United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranks highly among the global community for its commitment to cybersecurity. This is due to the strong and necessary posture that the government has adopted to ensure digital security both domestically and throughout the region. Companies in the UAE are legally obligated to undertake risk management processes, such as establishing a strong IT infrastructure. The country’s Information & Cyber Security Office (ICSO) plays a key role in facilitating these initiatives.
UAE uses a range of frameworks, tools, and standards to maintain its cybersecurity posture. These include the Cloud Security Alliance’s Security, Trust & Assurance Registry, the UAE National Electronic Security Authority, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Cyber Security Regulation, and the Guidelines on Application Security. The ICSO also assists companies in complying with international and local standards to maximize their security posture.
To ensure safety and security in the country’s IT space, the UAE hosts a variety of cybersecurity conferences and events. Major events such as GISEC (Gulf Information Security Expo & Conference) and CyberSec UAE, held annually, bring together regional and global cyber professionals. These events provide valuable insights into current cybersecurity trends, technology advances, and best practices for mitigating risks.
Research institutes such as the Cybersecurity Affairs Office at the United Arab Emirates University and the cyber security research centers at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center also contribute to the UAE’s excellent security posture. The country is constantly upgrading its understanding and technical capabilities by working with technological partners, engaging public-private partnerships, and utilizing the latest algorithms and technologies.