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The initial phase of a cloud transformation initiative, aimed at modernizing systems, enhancing efficiency, and reducing costs, has been successfully completed by the Ras Al Khaimah e-Government Authority (EGA). This project received support from SAP SE (NYSE: SAP), a leading global technology company. The primary objective of this endeavor is to improve government services provided to both citizens and residents.
EGA has chosen to implement RISE with SAP to leverage the advantages of cloud computing in an expedited manner while mitigating cyber risks. To ensure uninterrupted business operations, the project is being executed in two distinct phases. The initial phase, concluded in December 2022, involved upgrading the existing SAP core ERP solution to S/4HANA, alongside transitioning from on-premise servers to the RISE-managed cloud. The second phase, initiated in January 2023, encompasses the migration of all other SAP systems to the cloud through RISE. Simultaneously, users will gain access to the latest offerings from SAP, notably SAP BTP (Business Technology Platform) and the SAP Analytics Cloud.
Eng. Ahmed Saeed Al Sayyah, the General Manager of EGA, stated, “This cloud transformation project perfectly aligns with the UAE’s commitment to harnessing technological advancements, as well as the vision and values of RAK and the Electronic Government Authority. Cloud computing significantly enhances our capability to deliver intelligent services and integrated e-government solutions that contribute to the well-being of our citizens and residents. By establishing robust foundations for our business processes, we can allocate more time and attention to the essential services we provide to the people of RAK and government departments, thus advancing RAK’s Vision 2030 for government services. Additionally, the cloud-based S/4HANA solution ensures comprehensive visibility of all activities, serving as an innovative and adaptable platform that enables us to swiftly respond to challenges and capitalize on opportunities.”
This digital transformation initiative marks a continuation of EGA’s longstanding partnership with SAP. Up until now, EGA has been utilizing SAP’s on-premises ERP systems and solutions to oversee RAK’s key government operations. With this transition, EGA aims to further advance its technological capabilities and optimize its governance processes.
Zakaria Haltout, Managing Director, SAP UAE, said of the digital transformation, “This is a truly collaborative project; we worked very closely with the EGA to ensure our approach results in continuity of services, decreases total cost of ownership and is flexible within the fast-moving public sector environment. Cloud computing is becoming critical for government organizations around the world, enabling them to tap into and analyze data more effectively, and to leverage technologies that can drive new insights, as well as automate tasks and deliver enhanced, quicker and more personalized services. As an early cloud adopter among governments, the EGA is fully aligned with the UAE’s agenda and has implemented a system that enables continuous transformation and enhancements for the benefit of all residents in the emirate.”
The EGA offers a range of centralized IT services to various RAK government departments. These services encompass Digital Network Infrastructure, IT Support, Cybersecurity, Finance, Procurement, and HR ERP systems, Technical Project Management, Online Services Management, Training Programs, and IT Consulting. Through these comprehensive offerings, the EGA plays a vital role in supporting and facilitating efficient IT operations for the government departments of RAK.
