Celebrating 25 Years of Giesecke+Devrient in the UAE
Giesecke+Devrient (G+D), a global leader in security technology based in Munich, is marking a significant milestone as it celebrates 25 years of operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This occasion not only highlights the company’s growth but also its deepening collaboration with the UAE’s governments, central banks, and businesses.
A Journey of Growth Since 1999
Since establishing its Dubai office in 1999, G+D has transformed from a niche supplier of security technology into a vital regional partner. The company now operates across multiple sectors, including secure payments, currency technology, identity solutions, connectivity, and digital infrastructure, serving over 60 countries in the Middle East and Africa. Currently, G+D employs approximately 200 individuals in the UAE and has established its global competence center at Dubai Digital Park, located in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Key Celebrations and Partnerships
The celebration event was led by Claudio Sgarlata, Managing Director for Middle East and Africa, with notable guests including His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, and Dr. Juma Al Matrooshi, Assistant Executive Chairman for Investments & Partnerships at DIEZ. Badr Buhannad, the Director General of Dubai Silicon Oasis, was also present alongside various senior officials.
Sgarlata remarked, “For 25 years, G+D’s presence in Dubai has mirrored the region’s commitment to digital security and modern payment and identity systems. Our focus on local partnerships built on trust positions us ideally to contribute to the UAE’s impressive growth trajectory, driving digital transformation while empowering businesses and communities.”
Innovation in Currency Technology
G+D’s initiatives in Currency Technology are pivotal in advancing cash management and central bank operations across the region. A recent partnership with the Central Bank of Egypt led to the establishment of the Currency Hub in the New Administrative Capital, which plays a critical role in producing and processing a significant portion of the country’s banknotes. In Angola, G+D has implemented the Casa do Kwanza national cash center for the central bank, and in Rwanda, it introduced Africa’s first fully automated vault system, enhancing national storage capabilities.
Additionally, G+D is actively involved in next-generation currency initiatives, such as its Filia platform. This supports the Bank of Ghana’s pilot program for the eCedi, the first retail Central Bank Digital Currency in Africa. Collaborations with the Central Bank of Mauritania are also underway to explore the possibilities of a digital Ouguiya.
Advancing the UAE’s Digital Ambitions
In the realm of Mobile Security, G+D supplies essential SIM and eSIM solutions to major telecom operators in the UAE, including longstanding partnerships with du and Virgin Mobile UAE. These collaborations facilitate secure digital onboarding and enhance customer connectivity, aligning with the nation’s ambition for a digital-first economy.
Furthermore, G+D’s Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity platform enables businesses to securely manage extensive fleets of devices across various networks, ensuring visibility and control through a unified secure system.
Innovations in Identity Management and Payment Solutions
Through its collaboration with Bundesdruckerei, G+D, via its joint venture Veridos, provides advanced border control and identity management technologies on a global scale. This aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s strategy to enhance digital identity and secure travel systems. Additionally, G+D offers card issuance and e-commerce security solutions tailored for the UAE market, catering to key regional payment providers. As Dubai continues to establish itself as a PayTech hub, digital payment volumes are on the rise, complementing innovations in secure online authentication systems.
Supporting Sustainable Digital Transformation
G+D’s presence in the UAE is directly aligned with the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 and the General Framework for Sustainable Digital Transformation. These frameworks emphasize digital identity, secure infrastructure, and the transition towards paperless services.
Moreover, the company is attuned to the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, promoting eco-friendly products and digital processes that significantly lower both paper consumption and energy use in banking, telecommunications, and governmental operations.
Giesecke+Devrient’s journey in the UAE exemplifies a commitment to innovation, security, and sustainability, reinforcing their role as a key player in the region’s future.
