Strategic MoU signed at CyberQ 2025 focuses on workforce development, quantum-era security, and long-term cyber resilience.
The SANS Institute, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certifications, has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE Cybersecurity Council to enhance the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities and prepare its workforce for emerging and quantum-era threats. The landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) was formalised during CyberQ 2025, underscoring the UAE’s continued commitment to building a secure, resilient, and future-ready digital ecosystem.
The agreement was signed in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Alkuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, and Ned Baltagi, Managing Director – Middle East, Turkey and Africa at SANS Institute. It brings together both organisations under a shared vision to strengthen national preparedness across critical ICT and cybersecurity domains.
At the core of the partnership is a comprehensive framework for developing cyber talent across the UAE. The collaboration aims to improve the nation’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cyberattacks, while deepening awareness of emerging risks such as quantum computing and AI-driven threats. As part of the initiative, SANS Institute has already conducted a specialised workshop on “Cybersecurity in the Quantum Era” and will roll out advanced training programmes focused on Secure AI and Quantum Security.
The MoU significantly expands access to globally recognised certifications, hands-on technical training, and expert-led workshops for professionals across both the public and private sectors. From early-career practitioners to senior cybersecurity leaders, the initiative is designed to elevate technical expertise, encourage knowledge exchange, and align national capabilities with global best practices.
Commenting on the partnership, Ned Baltagi, Managing Director – Middle East, Turkey and Africa, SANS Institute, said the collaboration represents an important milestone in supporting the UAE’s digital transformation and cyber resilience goals. He noted that future-ready skills, particularly in areas such as quantum security, will be critical as cyber threats become more sophisticated and complex.
Beyond training, the partnership also includes cooperation in information sharing, awareness programmes, advisory support, and capacity-building initiatives. Built on principles of equality and mutual benefit, the collaboration enables structured exchanges of expertise and operational insights to strengthen national security priorities.
As the partnership evolves, SANS Institute and the UAE Cybersecurity Council will continue to align on joint workshops, cross-sector training programmes, and the exchange of threat intelligence and incident-response insights—reinforcing the UAE’s vision for a secure, innovative, and resilient digital future.
