UAE Faces 200,000 Daily Cyber Attacks

200,000 Cyber Attacks Daily: UAE at Digital Defense Forefront

The United Arab Emirates faces the reality of cyber threats every day, with the latest data showing that the country experiences more than 200,000 cyberattacks every single day. These attacks do not discriminate: they affect the governmental, financial, energy, insurance, healthcare, and IT sectors as well. Most attacks target the areas of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, which together attract nearly 60 percent of the assaults.

Based on statements from the 2025 Gitex Global technology exhibition, Dubai is the most affected emirate, recording 21 percent of all cyberattacks. This is followed by Abu Dhabi with 19 percent, and then Sharjah with 18 percent. The remaining emirates - Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain - are also targets, but to a lesser extent. These numbers clearly show that the largest economic and administrative centers are the primary targets for cybercriminals.

Government Agencies in the Crosshairs

More than one-third (34.9%) of the attacks directly target government institutions, highlighting that hindering state operations or stealing information is a primary objective. The financial sector (21.3%), energy industry (14%), insurers (11.6%), and healthcare institutions (6.7%) are also frequent targets. Interestingly, companies providing IT services are attacked in only 4.8 percent of cases, likely due to their typically advanced defense systems.

Despite this, the UAE's cybersecurity council and related defense systems operate effectively. Most attacks are successfully repelled, ensuring that the public and business sectors feel largely secure—at least regarding the technical side of the attacks.

Brief Attack Duration – Quick Response

Statistics show that the average duration of cyberattacks affecting the UAE is 18.53 minutes, while the global average is around 60 minutes. This significant difference is partly thanks to advanced cyber intelligence systems and specialists capable of rapid response. Quick detection and response are critical in minimizing damage.

The Cost of Data Breaches: Millions of Dollars

While the duration of attacks is short, the damage is not always negligible. According to 2024 data, a data breach in the Middle East costs an average of 7.92 million dollars, compared to a global average of 4.88 million dollars. The reasons for the discrepancy include the types of targets, the amount of sensitive data, and the costs related to local legal compliance.

A severe ransomware attack on a private healthcare institution was cited during the presentation, which resulted in 8 terabytes of data falling into unauthorized hands. This caused not only financial but also reputational damage and highlighted that healthcare is particularly vulnerable in the digital space.

Future Threats: AI, Society, and National Security

Experts emphasized that new vulnerabilities emerge alongside technological advancements. The rise of AI (artificial intelligence) simultaneously presents opportunities and threats: it can predict attacks but also provide new methods for attackers. The future of cybersecurity is not only a technological issue but also a societal and political one.

One of the presentation's key messages was that cyber awareness must be developed at a societal level. It's not enough for just companies and government bodies to protect themselves—individuals' roles are crucial as well. The goal is to establish a 'cyber culture' that integrates the principles of digital hygiene into everyday life.

International Cooperation and Simulations

To enhance efficiency, the UAE also organizes international exercises. A recent cyber drill involved 133 countries dealing with a simulated attack, further strengthening global cooperation. Such exercises not only aid in developing defenses but also foster the building of international trust.

Trillion-Dollar Global Losses

In 2024, the world suffered 10.5 trillion dollars in losses due to cyberattacks, and forecasts suggest this figure could rise to 15.6 trillion dollars by 2029. This volume alone is enough to ensure that cybersecurity is treated not just as a technical issue but as a strategic priority—whether at the national or corporate level.

Summary

The United Arab Emirates sets an example of how to effectively defend against the rapidly evolving threats of the digital world. Managing 200,000 cyberattacks daily requires not just advanced technological systems but also a comprehensive strategy, social awareness, and international cooperation. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are primary targets, but the entire country is prepared to successfully tackle future challenges—whether they involve artificial intelligence, data storage, or global threats. Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue but a national security priority.

(Source of the article: Based on the United Arab Emirates government's Gitex Global 2025 report.)