Computers in the Emirates/a technical journey from giant devices to artificial intelligence

ABU DHABI, 23rd May, 2017 (WAM) – The journey of computer development in the UAE represents a prominent aspect of the process of digital transformation and the building of an advanced knowledge economy, after the country moved, within a few decades, from using large traditional computer systems to adopting the latest technologies of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and smart applications, within the framework of a future vision aimed at consolidating its global leadership in advanced technology.

The journey of adopting computer systems in the Emirates began in the 1970s and 1980s after government institutions, banks, and oil companies in the country relied on the giant mainframe computers, which at that time formed the backbone for processing data, managing calculations, and administrative records, and contributed to supporting the operational structure of vital sectors.

The “IBM”, “HP” and “Digital Equipment Corporation” systems emerged among the most important technologies used at that stage. The devices were characterized by their large size and their need for specialized operating rooms and advanced cooling systems, while data was stored via magnetic tapes and floppy disks, which at that time represented a qualitative leap in preserving and processing information.

At the beginning of the 1990s, the UAE witnessed a qualitative transformation represented by the spread of personal computers, the entry of Dell, Compaq, and IBM devices into government and private institutions and the educational sector, in conjunction with the expansion of the use of Microsoft systems, most notably the Microsoft Windows operating system, which contributed to accelerating the pace of digital transformation, simplifying office work environments, and enhancing the efficiency of institutional performance.

While Apple devices have established their presence in the media, design and education sectors, thanks to their advanced capabilities in graphics processing and digital creative production, which has enhanced the use of modern technologies in the creative and educational industries.

With the entry of the new millennium, the use of laptops and smart devices expanded, and MacBook and iPad devices from Apple spread, along with Samsung Electronics, Lenovo, and HP devices, which became a major part of modern work environments, educational institutions, and smart government services, in parallel with the acceleration of the pace of digitization in various sectors.

The advanced digital infrastructure provided by “&e” and “du” formed a fundamental foundation for the expansion of Internet and digital computing services, which contributed to consolidating the shift towards smart government and integrated electronic services, and raising the efficiency of digital communication at the state level.

At the current stage, the UAE relies on cloud computing systems, artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and giant data centers, in cooperation with international technology companies, led by Microsoft, Oracle, and Amazon Web Services, to support the acceleration of innovation and the development of advanced digital solutions for various vital sectors.

The UAE continues to consolidate its position as a global center for future technologies, through the expansion of artificial intelligence and advanced cloud computing projects, as “Microsoft” and “G42” announced a major expansion of the data center system in the country with a capacity of 200 megawatts, which enhances the national infrastructure for artificial intelligence and sovereign “Azure” cloud services, and supports the goals of the digital economy and technological transformation in the country.

The UAE has come to rely on smart computing in vital sectors, including education, health, energy, government services and cybersecurity, as part of a national vision to build a competitive economy based on innovation and advanced technology, while the country continues to consolidate its digital leadership by investing in future technologies and artificial intelligence, which enhances its readiness for the changes of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and establishes its position as a pivotal player in the global technology industry.

-Zzz-

• For more: Follow Khaleejion 24 Arabic, Khaleejion 24 English, Khaleejion 24 Live, and for social media follow us on Facebook and Twitter