Responsible AI and Sustainable Innovation to Shape Enterprise Growth in 2026
As digital transformation and sustainability increasingly converge, organisations are rethinking how technology delivers long-term value. Muhannad Khattab, UAE Country Manager at NTT DATA, shares how the company’s approach—grounded in responsible AI, cloud transformation, and industry-led innovation—is helping UAE enterprises achieve measurable business, societal, and environmental outcomes in 2026.
What opportunities do you foresee for 2026, and how do you plan to leverage them?
In 2026, we expect accelerated demand for AI enabled business transformation, advanced cloud services, cybersecurity modernization, and industry-specific digital platforms across the UAE. At NTT DATA, we plan to leverage these opportunities by deepening our vertical expertise, by extending our global experiences to our local market and co-innovating with clients to achieve the best data driven projects outcome.
What major challenges did you encounter this year, and how did you address them?
The pace of technological change coupled with talent shortage emerged as the biggest challenges this year. We are addressing them by investing heavily in cross-industry capability development and by strengthening our global SME network to focus on vertical-led expertise to support our clients in their digital priorities.
Can you elaborate on your strategic partnerships this year and plans for next year?
We expanded partnerships globally and locally with hyperscalers, cybersecurity leaders & Data and applications leaders that enable us to deliver more integrated and future ready services. In 2026, we aim to broaden these alliances, focus on joint go-to-market initiatives, and co-develop AI powered industry solutions.
What will be your primary focus areas and strategic priorities for 2026?
Our key priorities will be scaling AI adoption, accelerating cloud and cybersecurity transformation, enhancing customer experience solutions, and expanding our industry centric digital offerings. Strengthening local talent and operational excellence will also remain central to our strategy.
Are there plans to explore new markets or introduce new products/applications in 2026?
Yes. In 2026, we plan to selectively expand into adjacent GCC markets while continuing to strengthen our presence in the UAE. We will also introduce AI-driven applications, intelligent automation platforms, and industry-specific digital accelerators designed to address evolving regional needs and deliver measurable business value.
How is your company approaching sustainability, digital transformation, or AI adoption in preparation for 2026?
At NTT DATA, sustainability is not a standalone initiative; it is a strategic imperative embedded in how we operate, innovate, and serve our clients. Our approach balances value creation for clients, society, and the planet. Through our three pillars: Planet Positive, Prosperity Positive, and People Positive, we focus on delivering measurable outcomes while integrating sustainability into emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, through responsible innovation.
