TRENDS Research & Advisory hosted a panel discussion — Leveraging Scientific Research to Protect the Digital Space and Future Prospects —featuring a distinguished group of cybersecurity leaders and experts from government entities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The session, held at the TRENDS headquarters in Abu Dhabi, brought together H.E. Najyb Al Maskari, Executive Director of the Government Cybersecurity Ops Sector at the Department of Government Enablement; Eng. Eissa Al Hammadi, Director of the Information and Cybersecurity Office at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; Yousef bin Rouga Al Zaabi, Head of Cybersecurity Monitoring at the Department of Government Enablement; and Amal Al Obaidli, Head of Information Security Operations at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

At the beginning of the session, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, welcomed the speakers and experts, commending their outstanding efforts in strengthening government cybersecurity and protecting the nation’s vital digital infrastructure. He emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer a technical option but necessary to ensure sustainable development and safeguard the country’s digital achievements. He noted that TRENDS is committed to promoting knowledge-based dialogue on this strategic issue, creating a safer, more innovative digital environment.

The session explored ways to enhance cooperation and integration among government institutions to develop a comprehensive framework for responding to cyber threats, raise information security awareness at both institutional and societal levels, and examine the role of research in supporting cybersecurity systems and empowering specialized talent.

“Cybersecurity has become one of the pillars of national security, requiring joint efforts from all entities to protect our critical digital systems,” H.E. Najyb Al Maskari stressed. He noted that the Department of Government Enablement is working to develop an advanced system that strengthens digital trust in government services.

Eng. Eissa Al Hammadi highlighted that the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi attaches the utmost importance to “protecting health data and ensuring the continuity of digital services by applying global best practices in cybersecurity.”

Yousef bin Rouga Al Zaabi asserted that “proactive monitoring of the cyberspace represents the first line of defense against potential attacks and is a cornerstone of the government’s digital security strategy.”

Amal Al Obaidli underscored the importance of the human element in the cybersecurity ecosystem by promoting continuous training and a culture of information security in the workplace.

The session concluded with participants emphasizing the importance of research and knowledge partnerships between think tanks and government entities to develop innovative solutions that enhance digital security, in line with the UAE’s vision of building a safe and sustainable digital future.