Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 110 | Page 80

FINAL WORD

Era of unchecked growth and investment is over

This year , business leaders must navigate a complex interplay of innovation and pragmatism . From the recalibration of AI ambitions to the balancing act between sustainability and data demands , success in this environment will depend on adaptability , foresight , and focus on delivering tangible value says Omar Akar at Pure Storage .

Right through the pandemic , supply chain disruptions and regional geopolitical conflicts , IT has been the one segment that has been growing at an unshakable pace . Indeed , for 2025 , Gartner projects that IT spending in MENA will once again rise by an appreciable 7.4 %. And while the US $ 230.7 billion set to be invested in IT projects through next year underscores IT ’ s significance as a fundamental enabler of business , there are signs that reality is beginning to set in .

As business leaders mould their organisations ’ strategies for the year ahead , they will be well served to take stock of ongoing shifts in market dynamics . Though these may appear gradual , the sudden and dramatic rise of AI stands testament to how rapidly such movements can gain momentum and upend businesses .
As we look ahead to 2025 , the IT landscape will continue to be dynamic and transformative . Yet , it is clear that the era of unchecked growth and speculative investments in technology is giving way to one of strategic discernment . From the recalibration of AI ambitions to the balancing act between sustainability and data demands , business leaders must navigate a complex interplay of innovation and pragmatism .
Success in this evolving environment will depend on adaptability , foresight , and a clear focus on delivering tangible value .
80 INTELLIGENTCIO MIDDLE EAST www . intelligentcio . com