UAE, Huawei to work together to boost ecosystem’s capabilities

The UAE’s National Cybersecurity Council (NCSC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Huawei to collaborate in the strengthening of local strategies and efforts related to cybersecurity.

The agreement, which was signed on the second day of the Gisec yesterday, says both parties will work towards strengthening strategic collaboration in cybersecurity based on the Public-Private-Partnership model. This will help promote cybersecurity innovation, drive development in cybersecurity capabilities, and nurture a strong cybersecurity ecosystem. In addition, the agreement aims to create an open, transparent, and trustworthy environment between the UAE Government, Huawei, and other technology vendors.

Dr. Mohammad Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, UAE Government, said: “We are excited to be signing this agreement with Huawei in line with our mission of developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and creating a safe and strong cyber infrastructure in the UAE. This step will also help drive our efforts to establish the UAE as a leading global hub for cybersecurity for the benefit of the nation.”

As part of the agreement, both parties have agreed to work together in building visibility and promoting thought leadership in the area of cybersecurity, cooperating in the field of cybersecurity research and development through an independent think tank that both parties will establish, and jointly establishing a Cybersecurity Center of Excellence to deliver talent training that addresses the cybersecurity capacity-building needs for Emiratisation.

Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer at Huawei UAE, said: “We are honoured to be partnering with the National Cybersecurity Council. Huawei is committed to supporting the UAE’s efforts as the country accelerates its digital transformation journey. As cyber threats are continuously changing, our agreement with the National Cybersecurity Council will help us work towards providing a cybersecurity ecosystem that is safe and secure. This partnership will also help recognise Huawei’s long-term commitment to sustainable development in the UAE as a top digital hub for the region and globally.”

The partnership comes as spending on security including hardware, software, and services is also on the rise across the region, predicted to grow seven percent to $3.76 billion in 2022, according to IDC.