The Middle East cybersecurity market is surging, expected to hit $31 billion by 2030. Recognizing this immense potential, a landmark, multi-year initiative has been launched to secure the UAE’s role at the epicenter of this growth.
Amazon Web Services (AWS), the UAE Cybersecurity Council (CSC), CrowdStrike, and e& have officially announced the AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator Program. This powerful government-backed partnership is setting an ambitious goal to accelerate over 500 cybersecurity startups, fueling ‘Made in UAE’ innovation and positioning the nation as a world-leading hub for digital trust.
This accelerator is a comprehensive ecosystem built on four core pillars, each bringing an indispensable component to the table:
- AWS: Providing global cloud computing leadership and a comprehensive portfolio of over 200 security services trusted worldwide.
- UAE Cybersecurity Council (CSC): Offering the essential regulatory framework, government backing, and strategic alignment with the UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy.
- CrowdStrike: Delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity expertise and intelligence through the powerful Falcon platform, empowering startups to tackle emerging global threats.
- e& Group: Contributing vast market reach, regional infrastructure, and digital innovation to ensure startups can scale across the Middle East and beyond.
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, affirmed that the program is “a keystone of the UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy, a critical step in strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading innovation hub.”
The program is designed to deliver personalized support, including intensive 1:1 mentorship, to transform high-potential ideas into market-ready solutions.
The curriculum is centered on the technologies that define the modern threat landscape:
- Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Developing solutions that leverage AI for enhanced threat detection and response.
- Modern Security Architecture: Focusing on cloud-native and zero-trust frameworks.
- DevSecOps: Integrating security practices directly into the development lifecycle.
As Harrison Lung, Group Chief Strategy Officer at e&, noted, “Cyber resilience is no longer a defensive measure; it is now a pillar of national resilience and a growth enabler for digital economies.” This accelerator ensures that security is built responsibly from the ground up, giving these regional champions a global advantage.
The AWS/CTIB Accelerator is more than a regional effort; the program is issuing a global call for applications starting in December 2025.
A rigorous selection process will prioritize innovation potential, team quality, market traction, and a deep commitment to the UAE market. This initiative is a clear signal that the UAE is actively recruiting the world’s best talent and technology to secure its future digital economy.
The collaboration between these four entities represents a monumental commitment to driving the next wave of cybersecurity talent and technology, solidifying the UAE’s position on the global digital transformation map.
