American multinational computer technology company Oracle plans to open two cloud regions in Morocco to stimulate and support the digital transformation of businesses, universities, investors, and, more generally, the national economy. The project is part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed Wednesday in Marrakech, Morocco, during GITEX 2024, by the Moroccan Ministry of Investment, Convergence and Evaluation of Public Policies, the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, the Moroccan Agency for the Development of Investment and Exports (AMDIE), and Oracle Systems Limited. The aim is to offer cloud technology that is both flexible and secure, while meeting residency and data security requirements. «The opening of Oracle's public cloud in Morocco will accelerate the digital transformation throughout the region», said Ghita Mezzour. «This strategic expansion, with a hyperscaler like Oracle, positions Morocco as a unique player in the region and allows for an even more dynamic development of skills and growth opportunities», she added. «The upcoming Oracle Cloud Regions will offer enterprise-grade cloud capabilities to help organizations quickly deliver new solutions, build resilience, and explore new markets to help accelerate growth. The new regions will also serve as the foundation for the Moroccan government's modernization of its public services to better serve its people», said Richard Smith, executive vice president, Technology, EMEA, Oracle. «We warmly welcome Oracle's investment in Moroccan soil, emphasizing a strong confidence in the Moroccan youth's expertise and talent. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering technological advancement within our nation. Furthermore, it positions Morocco prominently on the international digital stage, showcasing our capabilities and readiness to lead in the global digital economy», said Mohcine Jazouli, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of Investment, Convergence, and Evaluation of Public Policies. The investment, estimated at $140 million over five years, will enable Oracle to develop a full range of cloud services via two data centers located in Casablanca and Settat. The project will provide local and regional companies with access to state-of-the-art cloud services, boosting the efficiency and competitiveness of their respective businesses. Earlier in May, Oracle announced plans to significantly expand its research and development (R&D) operations in Morocco. The company said that it will hire an additional 1,000 IT professionals, boosting its local workforce and accelerating the development of cutting-edge technologies that address global customer challenges. This expansion was formalized through a signed agreement between Ghita Mezzour, and Oracle CEO Safra Catz.
