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Zoho Backs Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Digital Push

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Saran B. Paramasivam, the Regional Director for MEA at Zoho Corp, says Zoho remains steadfast in its effort to maximise the benefits for our Saudi Arabian customers

Zoho’s recent data centre openings in Jeddah and Riyadh demonstrate a commitment to data sovereignty. Can you elaborate on the specific benefits this offers Saudi Arabian customers regarding compliance with Personal Data Protection Laws (PDPL)?
Zoho prioritises user privacy, and that extends to our customers in Saudi Arabia. The new Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) regulates data handling for all businesses in the Kingdom. Zoho fully complies with the PDPL, ensuring transparency, data security, and rights. This compliance aligns with Zoho’s existing commitment to data privacy, as we already adhere to regulations like GDPR. In choosing Zoho, customers can be confident that their data and their customer’s data are stored securely and by local regulations. Zoho remains steadfast in its effort to maximise the benefits for our Saudi Arabian customers, solidifying our dedication to the Kingdom and user privacy worldwide.

How will these data centres further enhance service quality and security for Zoho’s Saudi customers?
Zoho continues to deliver exceptional service and security that customers have come to expect. Before opening the Saudi data centres, our data was stored in our globally owned and operated data centres, meeting strict international quality and security standards. With the migration to the local DC, our customers will enjoy the same levels of uptime, availability, and security. The new Saudi Arabia data centres primarily offer compliance advantages.

They ensure Saudi businesses’ data adheres to the PDPL, simplifying their regulatory obligations. Additionally, these data centres enable integration possibilities with local API vendors who must also comply with the PDPL. This can streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency.

Zoho Corp.’s investment aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. Can you detail how your partnerships with entities like Monsha’at and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) contribute to the Kingdom’s digital transformation goals?
Zoho’s investment aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on digital transformation. Our partnerships with Monsha’at, the SME authority, and the MCIT directly address the Kingdom’s goals. By working with Monsha’at through the Monsha’at Academy and Thakaa Centre, we equip Saudi businesses, especially SMEs, with the digital skills needed to thrive in the digital age.

Zoho has also earmarked SAR 100 million as a long-term investment that aims to lower the technology barriers to entry, prompting more local businesses to digitalise their workflow and migrate to the cloud. This empowers local businesses and fosters a culture of tech adoption. Additionally, collaborating with the MCIT allowed us to contribute to the development of Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure, a key pillar of Vision 2030, through the opening of our first two regional data centres.

How will the allocated SAR 100 million in wallet credits for training and access to Zoho applications support digital upskilling within Saudi businesses?
The allocated SAR 100 million in wallet credits for training and Zoho applications directly tackles the challenge of digital upskilling within Saudi businesses. These credits provide businesses with access to a powerful suite of tools and the resources needed to master them. By equipping employees with the skills to leverage Zoho applications effectively, businesses can streamline operations, improve communication, and enhance customer service.

This translates to a more digitally capable workforce, driving innovation and propelling Saudi businesses forward in the competitive global landscape. This investment ultimately aims to foster a culture of digital literacy, empowering Saudi SMEs to become key players in the digital economy envisioned by Saudi Vision 2030.

Can you highlight some of the most popular Zoho applications among Saudi Arabian customers and how they contribute to business success?
Zoho’s revenue growth in Saudi Arabia is being driven by strong demand for its wide range of cloud-based business software, which includes top-selling products such as Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, and Zoho One. The company’s software is used by businesses of all sizes in Saudi Arabia, from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to large enterprises. Saudi Arabia has become Zoho’s fastest-growing market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

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