Prime Highlights:
- IT services spending in MENA is expected to rise to 26–28% of total IT budgets by 2030, driven by system integration, cloud adoption, and managed services.
- Companies that combine technical expertise with visible leadership and strong marketing are best positioned to succeed in the region’s competitive IT services market.
Key Facts:
- The professional IT services market in MENA was valued at $33.9 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach $58.3 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of around 9.5%.
- Digital advertising spend in the Middle East, estimated at $32 billion in 2024, is expected to rise to $81.4 billion by 2030, growing faster than traditional events and conferences.
Background:
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is entering a new phase of growth in its technology sector, with IT services taking a larger share of overall technology spending as governments and enterprises accelerate digital transformation efforts.
According to industry analysis by Grand View Research (GVR), IT services currently represent around 21–22 per cent of total IT expenditure across MENA. This share is projected to rise to between 26 and 28 per cent by the end of the decade, reflecting a clear shift away from software-led models towards services focused on implementation, integration and long-term management.
The region’s professional IT services market was valued at $33.9 billion (Dh124.5 billion) in 2024 and is forecast to grow to nearly $58.3 billion (Dh214 billion) by 2030. This growth of about 9.5% per year is driven by more investment in cloud computing, data centres, and cybersecurity.
At the same time, the expanding presence of hyperscalers and global technology companies in MENA is increasing demand for local integration, migration and managed services.
Sourav Bhanja, Middle East Head of Grand View Research, noted that many B2B IT services firms in the region continue to underinvest in digital engagement. He said professional platforms such as LinkedIn remain underutilised, while company websites often lack strong case studies, sector-focused storytelling and clear market positioning.
Bhanja said that in MENA’s IT market, technical skills alone aren’t enough. Companies with strong skills, visible leaders, and clear marketing are more likely to succeed.
The report also shows a shift toward digital-first marketing. Digital advertising in the Middle East, estimated at $32 billion in 2024, is expected to rise to $81.4 billion by 2030, growing much faster than events and conferences, which are projected to grow at 7.1 per cent annually.
As competition increases, visibility and differentiation are becoming key for IT services providers. Firms that combine technical skills with clear marketing and strong online presence are best placed to grow in the region.
