From Legacy Virtualization to Cognitive Orchestration: A Decade-Long Evolution of Cloud Management Systems in the Middle East (2016–2026)
الكلمات المفتاحية:
Cloud Management, Cognitive Orchestration, AIOps, Sovereign Cloud, Middle East, Saudi Vision 2030, Architectural Paradigms, Design Science Research.الملخص
This study examines how cloud management systems in the Middle East evolved between 2016 and 2026. It uses a longitudinal comparative analysis of architectural frameworks rather than specific software deployments. The study compares an empirical 2016 baseline, based on a monolithic and reactive management model, with a proposed 2026 framework for cognitive orchestration.
The analysis is organized around three overlapping stages: the Hypervisor Era (2010–2018), the Container & DevOps Era (2018–2023), and the Cognitive & Sovereign Cloud Era (2024–2026). The comparison shows a shift from tightly coupled systems to event-driven microservices that use AI-driven operations (AIOps) for anomaly detection and remediation. Regional priorities have also moved from cost reduction toward digital sovereignty and sustainability, influenced by Saudi Vision 2030 and the Personal Data Protection Law.
