Lara Zijl 
The Sharjah Cyber Security Centre (SCSC), operating under the Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), has announced a significant strategic partnership with Fortinet Inc., a global leader in cybersecurity solutions. The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), aims to bolster Sharjah’s cybersecurity ecosystem and enhance its capabilities in addressing evolving cyber threats.
The wide-ranging agreement focuses on several key areas: strengthening national collaboration, improving legislative and regulatory frameworks, supporting judicial and law enforcement efforts in cybercrime prevention and response, and developing comprehensive awareness and educational programmes. Joint scientific and technological research and business and economic exchange related to cybersecurity are also included.
Specific collaborative initiatives outlined in the MoU include: exchanging insights on advanced security solutions; jointly organizing technical workshops, training sessions, and cyber drills; mutual participation in technical forums and educational initiatives; access to Fortinet’s NSE training materials; advisory support for incident response; and joint efforts in gap assessments, enterprise networking, cloud security, and digital forensics.
Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director-General of SDD, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with the department’s strategic objectives and its commitment to enhancing the emirate’s digital readiness. He highlighted the crucial role of cybersecurity in safeguarding digital transformation and supporting sustainable development. “Cybersecurity and digital trust are key pillars…we are committed to protecting Sharjah’s critical digital assets,” he stated.
Abdelnasir Obaid BuKhatir, Director of SCSC, described the partnership as a “strategic milestone” in building a comprehensive cybersecurity ecosystem in Sharjah. He noted that collaborating with global experts will elevate performance, enhance preparedness, and ensure the secure digital transformation of government services.
A Fortinet spokesperson expressed pride in the partnership, emphasizing the broad scope of collaboration and highlighting Fortinet’s commitment to supporting a secure digital environment that fosters innovation and sustainable economic growth in the region.
The MoU underscores the commitment of both organizations to advancing cybersecurity and promoting digital resilience not only within Sharjah but also across the wider UAE. The partnership represents a significant step towards building a more secure and resilient digital future for the emirate.
