The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global cybersecurity leader Palo Alto Networks to develop AI-driven, data-centric cybersecurity capabilities aimed at strengthening the country’s digital resilience. The agreement will embed advanced security measures across every layer of the UAE’s digital infrastructure.
Quick Facts
- MoU to develop AI-driven cybersecurity capabilities.
- Focus on strengthening the UAE’s national digital resilience.
- A new Cybersecurity Center of Excellence will be established.
A National Strategy for Digital Resilience
The partnership is a key part of the UAE’s long-term strategy to secure its digital economy and infrastructure. The collaboration will support both immediate and ongoing cybersecurity initiatives in coordination with relevant national authorities.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, described the partnership as a reflection of the country’s ongoing efforts to build a resilient digital ecosystem that supports sustainable economic growth.
“Through such initiatives, we seek to enhance our national readiness, foster innovation, and support the development of a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce in line with the UAE’s future vision,” he said.
Helmut Reisinger, CEO EMEA at Palo Alto Networks, added that the company looks forward to supporting this vision. “This collaboration presents an opportunity to explore how advanced cybersecurity capabilities can contribute to innovation, resilience, and economic growth,” he stated.
Building a Hub for Cyber Talent and Innovation
A central component of the agreement is the establishment of a dedicated Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in the UAE. This center will focus on capacity building, environmental simulation, and joint technology demonstrations.
The collaboration will also address the national talent pipeline through specialized educational programs for students, professionals, and executives. These programs are set to be integrated into academic curricula and professional training frameworks to cultivate a new generation of cybersecurity experts within the UAE.
Advanced Tech for National Response
Other areas of cooperation will focus on upgrading the country’s national threat response capabilities. The partnership will leverage AI and automation to improve visibility and provide the national CERT with a unified operational view for faster and more effective incident management.
The agreement also includes consultancy and advisory services focused on cloud security, critical infrastructure protection, and resilience-by-design frameworks. Both parties will explore opportunities in joint applied research and innovation incubation in forward-looking fields such as AI governance, post-quantum cryptography, and smart city security.
About The UAE Cyber Security Council
The UAE Cyber Security Council was established to develop and oversee a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and create a secure and resilient cyber infrastructure in the UAE. The council is responsible for proposing, developing, and updating policies and legislation to enhance cybersecurity for all targeted sectors in the country.
About Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks is a global cybersecurity leader, shaping the cloud-centric future with technology that is transforming the way people and organizations operate. The company’s mission is to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
