In an exclusive joint interview with Telecom Review, Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) representatives, Ayesha Mohammad Al Marzouqi, Manager of Cybersecurity Licenses and Permits, and Dr. Bushra AlBlooshi, Director of Cybersecurity Governance Risk Management, shared how the DESC is advancing digital trust across the emirate and the world. They also reflected on the powerful culture of gender inclusion that is shaping the next generation of cybersecurity leaders in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Given that cyber threats are now evolving just as quickly as the technologies they target, the Dubai Electronic Security Center is committed to leading the UAE’s cybersecurity strategy by fusing strategic foresight, collaborative policies, and inclusivity.
Strategic Foresight and Technological Preparedness
Al Marzouqi explained that the DESC’s strategy is built around forecasting and proactively addressing future challenges. "In the first strategy that we launched in 2017, it was a five-year strategy that took into account emerging technologies and future threats—the foresight that is required to properly protect Dubai." This strategic approach was revisited in 2024, reinforcing the DESC’s commitment to adapting to a dynamic threat landscape while supporting technological growth within government entities.
She emphasized that the foundation of the DESC’s governance is the Information Security Regulation (ISR), a technology-agnostic document that guides risk management and security controls regardless of the technology in use. "The ISR provides access control, risk assessment, risk management, security controls, and these can be implemented whether you're talking about network security or AI security."
Recognizing the potential challenges posed by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, Al Marzouqi shared the DESC’s proactive response. "We are launching the post-quantum computing cryptography (PQC) guideline, which prepares government entities for challenges that are not here yet, but will be here in the near future."
Building Trust in AI through Cybersecurity
On the other hand, Dr. AlBlooshi discussed the newly launched Dubai AI Security Policy, which integrates cybersecurity principles into the adoption of AI technologies. "It’s an enabler for the consumers and government entities, detailing how they can use AI solutions while they keep cybersecurity in mind." The policy outlines ethical principles and security guidelines for both users and providers of AI and aims to build trust between all stakeholders.
She reiterated that the DESC doesn’t intend to hinder innovation but rather guide responsible technological advancement. "We don't want to hinder the business in Dubai. But we want government entities to use those emerging technologies and put the right boundaries in place whenever they are using the technology."
Fostering Public-Private Collaboration
The DESC’s collaboration with the private sector is instrumental in ensuring effective cybersecurity practices. Al Marzouqi highlighted initiatives such as the Dubai Cyber Innovation Park (DCI Park), which offers training for both government and private individuals. "Any person or private organization can enroll in DCI Park trainings at very competitive rates,” she explained.
She also detailed how the DESC incorporates industry input during policy development. Before launching the cloud security policy, for instance, the DESC held private consultations with major providers to balance security requirements with business innovation.
Global Engagement, Local Impact
Dr. AlBlooshi’s roles in global cybersecurity bodies, including the World Economic Forum and the World Bank’s Cloud Computing Working Group, amplify Dubai’s international standing. She noted that this involvement supports the DESC’s strategic goal of enhancing international collaboration.
In the cyber sector, specifically, you cannot work in isolation; you need to collaborate with the private sector, with the government, and also with international bodies.
She proudly referenced the impact of this global engagement, sharing that Dubai was featured as a case study in international reports on cyber resilience and public-private partnerships.
Dr. AlBlooshi and Al Marzouqi have also contributed to a global initiative advocating for a unified certification scheme, an effort now backed by a coalition of over 15 countries and certification bodies.
Empowering Women in Cybersecurity
Both leaders spoke passionately about gender equality and their personal experiences in cybersecurity. Al Marzouqi credited mentorship and a supportive culture within the DESC to her success. " When starting your career, it’s natural to feel intimidated walking into a boardroom full of male professionals—especially when you’re one of the few women in the room. But at DESC, the culture is so inclusive and supportive that I’ve found myself in meetings where women actually outnumber the men. It’s a powerful reflection of how welcoming and empowering the environment here is for women at every level.."
She noted that the organization values individual performance over gender:
They don't look at you as someone who is wearing a black abaya or a white kandura. They look at you as an individual who performs, and as an individual who delivers.
Dr. AlBlooshi emphasized that the UAE has long empowered women across all sectors. "We've always been empowered in different fields. Cybersecurity is just one of those fields." She believes that the opportunities are equally available and that it’s up to each individual to seize them and make a meaningful impact.
A Future-Ready, Inclusive Cyber Vision
Together, Al Marzouqi and Dr. AlBlooshi embody the DESC’s mission to secure Dubai’s digital future while fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. From local strategies and global coalitions to AI governance and gender empowerment, their work highlights how leadership and vision can shape a resilient cybersecurity landscape for all.
