Microsoft has appointed Naim Yazbeck as its new President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), effective July 1, 2025. The move puts Yazbeck in charge of a region that’s increasingly expanding its digital infrastructure and appetite for new technologies.

Yazbeck has been with Microsoft since 2009 and most recently served as General Manager for the UAE, where he played a key role in advancing the country’s digital goals. He helped grow partnerships with governments, businesses, and startups, and led major efforts around cloud adoption and AI development.

One of his standout achievements includes the strategic partnership with G42, which helped push cloud and AI technologies across the region. He also oversaw digital skilling programs that reached thousands of people and supported a wave of startups and innovation hubs.

In his new role, Yazbeck will oversee operations across MEA, focusing on expanding cloud infrastructure, promoting AI learning, and strengthening Microsoft’s partnerships with public and private sectors.

“We’re not just building tech, we’re building futures,” Yazbeck said, adding that the company will continue aligning its efforts with national development goals across the region.

As Yazbeck steps into the new role, Amr Kamel will take over his previous position in the UAE. Kamel was most recently the General Manager for Global Partner Solutions in Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa.