Finalists: CMS; DIFC Wills Service Centre; Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC); GLS MENA FZ-LLC.

Microsoft Middle East & Africa's Outside Counsel Network initiative saw it scoop the innovation award. The OCN strategy is designed to build a network of lawyers and policy experts to support Microsoft's Cloud for Global Good campaign, and to encourage and reinforce discussions around cloud policy.

By sharing knowledge on the benefits of new tech with the legal community, those outside counsel can then relay that knowledge to their clients and support them through digital change. Those selected to become members of the OCN (who are chosen for their relevant expertise and willingness to engage with countries in their region) then spend a week at Microsoft's HQ in the US with the objective to share Microsoft's vision and promote its cloud campaign and policy recommendations.

By bringing those regional members together, they are able to share experiences and ideas related to digital transformation among their clients, and from a government policy perspective.

The network also gives members access to a wide variety of supporting materials, such as white papers and thought leadership articles on law and policy surrounding the transition to a more digital future.

"Microsoft's Outside Counsel network is an agent for positive change – empowering lawyers and equipping them to direct technology for good in society," a judge said.

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