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Connect | MENA // DCD>Debate: Data Sovereignty – Catalyst or constraint for cloud computing?

  • —
  • Cloud & Hybrid
  • Open Session

Speakers

Joe Hurman

Principal Consultant, STL Partners

JH 2025 headshot

Joe Hurman

Principal Consultant, STL Partners

Joe is a Principal Consultant at STL Partners, with a background in technology strategy & implementation, spanning infrastructure, platforms and software. Since joining STL Partners, he has led strategic engagements with digital infrastructure firms ranging from corporate strategy for a telecoms holdco through to market analysis of data centre construction and connectivity. Joe leads STL's data centre practice and holds a BA in Economics from Durham University.

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Roger Habr

Roger Habr

Chief Data and AI Officer, Gulf Data Hub

As the MENA region rapidly expands its cloud computing capabilities, data sovereignty emerges as a critical issue.

On the one hand, data sovereignty regulations can enhance security and consumer trust by requiring local data storage, fostering compliance with privacy laws, and promoting technological innovation. They can support the rapid growth of cloud computing, an attractive option for market players and investment.

On the other hand, strict data residency requirements may hinder scalability and increase operational costs, complicating international data sharing and potentially stifling innovation in the cloud sector. Perhaps greater regulation and government oversight may not be welcome by new players in the booming cloud sector. So is data sovereignty a catalyst for growth or a challenge to the region’s digital ambitions?

Held under Chatham House Rule, DCD>Debates are open discussions led by a panel of experts, on the biggest issues to face the industry.