Strategic collaboration between SCSC Centre and Fortinet Inc

Enhancing cooperation in cybersecurity fields
The MoU aims to promote strong collaboration in diverse areas of ICT and cybersecurity. Essential areas of emphasis encompass enhancing national collaboration, formulating legislative and regulatory structures, and bolstering judicial and law enforcement initiatives pertaining to cyber deterrence, prevention, and response. The agreement emphasises collaborative efforts in raising awareness through educational programs, scientific and technological research, as well as economic and business exchanges within the realm of cybersecurity.

Joint efforts to enhance resilience and skills
According to the partnership agreement, both parties will collaborate on various aspects, such as sharing insights on advanced security solutions and jointly organising technical workshops, training programs, and cyber drills as well as participating in technical forums and educational activities.
The Sharjah Cyber Security Centre will gain access to Fortinet Inc.’s NSE training materials and receive advisory support for incident response. Additionally, the partnership will encompass gap assessments, enterprise networking, cloud security, and digital forensics. The purpose of these collaborative efforts is to strengthen institutional capacities and foster national digital resilience by promoting skill development and exchanging technical expertise.

Alignment with Sharjah's digital aspirations
In his remarks regarding the agreement, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department, stressed that the partnership is in line with the department’s strategic goals and highlighted its dedication to improving the emirate’s digital preparedness.

He stated, “One of the core objectives for which the Sharjah Digital Department was founded is to establish a secure and resilient digital environment.” Our mission is to lead and empower digital transformation throughout the emirate. Cybersecurity and digital trust serve as fundamental components of this journey; we are dedicated to safeguarding Sharjah’s essential digital assets and maintaining their integrity in the face of evolving global threats. Collaborating with prominent global organisations, such as Fortinet, Inc., is essential for strengthening cybersecurity resilience, promoting inclusive innovation, and developing sustainable digital solutions that convert government services into seamless, efficient, and user-centric experiences that enhance quality of life.

A major milestone in Sharjah’s cybersecurity development
Eng. Abdul Nasser Obaid Ibrahim Bu Khater, Director of the Sharjah Cyber Security Centre, highlighted the significance of the agreement, calling it a strategic milestone in the pursuit of a comprehensive cybersecurity ecosystem in the emirate.

He stated, “This partnership with Fortinet Inc. represents a significant milestone in our continuous efforts to establish a comprehensive cybersecurity ecosystem in the Emirate of Sharjah and enhance national digital capabilities to keep up with rapid technological advancements.” Working alongside top global experts allows us to improve performance, boost preparedness, and guarantee a secure and progressive digital transformation for our government services.

Fortinet’s dedication to enhancing digital security
A representative from Fortinet Inc. conveyed pride in finalising the agreement, highlighting the significant opportunities for collaboration with the Sharjah Cyber Security Centre. They emphasised Fortinet Inc.’s global leadership in information security and pointed out this partnership as a crucial advancement towards creating a sustainable cybersecurity ecosystem in line with Sharjah’s digital transformation strategy.

They stated, “Collaborating with leading national organisations like the Sharjah Cyber Security Centre highlights Fortinet Inc.’s dedication to promoting a secure digital landscape that stimulates innovation and nurtures sustainable economic development throughout the region.”

The memorandum of understanding facilitates practical collaboration and establishes fundamental principles, including sovereign equality, mutual respect, and reciprocal cooperation. The advancement of cybersecurity and the promotion of digital resilience in Sharjah and the wider United Arab Emirates hinge on these values.