The announcement that mainstream maintenance for SAP ECC 6.0, SAP Business Suite 7, and other legacy SAP systems will end by 2027 is pivotal for enterprises still relying on these systems. SAP’s mainstream maintenance has been critical to businesses over the years. For many organizations, this represents a significant shift in their ERP strategies and an opportunity to future-proof their business processes.

At STEPSMENA, we understand the challenges organizations face in managing this transition. As trusted partners, we help businesses in the MENA region navigate the complexities of SAP migrations, offering tailored solutions that ensure a smooth, cost-effective, and risk-free transition to SAP S/4HANA and Rise with SAP.

 

Understanding the Impact

When mainstream maintenance ends in 2027, it means SAP will no longer provide regular updates, including security patches, legal compliance adjustments, or technical support for these legacy systems. Organizations that continue using SAP ECC 6.0 or Business Suite 7 without a transition plan will face significant risks, including:

  1. Security vulnerabilities: Without regular security patches, systems become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks.

  2. Compliance issues: Regulatory environments change constantly, and without updates, it will be harder for businesses to stay compliant with new regulations.

  3. Innovation stagnation: Legacy systems will lack integration with SAP’s new solutions and technologies, limiting a business’s ability to innovate and adapt to the digital economy.

  4. Cost increases: While extended maintenance will be offered after 2027, it comes with increased costs, which could be prohibitive for some organizations.

 

Options for SAP Customers Before 2027

To avoid these risks, businesses have several options to consider before the 2027 deadline:

  1. Migrate to SAP S/4HANA
    The most logical and strategic move for many businesses will be to migrate to SAP’s next-generation ERP solution, SAP S/4HANA. Built on the SAP HANA database, S/4HANA provides real-time data processing, advanced analytics, and greater flexibility to support digital transformation initiatives.
    Benefits include:

    • Faster processing speeds due to in-memory computing.

    • Improved user experience with Fiori apps.

    • Enhanced integration with cloud and intelligent technologies like AI and IoT. While the migration process can be complex, requiring a detailed assessment of current landscapes, it’s ultimately an investment in future growth and innovation.

  2. Transition to SAP Rise with SAP
    For organizations seeking a more managed approach to their digital transformation, SAP’s Rise with SAP offering is an excellent choice. It bundles together S/4HANA with business transformation services, hosting options, and support. Rise with SAP provides flexibility by allowing customers to choose between public or private cloud, and includes tools to streamline the migration process.

  3. Extended Maintenance (Until 2030)
    For companies that are not ready to transition by 2027, SAP is offering extended maintenance until 2030. However, this comes with higher costs, and while you’ll continue to receive support, it’s only a temporary solution. Extended maintenance may be an option for businesses with complex landscapes that require more time to plan their move to S/4HANA, but it should not be seen as a long-term strategy.

  4. Third-Party Support Providers
    Some businesses may explore third-party support providers as a temporary measure. These providers can offer updates, patches, and help manage legacy systems beyond SAP’s maintenance cutoff. However, relying on third-party vendors has its own risks, such as limited functionality and loss of official SAP support.

What Should Businesses Do Now?

Now is the time to start planning. If you haven't already, begin by conducting a comprehensive system audit to understand your current SAP landscape. Identify the areas where your systems are aging and map out how a move to S/4HANA or Rise with SAP could benefit your organization. Engage with consultants or your SAP account representatives to assess your readiness and build a migration roadmap.

At STEPSMENA, we are here to help you make the right decisions, providing the expertise and support you need to ensure your SAP systems remain a catalyst for innovation and growth.

Organizations that are proactive in addressing the end of SAP maintenance in 2027 will not only avoid operational risks but will also position themselves to leverage new technologies, drive innovation, and stay competitive in the digital economy.

While the end of mainstream maintenance for SAP ECC 6.0 and SAP Business Suite 7 presents challenges, it also offers a tremendous opportunity for businesses to modernize their systems. By carefully considering the options available—whether it’s moving to S/4HANA, utilizing Rise with SAP, or opting for extended maintenance—organizations can chart a course that ensures long-term success. 

With STEPSMENA as your partner, you can confidently navigate this transition, ensuring that your organization remains agile, secure, and ready for future growth.