UAE Launches Cybersecurity Center with Google Claude

UAE and Google Cloud Partner too Launch Cybersecurity Center in Abu Dhabi

A strategic initiative to bolster digital defenses, foster innovation, and secure teh UAE’s digital future.

Published May 3, 2024

UAE Forges Ahead in Cybersecurity with Google Cloud Partnership

Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a move signaling a significant commitment to digital security, the United Arab Emirates Council of ministers has approved the launch of a global cybersecurity center in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Google cloud. This initiative underscores the UAE’s ongoing digital conversion efforts and its dedication to creating a robust and secure cyberspace. For U.S. readers, this is akin to the Department of Homeland Security partnering with a major tech company like Microsoft to create a joint cybersecurity task force – demonstrating a proactive, public-private sector approach to a growing threat.

This effort aims to position the UAE as a global leader in cybersecurity, aligning with the nation’s strategic vision for technological advancement. The center is designed to keep pace with rapid technological developments, providing a secure and advanced digital ecosystem for businesses and institutions across various sectors. This mirrors the U.S.’s own strategic focus on cybersecurity, as highlighted in the National Cybersecurity strategy, which emphasizes public-private partnerships and innovation in cybersecurity.

The initiative also reflects the UAE’s broader strategy of investing in emerging technologies and empowering national talent, solidifying its status as a premier destination for innovation and investment in the digital sector. This focus on nurturing local expertise is crucial for long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Strategic Discussions Lead to Tangible Action

The proclamation follows a high-profile visit to the United States by His highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor. During the visit, Sheikh Tahnoon engaged in extensive meetings with leaders from prominent international companies to strengthen strategic partnerships in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Discussions centered on how modern technologies can accelerate sustainable growth and foster innovation globally, with a particular emphasis on developing the digital infrastructure necessary for economic and social progress within the UAE.

The inauguration of this center, a collaborative effort between the UAE Cyber Security Council and Google Cloud, translates the UAE’s continuous efforts into tangible action. It enhances their ability to effectively address cyber threats, supports secure digital transformation, and empowers startups by providing access to Google Cloud services tailored for emerging companies. This complete approach aims to foster a vibrant and secure digital ecosystem.

Google Cloud’s Commitment to UAE’s Startup Ecosystem

Google Cloud’s commitment extends beyond infrastructure support. Earlier this year, google Cloud announced a programme for parks, selecting 25 promising startups from the HUB71 system to participate in a three-month program. This program focuses on scalable growth strategies and improving business models. Moreover, all startups within the Hub71 system are eligible to receive funding from Google Cloud, with top performers potentially securing up to $300,000 – a significant boost for early-stage companies. This initiative is similar to U.S.-based accelerator programs like Y Combinator or Techstars, which provide mentorship, resources, and funding to promising startups.

A Model for Public-Private Partnership

The cybersecurity center exemplifies a successful collaboration between the government and private sectors. It is designed to cultivate national competencies and provide a reliable environment for businesses and institutions amidst the ongoing digital transformation. Google Cloud, with the support of the Cyber Security Council, is making substantial investments in advanced cloud computing capabilities within the UAE.This initiative leverages Google Cloud’s secure,scalable,and high-performance global infrastructure,establishing a solid foundation for innovation in cybersecurity. This reflects a commitment to the UAE’s cybersecurity vision and confidence in Google’s global security platform to enhance cyber resilience.

Addressing Cyber Challenges and Consolidating Leadership

The center reflects the UAE’s dedication to proactively addressing evolving cyber challenges and solidifying its leadership in this critical field at both regional and international levels. The partnership with Google will facilitate the sharing of critical data regarding cyber threats and intelligence,thereby bolstering defense capabilities in the cybersecurity domain.

Economic and Social Impact

The cybersecurity center is projected to generate significant economic and social benefits for the UAE by mitigating the risks associated with cyberattacks, fostering growth in the technology sector, and attracting foreign investment. According to an Access Partnership study, strengthening cyber capabilities could prevent losses of approximately $6.8 billion resulting from cybercrimes by 2030. Additionally, the project is expected to create over 20,300 job opportunities in the cybersecurity sector and attract up to $1.4 billion in foreign direct investment during the same period. These figures are similar to the projected economic benefits of increased cybersecurity spending in the U.S., where investments in cybersecurity are expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. This also reinforces a faster speed to digital transformation, which raises economic productivity, and supports the UAE’s competitiveness at the global level.

The Cyber Security Council in the UAE oversees the project, ensuring the realization of the state’s vision for a secure and sustainable digital ecosystem, further enhancing international collaboration, serving as a strategic partnership model that leverages visionary leadership with the expertise of global leaders like Google.

Dr. Mohammed al-Kuwaiti, head of cybersecurity for the UAE government, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating that this strategic cooperation with Google Cloud “represents one of the pillars of the UAE’s vision to be a world leading contry in the field of cybersecurity, as the initiative not only seeks to address the current threats, but also aims to prepare a new generation of qualified experts and develop innovative solutions that secure our digital future.”

Moreover, Dr. al-Kuwaiti added, “The UAE has a clear vision to be at the forefront of state security, and we are honored to be a key partner in achieving this future vision.”

Christina Betarsch added: “Our common goals combine advanced digital infrastructure, an innovative environment, and a training platform to qualify the next generation of cyber defenders.”

This initiative is a testament to the UAE’s rational leadership in fostering innovation and building a secure and prosperous digital future. Through collaboration with Google Cloud, the UAE reaffirms its long-term commitment to developing digital infrastructure, anticipating future challenges, and solidifying its position as a global leader in cybersecurity and modern technology. The UAE is developing a “new generation of qualified experts” to meet these challenges.

Strategic Pillars of the Partnership

The collaboration with Google cloud is built on several strategic pillars designed to promote sustainable cybersecurity and the digital economy in the UAE. These axes include:

• Research, Advancement, and Innovation: Focusing on developing advanced cybersecurity solutions through specialized research. This includes enhancing partnerships with international academic institutions, research institutes, and policymakers to facilitate knowledge exchange, increase influence, and support information sharing across various sectors.
• Specialized training Programs: Providing specialized training programs aimed at supporting startups and various sectors in enhancing their ability to address future cyber threats. this will solidify the UAE’s role as a hub for developing technical talent in the region and globally.
• qualified Cybersecurity Cadres: Recognizing the critical need for qualified cybersecurity professionals, an accredited training program from the Cyber Security Council will be implemented within the Center for Excellence.This program offers a unique opportunity within the country to acquire skills directly from experts who address the most complex cyberattacks worldwide.

This program offers interactive and applied virtual courses, enabling individuals and teams to protect vital systems, leverage AI-powered security tools, and respond effectively to cyber incidents. Training is based on role-based learning methods and realistic experiences derived from real security breaches, preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts in the Emirates.

Google cloud will implement the program, leveraging the expertise of the global Mandiant team, which has over 20 years of experience in cyberattack investigations. The training program includes:

• Experiential learning: Combining traditional theoretical courses with advanced training to simulate cyberattacks, delivered by cybersecurity experts from Mandiant.
• Attack Simulation Platform: A secure system simulating realistic cyberattack scenarios, allowing trainees to participate in realistic response exercises reflecting the tactics of advanced threat actors.
• Flexible Learning Options: Self-learning courses through the “Google Cloud” platform to enhance capabilities, providing government employees across the country access to over 900 training courses, practical tests, and various skills in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

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What are the key objectives and strategic pillars of the UAE-Google Cloud Cybersecurity Center of Excellence?

Interview: Dr. Zara Al Mansouri, Cybersecurity Strategist on UAE-Google Cloud Partnership

Archyde News Editor: Welcome, Dr. Al Mansouri. Thank you for joining us to discuss the exciting new Cybersecurity Center of Excellence launched in Abu Dhabi, a collaborative effort between the UAE and Google cloud. Can you give our readers some background on the importance of this partnership?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: Thank you for having me. The launch of this center is a landmark move. It signifies the UAE’s commitment to becoming a global leader in cybersecurity,aligning wiht its vision for technological advancement and digital transformation. Partnering with Google Cloud allows the UAE to leverage cutting-edge technologies and global expertise. It’s about creating a robust cyber ecosystem and securing the nation’s digital future.

Key Objectives and Strategic Pillars

Archyde News Editor: The articles mention several strategic pillars. Can you elaborate on how these pillars will contribute to the center’s success?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: Absolutely. The pillars – research and innovation, specialized training programs, and qualified cybersecurity cadres – are crucial. The center will facilitate research, creating advanced cybersecurity solutions. The training programs will equip the next generation of cyber defenders with essential skills,leveraging experiential learning and advanced attack simulation platforms. This approach ensures that the UAE has a skilled workforce capable of addressing evolving cyber threats.

Impact on Regional and Global Cybersecurity

Archyde News Editor: The partnership aims to position the UAE as a regional leader. What impact will this have on the broader cybersecurity landscape, both regionally and globally?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: By proactively addressing cyber challenges and sharing critical data with Google, the UAE is setting a precedent for international collaboration. The center will facilitate knowledge exchange and serve as a model for public-private partnerships and innovation. This will bolster defenses in the region and possibly contribute to global cybersecurity standards.

Google Cloud’s Role and Startup Initiatives

Archyde News Editor: Google Cloud’s involvement extends beyond infrastructure. Can you discuss their commitment to supporting startups within the UAE ecosystem?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: Google Cloud is deeply invested in the UAE’s startup ecosystem. They offer programs focusing on scalable growth strategies and funding opportunities, which boost innovation and provide critical support for early-stage companies. This investment is similar to the initiatives seen in the U.S., fostering the next generation of tech entrepreneurs and cybersecurity experts within the region.

Economic and Social Benefits

Archyde News Editor: The article highlights meaningful economic and social benefits. How will the center’s establishment impact the UAE in these areas?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: The center is projected to generate numerous economic and social benefits. Mitigating cyberattack risks will prevent potential financial losses and attract foreign investment. Creating over 20,000 job opportunities by 2030 will provide long-term benefits to the people. This initiative also accelerates digital transformation, contributing to economic productivity and supporting the UAE’s competitiveness in the global market.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Archyde News Editor: What challenges do you foresee in implementing this ambitious project, and what is yoru overall outlook for the future?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, meaning that flexibility, agile response and adapting will be keys for continuing success. However, the strong vision of the UAE, combined with Google Cloud’s expertise, creates a well-equipped team, and I believe that the project will be accomplished. The focus on nurturing local talent and developing innovative solutions will position the UAE as a global leader in cybersecurity for many years to come. I am very optimistic about the opportunities ahead.

Call to Action

Archyde News Editor: dr. Al Mansouri, thank you for sharing your insights. Before we conclude, what single message would you like to convey to our readers regarding the significance of this partnership?

Dr. Zara Al Mansouri: This partnership is a bold step toward building a secure digital future for the UAE. It encourages all nations to learn from,adapt,and contribute to global cybersecurity. For our readers, I encourage you to look into cybersecurity training and advancement yourself, as the workforce is in high demand. The success of this initiative will depend on the participation and collaboration of everyone involved.

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