Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
As consumer engagement with technology is rapidly evolving, Abu Dhabi has transformed itself into a hub for next-generation solutions, redefining how people communicate, transact, and manage everyday interactions, according to a financial services leader.
In an interview with Aletihad, Harish Parameswaran, VP of Comera, shared insights into how user expectations for frictionless, all-in-one digital experiences are shaping the development of integrated platforms in Abu Dhabi.
"Modern consumers expect intuitive, secure, and frictionless digital experiences that bring multiple services together within a single, unified platform. The demand for real-time connectivity, personalised convenience, and effortless transactions is driving the advancement of comprehensive end-to-end digital ecosystems that extend beyond traditional communication and financial services."
Comera, part of Abu Dhabi's Royal Group, offers a secure, all-in-one platform for messaging, payments, and e-commerce, with standard end-to-end encryption, delivering AI-driven, personalised, and secure digital services.
Parameswaran noted that integrated platforms are changing rapidly in the UAE thanks to the greater ease of communication, transaction, and access to services.
"Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of this transformation, fostering a regulatory framework that promotes digital innovation, investing in smart infrastructure, and supporting homegrown solutions that align with regional compliance, cultural preferences, and economic goals. With a strong emphasis on fintech, AI, and blockchain, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a hub for next-generation digital ecosystems, driving the growth of seamless, secure, and interconnected services," he added.
He also attributed facilitative policies by the government, development of fintech and artificial intelligence areas, public-private cooperation initiatives, and increasing demand for real-time personalised digital services as other engines of growth.
Moving on to safety, Parameswaran stressed that integrated platforms have in place measures for ensuring safe and seamless transactions, particularly in Abu Dhabi.
"Security remains a top priority for integrated platforms, especially as digital transactions and online interactions continue to expand. Platforms operating in Abu Dhabi and the wider region comply with stringent cybersecurity regulations and local data protection laws, ensuring a secure and trustworthy digital environment."
To address the increasing requirement for secure, seamless digital experiences, platforms employ advanced security, privacy-first settings, and local compliance in order to keep transactions safe and fraud protection strong, he added.
According to Parameswaran, integrated platforms are reshaping digital life, combining payments, communications, and commerce for a seamless, future-ready economy.
"In today's fast-moving digital landscape, consumers expect instant access to services that simplify their daily routines. From managing finances and staying connected with loved ones to making purchases and sending overseas remittances, the demand for seamless, on-demand digital interactions has never been higher."
Abu Dhabi's digital landscape is transforming into a hub for next-generation, super apps, offering seamless, predictive, and personalised experiences, establishing the city as a global leader in digital innovation, he said.
"The expansion of integrated platforms is driving significant economic transformation in Abu Dhabi by strengthening financial inclusion, enhancing business efficiencies, and fostering innovation across industries. Furthermore, as Abu Dhabi continues to position itself as a global technology and fintech hub, these platforms contribute to attracting investment, supporting startups, and reinforcing the emirate's role as a leader in the digital economy."
Consumers in Abu Dhabi are increasingly choosing to go for an all-in-one platform that can perform multiple everyday tasks and boost personal convenience levels. With 7.5 million users, demand in the area for such secure, personalised digital services is growing, he added.
When asked about of future outlook of the digital landscape of Abu Dhabi over the next 5-10 years, he said: "Abu Dhabi is on track to become the world's first fully AI-native government across all digital services by 2027, laying the foundation for a highly advanced digital ecosystem. With a Dh13 billion investment in AI, blockchain, and emerging technologies, the city will continue to drive innovation, ensuring a secure, efficient, and intelligent digital infrastructure."
