The Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) has launched the Dubai Cyber Think Tank, which aims to develop solutions to repel current and future cyber threats.

This initiative is the first of its kind in the Middle East and will be built around a collaborative platform between DESC and other Dubai public departments and organisations.

Collective brainstorming

The think-tank aims to facilitate "collective brainstorming" with high-level focus groups, which will conduct research, run workshops, exchange expert perspectives and make recommendations.

“The priorities of the platform include confronting and resolving the current and future cyber challenges and risks as well as contributing to the development of proactive policies and frameworks for the cyber-security of Dubai," said Jassim Mohammed, security operations manager at DESC.

A launch conference which brought together DESC, government departments and cyber-security experts is helping to set the agenda.

Following every session, the platform will develop a detailed report with the results of all scientific research and studies that will help develop cyber-security strategies, policies and methodologies for public and private organisations. This will be based on the recommendations culminating from the studies and research findings.

“The priorities of the platform include confronting and resolving the current and future cyber challenges and risks as well as contributing to the development of proactive policies”

These, in turn, will be documented in an annual report highlighting the conclusive findings of the Dubai Cyber Think Tank and its role in developing new policies.

"This initiative is driven by the core strategy of Dubai Electronic Security Centre to form strategic partnerships with all Government entities and organisations in Dubai to define and confront cyber threats and challenges.

"These initiatives help us make remarkable progress in realising Dubai government’s vision for developing and carrying out initiatives and policies aimed at solving electronic security challenges and building a secure and resilient cyberspace for Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, with its public and private sectors," said Mohammed.

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