Cybersecurity has become a central pillar of national security. Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Government’s Cybersecurity Council, emphasized this during a dialogue session organized by the Emirates Society for Social Development in Ras Al Khaimah. He revealed that the UAE faces nearly 200,000 cyberattacks daily, targeting various vital sectors. However, thanks to the country’s advanced cyber readiness, these threats are being detected and neutralized before they can disrupt services or compromise data.
As part of its strategic approach, the UAE has prioritized developing national human capital in cybersecurity. Al Kuwaiti announced the appointment of over 5,000 Emirati professionals in private sector roles within cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. This move reflects a broader vision to empower the nation’s youth and integrate them into shaping the UAE’s digital future.
“Youth empowerment is no longer a temporary option—it’s a national priority,” said Al Kuwaiti. He stressed that human talent, alongside advanced technology and legal frameworks, forms the first line of defense against cyber threats.
A Proactive National Vision
The UAE has adopted a comprehensive and proactive approach to cybersecurity, making it an essential component of its future vision. This includes the development of national strategies, enhanced security standards, and improved coordination between security and technology sectors. The aim is to build a robust national cybersecurity ecosystem capable of protecting the country’s digital achievements and supporting a secure digital economy.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role in countering digital misinformation and cyber propaganda. According to Al Kuwaiti, AI tools are capable of analyzing vast datasets and detecting patterns in online behavior, allowing for the identification of coordinated smear campaigns against the UAE. These tools can trace campaign origins, launch timings, and the parties behind them.
Cyberterrorism and the New Digital Warfare
Cyberterrorism is no longer limited to system breaches or service disruptions. It now includes digital misinformation, rumor-spreading, and manipulation via social media, making it a more dangerous and complex threat. The UAE tackles these threats using a hybrid approach that combines AI-powered analysis with human oversight, enabling faster and more accurate responses to digital threats.
Al Kuwaiti warned that cyber threats do not discriminate—they can target governments, businesses, or individuals. He highlighted the danger of the so-called “zero-hour” attacks, where entities lacking sufficient readiness can be blindsided. This reality calls for collective commitment to national cybersecurity policies and ongoing readiness to counter evolving threats.
Risks of AI Misuse and the Rise of Deepfake Technologies
Dr. Al Kuwaiti also cautioned against the irresponsible use of AI, which can facilitate data breaches or lead to advanced scams like deepfake content, posing significant risks to digital safety. With social media becoming a key battleground in information warfare, the UAE is working closely with strategic partners to anticipate, detect, and neutralize emerging threats.
Tackling Digital Bullying and Online Crime
Among the most pressing cybersecurity threats today are cyberbullying, online crime, and digital extortion, which have severe psychological and societal impacts. These dangers especially target youth and children, exploiting their online presence and mental vulnerabilities. Al Kuwaiti emphasized the need for awareness campaigns, strong family involvement, and educational efforts to build a digitally aware generation capable of defending itself online.
Rising digital crime not only undermines public confidence in online platforms but also threatens efforts to build a secure digital society. Combating these challenges requires comprehensive community awareness, enhanced legal frameworks, rapid response mechanisms, and collaboration among families, schools, and media outlets.
Dangerous Digital Trends in Online Gaming
Al Kuwaiti also raised concerns over certain online games that include voice chat features or offer financial incentives, warning that they pose cyber and behavioral risks. Some of these platforms may serve as entry points for unsafe communications, manipulation, or even digital blackmail, especially among teenagers. These games can lead to digital addiction, poor mental health, and reduced academic performance.
