UAE Cybersecurity Council Collaborates With AWS And CrowdStrike To Launch Startup Accelerator Programme

The UAE Cybersecurity Council (CSC), in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), CrowdStrike, and e&, is launching the AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator Programme. This initiative aims to boost 'Made in UAE' cybersecurity innovations. The programme seeks to accelerate over 500 startups, offering them access to regional capital and global tech expertise.

Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, stated, "The AWS/CTIB Startup Accelerator Programme is a keystone of the UAE's National Cybersecurity Strategy, and a core of our unwavering commitment to advance the nation’s leadership in cybersecurity globally. The programme represents a critical step in strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading innovation hub while fostering the next generation of regional champions. This step came under our wise leadership and directives to strengthen our leading position on the global digital transformation map, driven by a forward-looking vision and ambitious national policies."

The programme offers intensive mentorship and personalised support to help startups develop solutions for emerging cyber threats. Participants will benefit from four key pillars: AWS's cloud computing expertise, CSC's regulatory framework, CrowdStrike's cybersecurity knowledge, and e& Group’s market reach. These elements combine to provide a comprehensive support system for startups.

Harrison Lung, Group Chief Strategy Officer at e&, remarked that cyber resilience has become essential for national resilience and digital economic growth. He said that by merging their infrastructure with AWS, CSC, and CrowdStrike, they are creating conditions for startups to innovate responsibly while anchoring their growth in the UAE’s trusted digital ecosystem.

The accelerator will focus on developing solutions using advanced machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for threat detection. Startups will also learn about modern security architectures like cloud-native frameworks and zero-trust models. The curriculum includes DevSecOps methodologies for secure development practices.

Elias Matta from CrowdStrike highlighted that the current era demands speed, intelligence, and collaboration. He noted that through this accelerator, they are empowering startups with expertise that defines their Falcon platform. This support helps startups build solutions that enhance cyber resilience across the region.

Selection Process and Global Outreach

A rigorous selection process will evaluate innovation potential, market traction, team quality, scalability, and commitment to entering the UAE market. Only high-potential startups will be chosen to ensure impactful results. The first global call for applications is set for December 2025.

Hart Rossman from AWS expressed pride in helping establish a foundation for the UAE as a world-leading cybersecurity innovation hub. He emphasised AWS's commitment to building sustainable ecosystems combining global expertise with regional market knowledge through this multi-party collaboration.

Strategic Goals and Future Prospects

This initiative supports the UAE's National Cybersecurity Strategy by connecting startups with government, enterprise, and academic partners. It strengthens the country's innovation landscape within a Middle East market projected to reach US$31 billion by 2030.

The AWS/CTIB Startup Accelerator Programme creates an ecosystem addressing every aspect of startup development—from technical architecture to funding—ensuring comprehensive support throughout their journey.

With inputs from WAM