The tech industry in the Middle East has been experiencing rapid advancements and shifting trends in recent years, leading organisations to adopt innovative technologies and strategic approaches to enhance client relationships. Haresh Ahuja, Partner and Leader of the MENA IT Champions Committee at RSM AE Technology, is a prominent figure in the industry who emphasizes the importance of integrating new technologies and managing client relationships to stay ahead in this competitive landscape.
With nearly five decades of industry experience, Haresh has been instrumental in leading technological ventures in the MENA region. He currently oversees the IT consulting and professional services at RSM in UAE, where he fosters strong relationships with principal vendors and navigates modern technologies to deliver tailored solutions. Haresh’s expertise extends to investments and joint ventures in various startups, showcasing a proven track record of success.
As a judge at the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards, Haresh provides valuable insights on managing business through technology adoption and enhancing client relationships. He advises companies, especially startups, to be open to new technologies that align with business needs rather than just following popular vendor brands. The key is to optimize business processes without major disruptions and ensure selected vendors remain viable for the long term.
In assessing the performance of the Middle East tech industry, Haresh highlights the region’s steady tech growth driven by digital transformation. The UAE, as a tech hub, prioritizes artificial intelligence for data-driven decision-making, setting the stage for further innovation and growth. With digital transformation spending projected to reach $59 billion in 2024 and accelerate at a compound annual growth rate of 15%, the region’s tech potential is vast.
When it comes to startups, Haresh emphasizes the importance of trust, customer-centricity, and delivering on commitments to build strong client relationships. Startups face challenges in proving their offerings’ superiority, adapting to technological changes, and gaining customer trust through quality service delivery. Success and growth for startups hinge on aligning with customer requirements and providing solutions that enhance business functionalities.
In terms of modern technologies that companies should adopt, Haresh stresses the importance of integrating technologies seamlessly with business operations. Generative AI solutions, cybersecurity measures, hybrid cloud models, user-friendly interfaces, and sustainability practices are essential for meeting business requirements and managing client relationships effectively. Companies must prioritize cybersecurity readiness to protect against data breaches and ensure business continuity.
Looking ahead, Haresh sees the role of IT consulting evolving to focus on understanding customer pain points, offering optimal solutions, and adapting to changing business needs. The key is to create singularity between IT and business operations to address customer issues effectively and deliver value-added solutions. As a judge at the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards, Haresh looks for trustworthy organizations that deliver on promises, solve customer issues without complexity, and prioritize customer needs over pushing unnecessary products or services.
In conclusion, Haresh Ahuja’s insights underscore the importance of integrating new technologies and managing client relationships to drive success in the Middle East tech industry. By staying abreast of technological advancements, prioritizing customer-centricity, and delivering on commitments, companies can stay ahead in this dynamic and competitive landscape.
