Latest news with #MohammedHamadAlKuwaiti


TECHx
15-05-2025
- TECHx
Cybercrime in Focus at World Police Summit 2025 Dubai
Home » Latest news » Cybercrime in Focus at World Police Summit 2025 Dubai The World Police Summit 2025 in Dubai brought together global law enforcement leaders and security experts to address key international threats. A major focus was cybercrime, with experts highlighting its increasing complexity and global impact. Held under the theme 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing,' the summit featured four specialised conferences and 12 main security tracks. Topics included cybercrime, drug control, border security, and human trafficking. During a key session, Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, introduced the national 'Cyber Pulse' initiative. He announced that 2025 has been declared the 'Year of Community,' aiming to position the public as the first line of defence. 'Our focus remains on people,' he said. 'We are committed to equipping both tech professionals and youth with the skills to confront cyber threats, especially as we enter the era of the Fifth Industrial Revolution.' He warned that technology, if misused, can pose serious threats. However, he reported that the UAE continues to strengthen its ability to detect, monitor, and neutralise cyberattacks. In another session, experts examined cross-border cybercrime. Speakers from the UNODC, FBI, CyberPeace Foundation (India), and Nigerian Police discussed key obstacles to global collaboration. These included legal jurisdiction conflicts, privacy issues, and challenges in evidence collection. Real-world cases were shared to demonstrate how unified global action can succeed. Aviation security risks were also discussed. Europol Commissioner Peter Nilsson cited insider threats, drone attacks, and laser interference as rising dangers. With over 400 commercial airports in Europe alone, he stressed that clear regulations and trained, cyber-aware personnel are vital. 'Every staff member must be cyber-aware,' he noted. The summit also addressed drug trafficking, with a session opening with a short documentary outlining four pillars: prevention, treatment, early detection, and global cooperation. Angela Me, Chief of Research and Trend Analysis at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), reported that over 100 million people globally use illicit drugs. She raised concerns over synthetic drugs, calling them a growing threat due to low production costs and high adaptability. She urged for unified global surveys and increased international cooperation. Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza, Deputy Director of the General Department for Anti-Narcotics at Dubai Police, echoed this sentiment. He stressed the importance of bridging theory and practice and called for fast, coordinated responses to transnational crime. The summit also featured: A panel on intelligence-led security for global events A major exhibition with over 170 international exhibitors Hosted by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB Live and supported by global entities like the IACP, UNODC, and Europol, the event showcased Dubai's role in shaping global security dialogue.


Hi Dubai
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Hi Dubai
World Police Summit Addresses Drug Trafficking, Cybercrime, Aviation Security
Global law enforcement leaders gathered in Dubai for the second day of the World Police Summit 2025, tackling urgent issues from cybercrime and drug trafficking to aviation threats and modern policing challenges. Held under the theme 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing,' the summit features four specialised conferences and 12 key security tracks. Topics range from border security to counterterrorism, drawing experts from international bodies including the UNODC, Europol, and the FBI. In a cybersecurity session, Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, unveiled the 'Cyber Pulse' initiative, part of the UAE's 'Year of Community' campaign. The initiative aims to empower citizens—particularly youth and tech professionals—as a frontline defence against cyber threats. He emphasised the dual nature of technology and the UAE's proactive measures in neutralising cyberattacks. Angela Me of the UNODC highlighted rising drug threats, particularly synthetic narcotics, which are easier to produce and traffic. With over 100 million illicit drug users globally, she called for unified international surveys and tighter cross-border collaboration. Dubai Police's Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza echoed the need for bridging theory and practice in anti-narcotics efforts. Aviation security experts, including Europol Commissioner Peter Nilsson, raised concerns over insider threats, drone disruptions, and laser interference. With hundreds of airports across Europe, Nilsson stressed the importance of cyber-awareness among all airport staff and the need for clear emergency protocols. The summit also spotlighted international cooperation in combating cross-border cybercrime, with leaders from the FBI, UNODC, and others calling for unified legal frameworks and operational strategies. Hosted by Dubai Police and supported by major global entities, the summit also features an exhibition of over 170 international security exhibitors. News Source: Emirates News Agency


Al Etihad
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
TRENDS symposium discusses 'Islamist Separatism in Europe', proposes solutions to dismantle extremist ideologies
15 Apr 2025 10:05 Abu Dhabi (Aletihad)Participants in the seminar 'Islamist Separatism in Europe: Challenges and Solutions', organized by TRENDS Research & Advisory at the Salle d'Honneur at the Grand Palais in Paris, unanimously stressed the danger of separatist tendencies adopted by extremist groups and terrorist movements — foremost among them the Muslim Brotherhood. They warned that these tendencies lead to the spread of violence, division, extremism and hatred, contributing to the erosion of national and societal the symposium, which was moderated by Hamad Al-Hosani, Senior Researcher and Head of Political Islam Studies at TRENDS — held as part of the center's research tour in France and on the sidelines of its participation in the Paris International Book Fair — intellectuals, experts and specialists called for the dismantling of extremist groups' ideas and ideologies, supporting values of tolerance and coexistence, and strengthening international cooperation in this regard. They emphasized the importance of confronting these narratives intellectually, by expanding scientific and academic analysis to deconstruct their discourse and symposium was attended by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Government Cyber Security Council; His Excellency Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to France; as well as a wide array of thinkers, experts, writers, journalists and scholars interested in the study of political Islamist groups, extremism and terrorism. Extremist IdeologiesDr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, opened the symposium discussions with a welcoming address, emphasizing that extremist groups — particularly Islamist groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood — threaten the cohesion and security of societies through the propagation of extremist ideas and noted that, since its inception, TRENDS has committed itself to combating extremism and deconstructing the rhetoric of terrorist groups, especially the Muslim Brotherhood, through scientific and intellectual analysis aimed at dismantling their concepts and ideologies, and offering effective recommendations and solutions for confronting them intellectually. The Danger of Separatist TendenciesDr. Al-Ali pointed out that many nations, intellectuals and opinion leaders have begun to recognize the danger of Brotherhood ideology to their societies, particularly as the group seeks to monopolize religious discourse. France and the UAE are at the forefront of this effort, working to neutralize extremist elements and ensure religious narratives that promote tolerance, openness and coexistence. This reflects an awareness of the threat posed by the separatist tendencies promoted by the Muslim Brotherhood, which undermine national unity and social harmony and spread stressed that intellectuals, opinion leaders and governments should be more engaged in countering the dangers of extremist rhetoric — particularly from the Muslim Brotherhood, which has sought to establish an alternative, ideologically-driven religious identity that fosters an 'emotional estrangement' from their communities and countries, fueling a desire to overturn societal values and destabilize social cohesion. Politicizing ReligionFor his part, Imam Hassen Chalghoumi, President of the Conference of Imams of France and Imam of Drancy Mosque in Seine-Saint-Denis, spoke about 'The role of religious leaders in confronting Islamist separatism'. He explained that protecting societies from the politicization of religion and the danger of the Muslim Brotherhood is a collective responsibility that requires cooperation among researchers, policymakers and academic and intellectual stressed the need for strengthening parental oversight and raising awareness among families about the methods used by the Muslim Brotherhood to recruit and brainwash noted that the religious discourse promoted by the Muslim Brotherhood is a politically motivated, aggressive rhetoric filled with hatred, incitement and rejection of coexistence. He called for reforming this discourse and turning religious platforms into channels for disseminating Islam's authentic values, mutual respect, peaceful integration and shared living. He pointed out that more than 1,700 websites in Europe connected to political Islam and the Muslim Brotherhood promote the group's ideology, targeting youth and posing a direct threat to intellectual and social security — a challenge requiring immediate and effective confrontation. Analyzing Ideological Phenomena Marek Halter, French writer, artist and human rights activist, spoke about the connections between separatism and terrorism. He emphasized the importance of the intellectual and awareness-raising role played by think tanks in dismantling extremist and terrorist rhetoric. He stressed that it is the responsibility of these institutions to analyze ideological phenomena and educate societies about the dangers of religious asserted that Islam is a great religion, but extremism corrodes it from within. He added that moderate Islam must liberate itself from this malignant extremism, as extremist groups — especially the Muslim Brotherhood — use religion as a cover for their political ambitions, spreading division among nations and threatening the stability of societies and states by fomenting internal discord. Complex Organizational NetworksDr. Florence Bergeaud-Blackler, President of the European Center for Research and Information on Freemasonry (CERIF), addressed the spread and dangers of Brotherhood-driven separatism in Europe. She explained that the emergence of the Muslim Brotherhood in Europe resulted from the gradual internationalization of Egypt's Brotherhood movement. Over time, it evolved through the development of highly organized and complex networks, establishing links with other extremist groups and movements seeking to undermine human rights values and 'Islamize' highlighted that the Muslim Brotherhood's activities in Europe have raised significant concerns regarding social integration and radicalization, underscoring the importance of understanding the group's objectives and strategies. Such an understanding, she noted, can contribute to the development of effective policies and plans to confront the challenges posed by the Brotherhood and its offshoot organizations within European societies. Undermining DemocracyShannon Seban, President of the Renaissance Party in the Seine-Saint-Denis region, argued that Islamist separatism is not a religious issue, but a political and ideological project — a deliberate attempt by a radical minority to reject the law, undermine democracy, and spread intimidation and fear. She stressed that this tiny minority does not represent the nearly two billion peaceful, law-abiding Muslims around the world. Seban emphasized that the spread of Islamist separatist ideology weakens social cohesion, fosters extremism and violence, and fuels division and populism. She called for greater transparency in the funding of religious institutions, proper training for imams in Europe, and support for associations defending women's rights and civil liberties. Additionally, she advocated empowering teachers and social workers — the first line of defense against extremism — and investing in education to raise a generation capable of critical thinking and resilient against ideological manipulation.


Al Etihad
14-04-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
TRENDS signs, launches new publications at Paris International Book Fair
Abu Dhabi (Aletihad) As part of the program of events during its research tour in the French capital Paris, the pavilion of TRENDS Research & Advisory at the Paris International Book Fair witnessed the signing and launch of new publications in both French and English. These included the French edition of the book 'Applying Training and Simulation Models in Cybersecurity', the English edition of 'Money for Terrorism', and the study 'The Paradigm of 'Integral Islam' in Prescriptive Religious Discourse', published in French. Additionally, the TRENDS Youth Council held a discussion session entitled 'The Youth: A Bridge for Intercultural Communication' in the Salle d'Honneur at the Paris International Book Fair, with the participation of a group of young Emirati students studying at French universities, where they presented their roles in enhancing cultural dialogue between peoples and societies. In a related context, the TRENDS delegation, alongside the UAE Cyber Security Council, participated in the 48th edition of the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2025, as part of affirming the importance of sports as a means to strengthen community and human bonds and foster constructive interaction with global initiatives. Training and Simulation Models On the sidelines of the center's second participation in the Paris International Book Fair, H.E. Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, signed the French edition of his book 'Applying Training and Simulation Models in Cybersecurity', published by TRENDS, in the presence of Dr. Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute in Paris, and Senator Nathalie Goulet, alongside a wide range of academics, experts, and media professionals. In his book, Dr. Al Kuwaiti highlights the role of training and simulation in enhancing cybersecurity and presents pioneering models from countries such as the United States of America, Estonia, and the United Arab Emirates. He explains that the UAE has become a global leader and exemplary model in the field of cybersecurity, according to the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index — a comprehensive measure issued by the International Telecommunication Union assessing cybersecurity maturity in 194 countries worldwide. Money for Terrorism For her part, Senator Nathalie Goulet, member of the French Senate for the Orne department, signed the English edition of her book 'Money for Terrorism', published by TRENDS. The book was first published in 2022 and reviews the means and tools through which terrorists finance their operations. The new 2025 edition takes into account recent regional and international events and conflicts, further enhancing the analyses and forecasts presented in its chapters. Senator Goulet stated that the book's chapters examine how the Muslim Brotherhood and the far-right extremist movement fund their activities. It also includes a chapter focusing on 'illicit funds', which represent loopholes in the global financial system. She added that the book also addresses other sources of terrorism financing, including animal trafficking, arms trade, cash fundraising networks, narcotics, electronic money transfers, money laundering, online donations, hacking, organized extortion, and others. The Paradigm of Integral Islam Meanwhile, Professor Dominique Avon, Professor of History at the École Pratique des Hautes Études at the Paris Sciences et Lettres University (PSL), launched his study 'The Paradigm of 'Integral Islam' in Prescriptive Religious Discourse', published by TRENDS in French. In it, he highlights that no society in history has ever lived under a governance system entirely subject to religious laws alone. These rules have always been blended with pre-existing traditional practices and influenced by external elements through processes of civilizational exchange. Avon points out that this historical fact is well known but has not received theoretical framing in the Ottoman, Persian, and Mughal empires, which ruled vast populations during the 18th century. Nevertheless, the ruling elites in these empires remained convinced that they governed according to the correct Islamic methodology. Youth and Enhancing Cultural Dialogue In a related vein, the TRENDS Youth Council organized a discussion session entitled 'The Youth: A Bridge for Intercultural Communication' in the Salle d'Honneur at the Paris International Book Fair. The participating young Emirati students studying medicine at French universities addressed their role in promoting cultural dialogue and developing mediation skills to resolve cultural conflicts and enhance understanding between communities and peoples. The participants affirmed that cultural, artistic, and community activities organized by youth play a significant role in breaking down barriers between different cultures. They explained that technology and social media platforms have become effective tools for fostering cultural rapprochement and opening constructive dialogues about cultural diversity. Additionally, student exchange programs between countries contribute to changing stereotypical images about other cultures among young people. Experiences of Studying and Living Abroad The participants also shared their experiences during their studies in the French Republic and the challenges they faced in terms of cultural differences and disparities in countries of residence. They spoke about the fears and anxieties they experienced upon arrival and how they used modern technology to facilitate their integration into French society. The young Emirati students studying in French universities addressed the ways they followed to confront personal and societal cultural biases during their interactions with diverse cultures, as well as the practical solutions they applied to overcome language gaps that hinder communication between youth from different cultural backgrounds. They confirmed that the fundamental means to address these biases and gaps are the values of tolerance, coexistence, and acceptance of others — values they were raised upon within the society of the United Arab Emirates. Paris Marathon As part of its current research tour in France and in response to an invitation from the organizing body, the TRENDS delegation, alongside the UAE Cyber security Council, participated in the 48th edition of the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2025. This participation reaffirmed the importance of sports as a means to strengthen social and human bonds and foster constructive interaction with global initiatives. TRENDS' participation in this sports event also affirmed the role of sports in enhancing cultural diplomacy, linking scientific research with societal reality, and direct interaction with global initiatives. The marathon route started from the Champs-Élysées in the heart of Paris and passed by Parisian landmarks, including Place de la Nation and overlooking the Eiffel Tower.


Zawya
21-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UBF organises 4th edition of Cyber Wargaming under the supervision of Central Bank of the UAE and Cyber Security Council
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Under the supervision of the Central Bank of the UAE and the UAE Cybersecurity Council, the UAE Banks Federation (the sole representative and unified voice of UAE banks), organised the fourth edition of the "Cyber Wargaming 2025" event. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to develop the banking sector, protect its digital infrastructure, and provide a seamless and secure banking experience for all customers. Cyber Wargaming 2025, the largest event of its kind in the Middle East, saw the participation of representatives from central banks across the GCC, leading banks, financial and technological institutions, cybersecurity experts, and senior banking and financial sector executives, along with strategic partners of the UAE Banks Federation. In his keynote address, H.E. Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the Cybersecurity Council, emphasized that enhancing cybersecurity and protecting the nation's achievements in the digital sectors are top priorities for all partners. He highlighted that the UAE has invested significantly in developing advanced infrastructure, building institutions on innovative foundations, and focusing on capacity building by attracting both national talents and global expertise. These efforts have strengthened the UAE's competitiveness, making it one of the world's leading countries in digital transformation and digital infrastructure security a success recently recognized by its ranking in the top tier of the Global Cybersecurity Index. "We continue our efforts to ensure a secure and resilient cyber environment that enables institutions and businesses to grow and thrive safely. The success of the UAE Banks Federation's Cyber Simulation Exercises over the past years, in collaboration with the Central Bank and the Cybersecurity Council, underscores the proactive and effective approach of the banking and financial sector in addressing potential threats and establishing the necessary frameworks to mitigate them while driving continuous growth. These exercises provide banking and financial sector professionals with the ability to identify strengths and areas that require further development, ultimately enhancing the sector's digital transformation an area in which significant achievements have been made to solidify the UAE's leading position." H.E. Dr. Al Kuwaiti added. The Cyber Wargaming event focuses on conducting simulations to assess the cybersecurity teams' capabilities to handle cyberattacks, identify strengths, and uncover vulnerabilities. The virtual attacks were designed to enhance knowledge about the techniques, methods, and procedures used by attackers, as well as the factors representing sources of threats. Mr. Jamal Saleh, Director General of the UAE Banks Federation, said: 'At the UAE Banks Federation, we consider cybersecurity a top priority. This is crucial because the rapid adoption and deployment of advanced technologies in the banking and financial sector have increased risks related to transaction security and digital infrastructure. In line with the directives of the Central Bank of the UAE, we are keeping up with the relevant legislative frameworks and technologies to ensure provision of best services for customers in a safe and reliable banking environment.' 'We are proud of the success of Cyber Wargaming, which confirms the progress and leading status of the banking and financial sector in the UAE. The event reflects the sector's awareness of the importance of such initiatives to enhance cybersecurity systems and ensure a secure and advanced environment for customers, especially with the rapid developments in modern technology and the rise of cybersecurity threats using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. Cyber Wargaming plays a vital role in raising awareness of areas requiring further development to strengthen cybersecurity, which is a crucial pillar in establishing the UAE's position as a leading banking and financial hub in the region,' Mr. Jamal Saleh added. Mr. Abdullah Matar Al Muhairi, Head of the Banking Supervision Department at the Central Bank of the UAE, said: 'The Central Bank of the UAE is committed to ensuring the banking and financial sectors' readiness to address any risks that may threaten the sector and its customers'. He noted that the organising Cyber Wargaming reflects the banking sector's ongoing efforts to develop its capabilities and provide the best conditions for customers to benefit from the achievements of digital transformation'. 'The participation of strategic partners in this event highlights the importance of joint efforts to enhance the efficiency of teams within the banking and financial systems to address the growing complexity of cyberattacks, financial crimes, and fraud methods,' Mr. Abdullah Al Muhairi added. The Cyber Wargaming 2025 event featured specialised sessions for cybersecurity teams, technicians, experts, and executives to develop their capabilities in managing various cybersecurity risk scenarios. The UAE Banks Federation organises several events and campaigns to raise awareness about fraud risks, anticipate future threats, and proactively address them by providing appropriate solutions to prevent fraud. UBF also keeps pace with expected changes in legislative and regulatory frameworks, maintaining customer trust and improving the operational flexibility of the banking sector in dealing with developments, rapid changes, and crises to ensure better protection of systems, data, and clients' interests.