Sharjah Digital Department Launches Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2031

The Sharjah Digital Department (SDD) has launched the Sharjah Cyber Security Strategy (SCSS) 2026–2031, following its approval by the Sharjah Executive Council. The strategy aims to strengthen the emirate’s cyber security ecosystem, enhance digital resilience and support secure and sustainable digital transformation.

The strategy represents Sharjah’s first comprehensive and dedicated cyber security strategy and complements the Sharjah Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028. It is also aligned with the wider digital and cyber security direction of the United Arab Emirates.

Guided by the vision of “A Cyber-Secure Emirate,” the strategy seeks to create a secure and resilient digital environment that supports innovation, protects digital infrastructure and critical assets, and strengthens public trust in digital services and technologies.

Cyber Security Positioned as a Key Enabler of Digital Transformation

Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department, said the launch marks a strategic step in shaping Sharjah’s digital future.

He highlighted that as digital services and technologies continue to expand, trust, security and readiness are becoming essential to sustaining digital progress rather than simply responding to emerging risks.

The strategy establishes an integrated digital ecosystem across the emirate by providing a unified direction for cyber security, strengthening resilience and readiness, protecting digital infrastructure and assets, and supporting the secure and responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

The strategy also focuses on preparing for future developments through coordinated efforts, talent development and a culture in which cyber security is viewed as a shared responsibility.

Five Strategic Pillars

The Sharjah Cyber Security Strategy is built around five strategic pillars designed to establish an integrated cyber security ecosystem across the emirate:

1. Governance of a Smart and Secure Cyberspace for the Emirate of Sharjah
2. Cyber Resilience
3. Critical Infrastructure Protection
4. Partnerships, Collaboration and Communication
5. Cyber Security Capabilities

Together, the five pillars are intended to strengthen governance and risk management, improve monitoring and incident response, enhance recovery capabilities, protect critical infrastructure and services, develop national cyber security talent, and expand collaboration between relevant stakeholders.

Risk Preparedness and Protection at the Core

The strategy adopts an integrated approach centred on risk preparedness, regulatory compliance and multiple layers of protection.

Cyber security considerations will be embedded from the earliest stages of designing digital initiatives and projects through to their implementation. The approach is intended to help ensure that security remains an integral component of Sharjah’s ongoing digital transformation.

Sharjah Cyber Security Center to Oversee Implementation

The Sharjah Cyber Security Center (SCSC) will lead and oversee the implementation of the strategy across the emirate.

Implementation will follow a phased five-year plan supported by a clear governance framework. The plan will define roles and responsibilities, establish performance indicators and include periodic reports submitted to the Sharjah Executive Council.

The strategy will also undergo a review during its third year to ensure that it remains responsive to technological developments and emerging cyber security threats.

Building on Existing Cyber Security Initiatives

The launch builds on the Sharjah Cyber Security Center’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the emirate’s cyber security capabilities.

Since its establishment, the center has implemented initiatives covering areas such as cyber security incident management, information security governance, risk management and rapid response. Its work has also included securing operational technology systems, vulnerability scanning and assessments of government websites.

The center has adopted four development tracks and conducted more than 20 technical workshops, benefiting over 175 government employees from entities across Sharjah.

Supporting Sharjah’s Digital Future

The Sharjah Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2031 places cyber security at the centre of the emirate’s digital development agenda. By combining governance, resilience, infrastructure protection, collaboration and capability development, the strategy aims to create a stronger foundation for secure digital services and emerging technologies.

The five-year framework is expected to provide Sharjah with a coordinated approach to anticipating cyber risks, protecting critical assets and supporting continued digital innovation across the emirate.