Oracle is ramping up its research and development (R&D) initiatives in Morocco, aiming to expand its local IT professional workforce to 1,000 individuals.
This strategic investment aims to propel Oracle’s innovative technologies forward to meet the evolving needs of its global customer base.
A significant milestone was achieved as an agreement was signed today between Ms Ghita Mezzour, Minister overseeing Digital Transition and Administration Reform in the Moroccan Government, and Safra Catz, Oracle’s CEO. This agreement solidifies their joint commitment to nurturing innovation within Morocco’s borders.
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The signing ceremony, attended by Mr Mohcine Jazouli, Minister overseeing Investment and Policy Evaluation, and Mr Ali Seddiki, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE), marks a pivotal step towards fostering technological advancement in the region.
Empowering Morocco’s Digital Ecosystem
Safra Catz emphasised the crucial role played by Oracle’s R&D centre in Casablanca, citing its contributions to technological advancements, cybersecurity, and the development of cutting-edge AI capabilities. With an expanded R&D presence in Morocco, Oracle aims to harness the country’s vast talent pool to expedite the creation of solutions that empower global businesses and various industries.
Ms Ghita Mezzour echoed this sentiment, highlighting the alignment of Oracle’s expansion with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s strategic vision, particularly in promoting innovation among Moroccan youth. The expanded centre will focus on crafting and deploying innovative solutions covering AI, big data, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, thus fortifying Morocco’s position as a digital hub in the region.
Oracle’s commitment extends beyond Casablanca, with plans to generate opportunities throughout Morocco, including establishing new offices in Agadir this year and Northern Morocco within the next two years. This expansion builds upon the foundation laid by the Morocco Development Center at Casanearshore Park in Casablanca, where Oracle researchers leverage cloud, AI, and machine learning technologies to tackle diverse challenges across business, science, and the public sector.
Oracle expands to Morocco
Oracle’s decision to expand its footprint in Morocco is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the company’s commitment to leveraging Morocco’s growing talent pool and favourable business environment. By tapping into local talent and expertise, Oracle can strengthen its capabilities in developing innovative solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of its global clientele.
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Moreover, Oracle’s expansion initiative aligns with broader national strategies to foster technological advancement and economic diversification across Morocco. Establishing new offices outside major urban centres like Casablanca and Rabat-Salé-Kenitra reflects Oracle’s intention to promote inclusive growth by creating job opportunities in regions that may have traditionally faced challenges in accessing such opportunities.
The decision to open new offices in Agadir and Northern Morocco is particularly strategic. Agadir, known for its burgeoning tourism industry and growing economic activities, presents a promising landscape for tech companies seeking to tap into regional markets. Similarly, expanding into Northern Morocco aligns with efforts to bolster economic activities in this region, contributing to overall socioeconomic development.
In essence, Oracle’s expansion initiative in Morocco signifies a commitment to technological innovation and a dedication to fostering inclusive growth and regional development across the country. By strategically positioning its operations and creating opportunities in diverse regions, Oracle is poised to impact Morocco’s evolving digital landscape and economic trajectory.