Microsoft on Wednesday announced a new leadership appointment for its Middle East and Africa (MEA) operations.
Mirna Arif, who has been Microsoft Egypt’s General Manager since 2020, will take on a regional position as General Manager, Middle East and Africa Growth Markets.
In her new role, Mirna will lead Microsoft’s business in various Middle Eastern and African markets, including Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, and Nigeria, among others.
She will also oversee initiatives to promote innovation, accelerate digital transformation, and create inclusive economic opportunity.
Microsoft has continued to invest in seasoned, purpose-driven leadership to support the region’s changing technological and economic landscape, as evidenced by her appointment.
Mirna’s portfolio
Mirna has more than 20 years of experience in a variety of sectors in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Since taking over at Microsoft Egypt, she has spearheaded significant advancements in the nation’s digital ecosystem, including expanding skilling programmes, speeding up cloud adoption, and enhancing cooperation with partners in the public and private sectors.
“It has been a privilege to witness and contribute to Egypt’s remarkable digital journey,” said Mirna Arif. “I am excited to carry these learnings forward to support governments and organisations across emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa as they harness the power of cloud and AI to drive sustainable economic and societal progress.”
Egypt is a strategic market for Microsoft
Microsoft views Egypt as a strategic market with enormous growth potential.
Government agencies and businesses in important industries are using cloud, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies more frequently to spur innovation and economic development.
Microsoft is pleased to be a reliable partner in this transformation process, assisting with initiatives to boost output, enhance citizen and customer experiences, and open up new business opportunities in various sectors.
The company is still steadfastly dedicated to Egypt’s digital future to enable people and organisations to fully benefit from the newest technologies.
To maintain the momentum of its digital transformation agenda and enable people and organisations to accomplish more, Microsoft is currently hiring a new General Manager for Egypt and will continue to collaborate closely with stakeholders.
Naim Yazbeck’s appointment as President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa
Mirna’s appointment follows Microsoft’s promotion of Naim Yazbeck to the position of President for Microsoft Middle East and Africa (MEA), effective July 1, 2025.
Yazbeck joined Microsoft in 2009 and has held several executive positions, most recently as General Manager of the UAE.
In this position, he significantly contributed to advancing the nation’s digital goals and strengthened its standing as a centre for innovation worldwide.
Amr Kamel succeeds Yazbeck as General Manager of Microsoft UAE, effective July 1.
Kamel is a well-respected and seasoned executive with almost 20 years of experience at Microsoft.
He brings strategic acumen, extensive regional knowledge, and a proven track record of implementing innovation and business transformation at scale.