Fractional your Secret Weapon

Why Dubai Businesses Should Be Considering Fractional CIOs and CTOs

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving Dubai market, businesses of all sizes face the ongoing challenge of aligning technology with strategic goals. This is where Fractional CIOs (Chief Information Officers) and Fractional CTOs (Chief Technology Officers) step into the spotlight. But what exactly are fractional technology leaders, (in the UK market it’s called Interim High hitting roles) and why are they becoming a popular choice for businesses across the UAE?

“I wrote a blog post in Feb2021 – seems a long time ago now – called Why CIOs benefit from Interims in the UK market, but now pivoting to the Dubai UAE region I am seeing the same needs or considerations for businesses here in Dubai”, remarked Craig Ashmole, Dubai based IT consulting & transformation leader.

Fractional CIO and CTO Essentials

Fractional CIOs and CTOs are senior-level technology executives hired on a flexible, part-time basis to provide expert guidance and strategic insight without the full-time executive commitment. Essentially, businesses gain immediate access to seasoned professionals who help them navigate digital transformations, technology governance, cybersecurity, vendor management, and technology-driven innovation, all at a fraction of the traditional cost.

Since moving to the region after +14 years of providing consulting & interim services, I’ve been networking with numerous business leaders in Dubai who initially underestimated how transformative fractional technology leadership could assist.

The CEO of MISSION+ a dynamic AI development business from Singapore who’s set up in Dubai mentioned, “Having access to Fractional CIO’s and CTO’s meant our business could accelerate digital transformation quickly without the hefty upfront investment with someone that brings wide diverse experience.”, commented Craig Ashmole.

The recruitment process has been heavily focussed historically on fulfilling permanent positions with all the Government related visas and administration only to find the person hired may not fit the bill. Fractional leadership not only provides skills and experience often more qualified than the role for a set period it reduces administration overhead and enables the switching of Fractional leaders as business needs change.

Which Dubai Businesses Benefit the Most?  –  They all do!

Dubai’s diverse business landscape means that many organisations – particularly SMEs, startups, and mid-market enterprises – find fractional technology executives exceptionally beneficial. These businesses typically lack the budget or necessity for full-time CIOs or CTOs but still require high-calibre tech expertise to compete and innovate effectively.

• Startups: Gain immediate strategic insight, aligning technology investment to growth objectives, and enhancing investor confidence.
• Mid-market Enterprises: Optimise existing technology platforms, streamline costs, and accelerate digital transformation journeys.
• Corporate Businesses: Modernise legacy systems and processes without internal company bias preventing significant internal change potential.

“From my experience, the real power of fractional CIOs and CTOs lies in their ability to immediately integrate into existing teams and deliver impactful results. As I’ve often advised, “Businesses in Dubai, especially startups and growing SMEs, often underestimate the importance of strategic technology alignment.” Says Craig Ashmole. “The benefit Fractional leaders bring having worked across diverse business models is invaluable. Engaging fractional technology leadership is not just smart; it’s essential for directional change, new ideas and competitiveness.”

Why Fractional Technology Leadership Works

Cost Efficiency: Businesses pay for only the time and expertise they need, reducing overhead significantly compared to full-time executive hires.

Immediate Expertise: Fractional CIOs and CTOs are highly experienced executives capable of rapidly assessing your technology landscape and identifying quick wins and strategic opportunities.

Flexibility and Scalability: As business requirements evolve, fractional technology leaders adapt their engagement level, scaling support up or down seamlessly.

Risk Management and Security: Enhance cybersecurity and compliance through expert risk assessment and mitigation planning.

Vendor Management and Negotiation: Experienced fractional executives possess robust negotiation skills, helping businesses secure better technology deals and manage vendor relationships effectively.

The Bottom Line

“Fractional CIOs and CTOs are not just an innovative option for the Dubai market; they are increasingly essential partners for sustainable growth and innovation.” Craig goes on to say, “Leveraging our length of business expertise provides the strategic agility and technological skill necessary to thrive in this continually competitive UAE market.”

If your organisation hasn’t considered fractional technology leadership yet, now might just be the perfect time as summer comes to the region and a noticeable influx of skilled labour moves to Dubai & the UAE from UK, Europe & further afield.

By Craig Ashmole IT Consulting & Fractional CIO, Dubai