Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti
Head of Cyber Security, Cyber Security Council, UAE Government
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti
Head of Cyber Security, Cyber Security Council, UAE Government
Dr. Al Kuwaiti was appointed by the Cabinet as the Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government since 2020. As the Head of Cyber Security, his mandate includes responsibilities as the Chairman of the UAE Cyber Security Council as well as Managing Director of the National Data Centre under the Supreme Council for National Security. As the Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government by investiture, Dr. Al Kuwaiti has legal authority over all aspects pertaining to securing the cyberspace for the entire Nation.
In his current role, Dr. Al Kuwaiti is tasked with the responsibility of charting the cyber security strategy for the Nation that not only equips the UAE to enter the digital era with capabilities to deal with the new threat landscape exacerbated by the pandemic, but also ensures UAE’s leadership in cyber security globally; towards establishing the UAE as the world’s leading trusted digital hub and supporting the Nation’s digital transformation agenda and the digital future of all residents who made UAE their home. Towards that end, he leads the Council to outline an implementation plan to protect the UAE cyberspace through emerging technologies such as Cloud, Big Data and AI in a whole-of-government approach coordinating and orchestrating efforts between Emirates and government entities via a unified platform built and managed by the Council.
Under Dr. Al Kuwaiti’s leadership, the UAE has advanced 42 positions in the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index, rising to the 5th place globally from 47th in the previous assessment. Dr. Al Kuwaiti has also led UAE to many firsts, including Guinness World Records for having the most users in a cyber capture the flag (CTF) competition, the largest bug bounty competition and the largest cyber drill; all initiatives that aim at capacity building in cyber security and improving the technical competencies of cyber security professionals and enthusiasts. More importantly, he has been instrumental in advocating for realizing the value of cyber security by demonstrating cyber security as a critical business enabler. Since 2021, Dr. Al Kuwaiti plays the role of an ambassador for collaboration between the government and cyber agencies, helping to bridge the discussion between the two major stakeholders in the digital economy.
Under his chaperone, key public-private partnerships were established between the UAE Cyber Security Council and leading local and international cyber security organizations with the goal of making a positive contribution to the UAE cyber agenda and be a major force that will benefit the global cyber security industry. Additionally, bilateral agreements established with countries both within the region and across the world contributed towards mutual information sharing, capacity development and legal assistance aid treaties, all key outcomes as a result of the National Cyber Security Strategy that he has put in place to realize the vision of the UAE for the next 50 years. Underscoring the UAE’s leadership in cyber security on a global stage under Dr. Kuwaiti’s tutelage, UAE plays a pivotal role in the Arab Regional Cybersecurity Centre with UAE being elected as the Vice Chair
of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Computer Emergency Response Team to respond to cyber emergencies during the 10th Regional Cybersecurity Week for Arab Countries and OIC Member States in 2022. UAE also co-chairs the Information Sharing Committee in the White House Counter Ransomware Initiative, a coalition of 37 international partners. His contributions to accelerate the cyber security maturity of the Nation and fostering a vibrant cyber security ecosystem in the UAE have been recognized in multiple forums, including the (ISC)² Government Professional Award for EMEA. Dr. Al Kuwaiti also sits on the Boards of the UAE Council for Digital Wellbeing, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), Federal Geographic Information Center and is on the Advisory Committees of the College of Information Technology under United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Emirates ICT Innovation Center (EBTIC) under Khalifa University. Additionally, he is an Adjunct Professor under the Homeland Security Program at Rabdan Academy and a visiting lecturer on Cyber Security at universities such as Khalifa University and National Defense College in Abu Dhabi. Prior to his current appointments, Dr. Al Kuwaiti was with the National Electronic Security Authority in various appointments and capacity since 2013 where he was most recently the Executive Director of Government Operations managing National and International government relations. He had served as the Chief Technical Analyst at the Ministry of Interior where he had held other positions, such as Operations Director and CTO of the Counter Terrorism Center. Dr. Al Kuwaiti started his 20 year-long career as a Defense, Air, and Naval Military Attaché with the Embassy of The United Arab Emirates based in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Al Kuwaiti has published numerous papers and keynoted at many conferences such as IEEE, RSA, Cyber Warfare Europe, Tele Strategies, ISS World MEA, IDEX, International Anti-Cyber Crimes Conference and Future War Summit. He is a highly sought after speaker internationally and has provided the main keynote address for more than 50 international, regional, and national cybersecurity events such as GITEX, GISEC and the World Government Summit, and has presented the UAE Cyber Security Framework at INTERPOL Global Cyberspace and Cybercrime Complex located in Singapore.
Dr. Al Kuwaiti holds a Doctorate in Computer Engineering and Network Security from George Washington University in the U.S. and a master’s degree in Telecommunications and Computer Networks. He also holds a M.A. degree in International and Civil Security. Dr. Al Kuwaiti is an honorable member of the Society of Engineers, IEEE Society, Golden Key National Honor Society and Computer Society. His research interests are detecting, monitoring and responding to cyber warfare, network forensics, corporate governance & processes, and national cyber policy.
Thomas Heuckeroth
SVP IT Infrastructure & CyberSecurity, Emirates Group
Thomas Heuckeroth
SVP IT Infrastructure & CyberSecurity, Emirates Group
Thomas Heuckeroth Senior Vice President IT Infrastructure & CyberSecurity Thomas Heuckeroth is the Emirates Group’s Senior Vice President IT Infrastructure & CyberSecurity since 2023. In his role, Thomas serves as the head of digital platforms and infrastructure, IT performance and insights, and cybersecurity. He also represents the Group as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at external forums. Thomas had multiple leadership roles in global infrastructure and cybersecurity and was Acting Country CIO prior to joining as DVP CyberSecurity for the Emirates Group. Thomas is a highly experienced professional with over 25 years of global experience working in Switzerland, Turkey, South Korea, Australia, and the UAE. With a career spanning across multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, banking, e-commerce, travel and transport, Thomas has worked with some of the biggest brands including Novartis, Roche, Vodafone, Credit Suisse, and Coupang other than the Emirates Group. Thomas is passionate about advising start-ups on product development and enjoys encouraging young talent to grow and develop. Thomas has a Bachelor’s in Computer Science with a specialisation in applied computer engineering.
Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem
Cybersecurity & Artificial intelligence Director, Abu Dhabi Government
Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem
Cybersecurity & Artificial intelligence Director, Abu Dhabi Government
Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem is a proven leader in the field of cybersecurity, with over 18 years of experience. He has worked with many technologies in different positions and is currently leading the cybersecurity department. Dr. Ebrahim has published several articles in prestigious journals and has been a speaker and panel member at cybersecurity events and summits. He is an active member of many engineering associations across the world. Dr. Ebrahim's keen insight and creative ideas have helped companies grow their technological capabilities. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering from Khalifa University and has received numerous worldwide recognized security certificates.
Prashant Nair
Senior Vice President, Group Chief Information Security Officer, Airtel Africa
Prashant Nair
Senior Vice President, Group Chief Information Security Officer, Airtel Africa
Domain Risk & Information Security Expert in Banking, Payments, Fintech and Telecom Industry. Over 26 years of Banking, Payments and Telecom experience with 18 years of specialization in Information Security and Enterprise Risk Management. Functional expertise in structuring and implementing Enterprise-wide Risk management framework integrating the elements of Cyber Security, Operational Risk, Internal Control, Fraud Risk Management, Information Security, Business Continuity Management, Telecom Network Security, Technology risk, Policy Management and Corporate Governance.
Across years in various positions, Prashant has worked with large enterprises and global, multi-cultural organizations. He managed teams and projects globally to achieve implementations of major programs (Cyber Security transformation, Governance, Risk & Compliance frameworks). Prashant has a strong background in Risk management and Information security throughout his career and is able to blend his strong skills with business requirements very well.
A result-oriented and highly motivated individual, Prashant is also viewed as a trusted advisor for many of his global firms across the banking, payments, telecom and fintech industry, where he has worked in. His energy, highly effective communication ability with Board, C-Level stakeholders and relationship management skills, coupled with his passion for security & technology has been key to his success. His greatest strength lies in speed of execution and Innovation with a proven track record. Ability to work and adapt in different situations and believes in leading by example. Constant thinker and a firm believer that there is always room for improvement.
Specialties: Risk Management, Information Security, Cyber Security,Risk Assessment, Operational Risk Reviews, Internal Audit, Banking Operations, Product Development, Process Management, Systems Integration, Core banking migrations, Customer Service and Finance, Project Management, Vendor and People Management
Manoharan Mudaliar
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Truebell Group of Companies, Truebell Group Of Companies
Manoharan Mudaliar
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Truebell Group of Companies, Truebell Group Of Companies
With over 15 years of experience in the IT industry, I have dedicated my career to the field of cyber security. Before assuming the role of CISO at Truebell Group of Companies, I had the privilege of serving as a Cyber Security Consultant with NATO. Throughout my journey, I have gained invaluable experience and expertise in offensive defense strategies.
My expertise lies in executing security governance, risk assessments, compliance, and conducting security audits. I possess a deep understanding of ISMS (Information Security Management Systems), data privacy regulations, incident response protocols, and cyber operations.
As a seasoned professional in the field of cyber security, my mission is to ensure the protection of Truebell Group of Companies' digital assets and infrastructure. By leveraging my extensive experience and knowledge, I am committed to implementing proactive security measures that safeguard against evolving cyber threats.
Tushar Vartak
EVP & Head, Information and Cyber Security, RAKBank
Karthik Hemachandran
Information Security Manager, Albatha Holding LLC
Abhilash Radhadevi
Head of cybersecurity, OQ Trading
Abhilash Radhadevi
Head of cybersecurity, OQ Trading
Abhilash Radhadevi, a seasoned cybersecurity expert, serves as the Head of Cybersecurity at OQ Trading, bringing over two decades of comprehensive experience in the Banking, Financial, and Energy sectors. Widely recognized for his adept leadership, Abhilash has effectively steered international organizations through intricate security challenges. His illustrious career includes spearheading pioneering cybersecurity strategies, resulting in prestigious awards and acclaim. Abhilash is a respected thought leader, contributing significantly to industry knowledge through multiple-authored articles on emerging threats and innovative solutions. Beyond his professional achievements, Abhilash maintains a global influence and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to mentoring, showcasing his dedication to shaping the future landscape of cybersecurity.
Abhinav Kumar Shrivastava
Associate Vice President - Information Security, NMC Healthcare
Abhinav Kumar Shrivastava
Associate Vice President - Information Security, NMC Healthcare
Abhinav Kumar is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of comprehensive experience in cyber security. Abhinav has a Bachelor’s in Computer Science Engineering, a Master's in Information Security and Cyber Law, and is pursuing Ph.D. He specializes in safeguarding critical assets, mitigating cyber threats, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. He is currently serving as Associate Vice President - Information Security at NMC Healthcare, and he is committed to protecting organizations from evolving cyber risks while fostering a culture of security awareness and resilience.
Faisal Khan
Sr. Manager Information Security, Dubai World Trade Centre
Faisal Khan
Sr. Manager Information Security, Dubai World Trade Centre
Senior Information Technology Professional with over 25 Years of experience within the Infrastructure and Information Security Domain. Current role encompasses to develop, maintain, govern and evolve information security across DWTC. The Security role entails a strong personification of information security and the enterprise security charter within DWTC.
• IT Risk Mitigation, Planning, Implementation, and Progress Monitoring
• Business Continuity Program Support
• ERM Risk Reporting
• Microsoft Supplier Security and Privacy Assurance Program (SSPA)
• Adherence to IT Compliance Processes
Evita Faustina Francis
Business Resilience Practice Leader - MENA-Marsh
Osama Salah
Senior IT Security Architect, Abu Dhabi Government Entity
Osama Salah
Senior IT Security Architect, Abu Dhabi Government Entity
Sona Saha Das
Head - Data Strategy and Governance
Sona Saha Das
Head - Data Strategy and Governance
I empower business stakeholders by merging technological acumen and strategic leadership, delivering enhanced profitability and innovation, and navigating the dynamic tech landscape with informed, decisive action.
Ways in which i have used my knowledge & expertise:
Executing enterprise-wide data optimizations, organizational transformations, and global program launches.
Driving intercontinental company optimization by refactoring data for digital experience, maximizing security, and implementing innovative IT initiatives.
Enabling business technology & digital transformation across manufacturing, banking, automotive, retail, and IT services industries.
Collaborating and synergizing with executive business leaders to drive transformation from a business perspective and achieving fast adoption.
Creating an environment for individuals to deliver excellence while achieving process adoption.
Leading execution of agile change management with iterations of transformation delivery breaking the fourth wall of adoption.
Rajesh Yadla
Executive Manager, Information Security, Leading Bank in UAE
Rajesh Yadla
Executive Manager, Information Security, Leading Bank in UAE
With nearly 15 years of unwavering dedication, Rajesh has meticulously crafted a path of excellence in safeguarding the invaluable assets of esteemed institutions. As the head of information security at one of the leading banks in the UAE, Rajesh shoulders the monumental responsibility of ensuring the security of crucial information assets across diverse environments, encompassing both on-premises infrastructure and cloud platforms. This entails devising and implementing robust security measures to fend off a multitude of threats, ranging from external cyberattacks to internal vulnerabilities.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rajesh has consistently exhibited remarkable prowess and leadership. From the inception of his journey, he has been instrumental in establishing and fortifying information security functions, extending his influence across 12 branches worldwide to ensure compliance with global standards and regulations. Rajesh's strategic foresight, coupled with an in-depth comprehension of evolving business dynamics, has positioned information security as a pivotal driver of success, empowering the institutions he serves to thrive amidst an ever-changing digital landscape.
A distinguished alumnus of the University of California, Los Angeles, and the National University of Singapore, Rajesh brings to the table a wealth of knowledge, complemented by industry-recognized certifications in cyber and information security.
Saquib Farooq Malik
Head of Information Security, Al Tamimi and Company
Saquib Farooq Malik
Head of Information Security, Al Tamimi and Company
Saquib Malik is the Head of Information Security at Al Tamimi & Company. Al Tamimi & Co. is the largest international law firm in the middle east, which serves a broad range of clients in a wide range of services few of which are Arbitration, Litigation, Corporate Structuring, Banking and Finance, Real estate and many more.
As the Information Security Manager, Saquib oversees the strategy and delivery of Cybersecurity, Physical Security and Business Continuity Management capabilities firm-wide. With over 18 years of experience in Information Technology and Security, Saquib has led several teams developing and delivering security services for top organizations including Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in the OT Security department, in Dubai.
Before joining Al Tamimi & Co. or DEWA, Saquib was an Information Security Consultant specializing in Governance, Risk and Compliance projects.
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Cyber Defense Security Operations, ADIB-Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Ahmed Nabil Mahmoud
Head of Cyber Defense Security Operations, ADIB-Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Ahmed Nabil has more than 20 years of experience in the field of Information Security, Technology/Systems, Infrastructure, Project Management, Cyber Defense, Application Automation, Cloud Architecture, IT management and holds several professional certifications from Microsoft, CISCO, ISACA, ISC2, PMI, IAPP, CWNP, PECB, CSA and EC- Council.
Ahmed is an industry expert in Information Security and Digital Transformation, public speaker at several international conferences (Microsoft Ignite the Tour, ITCamp Cluj, CISO Africa Summit, GISEC UAE, Egypt CSCAMP, Cyber in Africa, Arab Security Camp, SAYA, SharePoint Saturdays, CloudWeekend, Credence, Global CISO Forum…..etc.) and author of several international published articles and a book on M365 Security technologies co-authored with other fellow MVPs.
Ahmed Nabil has a BS in Electrical and Control Engineering, MSc in Business Information Technology and Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Tejeswar Rao Yamarpu
Manager – Information Technology, Systems, Security, Infra and Network
Tejeswar Rao Yamarpu
Manager – Information Technology, Systems, Security, Infra and Network
Having 23+ Years of IT experience including, SDLC, Managing IT Infra/network/Security. Currently working as IT Manager for NSHAMA since last 7+ years. CISM/CEH/ITIL Certified. 20 years Gulf experience.
Tilak Ratnayake
Group Information Security Manager, GAC Group (Holdings) Ltd
Oma Martins
Associate Director and Head, IT GRC, IHS Towers
Nisha Rani
CISO, Emirates Leisure Retail
Nisha Rani
CISO, Emirates Leisure Retail
Nisha Rani Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | Emirates Leisure Retail With over 12 years of expertise in the information security field, Nisha Rani has charted a dynamic career path. She honed her skills at Deloitte and Protiviti in India and the MEA region before transitioning to the banking and retail sectors. This diverse journey provides her with a rich tapestry of industry insights from an information security perspective.
Mr. Tarek Kuzbari
Regional Director, Picus Security
Mr. Tarek Kuzbari
Regional Director, Picus Security
Mr. Tarek KUZBARI is distinguished, bringing a prolific history of boosting revenues, breaking into new international markets, and amplifying market share. Tarek's career, spanning over 18 years in the Technology Media and Telecommunications (TMT) industry, has seen him excel in various roles, from marketing and sales to channel management and business development.
Tarek, an acknowledged industry influencer, has been listed among the top "30 under 30" by Gulf businesses and ACN's "Top 25 Most Powerful Executives in the Middle East". He also earned a spot in Network Middle East's "Top Executives in the Security Industry in the Middle East".
Tarek's diverse leadership experience with vendors such as HUMAN (USA), Cybereason (USA), Bitdefender (Romania), Group-IB (Russia/Singapore), SABA Software (USA), and Kaspersky (Russia) speaks volumes of his capacity to drive international expansion, turnaround operations, and lead companies to market dominance. He has expertly managed businesses across territories encompassing the Middle East, Africa, East Europe, and APAC (excluding China and Japan), handling full P&L responsibilities and achieving a record $58m ARR.
As a team leader, Tarek's dynamic leadership style has seen him effectively direct teams of up to 28 members across diverse functions, including sales, channel, marketing, and finance.
Tarek has consistently been a sought-after speaker at industry conferences such as Gartner, IDC, and CISO Summits, and his insights have been featured in high-profile security, technology, and business media outlets. He has also made his presence felt on the broadcast scene with appearances on Al Arabiya, Al Jazeera, and Dubai TV to name a few.
In addition to his remarkable professional accomplishments, Tarek actively supports various global NGOs, including the Agastya International Foundation and the Grow Movement.
Tarek holds an MBA from the London Business School, UK, focusing on Business Strategy and PE & VC, and a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Jordan.
Irshad Mohammed
CISO, Burjeel Holdings Abu Dhabi
Irshad Mohammed
CISO, Burjeel Holdings Abu Dhabi
A professional with more than 21+ years of experience in IT infrastructure, IT security, application implementation and support. Expertise includes multiple domains including health care, service & retail, restaurant, construction, and supply chain. Known to be a communicative and collaborative team player open to new challenges and diversing technologies
Dr. May El Barachi
Director of Computer Science and IT, University of Wollongong in Dubai
Dr. May El Barachi
Director of Computer Science and IT, University of Wollongong in Dubai
Prof. May El Barachi is the Head of School of Computer Science at University of Wollongong in Dubai. An Egyptian Canadian Computer Scientist, and Smart Technology Expert with degrees in Telecom. Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Computer Science, Prof. El Barachi possesses width and breadth of knowledge in the areas of Computer Science, IT, and Engineering. Prof. El Barachi is also a public speaker who participates in large-scale public events and speaks about technology-related topics, such as: Digital transformation, smart cities, emerging technologies & their related opportunities, demystifying complex technologies, and professional training in alignment with the industry needs.
Using her knowledge and experience, she conducts large scale multi-disciplinary projects in the areas of BioTech, Smart Transportation, Smart cities, Inclusion & Innovation. With collaborators spanning the globe, and a large group of researchers under her supervision, she tackles challenging real-life problems using a combination of legacy and emerging technologies. She is involved in industry collaborations with the telecom and health industries and was able to raise more than 4 Million Dirhams in the last 5 years to support her research work.
In addition to being a professor and active researcher, Prof. El Barachi holds leadership roles in teaching/learning and research. In her current role, she defines the research strategy for the faculty and ensures that the right eco-system is established for conducting high-impact research. She is also a champion and certified trainer in emerging technologies and have spearheaded a successful executive learning program in collaboration with IBM, currently offering 10 professional training modules ranging from AI, data science, and big data, to cloud, IOT, security and Blockchain, and design thinking. The idea of the program is to equip students and working professionals with important skills that are needed in the industry and complement conventional academic programs with professional hands on training.
Jayakumar Mohanachandran
Group CIO, Buzeki Enterprises
Amit Roy
GM & Head Cybersecurity- MEA, Eviden (An Atos Business)
Amit Roy
GM & Head Cybersecurity- MEA, Eviden (An Atos Business)
Amit Roy heads Cybersecurity Practice for Middle-East, Turkey and Africa (META) region. He is responsible for driving the Cybersecurity business strategy, growth and revenue for the region and is committed to provide value delivery towards customer’s unique cybersecurity challenges. Amit is engaged with several Information Security forums in the region, providing latest insights in Cyber Security and related topics. He is also heading Global Cybersecurity Customer Success Program to enhance customer satisfaction and make customers our advocates and references. In his 20 years of leadership roles in Senior Management, Cyber Sales and business operations, Amit has gained strong competencies in business strategy, sales & marketing, business alliances and building strong customer led teams that achieve business goals and meeting customer requirements.