In a strategic move, Microsoft announced the promotion of Naim Yazbeck, who led the company’s successes in the UAE, to president of the Middle East and Africa region, aiming to accelerate the adoption of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence.
Introduction: New leadership for a new phase
Global technology company Microsoft has announced the promotion of Naim Yazbeck to president of the Middle East and Africa region, effective July 1, 2025. Yazbeck, who brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of regional markets, will lead Microsoft’s operations across these vital markets with the goal of enhancing and accelerating digital transformation, strengthening national partnerships, and contributing to innovation and sustainable economic growth in the region.
A career marked by success
Naim Yazbeck joined Microsoft in 2009 and has since held a number of key leadership positions. In 2022, he assumed the role of general manager for Microsoft in the United Arab Emirates, playing a pivotal role in supporting the country’s digital agenda and cementing its status as a global hub for innovation. His tenure was characterized by a strong focus on building strategic public-private partnerships, nurturing national talent, and establishing a flexible innovation ecosystem. Among his most prominent achievements is leading the historic strategic partnership between Microsoft and G42, aimed at accelerating the adoption of cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies in the region.
Priorities of the new role
In his new position, Yazbeck will oversee Microsoft’s operations in the Middle East and Africa, focusing on developing modern cloud infrastructure, deploying artificial intelligence skills at scale, and helping communities adopt future digital technologies. He will also lead the implementation of strategic initiatives aligned with the national plans and visions of each country in the region to accelerate their digital transformation agendas, build effective partnerships that support sustainable development, and expand Microsoft’s presence in these markets while strengthening local partner capabilities to meet modern demands.
A vision for the future
Commenting on his new role, Naim Yazbeck expressed pride in leading Microsoft’s efforts in the UAE, which he described as a global model of ambition and digital innovation. He said: “At Microsoft, we look to the future with a clear vision based fundamentally on empowering individuals, governments, and sectors to adopt modern technologies. Therefore, we will continue our efforts to accelerate the pace of digital transformation across the region by investing in cloud infrastructure, expanding the reach of artificial intelligence skills, and building strategic partnerships that align with national visions and ambitions.”
Conclusion: Continuity of leadership
In a related development, Microsoft announced that Amr Kamel, who recently served as general manager of global partner solutions for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, will assume the role of general manager for Microsoft in the United Arab Emirates, continuing the streak of success achieved in one of the region’s most vibrant and growing markets. This appointment ensures the continuity of strong Microsoft leadership in the region and reinforces its commitment to supporting partners and customers on their digital journey.
