First Data sets regional office at Dubai Outsource Zone

The new office will enable First Data to better serve its growing client needs across the region and will accommodate an expanding team of sales & marketing executives, account managers, business analysts and IT consultants. First Data has been active in the Middle East for 12 years and has had a presence in Dubai since 2003.

Ismail Al Naqi, Director of Dubai Outsource Zone, said: "In an age of globalisation where transactions are made within and across banking and financial institutions, the need for sophisticated electronic commerce and payment technology is vital to foster global changes."

According to souq.com, the leading online auction site in the UAE and a member of the Maktoob group of companies, Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) e-commerce transactions account for approximately 40% of all online business in the Central Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA) region today, reflecting the pace at which the industry is growing.

Brian Quarrie, Vice President, Middle East, First Data, said "First Data continues to expand its presence across Europe, Middle East and Africa, delivering card and loans processing, software and support services to leading banks and retailers across the region."

"We aim to be the 'partner of choice' for banks and financial institutions who seek unrivalled payments expertise to develop their consumer finance portfolios and expand into new markets. We are pleased to have an office at Dubai Outsource Zone - a sophisticated technology zone that provides the infrastructure and services to support our fast growing business."

One of the premier offshore hubs for outsourcing in the world, DOZ has already registered more than 100 companies and expects up to 400 firms to commence operations within the next five years.