This IDC study, Gulf States Disk Storage 2005-2009 Forecast and 2004 Vendor Shares, provides detailed analysis, conclusions, and forecasts regarding the dynamics of disk storage markets in the Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar. The information in this study is intended to provide an understanding of the changes and opportunities facing the storage industry in these emerging markets. Our 2004 figures and analysis are based on information gathered from interviews with the leading IT companies (vendors, distributors, assemblers, system integrators, value-added resellers) in the markets.

"Data availability, enhanced capacity, disaster recovery plans, and cost effective storage solutions are fast becoming a priority for most business users in the Gulf States region. Virtualization and consolidation are also gaining momentum in the market place. These factors will spur growth in the disk storage systems market in the region over the coming years. Storage uptake among small and medium-sized businesses will be gradual, while traditional core verticals will continue to undertake the bulk of storage spending in the Gulf States." ? Roshana Rehan, Research Analyst, IDC Middle East