Dubai Silicon Oasis to focus on attracting full IT ecosystem to create sustainable development

The importance of the new ecosystem model in technology has assumed enormous significance following the powerful shift in user buying behaviors, moving away from traditional purchase and licensing to seamless, hybridized solutions that support and enable more flexible business operations and strategies.

The three-day event also focused on attracting and retaining top talent as another key recommendation. Decision makers in the industry agreed that talent could be retained only by offering advanced technology related programs in the institutes of higher learning, to create a wide pool of talented local engineers; thus placing Dubai on the global R&D map.

Commenting on the success of the Forum, Dr. Mohammed Al Zarouni, Vice Chairman & Chief Executive Officer DSOA, said: "Hosting the IEF 2008 was a significant opportunity for DSO to highlight key developments in the industry. The event provided a valuable platform for professionals to network with major players and top-tier decision makers in the high tech industry".

He added: "The recommendations provided by experts set a conclusive direction that will support our endeavor to position DSO as a vital high-tech base, and create a silicon frontier that can compete on the global stage".

Organized by Future Horizons, the UK-based Global Semiconductor Industry Analysis, and under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, the IEF 2008 proved to be a valuable networking event for executives and professionals in the semiconductor, electronics and related industries, as well as specialists in designing, production, investment, strategic planning, marketing, business development, distribution, finance, and education.

More than 120 decision makers from the world's largest technology companies attended the IEF 2008 in Dubai.