
Image: Kent Tupas (unsplash)
In recognition of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the UAE unveiled a digital safety campaign. The goal of this initiative is to share the nation’s expertise in this domain, highlighting the need to ensure digital space safety and protect institutions and individuals from online criminal activities.
The UAE has an impressive history in this sector, having founded the Cyber Security Council and initiated its Federal Network (FedNet). Furthermore, the nation introduced its digital cloud and several other initiatives emphasizing digital safety.
In sync with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, the country introduced a digital citizenship certificate and multiple strategies, all aimed at positioning the UAE as an advanced digital safeguard on the global platform.
Major Achievements The UAE’s advancements underscore its leadership’s intent to nurture a strong legislative framework and roll out innovative programmes in this area. Spearheaded by the UAE Cyber Security Council, the nationwide campaign’s purpose is to instil cyber awareness and cultivate a populace well-aware of online risks and threats.
Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, the Chairman of the UAE Cyber Security Council, highlighted the necessity of participation from the UAE community in this month-long event. He emphasized that digital safety forms an essential component of the nation’s overarching security.
Furthermore, Dr. Al Kuwaiti accentuated the need to address issues like cyberbullying, phishing, online deception, secure online interactions, and the safeguarding of privacy and personal information. The Cyber Security Council, as explained by its Chairman, addresses these concerns following the standards and policies in place.
He also commented on the inevitable rise of cyber threats with the surge in digital transformations and technological advancements. He reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to work alongside partners to deter such threats.
Recognition on a Global Platform The UAE secured its position as the fifth leading nation in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020. This index, released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations, serves as a reliable barometer for gauging nations’ commitment to online safety on a worldwide scale.
The GCI evaluates nations on various dimensions, assessing each nation’s growth across five parameters: Legal Measures, Technical Measures, Organisational Measures, Capacity Building, and Cooperation.
The UAE has redoubled its efforts to lead in this domain, managing to erect a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure and amplifying its proficiency and human resources in this sector. This dedication ensures enhanced preparedness against threats targeting government agencies.
Furthermore, the Cyber Security Council, by fostering national and international collaborations, has played a pivotal role in magnifying digital safety awareness amongst the UAE populace, demonstrated by initiatives such as “Cyber Pulse”.