Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 28 February 2019: In line with UAE Innovation Month, and the UAE's quest to build an economy based on innovation and knowledge Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) held the awarding ceremony of the Innovation in Cybersecurity Research Grant at the Address Boulevard - Dubai, which was attended by university directors, cybersecurity researchers and experts. Khalifah University and University of Sharjah were announced as winners of the Innovation in Cyber Security Award.

Dr. Marwan Al Zarouni, Director of Information Services at Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), welcomed the guests and emphasized on the important role of Innovation as a cornerstone of Dubai and the UAEs social and economic development, and the execution of DESCs innovation strategies and its frameworks. Dr. Zarouni highlighted that; About two years ago In May 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai launched the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy with Innovation at its heart and the vision of establishing Dubai as a global leader in innovation, safety and security. The strategy brings together strategic partners from the government to help protect Dubai from Cyber security risks with the aim of supporting the growth of Dubai and its economy, led by innovation.

With more than 70 participating researchers and students and 14 shortlisted proposals of high quality research from over 20 nationwide universities and internationally, we believe in the vital role of research and development in advancing innovation and hope that this honoring will be a strong motivation for all researchers and innovators to widen their perspectives and strengthen their interest in the vast world of cyber security research. He added.

He concluded We highly appreciate the tremendous efforts invested by the researchers into the competition and we are pleased to congratulate the winning teams and are confident that this award as DESCs primary initiative will contribute in safeguarding the digital wealth of Dubai.