The GCC's Tech Vanguard: Open Innovation's Rachid Belmeskine
The co-founder and CTO of Open Innovation AI was one of the 30 innovators celebrated in Inc. Arabia's December 2024 special feature, The GCC's Tech Vanguard.
Open Innovation AI co-founder Rachid Belmeskine recalls that he became interested in the tech-powered solutions offered by his enterprise when he realized the challenges that organizations face in deploying and managing artificial intelligence (AI) workloads efficiently.
“During my work on AI-enabled applications and infrastructure optimization, I saw the need for scalable solutions that could bridge the gap between cutting ting- edge research and real-world applications,” Belmeskine shares. “This inspired me to co-found Open Innovation AI, where we developed the Open Innovation Cluster Manager (OICM). Our platform empowers enterprises to optimize graphics processing unit (GPU) infrastructure, streamline AI workload orchestration, and democratize access to advanced AI capabilities.”
Looking ahead, Belmeskine says that he is excited by the potential of Open Innovation AI’s solutions to transform how businesses adopt and leverage AI. “By enabling seamless deployment and management of AI workloads, OICM is breaking down barriers to entry, allowing businesses of all sizes to harness the power of AI without requiring extensive technical expertise,” Belmeskine explains. “This technology is positioned to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and enable industries to scale at an unprecedented rate. Looking forward, I believe the solutions we offer will play a pivotal role in shaping future economies. By fostering smarter decision-making, optimizing resource utilization, and driving technological advancements across existing sectors, our technology will contribute to economic diversification and resilience. For regions like the GCC, which are heavily investing in innovation, these solutions will be a foundation for achieving long-term goals and establishing leadership in the global AI landscape.”
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A Playbook For Success: Q&A With Rachid Belmeskine
Given the investment that GCC countries are putting into tech, what role do you think the region will play in the global landscape in the future?
“The GCC is poised to transform the technology landscape, leveraging substantial investments in innovation, infrastructure, and talent development. With a strategic focus on artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and advanced technologies, the region is not only adopting cutting-edge solutions but also driving their advancement. Ambitious initiatives in digital transformation and technological innovation highlight the GCC’s commitment to becoming a leader in the evolving tech ecosystem.
In the global landscape, the GCC will play a dual role as both a hub for technological innovation and a key collaborator with other regions. The commitment to building AI research centers, fostering partnerships with tech giants, and supporting startups ensures that the GCC will be a source of groundbreaking solutions. Additionally, the region's strategic position as a global economic crossroads allows it to bridge Eastern and Western markets, facilitating the exchange of ideas and technology.
The GCC’s focus on sustainability and diversification also sets it apart, as technology is positioned as a cornerstone of long-term economic resilience. By fostering a culture of innovation and aligning tech investments with national visions like Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Centennial 2071, the region is not just preparing for the future, it is actively shaping it. The GCC will undoubtedly emerge as a major contributor to the global tech ecosystem, influencing industries worldwide and setting benchmarks for digital transformation and AI adoption.”
What advice would you give to young people/new businesses looking to start/grow in your field/industry?
“To young people and new businesses entering the AI and technology field, my advice is to start by focusing on solving real-world problems. Identify gaps or inefficiencies in industries where technology can make a significant impact. Building solutions that address tangible challenges will not only give your work purpose, but also create opportunities for growth and scalability.
Invest in continuous learning and stay ahead of emerging trends. The AI and tech landscape evolves rapidly, so keeping up with advancements in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, and infrastructure optimization is essential. Surround yourself with a strong network of mentors, collaborators, and industry experts who can guide and challenge you.
For businesses, focus on building scalable, user-centric solutions. Start small but think big, ensuring your products or services are flexible enough to adapt to future needs. Collaboration is key. Partner with other organizations, academic institutions, and even competitors to share knowledge and accelerate innovation. Finally, be prepared to take risks and embrace failure as part of the learning process. The technology industry rewards perseverance, creativity, and bold thinking. By staying resilient and adaptable, you’ll position yourself to contribute meaningfully to an industry that has the power to transform the future.”
Open Innovation AI's Rachid Belmeskine was one of the 30 innovators celebrated in Inc. Arabia's December 2024 special feature, The GCC's Tech Vanguard. For the full list of The GCC's Tech Vanguard, please click here.
