Knowledge Center

Over the last 50 years, the United Arab Emirates and France have built a remarkably strong and multifaceted partnership, and we are now looking at the future.

UAE is coagulating its standing as one of the promising hubs of startups and scale-ups in the region. According to global level field players, institutions and indicators, the country is in a progressive and promising path enhancing the number of startups. The government is involved in creating an integrated investment environment by introducing favorable business regulations and flexible policies. Programs like Abu Dhabi’s Hub71, Dubai Future Accelerators, and the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) provide startups with mentorship, office space, and funding. These initiatives help entrepreneurs connect with global investors and partners, giving them the resources they need to grow.

Recent statistics show that the UAE topped the GCC countries as the leading incubator for startups, with over 8,600 startups registered across the country in the year 2024. The data highlighted that the UAE is leading the region in the fintech startup sector, with over 750 plus companies currently operating in this field.

Reports from the global consulting and research firm, Startup Genome, affirmed that the UAE’s various emirates continue to advance in international rankings, emerging as the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the region. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Dubai are taking the lead by creating incentivised environments of which Abu Dhabi maintains its position as the fastest growing startups ecosystem in the MENA region. Abu Dhabi itself achieved almost USD 6 billion in value during the period of 2021-2024. The report also indicated that early-stage start-up funding amassed to USD224 million, while venture capital funding between the second half of 2021 and 2023 exceeded USD1 billion, driven by the growing activities of startups operating under Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71. Abu Dhabi’s startup community continues to grow, driven by Hub71’s dedicated programmes, strategic partnerships, and commitment to innovation, which strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading and fast-growing global technology hub.

Dubai also strengthened its leadership in creating ecosystems that support start-up growth, ranking at the top of both global and regional startup ecosystem valuations. Dubai ranked first in the Gulf and second in the region in this field. In5, a TECOM Group subsidiary, has supported more than 1,000 startups, raising funding since its inception in 2013, continuing to play a pivotal role in promoting the sustainable economic growth of these companies.

Sharjah holds a global position by making significant contributions to business growth in the UAE, hosting around 60,000 small, medium, and startup companies distributed across its free zones and industrial zones.

The UAE Ministry of Economy has introduced a “Scale-Up Platform” which serves as a one-stop-shop online portal for small and medium-sized enterprises with high growth potential that provides access to products and services designed to enable the scaling of future unicorns. It focuses on five major pillars, namely, digital transformation, global expansion, joint operation and support services, exports promotion and support, and funding.

The future of the UAE’s economy is closely tied to the success of its startup ecosystem. Start-ups will continue to drive innovation, create jobs, and help diversify the economy. Startups will be essential in shaping the next phase of economic growth—one based on creativity, technology, and sustainability.

For businesses looking to expand into new markets, Australia is a great place to invest. Known for its political stability, robust economy, and vibrant multicultural society, Australia offers a highly skilled workforce and supportive government policies to enable foreign investment.

Victoria, Australia’s second most populous state, has experienced steady growth over the last ten years and is forecast to grow by 2.6%, exceeding other Australian states and territories. Melbourne, the state’s capital, is now the most populated city in Australia. As part of its growth story, the Victorian Government has an ongoing commitment to encouraging inbound investment. Jack Delmo, Chief Executive Officer, McLean Delmo Bentleys, discusses why Australia, and particularly Victoria, is a great place to do business and what businesses need to consider when establishing operations.

Government Support for Inbound Investment

The Australian Government actively encourages foreign investment through various initiatives. Austrade, the government’s trade and investment arm, provides comprehensive support to international investors, including market insights, networking opportunities, and assistance in navigating regulatory frameworks. Additionally, state-level bodies such as Invest Victoria offer tailored support for businesses setting up operations in the region.

“Australia offers an unparalleled combination of business stability, talent availability, and market access,” comments Jack Delmo. “With the government’s investor-friendly policies and Victoria’s innovation-driven economy, businesses have an excellent platform for growth.”

Setting Up a Business in Australia: Key Considerations

While Australia offers a wealth of opportunities, establishing a business requires careful planning and compliance with local regulations. Following are the critical steps and considerations for businesses looking to expand into the Australian market.

Choose the Right Business Structure

Selecting the appropriate legal structure for your Australian operations is crucial, as it will impact taxation, regulatory obligations, and overall flexibility. A foreign company setting up in Australia for the first time may do so in one of three ways:

• Representative office – where there are no direct business operations in Australia, but the foreign company wishes to provide support to its Australian customers.
• Branch – where a company intends to operate a business in Australia, but the foreign company does not wish to establish a separate legal structure.
• Subsidiary – where a company intends to operate a business in Australia and establishes a separate legal entity.

Consulting a professional advisor can help determine the most suitable structure based on your business goals and work through considerations such as Australian taxation issues, repatriation of profits, Corporations Act requirements, financial reporting obligations, business strategy, and management independence.

Company Secretarial Matters

Compliance with corporate governance requirements is essential. Businesses must appoint a local resident director and ensure ongoing compliance with Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) regulations, including the timely filing of annual returns and financial statements.

“Effective company secretarial services are key to maintaining good standing with regulators,” advises Jack Delmo. “Non-compliance can lead to penalties, additional administrative burdens, and reputational risks.”

Taxation Compliance and Considerations for Non-Residents

Australia has a well-developed tax system, and understanding its nuances is critical for foreign investors. Key tax considerations include:

• Corporate Tax Rate: The standard corporate tax rate is 30%, but a lower rate of 25% applies to businesses with an aggregated turnover below AUD 50 million.
• Goods and Services Tax (GST): A 10% GST applies to most goods and services. GST may be charged on invoices and can also be claimed on various expenses.
• Withholding Tax: Applies to dividends, interest, and royalty payments to foreign entities, depending on applicable tax agreements.
• Transfer Pricing: Transactions between related parties must comply with arm’s length principles.
• Employment Taxes: Includes employment laws, withholding requirements, WorkCover insurance, and superannuation.
• Thin Capitalisation Rules: Ensures adequate capitalisation and may limit deductions in certain scenarios.
• General Anti-Avoidance Rules: Applies to arrangements designed primarily to obtain tax benefits.

Managing an international structure and mitigating tax exposure can be complex. Professional advice on tax structuring and compliance can help businesses optimize their position and avoid risks.

Accounting Services

Accurate and transparent financial reporting is crucial for maintaining investor confidence and meeting regulatory requirements. Engaging local accounting professionals ensures compliance with Australian Accounting Standards and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

“Leveraging local expertise in accounting and financial reporting helps businesses stay compliant while focusing on their core operations,” commented Jack Delmo.

With its vibrant economy, strategic location, and supportive business environment, Australia offers immense opportunities for businesses looking to expand into new markets.

“Investing in Australia is a strategic move for businesses aiming to expand their global footprint,” says Jack Delmo. “With the right guidance and resources, businesses can thrive and contribute to Australia’s economic landscape.”

Whether you are a seasoned multinational or a growing enterprise, Australia welcomes you with a wealth of opportunities.

The State of Victoria, a powerhouse of innovation, diversity, and ideas in Australia, has long enjoyed a flourishing partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With shared values of progress, ambition, and opportunity, this collaboration has paved the way for dynamic trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. As we enter 2025, we look ahead with optimism, ready to deepen our ties and embrace new partnerships together.

Victoria: The Gateway to Australian Excellence

Victoria is a leading contributor to Australia’s economic success. It is the fastest-growing state in terms of population, job creation, and economic expansion. Home to Melbourne, our state capital and a global city, Victoria is renowned for its world-class education system, enviable lifestyle, leading sports ecosystem, and vibrant cultural and dining scene.

Our economy is built on diversity, with strengths in industries such as agriculture, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, health and life sciences, and sport.

One of Victoria’s greatest assets is its extensive international presence. With 23 trade and investment offices strategically located across the globe, Victoria has the largest international network of any Australian state or territory. These offices play a vital role in connecting Victorian businesses with global partners, fostering collaboration, and driving economic growth.

The UAE holds a special place in Victoria’s international partnerships. As the first Australian state to establish a trade and investment office in Dubai in 1997, Victoria has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the region. This relationship has enabled Victorian businesses to explore new markets, share expertise, and achieve success across industries.

Longstanding Partnership with the UAE

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), announced in September 2024 between Australia and the UAE, marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The UAE is already one of Australia’s largest trade partners in the Middle East, and the agreement is set to further strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for trade and investment.

A testament to this growing relationship is the investment by Lulu Group in Melbourne, highlighting strong confidence in Victoria’s economy and the potential for deeper collaboration.

These economic links are further strengthened by the vibrant UAE-born community in Victoria, fostering valuable people-to-people connections.

Education: A Pillar of Collaboration

Victoria is Australia’s leader in transnational education, supported by the largest offshore education network of any state. It is home to 18 major medical research institutes, 10 universities, and 12 TAFEs, contributing to a highly skilled workforce.

Each year, more than 12,000 students from the broader META region choose to study in Victoria, attracted by globally ranked universities and strong vocational training programs. Beyond the classroom, Victoria collaborates with Middle Eastern institutions to develop education programs, share research, and foster innovation.

Victoria’s commitment to lifelong learning aligns closely with the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to education and workforce development.

Sport: A Bridge Between Cultures

Sport is a universal language that connects people, and Victoria is widely recognized as Australia’s sporting capital. Melbourne hosts world-class events and offers premier infrastructure and innovation networks.

As the only city in the world to host both a Tennis Grand Slam (Australian Open) and a Formula 1 Grand Prix, Melbourne plays a key role in global sports engagement. The upcoming SportNXT conference further strengthens its position as a leader in sports business.

Victoria actively uses sport to foster international relationships. Recent trade delegations to the Gulf region have brought together leading Victorian companies with expertise across multiple sports sectors.

Victoria’s leadership extends beyond events into sports technology, infrastructure, governance, and community participation.

Future Perspectives: Opportunities Abound

Victoria’s strong ties with the UAE are reflected in the success of Victorian companies operating in the region. Ego Pharmaceuticals has expanded its presence in the UAE, offering high-quality products tailored to the local market and building strong brand recognition.

Similarly, PMY Group, a global technology consultancy, has contributed to major projects in the UAE, showcasing innovation and expertise.

These companies highlight the strength, adaptability, and global capability of Victorian businesses.

Looking Ahead

Upcoming events such as the World Chambers Congress (WCC) in Melbourne in September 2025 will provide a platform to strengthen global connections and showcase shared opportunities.

The 14th WCC, to be held from 2 to 4 September 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, will bring together global business leaders, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Victoria is also supporting multiple trade delegations to the UAE, ensuring strong participation in key sector events such as Gulfood.

Let’s Chat

In an evolving global landscape, collaboration and innovation are essential. Victoria and the UAE can continue to work together to drive meaningful solutions and shared growth.

We extend our gratitude to our UAE partners and look forward to strengthening this relationship in 2025 and beyond.

For those interested in exploring opportunities with Victoria, we invite you to connect with our team and continue the conversation.

Dubai’s economy is on an accelerated trajectory, serving as a symbol of resilience, optimism, and progress in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape. While many economies have faced headwinds over the past 24 months, Dubai’s visionary leadership, decisive action, and robust policies have cemented its position as a beacon of growth and opportunity.

Central to this success is the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, launched in January 2023 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. D33 is an ambitious blueprint to position Dubai among the world’s top three global cities and double the size of its economy.

The agenda is built upon ten strategic pillars, serving as catalysts for accelerated economic growth. Key priorities include strengthening Dubai’s leadership in sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, finance, tourism, enhancing economic productivity through a highly skilled and multicultural workforce, and fostering a culture of innovation.

D33 also underscores Dubai’s commitment to reinforcing its status as a global hub for multinational corporations (MNCs), family offices, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and local champions – ensuring a pro-business environment and maintaining global cost competitiveness.

D33 also outlines measurable targets, including:

Doubling Dubai’s foreign trade volume

Raising FDI to AED 60 billion (USD 16 billion) annually

Lifting private sector investments to AED 1 trillion (USD 272 billion)

Positioning Dubai as a Top 4 global financial hub

Above all, the agenda prioritizes preserving and advancing quality of life, tolerance, security and safety – values that continue to define Dubai’s identity as a modern, inclusive and future-ready city.

An Economy on the Move: Growth, Momentum and Opportunity

Two years since the announcement of D33, the implementation of the agenda has generated positive momentum and measurable results for Dubai.

Dubai’s economic growth reflects its dynamism and adaptability. With 3.2% GDP growth in the first half of 2024—double the OECD average—the emirate continues to outperform global benchmarks. Core economic engines such as foreign trade, investment flows, and tourism remain on a rapid trajectory, while emerging opportunities like artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual assets add further momentum, particularly in relation to attracting high skilled talent.

Dubai’s regulatory framework and visa reforms— including the Golden Visa, Five-Year Multi-Entry Visa, Virtual Working Program, Freelance Visa, Green Visa, and Retirement Visa — further enable business growth and attract global talent.

Gateway to Global Markets: Connecting East, West and Beyond

Trade remains a cornerstone of Dubai’s economy, achieving a milestone of AED 2 trillion (USD 544 billion) in trade value in 2023—an almost 10x increase in 20 years. With a trade value nearly five times its GDP, Dubai continues to punches well above its weight globally.

This performance underscores Dubai’s strategic role in connecting East and West, enabling businesses to access growth markets across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia. Looking ahead through 2025 and beyond, Dubai’s trade sector is set to thrive, leveraging its geographic advantage, world-class logistics infrastructure, and a network of trade agreements (also known as Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements or CEPAs) covering more than 45 countries — with over 20 agreements in the pipeline, representing a significant share of global GDP and trade.

Logistics Unbound: Powering Global Trade and Connectivity

Dubai’s logistics sector is world-class, with seaports and airports connecting businesses to over 400 cities worldwide. Home to global logistics leaders like Emirates, DP World, Maersk and DHL among others, Dubai has cemented its position as a leading global logistics hub.

Plans to enhance connectivity to future economic corridors in Africa, Asia and Latin America will further solidify Dubai’s role as a super connector.

Advancements in smart logistics and sustainability will play a key role in strengthening Dubai’s logistics sector, supporting its ambition to rank among the top five global logistics hub under D33.

Advanced Manufacturing: Leading Innovation and Sustainability

Dubai’s manufacturing sector is evolving, with a focus on attracting investments in high-tech and green industries. A recent example is Eaton’s investment in a sustainable campus for advanced manufacturing and R&D in Dubai, announced in July 2024.

To accelerate growth, Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), in collaboration with government entities, has introduced a series of targeted policies to attract new investments, expand capacity and enhance competitiveness:

Manufacturing Incentives Program – Offers incentives such as competitive utility and land prices and access to loans and capital expenditure support for new and expanding factories.

Solar Power Policy – Allows factories to generate 100% of their energy needs from solar power, reducing costs and enhancing sustainability.

In-Country Value (ICV) Program – Boosts competitiveness of local manufacturers and SMEs through government procurement opportunities.

These initiatives underscore Dubai’s commitment to positioning itself as a global advanced manufacturing hub, aligned with the UAE’s net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. Building on the success of hosting COP28 in 2023, Dubai is attracting companies to establish green manufacturing centers, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable industrial transformation.

Eaton set-up sustainable campus for advanced manufacturing and R&D in Dubai

Eaton is a global intelligent power management company with 2023 revenues in excess of USD 23 billion. In July 2024, Eaton signed an agreement with DP World to build a state-of-the-art sustainable campus in Dubai, integrating its local commercial, manufacturing, and support functions with room for future growth. The 500,000+ sqft facility will include a cutting-edge R&D centre focused on sustainable manufacturing, AI, and Industry 4.0 innovations.

The project, slated for completion in 2026, will create 700 jobs, including high-skilled engineering roles and advanced manufacturing positions. Eaton’s manufacturing centre will fully embrace Industry 4.0 principles through automation, analytics, and advanced robotics. According to Craig Arnold, Chairman and CEO of Eaton,’ This new partnership with DP World and Jafza underscores our commitment to growth in the region and supports Dubai’s D33 transformation to position the city as a leader in high-tech manufacturing and innovation.‘

Financial Powerhouse: Thriving Capital Markets

Dubai’s financial services sector continues to expand, supported by a robust capital market and increased wealth inflows.

The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) has been the best-performing regional index for two consecutive years, with international investors contributing half of the trading activity over the last year. Since 2022, Dubai has had 10 IPOs, generating over USD 300 billion in investor demand. Notably, Talabat’s USD 2 billion IPO in Q4 2024 was the largest tech IPO globally in 2024.

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) houses a diverse ecosystem of 400+ financial firms including banks, hedge funds, wealth managers, family offices, law firms and fintech companies. A growing base of high-skilled talent from global firms continues to strengthen this ecosystem. DIFC’s 2030 strategy aims to double its size and economic contribution to GDP, reinforcing Dubai as a financial innovation leader.

Innovation Unleashed: Embracing AI, Blockchain and the Future Economy

Dubai is advancing as a global innovation hub, home to two-thirds of the world’s most innovative companies, many of which have established AI and innovation centers in the city.

A highly skilled digital workforce—spanning 200 nationalities—has fueled growth in fields such as engineering and data science, with AI talent quadrupling between 2021 and 2023. The wider UAE is now ranked among the top three global hubs for AI talent, according to the AI Index Report by Stanford University.

Backed by world-class digital infrastructure and pro-innovation policies, Dubai leads in AI, blockchain, and R&D. Initiatives like Sandbox Dubai facilitate regulatory advancements, enabling innovation in sectors such as PropTech, the gig economy, and virtual assets.

Tourism Redefined: The World’s Most Desired Destination

Tourism has proven to be a major success story for Dubai. The city welcomed a record 17.2 million visitors in 2023, and is on track to deliver a new record milestone in 2024. Dubai has continuously solidified its position as the most popular global destination for three consecutive years, as ranked by TripAdvisor—a unique accolade achieved by no other city. Building on the success of Expo 2020, which attracted over 24 million visitors, Dubai has strengthened its position as a hub for MICE tourism. Dubai hosts a year-round calendar of major business, leisure, and sporting events that continue to draw international visitors. In 2024, GITEX Global welcomed 200,000 attendees, cementing its status as the world’s largest tech conference and Gulfood attracted 150,000 attendees, showcasing Dubai’s ability to host large-scale events across diverse industries. Similarly, the Dubai Fitness Challenge saw participation from 2.73 million people in 2024.

Infrastructure for Tomorrow: Building Prosperity and Growth

Infrastructure investment remains central to Dubai’s growth strategy. Government spending increased by 43% in 2024 compared to 2019, with plans for a 33% rise in 2025, reaching over USD 10 billion. Major projects include a USD 35 billion investment in Al Maktoum International Airport and the expansion of the Dubai Metro planned over the next few years, ensuring sustainable growth through efficient infrastructure. These investments highlight Dubai’s commitment to public-private partnerships and long term growth, ensuring sustained progress and competitiveness.

Investment Magnet: The World’s #1 Destination for FDI

Dubai’s position as a global investment destination is reinforced by its leadership in greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI). For the third consecutive year, Dubai ranks first globally in FDI projects, attracting investments from 88 countries—a 57% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.

These investments, predominantly in medium- to high-tech sectors, bring advanced industrial and technical expertise to the emirate, further cementing its role as a hub for innovation and growth.

In real estate, while transaction values have grown by 75% year-on-year over the past two years, with 40% of investors entering the market for the first time, Dubai’s market remains one of the least at risk of a bubble globally, according to UBS.

Additionally, the UAE has welcomed 10,000 high-net-worth individuals over the past two years, drawn to Dubai’s robust financial ecosystem, stable economy and exceptional quality of life.

This diverse pool of investments and investors not only strengthens Dubai’s economic foundation but also enhances its resilience to global shocks. Dubai’s continued focus on diversification ensures that it remains insulated from volatility, while its pro-business policies continue to attract regional and global investors.

The Talent Magnet: Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow

Dubai is not just a magnet for capital – it is also a destination of choice for highly skilled global talent. Recognized as the most sought-after city to live and work, Dubai continues to attract top-tier professionals who drive innovation and growth.

The number of new residents increased by 56% in Q3 2024, following a 50% rise the prior year. Notably, 75% of newly created jobs were filled by highly skilled professionals, reflecting Dubai’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.

Dubai’s commitment to attracting and retaining world-class talent remains a cornerstone of its vision, enabling businesses and industries to thrive in an increasingly globalized and knowledge-based economy.

Shaping the Future: Opportunities Without Limits

Dubai’s achievements and global standing are reflected in prestigious international rankings. In 2024, Brand Finance – the world’s leading independent brand valuation consultancy – ranked Dubai among the top five global cities in its Global City Index, up from #9 in 2023. Dubai is globally ranked #1 in the Business and Investment pillar, #1 globally for Future Growth Potential and #2 for its Strong and Stable Economy.

These accolades underscore Dubai’s status as a leading global business hub, supported by a sound regulatory framework, robust financial systems and resilience in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Dubai Economic Agenda, D33: Driving Growth, Excellence and Opportunity

Dubai is more than a city—it is proof that a vision of ambition, resilience, and excellence can be delivered. As we progress toward our 2033 goals, our focus remains on building a thriving ecosystem for businesses and individuals alike.

With sustained investments in infrastructure, pro-business policies, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on talent development, Dubai continues to lead as a global hub for growth and opportunity.

We invite corporates and individuals to partner with us, unlock new opportunities, and achieve their goals in Dubai.

At the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), our dedicated teams stand ready to guide investors at every stage—from business setup and long-term residence visas to guided learning journeys and aftercare services—ensuring seamless operations and lasting success in Dubai.

Be part of Dubai’s ongoing success story, today.

investindubai.gov.ae

The UAE has been acknowledged as a global leader by the Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 for its commitment to promoting robust cybersecurity practices and measures. With a notable increase in maturity, the UAE has attained the highest tier-one rating, distinguishing it as a “role model” among countries.

It has also been globally recognized for making strategic investments and adopting innovative technologies such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence. While the nation has made considerable progress in digital governance, it still faces challenges in securing critical infrastructure across both the public and private sectors.

The modernization of infrastructure and digital transformation has sparked innovation and growth, especially through initiatives like the UAE’s “Entrepreneurial Nation.” However, there is an urgent need to enhance stability and resilience within critical infrastructure. Readiness to address risks arising from accessing information across various devices, through diverse communication channels, and within an ever-evolving technology landscape is essential for survival.

Evolving Business Frontline

Securing the enterprise security perimeter is crucial, as it has become the frontline for businesses. As more users and devices move beyond traditional network boundaries, and as automation increases through non-human identities, the attack surface of organizations continues to expand. The rising demand for cloud computing and the use of AI and machine learning for operational efficiency have significantly broadened the security perimeter.

Today, the concern is not whether an organization will face an attack, but rather how it can effectively respond, defend, minimize damage to critical business assets, and recover from such incidents. This shift from the timing of attacks to methods of response has led organizations to focus on building resilience into their infrastructure. Although technology solutions can help foster secure working environments, they do not provide full assurance of security. Weak processes that rely on these technological solutions can still remain vulnerable.

Today’s Challenges

The ease of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into business meetings, processes, and operations has made it a decisive factor for organizations striving to remain competitive. However, the rapid adoption of AI by employees poses management challenges for organizations, similar to the infiltration of shadow IT applications into enterprise systems. Clear guidance and direction are essential for the smooth integration of AI and related applications within organizations.

In today’s knowledge economy, data has emerged as a new currency; data breaches can dismantle trust built over years, undermining customer and partner confidence. Recent research on hacktivism posts on the dark web indicated that the most prevalent topics were related to data (33%) and access (21%). Adopting approaches such as Zero Trust Architecture provides a structured method for maintaining a secure posture. However, this must be implemented holistically, addressing both process security and secure technology architecture.

According to the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, 55% of data breaches could be attributed to human error. It is crucial for enterprises to cultivate sound cybersecurity practices to sustain a secure digital environment and effectively mitigate human-related risks.

Unauthorized access to information assets can lead to an organization’s infrastructure being misused to launch cyberattacks against government entities or other organizations. For instance, penalties for compromising a government website in the UAE can include a seven-year prison sentence and fines ranging from Dh 250,000 to Dh 1.5 million.

UAE Cybersecurity Landscape

According to the UAE Cyber Security Council’s “State of the UAE – Cybersecurity Report 2024,” 21% of exposure to cyber threats was linked to insider actions, and 40% of identified vulnerabilities in assets have persisted within the enterprise for more than five years. These figures highlight deficiencies in organizational security processes, leaving them susceptible to exploitation through ransomware, phishing, and other attacks. A study by IBM in 2024 indicated that phishing was the primary attack vector in 27% of enterprise breaches.

To bolster enterprises in their security efforts, the UAE has introduced a National Cybersecurity Strategy backed by well-defined assurance frameworks, policies, and standards. These guidelines apply to organizations based on their industry and significance to the national economy, regardless of size. The strategy is built on five key pillars and encompasses 60 initiatives aimed at mobilizing the entire cybersecurity ecosystem. Complementing this framework, UAE cyber laws define strict measures to combat cybercrime, imposing penalties and imprisonment for cyberattacks and breaches.

Organizations operating in the UAE must be aware of the regulatory landscape governing their digital assets and infrastructure, enabling them to adopt the necessary measures to comply with cybersecurity requirements. In cases of a breach or compromise, organizations are expected to demonstrate due diligence and the appropriate actions taken to protect, respond, and recover, in accordance with established assurance frameworks.

What Can Businesses Do?

A sound understanding of the UAE’s cybersecurity landscape and initiatives can help shape and direct security programs effectively. Knowledge of sector-specific cybersecurity requirements, a thorough understanding of risks to critical assets, and vulnerability assessment of the enterprise estate with measured exposure to cyber threats should form the basis for defining and adopting a secure enterprise profile through good governance, secure processes, and an optimized security architecture.

When organizations implement robust security policies and controls that align with their technology investments, they establish a dependable control framework to consistently manage critical assets and guide user behavior to reduce risks while ensuring regulatory compliance. Regular communication about the significance of cybersecurity and recognition of employees’ contributions can reinforce positive behaviors and offset human risks.

Business operations often require organizations to adhere to various industry-specific compliance regulations, which must be demonstrated through certifications or equivalent measures. Certifying competence in securing information assets enhances competitiveness by meeting qualification criteria and ensuring compliance with regulatory demands, in addition to avoiding potential fines and legal complications. Security can no longer remain an afterthought for organizations.

Leadership must prioritize cybersecurity and exemplify good security hygiene practices to foster a growth mindset. It is time to go beyond survival tactics and set the course to thrive in today’s digital economy.