Sharjah Cyber Security Centre And Fortinet Inc. Forge Strategic Partnership To Enhance Cybersecurity Efforts

Sharjah Cyber Security Centre, under the Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), has entered into a strategic agreement with Fortinet Inc., a leading US cybersecurity firm. This memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to bolster Sharjah's cybersecurity ecosystem by enhancing cooperation in ICT security and improving national capabilities to tackle cyber threats.

The collaboration focuses on various ICT and cybersecurity areas, aiming to strengthen national partnerships, advance legislative frameworks, and support judicial efforts in cyber deterrence and response. It also includes developing awareness programs, conducting joint research, and facilitating business exchanges related to cybersecurity.

Under the MoU, both parties will work together across multiple cybersecurity domains. They will exchange insights on advanced security solutions, organise technical workshops, training sessions, and cyber drills. Additionally, they will participate in technical forums and educational initiatives to enhance institutional capabilities.

The partnership grants access to Fortinet Inc.’s NSE training materials and advisory support for incident response. Joint efforts will focus on gap assessments, enterprise networking, cloud security, and digital forensics. These initiatives aim to build skills and advance national digital resilience through shared expertise.

Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director-General of SDD, highlighted that this partnership aligns with the department’s strategic goals. He emphasised the importance of a comprehensive cybersecurity framework in safeguarding digital transformation progress and supporting sustainable development.

"Establishing a secure digital environment is central to our mission," he stated. "Cybersecurity is crucial for protecting Sharjah’s digital assets amid global threats. Partnerships with international leaders like Fortinet Inc. are vital for enhancing resilience and fostering innovation."

Commitment to Digital Transformation

Abdelnasir Obaid BuKhatir, Director of the Sharjah Cyber Security Center, described the partnership as a strategic milestone in building a robust cybersecurity ecosystem in Sharjah. Collaborating with global experts helps elevate performance and ensure secure digital transformation of government services.

A spokesperson from Fortinet Inc. expressed pride in formalising the agreement with Sharjah Cyber Security Center. They noted that this collaboration supports developing a sustainable cybersecurity ecosystem aligned with Sharjah’s vision for digital transformation.

Fostering Innovation and Growth

The spokesperson added that partnering with pioneering entities like Sharjah Cyber Security Center underscores Fortinet Inc.’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable economic growth across the region. The MoU reinforces principles such as sovereign equality and mutual respect.

This agreement contributes to advancing cybersecurity and promoting digital resilience across Sharjah and the wider UAE. By working together, both parties aim to create a secure digital environment that supports innovation and enhances quality of life for residents.

With inputs from WAM