The Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) wrapped up a landmark appearance at GISEC Global 2025 — held from 6 to 8 May — by unveiling four high-impact cybersecurity initiatives designed to strengthen Dubai's digital resilience against present-day threats and the quantum computing challenges of the near future.
Serving as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year, DESC used the GISEC platform to reinforce its commitment to secure digital transformation across three core pillars: strengthening digital infrastructure, developing national cyber talent, and deepening international collaboration.
Zero Trust and Digital Trust Tools
Among the headline launches was the Zero Trust Assessment Tool and Guideline, a practical framework helping government entities and local organisations transition to a Zero Trust model that emphasises continuous verification of identity and access rights. The tool is intended to protect critical systems and data in complex, dynamic technology environments.
Alongside it, DESC introduced Ethaq Plus, an advanced digital trust platform that enables organisations to carry out secure and reliable transactions through trusted digital certificates — safeguarding communications and verifying data authenticity across government services.
Preparing for the Quantum Era
In a forward-looking move, DESC launched its Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Guideline to prepare Dubai's digital infrastructure against threats arising from advances in quantum computing. The guideline provides a roadmap for government entities to adopt quantum-resistant encryption before the threat becomes operational.
Talent Development and Competitions
DESC also launched the ISR Officer Certification Program, a structured training pathway for government employees focused on information security regulations management.
Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of DESC, underscored the emirate's ambition in digital security: "Our projects and partnerships reflect the vision of our leadership to position Dubai as a global hub for innovation and digital security. The national human capital we are developing is creating safe, sustainable digital systems."
The fifth cohort of the Cybersecurity Leadership Program was honored at Dubai Cyber Innovation Park, while the Dubai Cyber Challenge — featuring more than 30 technical challenges for government entities — saw Digital Dubai Authority claim first place, ahead of Dubai Customs and ENOC.
The School of Cyber Defense Championship attracted more than 300 student applications from UAE universities. Al Ain University took the top prize, followed by the University of Dubai in second and Abu Dhabi University in third. The total prize pool stood at AED 130,000.
Strategic MoU with Moro Hub
Rounding out the week, DESC signed a memorandum of understanding with Moro Hub — the digital arm of DEWA — to deliver advanced cybersecurity assessment services to Dubai's government entities, expanding the Centre's reach across the emirate's critical digital infrastructure.
Taken together, these initiatives mark a significant step forward in Dubai's ambition to become a globally recognised hub for cybersecurity innovation and resilient digital governance.
