UAE Cyber Threats Surge in 2024: Ransomware and Malware on the Rise

The UAE has experienced a significant surge in cyber threats in 2024, with ransomware incidents rising to 34 between January and November, compared to 27 in 2023, according to data from the Acronis Threat Research Unit. This sharp increase highlights the UAE’s growing prominence as a target for cybercriminals, particularly in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and critical infrastructure. Malware detections have also soared by 65.3%, climbing from 16.05% in 2023 to 26.52% in 2024, signaling an alarming trend in cyber activity across the region.

Cybercriminals are increasingly using advanced malware and encryption techniques to breach financial institutions, targeting banks and financial services to extort companies or sell stolen data on the dark web. With data breach costs in the Middle East averaging $8.7 million, UAE organizations face immense pressure to strengthen their cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information and prevent substantial financial and reputational damage.

The nation’s critical infrastructure, including energy, oil, and gas, is also facing elevated risks from cyberattacks. Experts warn that breaches in industrial control systems and operational technology could disrupt production and lead to major financial setbacks. The growing adoption of smart city technologies and the expansion of IoT in the UAE are further increasing the digital attack surface, providing more opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities and disrupt essential services.

The UAE’s strategic geopolitical position has also made it a prime target for nation-state actors deploying Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). These sophisticated cyberattacks often focus on government and defense sectors, employing advanced tactics such as spear-phishing to infiltrate critical systems. Predictions indicate an intensification of such threats in 2025 as cybercriminals continue to evolve their methods.

In comparison to neighboring countries, the UAE remains the most affected nation in the Middle East, recording a higher volume and complexity of cyber incidents. In 2024, Saudi Arabia reported 11 ransomware attacks, Lebanon saw an increase from 2 to 7, Oman recorded 4 incidents, and Jordan experienced a decline to just 1. This regional comparison underscores the UAE’s unique challenges in tackling increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Phishing attacks are also expected to become more advanced in 2025, with the integration of AI and deepfake technologies enabling attackers to impersonate executives convincingly. This evolution in tactics could increase the risks posed by Business Email Compromise schemes and other forms of social engineering, making it more critical than ever for organizations to adopt robust cybersecurity solutions.

Acronis is calling on UAE businesses to invest in advanced cybersecurity strategies to counter these escalating threats. Proactive measures will be essential to safeguard the nation’s economic stability and resilience in the face of growing cyber risks. As the UAE advances its ambitions to become a global leader in AI, comprehensive cybersecurity strategies and cross-sector collaboration will play a pivotal role in mitigating evolving digital threats and ensuring the nation’s safety in an increasingly connected world.