Inside NetApp’s Strategy for AI-Ready, Cloud-Smart Enterprises in the Middle East

As Middle East enterprises accelerate their digital transformation journeys, data has become both a strategic asset and a competitive differentiator. With hybrid and multicloud models becoming the norm, the ability to manage, mobilize, and maximize data effectively is more critical than ever. In this exclusive Q&A, Sohail Hasanian, Senior Regional Director – Middle East and Africa at NetApp, shares insights on how the company’s Intelligent Data Infrastructure is helping organizations unify their data environments, optimize AI readiness, and balance innovation with cost efficiency—while staying aligned with the region’s rapidly evolving cloud-first mandates.

How is NetApp enabling organizations to optimize and unify data across hybrid and multicloud environments?

NetApp empowers organizations to optimize and unify their data across hybrid and multicloud environments through its Intelligent Data Infrastructure. This includes a comprehensive portfolio of cloud data services, high-performance storage systems, and advanced data management software that ensure consistency, security, and accessibility across all platforms. NetApp enables seamless data mobility between on-premises and cloud environments, allowing enterprises to manage their data with agility and efficiency while maintaining full control and governance.

What are the key enablers for an AI-ready data infrastructure, and where are enterprises falling short?

An AI-ready data infrastructure requires high-throughput, low-latency storage, scalable data pipelines, robust governance, and seamless integration with AI/ML frameworks. While many organizations recognize the potential of AI, they often fall short in foundational areas such as ensuring data quality, enabling real-time data integration, and scaling infrastructure to support high-performance AI workloads. Bridging these gaps requires a strategic investment in intelligent, future-ready data architectures.

In what ways is NetApp supporting CIOs in balancing innovation with cost efficiency during digital transformation?

NetApp supports CIOs by delivering data infrastructure solutions that simultaneously drive innovation and cost optimization. Through intelligent automation, flexible consumption models, and deep integration with leading public clouds, NetApp enables CIOs to modernize their IT environments, reduce complexity, and accelerate transformation initiatives—all while maintaining fiscal discipline. Our technologies help CIOs maximize ROI from their data assets and IT investments.

How is the evolving Middle East cloud landscape influencing your regional growth strategy?

The Middle East’s accelerating cloud adoption is a powerful driver of NetApp’s regional growth strategy. We are actively contributing to this transformation by delivering cloud-native solutions and hybrid cloud architectures that help organizations modernize their IT environments with speed and flexibility. As governments across the region place increasing emphasis on data residency and sovereignty, NetApp’s Intelligent Data Infrastructure enables customers to meet these regulatory requirements without compromising performance or scalability. By aligning with national digital agendas and supporting enterprise and public sector cloud initiatives, NetApp plays a strategic role in shaping the region’s cloud-first future.

What unique advantages does NetApp bring to enterprises looking to modernize their storage and data management practices?

NetApp offers a differentiated advantage with its unified, cloud-smart approach to data infrastructure. Our solutions simplify data management, enhance visibility and control, and ensure seamless mobility across hybrid and multicloud environments. With a strong focus on security, operational efficiency, and continuous innovation, NetApp enables enterprises to modernize their storage, accelerate AI and digital initiatives, and unlock greater value from their data. Our customer-centric approach and proven reliability make us a trusted partner in data-driven transformation.