The UAE Cybersecurity Council has announced it is set to officially launch its new national strategy this week. This initiative comes as part of the UAE’s efforts to keep pace with major and rapid transformations across various sectors, particularly in advanced technology, further cementing the country’s position in artificial intelligence and the digital economy.
Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the World Government Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai, Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of the UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC), stated that the recently approved five-year National Cybersecurity Strategy, endorsed by the UAE Cabinet, is built around five key pillars. These pillars are designed to enable the safe and rapid adoption of innovations while ensuring a secure, resilient, and robust digital environment.
He further highlighted that the strategy includes specific goals and initiatives aimed at strengthening and growing the national economy, in addition to protecting critical infrastructure.
He noted that global losses from cyberattacks, cyber warfare, and cyberterrorism were estimated at around $10 trillion in 2024, underscoring the UAE’s early recognition of the need to enhance its cybersecurity framework in line with global best practices. To this end, the UAE has invested over $2 billion in cybersecurity and digital transformation.
Al Kuwaiti also revealed that the Cybersecurity Council is currently finalising several policies, including a cryptography policy, which will be implemented in the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, the council is working on new cybersecurity standards to enhance institutional compliance and security measures.
Strengthening critical infrastructure resilience
“The UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy is a bold and forward-thinking initiative that reinforces the country’s leadership in digital security. By focusing on five key pillars, this strategy strengthens the resilience of critical infrastructure, enables secure innovation, and fosters a trusted digital environment – essential for a rapidly evolving economy driven by AI, cloud, and smart technologies,” remarked Meriam ElOuazzani, senior regional director, META, SentinelOne to Economy Middle East.
ElOuazzani highlighted that global cyber threats are costing businesses trillions, and the UAE’s $2 billion investment in cybersecurity and digital transformation is a proactive step toward safeguarding national assets and ensuring business continuity. The introduction of new policies, such as cryptography standards, will enhance compliance frameworks and institutional security.
“Beyond protection, this strategy positions the UAE as a global cybersecurity hub, attracting top talent, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and driving regional cyber resilience. Aligning with international best practices means the UAE is not only securing its digital future but also setting a benchmark for cybersecurity excellence in the Middle East and beyond.”
Fostering public-private collaboration
In statements to Economy Middle East, Ned Baltagi, managing director, Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, at SANS Institute, said, “The UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy, announced at WGS 2025, is a significant step forward in reinforcing the region’s cyber resilience. By aligning national cybersecurity initiatives with global best practices, the strategy will foster stronger public-private collaboration, accelerate cyber workforce development, and enhance the nation’s ability to detect, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats effectively. The UAE’s commitment to cybersecurity education, talent development, and innovation will empower organizations across sectors to adopt a more proactive defense posture. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, building a skilled cybersecurity workforce and implementing robust security frameworks will be key to securing the UAE’s digital transformation and economic growth.”
“We look forward to supporting the UAE’s cybersecurity ambitions by equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to defend critical infrastructure and digital assets, ensuring a safer cyber future for the region,” Baltagi further added.
Emphasizing AI-driven defenses
For his part, Harish Chib, vice president emerging markets, Middle East & Africa, Sophos, told Economy Middle East, “The UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy marks a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s digital resilience and security. By fostering innovation while protecting critical infrastructure, this initiative reinforces the region’s vision of emerging as a global leader in cybersecurity and digital transformation. As cyber threats grow in complexity, a proactive, multi-layered defense strategy is crucial to mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, organizations need AI-driven defenses that evolve in real time. By emphasizing compliance, cryptography, and robust security standards, this strategy empowers businesses and government entities to embrace emerging technologies with confidence. Sophos is committed to collaborating with key stakeholders in the UAE to advance these cybersecurity initiatives. By harnessing cutting-edge threat intelligence and next-generation cybersecurity solutions, we aim to strengthen the region’s security posture and contribute to a safer digital future for all.”
