Dubai, April 18, 2010 - Microsoft Gulf today announced its development with ITE, one of the leading regional IT distribution companies, to include Microsoft Commercial products such as Microsoft Windows, Office, and other commercial product suites available developed by Microsoft.

Previously, ITE's Microsoft product offering included leading PC hardware such as Microsoft gaming devices, keyboards, mice, webcams, and headsets, as well as the highly demanded, Microsoft Mac Office.

The Dubai based ITE will be responsible for distributing in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain.

"ITE Distribution's clear understanding of the retail industry has expanded our reach and assisted in our channel expansion and growth," said Armagan Demir, Head of Microsoft Entertainment and Devices Division Middle East. "ITE's performance through the past year clearly reflects on our strategy to provide access to local outlets and retailers where premium Microsoft products can officially be available to the local consumer with the support that matches it."

"We are pleased to further expand our partnership with Microsoft, and increase our product portfolio for network partners," said Shams Jafery, Director - Business Development, ITE Distribution."We will stay committed to offering our channel expertise and support to further increase Microsoft's market share across the region."

Microsoft had signed with ITE Distribution in April 2009 as an authorized distributor for Microsoft Hardware line-up and Mac Office in the region. ITE Distribution is a 19-year-strong, IT distribution company and their product portfolio includes Belkin, Iomega, Kingston, Labtec, Logitech, Palm, Symantec, Targus and Tucano.

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About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

About ITE
From its headquarters in Dubai, ITE is a distributor specializing in the needs of the retail sector. It represents nine world-class vendors of computer accessories and software including Microsoft, Iomega, Kingston, Logitech, Targus, Tucano, Belkin, Palm and Symantec. ITE understands the marketing and inventory needs of superstores, hypermarkets, traders and small retail operations and support them with retail-friendly sales and technical support policies. ITE prides itself on building long-term relationships with its resellers and actively participates to develop their business. Product promotions, merchandising, sales training, easy RMA; ITE supports its customers so they can focus on selling. Founded in 1991, its distribution footprint includes the GCC countries and South Africa with branch offices in Bahrain and Johannesburg and a local presence in Saudi Arabia.

For more information, press only:
Tarek El-Moukachar
Account Manager
Asda'a Burson-Marsteller
Tel: +971 4 3344550
Fax: +971 4 3344556
Email: b-taem@microsoft.com

© Press Release 2010