In a rapidly evolving global economy where companies are reassessing their technology investments, Indian tech giant Zoho has emerged as a pivotal player. Reporting a remarkable 43 percent revenue growth last year, Zoho has positioned itself as a leader in the business technology arena, amassing over 100 million users worldwide. This surge in growth and influence is particularly notable in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where Zoho’s Dubai office has been a catalyst for expansion and innovation.
Hyther Nizam, President and VP of Products for MEA at Zoho, in a recent interview with Khaleej Times, highlighted the company’s journey in the MENA region. Originating from its first office in Dubai, Zoho has concentrated on empowering Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs across various sectors. Today, Zoho’s comprehensive suite of business management tools has made it a preferred choice for large corporations.
A decade ahead of the curve, Zoho was an early adopter of artificial intelligence, well before it became a mainstream technology. Additionally, the company has played a crucial role in supporting the digital transformation of businesses. Initiatives like wallet credit provision programs with governmental entities in the region, including Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai Culture, and the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA), have enabled over 5000 companies in the UAE to transition to cloud-based operations and accelerate their digital transformation.
Amidst rising costs of sales and marketing, Zoho has observed shifts in industry pricing strategies. Nizam points out that businesses seeking value are likely to turn to vendors who emphasize research and development (R&D) over hefty marketing budgets. Additionally, vendors offering pricing in local currency can offer greater cost predictability, especially in international markets. Zoho, with its strong focus on R&D, is strategically positioned to capitalize on these industry trends.
The company has witnessed a significant migration of large corporations to its platforms, recording a 24% increase in 2023. Nizam reflects on the past few years as challenging for businesses globally, underscoring the need for smarter, cost-efficient technology investments that maximize value.
In the MENA region, Zoho’s collaboration with public and private sector organizations has been integral. This partnership has enabled the company to tailor its solutions to local needs and address regional challenges. Zoho’s commitment to localisation is evident in its strategy to introduce region-specific product editions and integrate with local payment vendors, enhancing user experiences. Furthermore, the development of contextually relevant AI features within its core products ensures that AI functionalities are tailored to meet the specific needs of local customers.
As Zoho continues to strengthen its presence in the MENA region, its focus on innovation, localisation, and value-driven solutions places it at the forefront of technological advancement. This strategic approach not only bolsters Zoho’s growth but also contributes significantly to the digital transformation landscape in the UAE and beyond.
