement just doesn’t end when the exhibition doors close. Gulfood After Hours takes visitors on an exciting journey to explore Dubai’s buzzing culinary scene with exclusive restaurant offers and discounts — just flash your Gulfood ticket and you’re in for a treat. To secure a seat at these must-visit hotspots, it would be wise to book in advance.
Witness food trends
From manufacturers and chefs to restaurant owners and industry experts, This is where food trends will be set, deals will ne made, and the future of the F&B industry will get shaped. This is your chance to bd part of this extraordinary food revolution

World soccer’s governing body, FIFA, has confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host the men’s FIFA World Cup in 2034, while the 2030 tournament will be held in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with special celebratory matches in three South American countries. The announcement was made on Wednesday by FIFA President Gianni Infantino following an extraordinary virtual Congress.

Both tournaments were awarded through uncontested bids and confirmed by acclamation. “We are bringing football to more countries, and the number of teams has not diluted the quality. It has actually enhanced opportunities,” said Infantino, highlighting the expanded global reach of the tournament.

The 2030 World Cup will be a landmark event, taking place across six nations and three continents. Morocco, Spain, and Portugal will serve as the primary hosts, while Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will hold celebratory matches to mark the centenary of the inaugural World Cup, hosted by Uruguay in 1930.

While Argentina and Spain have previously hosted the tournament, Uruguay will host again for the first time in a century. Portugal, Paraguay, and Morocco will join the World Cup’s history as first-time host nations.

In 2034, Saudi Arabia will become the second Middle Eastern nation to host the FIFA World Cup, following Qatar’s 2022 edition. This milestone further cements the region’s growing influence in the world of football.

4o