eHosting DataFort Implements First Private Cloud in the UAE

eHosting DataFort (eHDF) implemented the first private cloud in the UAE for EMCOR Facilities Services (EFS), an integrated facilities management service, operation and maintenance solution provider in the MENASA (Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia) region. EFS conducted an in-depth cost benefit analysis of working with an external data centre service provider as opposed to investing in an in-house data centre. An external feasibility audit was also conducted and validated by leading audit firm CapGemini. An informed decision was subsequently made to migrate the systems to a hybrid model. By this, EFS invested in high-end computing hardware and security, including servers and firewalls, while the data centre infrastructure, core switching, perimeter security, load balancers and storage area networks were leased from eHDF.

eHDF is currently hosting EFS' main business application suite, the Oracle JD EnterpriseOne, which being a Tier-1 application required a competent technology delivery platform. To deliver a full technology stack, with a quick turnaround at lower CAPEX and ensuring compliance could only come at costs that cloud computing would permit. eHosting DataFort was selected from a pool of five competent global vendors for its expertise in providing fully managed services. In addition to working with global market leaders, EFS needed to ensure that its hardware and data are stored and protected within national boundaries. eHDF's ability to meet this requirement through extending strong local support proved a key factor that influenced EMCOR Facilities Services' decision.

The private cloud project is part of EMCOR Facilities Services' overall management decision to consolidate infrastructure and create a centralised model. This requires service-oriented architecture, coupled with governance and industry best practices, to be encapsulated into a new high availability data centre to ensure business continuity. The company manages over 15 companies across the region.