Dubai, UAE – Microsoft has announced a significant leadership change, promoting Naim Yazbeck to President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa (MEA), effective July 1, 2025. Yazbeck, a seasoned leader with over 25 years in the ICT sector, steps into this pivotal role after a transformative tenure as General Manager, UAE.
Since joining Microsoft in 2009, Yazbeck has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive digital ambition and foster innovation. In his previous role leading Microsoft UAE, he played a crucial part in solidifying the nation’s standing as a global innovation hub. His leadership was instrumental in deepening collaborations with government entities, enterprises, startups, and academic institutions, laying the groundwork for significant technological advancements.
In his new capacity, Yazbeck will spearhead Microsoft’s extensive operations across the MEA region. His mandate includes accelerating digital transformation, expanding cutting-edge cloud infrastructure, and scaling AI skilling initiatives across diverse communities. A key focus will be cultivating impactful partnerships that align with national visions, aiming to fuel inclusive economic growth and societal progress. This strategic approach will deepen Microsoft’s regional footprint, strengthen its partner ecosystem, and advance digital resilience throughout the Middle East and Africa.
Among Yazbeck’s most notable achievements is spearheading the landmark strategic partnership between Microsoft and G42. This collaboration has been critical in accelerating the adoption of cloud and AI technologies, enabling the region to make substantial strides in digital infrastructure, innovation, and economic diversification. He also championed several major initiatives to expand access to Microsoft’s cloud services, promote entrepreneurship, and create lasting socio-economic impact. Under his guidance, national skilling and digital literacy programs empowered thousands to build future-ready capabilities, supporting organizations in their AI transformation journeys.
Commenting on his new role, Yazbeck expressed his pride in his time leading Microsoft UAE, a nation he calls home and one that “continues to set the pace for digital ambition and innovation.” He articulated Microsoft’s vision for the Middle East and Africa as being “rooted in empowerment – of people, governments, and industries.” He affirmed the company’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation through investments in cloud infrastructure, advancing AI skilling at scale, and forging deep partnerships that align with national visions. “We are not just building technology – we are building futures, creating jobs, and enabling inclusive economic growth across the region,” he stated.
Succeeding Yazbeck as General Manager, UAE, will be Amr Kamel, who most recently served as General Manager – Global Partner Solutions for Microsoft Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa. Kamel is poised to continue the company’s momentum in what remains one of the region’s most dynamic markets.
