UAE Sees 32% Rise in Ransomware Attacks in 2024, All Successfully Countered, Says Cybersecurity Chief
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has witnessed a significant surge in cyber threats in 2024, with ransomware attacks increasing by 32% compared to previous years. Other forms of cyberattacks, including phishing, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), and scams, have also seen a rise of up to 18%. Despite these alarming statistics, all such attacks have been successfully countered, according to Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cyber Security Council.
Speaking at a cybersecurity conference, Dr. Al Kuwaiti attributed the successful deterrence of these threats to the collaborative efforts between government entities and private sector partners, as well as the adoption of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.
Financially Motivated Cybercrimes on the Rise
During the Proofpoint Protect conference, organized by the American cybersecurity firm Proofpoint in Dubai, Dr. Al Kuwaiti emphasized that financial incentives continue to be a primary driving force behind cybercrimes. He noted that nearly 65% of all cybercrimes involve ransomware, impersonation, scams, and fraud attacks.
“Cybercrime is one of the biggest threats globally, driven by monetary gains. Ransomware, scams, and fraud attacks are particularly prevalent,” Dr. Al Kuwaiti stated.
UAE’s Strong Cybersecurity Ranking
The UAE, along with other Gulf countries, continues to rank high in the United Nations Global Cybersecurity Index. This ranking reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity measures and fostering a secure digital landscape.
Sumit Dhawan, CEO of Proofpoint, also addressed the conference, highlighting new cybersecurity solutions that the company has introduced or plans to launch in the UAE and the wider region. He emphasized the importance of proactive security measures in an era where cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented rate.
The Role of Social Media in Cyber Threats
Dr. Al Kuwaiti also cautioned against the misuse of social media platforms for cyberterrorism, misinformation, and radicalization. According to him, threat actors are increasingly leveraging social media to manipulate public opinion, spread fake news, and incite violence.
“Social media has become a tool for misinformation and radicalization, posing serious threats to both national security and individuals. It is crucial to educate the public on recognizing and mitigating such risks,” he stated.
Targeting Critical Infrastructure
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting critical infrastructure, including healthcare systems, government institutions, and financial entities. According to Dr. Al Kuwaiti, ransomware attacks are particularly concerning as they do not solely target technology but also create severe human problems.
“Ransomware is not just a technological issue; it affects real lives by disrupting essential services such as healthcare. These attacks can have far-reaching consequences, impacting economies and societies at large,” he said.
Collaborative Efforts to Combat Cyber Threats
The UAE Cyber Security Council continues to work closely with its industry partners, including Proofpoint and other cybersecurity firms, to enhance the nation’s cyber defenses. These collaborations play a vital role in safeguarding both governmental and individual digital assets.
Dr. Al Kuwaiti stressed that the UAE has marked 2025 as the “Year of Community,” emphasizing the importance of collective defense strategies against cyberwarfare.
“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By fostering strong partnerships and promoting cybersecurity awareness, we can better defend against malicious cyber activities,” he stated.
UAE’s Advanced Cybersecurity Capabilities
One of the key strengths of the UAE’s cybersecurity framework is its ability to predict and counter electronic threats before they materialize. Dr. Al Kuwaiti highlighted that, on average, over 50,000 cyberattacks target key sectors in the country every day. However, these attacks are proactively deterred through advanced threat intelligence and mitigation strategies.
“We have implemented a smart and sophisticated cybersecurity system capable of predicting and neutralizing most cyber threats before they can cause damage,” he affirmed.
Encouraging Innovation in Cybersecurity
As part of its broader strategy to strengthen digital resilience, the UAE is actively encouraging innovation in cybersecurity, intellectual property, and new-age technologies. Dr. Al Kuwaiti emphasized that the country is inviting experts, researchers, and innovators to contribute to the development of cutting-edge security solutions.
“We are fostering an environment that inspires innovation and encourages the development of new cybersecurity technologies. By investing in research and talent, we can stay ahead of cybercriminals and safeguard our digital future,” he said.
Conclusion
The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks highlight the need for continuous vigilance and collaboration in the cybersecurity space. The UAE has demonstrated resilience in mitigating cyber threats through its proactive approach, strategic partnerships, and adoption of AI-driven solutions. As cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, the nation remains committed to strengthening its defenses and fostering a secure digital ecosystem for businesses, government entities, and individuals alike.
