Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 72 | Page 10

NEWS

Microsoft focuses on UAE ’ s sustainable future at GITEX 2021

Microsoft has mapped out its vision for a more sustainable future and what it means for the UAE government ’ s National Agenda 2030 , when the company made its annual appearance at GITEX Global .

Microsoft is putting a spotlight on the next generation Smart City solutions , which will enable the country to reach its sustainable development goals .
“ GITEX is the home of innovation in the region ,” said Sayed Hashish , General Manager , Microsoft UAE . “ This is where everyone comes together to be inspired and hear about the next big technological breakthroughs . At Microsoft , we constantly strive to find solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time and few things are more pressing today than solving the issue of climate change . This year , Microsoft is challenging everyone to imagine a more sustainable future , by experiencing how smart cities can become part of the climate solution .”
In partnership with Schneider Electric and AVEVA , Microsoft ’ s flagship GITEX showcase this year IS a Smart City solution to bring Dubai ’ s sustainability vision to life .
Exhibiting under the theme “ Creating a Bolder Digital Future Together ,” the company met with customers and partners , while reaffirming its steadfast commitment to the UAE , its government , and its people .

Avaya Spaces enables Emaar Properties to compose better digital real estate experiences

With property sales in Dubai having bounced back over the last 12 months , and with 64,000 units scheduled to come online in the next year , according to Dubai Land Department records , Avaya is helping Emaar Properties PJSC to fast-track growth with digital real estate buying experiences powered by Avaya Spaces , the workstream collaboration platform for the digital workplace .

Using Avaya Spaces , Emaar Properties is now providing immersive video consultations between its property experts and prospective buyers . The solution enables Emaar Properties ’ website visitors to instantly initiate video sessions with an expert to enquire about any property , before progressing through a seamless and secure digital buying experience . Taking full advantage of Avaya Spaces ’ capabilities , the video consultation solution takes place through an easy-to-use browser-based interface that delivers seamless interaction over video , voice and chat , while enabling agents and buyers to easily send and receive files or screen share .
And to ensure security compliance , every video session creates a unique browser address , which expires after a certain period of time . Data shared via the chat function during these video consultations is encrypted and deleted at the end of the call .
Avaya Spaces offers evolved unified communications capabilities via a user ’ s preferred device , with AI-enhanced meetings and simpler , integrated voice and video calling powered by Avaya OneCloud CPaaS ( Communications Platform as a Service ). The service is designed to be always-on , so that prospective buyers can launch video consultations anytime . If a video session is initiated and no property expert is available , the buyer is placed in a virtual waiting room . They are then automatically connected with the next available expert .
“ Emaar Properties ’ track record as a real estate pioneer is based on the memorable experiences that it provides to the owners and residents of its developments . And now , the company is delivering a digital buying experience that preserves the all-important human touch of a face-to-face transaction . We ’ re proud to be supporting Emaar Properties in its use of open platforms to advance the industry ,” said Nidal Abou-Ltaif , President , Avaya International .
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