Indian multinational software and technology company Zoho Corporation is planning to implement transnational localism in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region and expand its product portfolio across its brands to serve the global market.
The announcement about expansion was made during the occasion of its annual user conference, named ‘Zoholics Dubai.’
Transnational localism is about being locally rooted while staying globally connected. Zoho will open offices in the region, recruit locally, form alliances, invest in local business groups, incorporate local culture in its business operations, and promote programs aimed at building self-reliant regional economies as part of its efforts.
Zoho, which was established in 1996, has completed 25 years of being a global technology provider in 2021. The global brand expects to open new offices in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, South Africa, Israel, Nigeria, Kenya, and other countries in the region.
Sridhar Vembu CEO & Co-Founder Zoho
“Zoho has been built on values and convictions. We do not measure our success in numbers, but the impact we have had on our employees, their families, customers, industry, ecosystem, and the local communities. Our purpose has been to create opportunities for those who don’t have them, build compelling products for our customers, and serve geographical locations that have not been served before. We want to continue being a catalyst for change, inspiring others and emerging as a top technology leader, all the while serving those whom we impact more broadly and deeply.”
Zoho will adopt a hub-and-spoke office model in the region, with Dubai acting as the hub for offices in the GCC countries. Further, the company intends to open data centers across the country, including in the UAE, with an initial investment of $7-$10 million.
“Zoho follows a long-term approach, and therefore, our growth will be rooted in closely working with and serving the local communities, while staying connected through shared knowledge and culture. We have already taken steps in this direction by increasing our local hirings and bolstering our partner network. A strong local presence will help us in effectively addressing the needs of local businesses and add a personal touch to our services,” said Hyther Nizam, President MEA, Zoho Corp.
