The UAE Cyber Security Council has signed a memorandum of understanding with Mastercard to strengthen trust in the nation’s digital ecosystem. Through this collaboration, the council and the company will work to advance cybersecurity resilience by sharing global best practices and supporting the development of forward-looking cybersecurity policies.

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai. Alongside the MoU, both entities launched a joint report on the current state of the country’s cybersecurity landscape.

The UAE Cyber Threat Insights Report highlights the growing complexity of threat actors targeting organisations. It details their diverse objectives and sophisticated methods. The report shows how critical sectors and high-value national assets are being prioritised by malicious actors, reflecting an overall rise in cyber risk.

The report also emphasises the UAE Cyber Security Council’s efforts to strengthen national cyber resilience. Through enhanced public-private coordination, the council ensures collective preparedness and reinforces the country’s leadership in cybersecurity.

The partnership with Mastercard allows the council to leverage global expertise in fighting cybercrime and fraud. Since 2018, Mastercard has invested $10.7 billion in strategic cybersecurity acquisitions and future-proof solutions. Its AI tools have prevented fraudulent transactions worth $70 billion worldwide over the past decade.

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is expected to cost the world $15.6 trillion by 2029. Last year, the UAE Cyber Security Council reported that the country faces over 200,000 cyberattacks daily, with more than one-third targeting government entities.

Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, said the council remains committed to protecting the nation’s digital transformation. He noted that cyber risks to critical sectors are growing exponentially, driven by AI and other threats, and emphasised that collaboration with Mastercard will strengthen preparedness.

Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Vice Chairman and President, Strategic Growth at Mastercard, said the MoU reinforces the company’s role as a trusted partner and policy advisor. He added that the partnership will help the UAE Cyber Security Council assess emerging cyber risks and safeguard both people and organisations.

The UAE Cyber Security Council, with support from Mastercard, is set to reinforce UAE cybersecurity. The collaboration combines global expertise, advanced technology, and strategic policy guidance to protect the nation’s digital ecosystem.

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