Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) and UAE-based technology group e& have announced the launch of the UAE Sovereign Launchpad. This new cloud offering is designed to boost the adoption of cloud services and AI across the UAE’s public sector and regulated industries.
The UAE Sovereign Launchpad is powered by AWS and offered by e&, with endorsement from the UAE Cybersecurity Council. It is expected to add US$181 billion in cumulative value to the UAE’s digital economy by 2033.
The Launchpad will operate on the AWS Middle East (UAE) Region, located within the country. e& will manage customers’ security and sovereignty controls in line with UAE Cloud Security policies.
To meet data residency requirements, e& will also use AWS Outposts, allowing AWS services to run on premises.
The offering is now available to UAE government agencies and customers in:
These sectors can access AWS cloud services while complying with the UAE’s data sovereignty rules.
The UAE Sovereign Launchpad can be used for all workloads, except those marked Secret or Top Secret. e& will support customers with workload management and managed security solutions.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, welcomed the launch, highlighting its role in the country’s digital transformation. He emphasized that the added security controls would allow government and regulated industries to innovate securely with AWS.
Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO of e&, reported that the collaboration combines AWS’s UAE Region capabilities with e&’s local expertise. He noted it proves cloud services can meet national cybersecurity requirements.
This initiative is part of a US$1 billion-plus alliance between AWS and e& to accelerate cloud and AI adoption in the Middle East.
Tanuja Randery, AWS Vice President for EMEA, revealed that the partnership reflects their support for the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” vision. She stressed the importance of data control and secure cloud innovation.
Additionally, AWS, e&, and the UAE Cybersecurity Council plan to establish the UAE Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Bureau (CTIB).
The CTIB aims to promote “Made in UAE” cybersecurity solutions. It will also focus on:
Dr. Al Kuwaiti reported that the CTIB will support national goals in digital transformation and cybersecurity leadership.
