Microsoft has announced the appointment of Samer Abu-Ltaif as the new President for its Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. Abu-Ltaif succeeds Ralph Haupter, who will take on the role of President of the newly established Microsoft Small, Medium Enterprises and Channel Partner Organization.
Abu-Ltaif brings over 34 years of industry experience, focusing on technology and business growth. With his deep expertise in driving digital transformation and fostering strategic collaboration, he will play a crucial role in strengthening Microsoft’s position across more than 120 markets within the EMEA region. His leadership will be pivotal in helping customers and partners leverage the potential of AI to drive innovation and sustainable economic growth.
Having previously served as President for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa (CEMA), Abu-Ltaif has built a solid track record. Under his leadership, Microsoft expanded its partnerships with key service providers and strengthened its presence across three continents. Notable achievements during his tenure include the launch of Microsoft’s first datacenter in South Africa, along with additional datacenters in the UAE, Qatar, Poland, and plans for new regions in Greece, Saudi Arabia, and Kenya. He also led the opening of the Microsoft Africa Development Center in Kenya and the company’s $1.5 billion investment in Abu Dhabi’s G42 to accelerate AI innovation globally.
Abu-Ltaif has been a strong advocate for workforce development, promoting skills training programs such as Tomoh, AthkaU, TechDev, and partnerships with organizations like the Africa Development Bank and Digital Heartbeat.
Based in the UAE, Abu-Ltaif has held several key leadership positions at Microsoft, including President for the Middle East and Africa, and Regional Director for the Gulf region. He holds an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability and a degree in Computer Science from the American University of Beirut.
