MBRSC platform to benefit UAE’s scientific community

The MBRSC platform allows its users, especially the scientific community, to utilize the data collected from scientific research and studies done by the center.
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Updated 07 June 2020
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MBRSC platform to benefit UAE’s scientific community

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced the launch of an interactive scientific platform that will provide scientific analysis of environmental phenomena and their impact on the UAE’s natural resources. The platform is the first-of-its-kind in the region focused on in-depth environmental studies based on remote sensing systems, image processing, GIS and artificial intelligence with analytical reports added on a regular basis. This platform allows its users, especially the scientific community, to utilize the data collected from scientific research and studies done by the center.

The platform’s scientific analysis and research reports will be provided periodically to government entities. The platform covers a plethora of topics such as monitoring the UAE’s natural environment and their impact on natural resources such as water (hydrosphere), air and vegetation, monitoring changes on the coasts and studying phenomena that have implications for marine life such as the effect of red tide and others. In this regard, 20 analytical reports have already been completed and are included in the scientific platform.

The platform is characterized by an interactive feature available for all its scientific reports. The feature allows users to identify environmental changes in a particular area over a specific period of time through interactive maps, compare them with another time period, and ultimately come up with a specific scientific interpretation. This interactive trait also enables users to track the characteristics of a particular environmental phenomenon, so as to obtain accurate statistics on the proportions of changes and identify their positive or negative impact.

Yousuf Hamad Al-Shaibani, director general, MBRSC, said: “The new platform not only benefits the scientific community, but also contributes to the UAE’s vision of encouraging innovation, research and development, and promoting strategic decisions made by key UAE entities. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, under the wise leadership of the UAE, has always sought to provide innovative solutions that benefit the scientific community. Through our projects, we are developing local talent, and opening new horizons for scientific research entities to enhance the quality of their work.”

He added: “The urgent need for scientific research and development has become more than a necessity dictated by the current situation under the influence of globalization. It is also necessary for us to keep pace with the progressive approach undertaken by some of the most scientifically developed nations, where technology and scientific research take center stage.”

Saeed Al-Mansoori, head of application development and the analysis section, MBRSC, said: “The scientific platform contributes significantly to supporting the growth of strategic sectors of government entities, especially as the launch of the platform highlights the UAE’s efforts to support the smart transformation journey and integrate innovative technical solutions.”


PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc’s CISO500 program advances cyber leadership

Updated 15 February 2026
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PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc’s CISO500 program advances cyber leadership

The fifth edition of the CISO500 program ran from Feb. 8-12. Delivered in partnership between PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc, the program featured five intensive days of rich discussions and hands-on practical experiences, aimed at strengthening leadership capabilities in cybersecurity and keeping pace with rapid technological transformation.

The program is designed to develop the capabilities of executive cybersecurity leaders and enhance their strategic role in supporting organizations’ digital transformation. It equips participants to address contemporary challenges in the cyber landscape and expand their influence within decision-making ecosystems.

Yasser Al-Swailem, CEO of Sirar by stc, said that the program represents an important step toward strengthening the readiness of cyber leaders in the region. He noted that the CISO500 program is a fundamental pillar in the journey toward building a secure and trusted Saudi cyberspace aligned with national ambitions. He added that investing in national cybersecurity leadership is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for ensuring sustainable digital development. The program reflects a commitment to empowering national talent to lead the digital security landscape according to the highest global standards.

He further emphasized that such initiatives contribute to strengthening digital security ecosystems and enabling organizations to confidently and sustainably address future challenges.

Samer Omar, cybersecurity and digital trust leader at PwC Middle East, added: “CISO500 is a long-term investment in Saudi leadership. Over the past year, we’ve seen how bringing together senior Saudi cybersecurity professionals in a structured executive environment accelerates capability, builds confidence and deepens collaboration. As the program enters its second year, our focus remains on equipping Saudi CISOs with the strategic perspective and technical depth required to secure the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.”

The program addressed a range of advanced topics, including common cyber transformation pitfalls, mechanisms for securing enterprise digital transformation, and cybersecurity budgeting and financial governance. These topics enhanced leaders’ ability to translate cyber risks and security investments into financial indicators that support executive decision-making.

It also covered the latest technological developments, particularly artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, quantum computing, and the protection of critical and operational infrastructure. Emphasis was placed on the importance of security governance for AI technologies and strengthening enterprise-wide risk management perspectives associated with them.

The program adopted an interactive learning methodology combining strategic discussions, collaborative work, and creative practical exercises, contributing to a deeper understanding of concepts and enabling their translation into applicable organizational practices.

Abdullah Al-Asmari, global cybersecurity director at the Saudi Research and Media Group and one of the program participants, said that the experience added significant strategic and practical value: “The program provided a rich experience that strengthened the leadership perspective of cybersecurity, particularly in linking technical practices with strategic and financial dimensions within the organization. It also offered valuable space for exchanging expertise on emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing, and the challenges of securing critical infrastructure. This experience enhances cyber leaders’ ability to adopt a more influential role in supporting digital transformation and enabling decision-making based on a comprehensive understanding of risk and value.”

He added that the program facilitated the exchange of insights on emerging challenges and strengthened the ability to align cybersecurity with institutional objectives and executive decision requirements.

Participants said that the program constituted a valuable professional and knowledge-driven experience that enhanced the readiness of cyber leaders to keep pace with rapid digital transformation, reinforcing cybersecurity’s role as a strategic enabler that supports innovation while preserving business trust, reliability, and sustainability.