Sharjah Digital Department launches the Sharjah Cybersecurity Strategy 2026-2031, following its approval by the Sharjah Executive Council.
Five Pillars for a Comprehensive Digital System in Sharjah
Press Release
In a significant step towards strengthening digital security, the Sharjah Digital Department has officially launched the Sharjah Cybersecurity Strategy 2026–2031. This initiative, approved by the Sharjah Executive Council, marks a new chapter in enhancing the emirate’s cybersecurity framework and improving its resilience and readiness. The strategy aligns with the UAE’s national priorities and works in conjunction with the Sharjah Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028.
Described as the first comprehensive cybersecurity strategy of its kind for the emirate, it is grounded in the vision of a “Cybersecure Emirate.” The aim is to cultivate a safe and flexible digital environment that fosters innovation, protects vital infrastructure and assets, and enhances trust in digital services and technologies.
His Excellency Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department, commented, “The launch of the Sharjah Cybersecurity Strategy 2026–2031 is a strategic move in building the digital future of Sharjah. As services and technologies expand, trust, security, and readiness become critical elements for sustaining this progress, rather than just responses to risks.”
Emphasising that cybersecurity is a crucial enabler of digital transformation and innovation, Al Qasimi asserted that this strategy would establish a cohesive digital ecosystem across the emirate. It seeks to unify approaches, enhance preparedness and resilience, safeguard infrastructure and digital assets, and promote the safe and responsible use of emerging technologies.
Al Qasimi added, “Our ambition does not stop at tackling today’s challenges but extends to building a system capable of anticipating and preparing for changes. This requires integrated efforts, the development of national competencies, and fostering a culture that regards cybersecurity as a shared responsibility and an integral part of Sharjah’s development and innovation journey.”
The strategy adopts a holistic approach centred on risk preparedness, adherence to laws and regulations, and implementing multiple levels of protection. This foundational security will be embedded from the initial design phases of digital initiatives and projects through to their implementation, thereby enhancing the sustainability of digital transformation in the emirate.
This approach is structured around five strategic pillars: governance of a smart and secure cyberspace for Sharjah, cyber resilience, protection of critical infrastructure, partnerships and collaboration, and cybersecurity capabilities. These pillars translate the strategic vision into an integrated framework, bolstering governance, risk management, incident response, recovery capabilities, and the safeguarding of critical digital infrastructure and services. Additionally, it supports the development of national talents and broadens the scope of partnerships and collaboration.
The Sharjah Cybersecurity Centre will lead the implementation and oversight of this strategy throughout the emirate, employing a clear governance framework and a phased five-year execution plan that defines roles, responsibilities, and performance indicators, alongside regular reports to the Sharjah Executive Council.
The launch of this strategy is a continuation of the Centre’s efforts to enhance the cybersecurity framework in Sharjah, building upon initiatives implemented since its establishment in the areas of governance, readiness, and capability development. These initiatives have included frameworks for managing cyber incidents, information security governance, risk management, rapid response protocols, securing operational systems, and assessing the security of governmental websites.
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About the Sharjah Digital Department
The Sharjah Digital Department leads the digital transformation journey in the emirate, enhancing collaboration among governmental bodies while embedding data governance and cybersecurity, and driving innovation. Its vision centres on “Human-Centric Digital Creativity.”
The department focuses on improving service delivery and sustainably enhancing the quality of life through proactive, human-focused solutions, leveraging modern technologies and data.
Additionally, the department aims to streamline procedures and transform services into integrated digital platforms that ensure a seamless and exceptional experience for users. Through the Sharjah Digital application, it has solidified its role as a principal driver for comprehensive digital transformation in the emirate.