Cloudera's Ahmad Issa On Why Data Is The New Oil

As the Regional Vice President for the Middle East at Cloudera, a hybrid data company that accelerates digital transformation for the world’s largest enterprises, Ahmad Issa describes his enterprise as being “the defacto for data” — in fact, he said, “If you have data, you need Cloudera.”

Such an ethos exemplifies the critical role Cloudera is playing in the Middle East, which sees the company helping organizations across the region to unlock the full potential of their data. For example, speaking to Inc. Arabia on the sidelines of LEAP 2025 in Saudi Arabia, Issa pointed out how the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a hub for artificial intelligence will need a concerted focus on data — as he put it: “Data is the new oil.”

At LEAP 2025, Cloudera spotlighted its AI, data analytics, and hybrid cloud technologies, demonstrating their impact on transforming Saudi enterprises. Attendees engaged with Cloudera experts to explore real-world applications designed to harness data for smarter decision-making, as well as to accelerate digital transformation in Saudi Arabia.

“We’re committed to invest in the region,” Issa added. “We’re committed to invest as our Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which is all about diversifying the economy and about data.” However, when it comes to advice for business leaders keen on capitalizing on such opportunities, Issa urged them to be cautious, and to set realistic goals for themselves. “I advise them to [take] baby steps,” he said. “Take it one step at a time. [Aim for] quick wins to get more ground area.”

Check out more of Issa’s insights by watching the full video.