Image: Supplied
At GITEX Global 2024, Dell Technologies took center stage, showcasing cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence (AI), multi-cloud, cybersecurity and digital workplace technologies.
In this conversation with Gulf AffairsWalid Yehia, General Manager – Gulf, at Dell Technologiesshares his views on Dell’s presence at GITEX Global and its role in transforming industries and meeting the changing needs of businesses in the UAE and beyond.
Yehia also discusses Dell’s AI initiatives, the challenges facing businesses, and the critical role of cybersecurity and sustainability in today’s technology landscape.
How do you think GITEX Global has evolved?
GITEX has become a platform not to be missed. It is more than an exhibition; it’s like a festival that connects you with industry stakeholders.
The event gets better every year and the attention it gets from industry players highlights the value it brings. For Dell, GITEX is an essential place to showcase our innovations and collaborate closely with our partners and customers.
Dell’s presence at this year’s GITEX Global focused on AI and innovation. Tell us more about the technologies you presented and their impact on the company’s operations.
At Dell, we view technology as a means to improve human life and drive progress. Our strategy supports digital transformation by delivering comprehensive solutions from the edge to data centers and cloud environments, providing customers with flexibility without vendor lock-in.
This year we are focusing on AImulti-cloud, cybersecurity and digital workspaces, with innovations in each area. Additionally, our booth showcased the Dell ecosystem, including local and global partners, to offer customers an end-to-end solution that mitigates risk and reduces the cost of complex implementations.
A recent Dell study shows that 58% of companies are adopting Generation AI. What challenges do you see for these companies when adopting AI?
There are both technical and non-technical challenges. Data quality is essential, as inaccurate or outdated data can undermine the effectiveness of AI. AI talent and skills are also lacking, and some organizations need a well-defined strategy to ensure AI efforts align with business goals. AI adoption requires a culture of innovation that spans the entire organization, which remains a challenge globally. Additionally, regulatory challenges, such as GPU export controls, can create logistical hurdles, but we are working on solutions.
Where is Dell stepping in to help businesses address these challenges, particularly in building AI strategies and infrastructure?
Dell helps businesses accelerate their journey to AI with a holistic approach, from data and infrastructure to services and skills. We offer a comprehensive AI ecosystem that reduces time to market and mitigates risk. Our role includes advising on strategic use cases to drive specific business outcomes.
Although we are not a management consulting firm, we partner with consulting firms to provide our clients with a seamless experience, from business strategy to technology deployment.
Cybersecurity is a growing concern. How is Dell leveraging AI to improve customer cyber resilience?
Cybersecurity is crucial for any organization today, and we are investing in AI-powered solutions that improve resilience against cyber threats. AI enables faster detection and response to security incidents, which is vital in today’s landscape.
Security goes beyond AI, but Dell is a leader in developing zero trust frameworks, including Project FORT, a consortium initiative for the U.S. government. Our R&D investments advance cybersecurity solutions and we seek to make these innovations available globally.
As sustainability becomes an integral part of business operations, how does Dell ensure its technologies support environmental goals?
Sustainability is at the heart of our strategy. As AI increases energy demand, efficient data center solutions are essential. Dell aims to significantly reduce its carbon emissions by 2030 and we are developing platforms that use less energy and operate more sustainably.
Sustainable technology is not only beneficial for the environment, but also economically essential in today’s environment of high energy demand.
Dell has also focused on closing the talent gap. Could you share some of Dell’s initiatives to develop local talent and skills in emerging technologies?
Talent development is a priority for Dell and we work with government and private sector partners to create tailored educational programs. For example, we have trained 900 AI students in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of AI, and we continue to develop cybersecurity and AI skills through various programs aimed at different audiences, experts techniques for business leaders.
Looking ahead, how do you see the AI landscape evolving over the next three to five years, and what role will Dell play?
I see AI as a transformative technology with incredible potential. We’re just in the early stages, like looking at the moon and imagining a way to reach it. AI has the potential to drive unprecedented economic opportunities and quality of life improvements, and Dell will continue to lead AI innovations to responsibly support this transformation.
What do you believe gives Dell its competitive advantage as a technology leader?
Dell’s advantage is our strategic focus on R&D, which allows us to innovate at a pace few can match. Additionally, our strong company culture and commitment to tackling complex challenges, whether AI, cybersecurity or sustainability, sets us apart.
Finally, could you share three leadership lessons that have shaped your journey?
First, being a leader is about earning the trust of your team, not just holding a title. Second, great leaders understand that they are not the smartest person in the room. It’s about leveraging the team’s strengths. Finally, empathy is essential.
Leading with empathy doesn’t mean you avoid difficult decisions, but it does build trust and respect, which are fundamental to a high-performing team.
