After a long wait, the UAE Cyber Security Council has released the National Cyber Security Strategy 2025–2031. The strategy was approved in February 2025 and officially published in September. Its main purpose is to strengthen and unify the development of the UAE’s cybersecurity capabilities.

The document outlines five key areas of development, along with projects designed to achieve those objectives. In this weekly digest, we will examine the strategy’s goals and take a closer look at the details behind them.

The National Cyber Security Strategy 2025-2031 is part of a broader development agenda outlined in the UAE’s Centennial Plan and the “We the UAE 2031” Vision. The country is committed to strengthening its position as a global hub for technological advancement and innovation. To achieve this, the strategy establishes a solid framework for protecting national digital infrastructure, safeguarding citizens’ data, and driving the rapid adoption and implementation of new technologies.

At the core of the strategy are five key pillars that define its main directions for development.

• Establishing highly effective and cohesive cyber security governance

Key aspects mentioned in the strategy:

• Establishment of a cyber security baseline standard for all industries,
• The national cyber accreditation program for information security providers,
• Regulatory sandbox for emerging technologies.

The first step toward stronger cybersecurity is the creation of a comprehensive, unified legal framework. Such a framework provides companies with a clear understanding of government requirements, removes overlaps between different regulations, and enables smooth cooperation across all levels of an organization.

A consistent and transparent approach is especially important in the UAE, where the regulatory landscape is complex. While free zones offer exceptional opportunities for business growth, they also introduce separate regulations that companies must navigate.

To strengthen this framework, Emirati authorities are developing the National Cyber Accreditation Program, which is based on the UAE Information Assurance Regulation. This program will help ensure the quality and reliability of cybersecurity service providers.

The Cyber Security Council also emphasizes that the adoption of emerging technologies must be done securely. To support this, the UAE will integrate cybersecurity measures into existing regulatory sandboxes, such as Reglabs, ensuring innovation is developed and tested in a safe environment.

• Delivering a safe, secure, and resilient digital environment

Key aspects mentioned in the strategy:

• Development of the National Security Operations Center (NSOC)
• Establishment of the national vulnerability disclosure program
• Upskilling of cyber security professionals in the UAE

The National Security Operations Center (NSOC) in the UAE is a landmark project designed to serve as a centralized hub for monitoring alerts and detecting threats across multiple Security Operations Centers. It also acts as a knowledge-sharing platform, providing the technical expertise and skills needed to effectively respond to emerging cyberattacks.

UAE authorities are preparing to launch a nationwide program that will allow security researchers to actively contribute to strengthening the country’s cyber defenses. This is a significant step forward, as earlier cybercrime laws restricted red-team activities without explicit authorization. By opening this program, the government aims to strengthen proactive protection by addressing vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

The UAE is also investing heavily in developing its cybersecurity workforce through initiatives such as Cyber Future Leaders, Cyber Snipers, and E71. Looking ahead, authorities plan to establish a centralized Cyber Security Academy that will provide specialized training and help prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

• Enabling the rapid and secure adoption of innovation

Key aspects mentioned in the strategy:

• Security Centers of Excellence for priority areas

The UAE considers artificial intelligence (AI) a strategic priority and is actively investing in AI initiatives to secure its position as a technological pioneer while diversifying its economy. In collaboration with the Cyber Security Council, the UAE Ministry of AI will establish a Security Center of Excellence and lead various initiatives to promote the safe and ethical use of AI across all sectors of the economy.

• Strengthening national digital and cyber capabilities

Key aspects mentioned in the strategy:

• Development of capabilities to enhance UAE data and operational maturity
• Investments into cyber security events, education, and entrepreneurship programs

To protect Critical Information Infrastructures, UAE authorities are placing strong emphasis on data protection, particularly data localization. Ensuring strict compliance with government standards will not only safeguard businesses but also accelerate the country’s digital transformation.

The UAE also remains committed to offline initiatives ranging from entrepreneurship programs to educational opportunities. By fostering a dynamic and supportive environment, the nation aims to attract industry leaders and strengthen the growth of its cybersecurity market.

The Cyber Security Council will continue to back major events such as ADIPEC, the World Cyber Championship, Cyber Week, and others, encouraging large-scale participation and driving broader engagement in the field of cybersecurity.

• Fostering national and international collaboration and partnerships

Key aspects mentioned in the strategy:

• Development of private-public partnerships in cyber security
• Strengthening position of cyber security leader

The Cyber Security Council will continue to work closely with government agencies, Critical Infrastructure Operators, cybersecurity service providers, and technology vendors to ensure strong protection against emerging threats. The key lies in combining the agility and innovation of the private sector with the resources and authority of government entities.

At the same time, the UAE will maintain active collaboration with international partners in the field of cybersecurity. This commitment strengthens the country’s reputation as a global leader while fostering cross-border cooperation with key partners around the world.

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