In today’s rapidly changing digital landscape, strong cybersecurity leadership is not just important—it’s crucial. Khaleej Times’ inaugural UAE’s Most Influential Cybersecurity Leaders list highlights the CISOs and security heads who are bolstering the nation’s digital defenses against rising cyber threats. These visionaries are steering organizations through intricate cyber terrains, utilizing technology, and forming robust teams to safeguard vital systems. Beyond protecting infrastructure, they are shaping the UAE’s cybersecurity culture by mentoring and motivating future leaders. This editorial-driven list celebrates their technical prowess and broader influence on the UAE’s digital landscape.
Dr Mohamed Alkuwaiti
Head of Cyber Security, UAE Government
Since 2020, Dr Mohamed Alkuwaiti has led UAE’s cybersecurity initiatives, spearheading national cyber strategy and innovation. He advocates for global alliances, AI-driven defenses, and digital trust, positioning the UAE as a leader in global cybersecurity and digital transformation.
Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani
Chief Executive, Dubai Electronic Security Center
As a founding member of DESC, Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani has played a key role in its success. Under his leadership, the team developed cutting-edge platforms and software that enhance Dubai’s cyber readiness, setting the stage for a more secure and advanced city.
Dr Hoda A. Alkhzaimi
Founder and Director, EMARATSEC Research Group
Dr Hoda Alkhzaimi is a leader in cybersecurity, focusing on cryptanalysis, secure systems design, and UAV security. She directs the Center for Cyber Security at NYU Abu Dhabi and contributes to national R&D initiatives enhancing cryptographic resilience in critical infrastructure and emerging technologies.
Jonathan A. Kwofie
Head of Cyber Security, Dubai Financial Services Authority
Jonathan A. Kwofie is an experienced cybersecurity professional with over a decade in the financial sector and regulatory environment. As the current Head of Cybersecurity at an international regulator, he specializes in risk management, compliance, and securing digital infrastructure.
Waleid Al Mesmari
President, Space and Cyber Technologies, EDGE
Waleid Al Mesmari is a leader in cybersecurity and space technologies, managing strategic development across advanced cyber entities. With extensive knowledge in cyber governance, strategic planning, and emerging technologies, he promotes innovation, resilience, and national capability development in critical areas.
Galal Ibrahim Maghola
Former Head of Cybersecurity, Bayanat (G42 Company)
With 20+ years of experience across 25 industries, Galal Ibrahim Maghola has led over 500 successful vulnerability assessments and penetration tests, reducing cyber risk exposure by 60%. He has also implemented strong security frameworks for over 200 enterprises.
Mouza Al Romaithi
Director of Information & Cybersecurity, ADQ
Mouza Al Romaithi is an experienced IT and cybersecurity professional with expertise in risk management, governance, compliance, security incident management, penetration testing, vulnerability management, and security awareness. She has a proven record of enhancing organizational cybersecurity resilience.
Abbas Sabuwala
Senior Manager Information Security and Operations, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Abbas Sabuwala is a strategic technology leader and cybersecurity expert known for promoting business resilience and innovation. He excels in leading secure, scalable solutions across sectors, with deep expertise in cyber frameworks and global data governance compliance.
Nisha Rani
CISO, MMI ELR
A seasoned expert, Nisha Rani leads her company’s cybersecurity strategy, ensuring the protection of critical assets and fostering a strong security culture. She also advocates for increased women’s representation in cybersecurity and mentors aspiring professionals in the field.
Dr Ebrahim Al Alkeem Al Zaabi
National Risk and Policy Director, Executive Office of Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing
A leading expert in AI and cybersecurity, Dr. Ebrahim Al Alkeem Al Zaabi shapes UAE national policies, publishes extensively, and actively fosters global collaboration through speaking engagements, advisory roles, and impactful research contributions worldwide.
Anumod Xavier
CISO / Head of Cybersecurity – MENA, L’Oreal
Anumod Xavier is a seasoned technology and information security leader with over 20 years of experience across diverse domains. Holding top certifications, he specializes in governance, risk, compliance, cloud security, and business continuity, driving secure digital transformation through strategic, technical, and leadership excellence.
Eman Al Awadhi
Vice-President – Network and Cyber Security, Expo City Dubai
Eman Al Awadhi is a distinguished cybersecurity leader with over 16 years of experience. She plays a crucial role at Expo City Dubai and previously at Expo 2020 Dubai, focusing on safeguarding digital infrastructures. Eman is also dedicated to mentoring and empowering future cybersecurity professionals.
Ayoub Fathi
Group CISO, Noon
Joining Noon in 2017, Ayoub Fathi has built the information security program from scratch, aiming to protect millions of customers. In his early years, he was active in the white-hat ecosystem and ranked among the top 100 hackers worldwide.
Dee Deu
Director of Information Security, Chalhoub Group
Dee Deu is an award-winning leader in cybersecurity and risk management with over 18 years of global experience. Known for building high-impact centers of excellence, Dee aligns business and security goals, embedding governance and driving transformation across sectors like banking, insurance, retail, and private equity.
Phil Lea
Head of Privacy and Cybersecurity, Landmark Group
With over 20 years in IT, including 16+ in information security, Phil Lea is a seasoned security and privacy leader. He specializes in developing intellectual property rights, risk methodologies, and risk assessments, helping organizations strengthen security posture and manage complex cyber risks.
Vishal Vaghela
CISO, Americana Restaurants
Vishal Vaghela is a global CISO with over 18 years of experience in leading cybersecurity strategy, digital transformation, and innovation. He has developed and led cybersecurity programs with budgets over $25 million, aligning resources to business goals and regulations, significantly reducing risk exposure.
Irshad Mohammed
CISO, Burjeel Holdings
Irshad Mohammed is a Chief Information Security Officer specializing in healthcare cybersecurity. He leads ISO 27001 certification, vulnerability assessments, and privileged access management, harmonizing IT security policies and building secure, compliant infrastructures to protect hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies across the group.
James Wiles
Head of Cyber Security – Middle East & Africa, Cigna Healthcare
James Wiles is a global cybersecurity executive with over 20 years of experience leading security, intelligence, and IT teams across diverse sectors. As Head of Cyber Security for Cigna MEA, he drives cyber operations, risk management, and digital transformation, fostering resilience and innovation regionally.
Veneeth Purushotaman
Group CIO, Aster DM Healthcare
Veneeth Purushotaman is a skilled technology leader with over 20 years of experience in driving digital transformation across healthcare, retail, and pharma. At Aster DM Healthcare, he leads tech consolidation and innovation, aligning IT with business goals to deliver impactful, cost-efficient solutions.
Kanesan Pandi
Group-Head of Information Security, Galadari Group
Kanesan Pandi is a passionate security professional with over 25 years in IT, including 18 in information security. He drives strategic roadmaps in cybersecurity, business continuity, and AI, enhancing digital resilience and risk management while mentoring and leading security innovations.
Shafiullah Ismail
Senior Vice President & Head of Information Security and Risk, Mubadala Capital
Shafiullah Ismail leads comprehensive cybersecurity strategies, driving Zero Trust and integrated risk management. With expertise in cloud security, automation, and AI, he strengthens regulatory compliance and partnerships, safeguarding digital assets and advancing security operations in a dynamic global financial environment.
Mohammed Azrak
Vice President – Information Security, Dubai Holding
Mohammed Azrak is an executive information security leader with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in developing and managing complex security infrastructures, ensuring compliance with top standards, and driving continuous improvements across industries like hospitality, retail, and real estate.
Vipin Kumar Bhaskaran
Head of Information Security Risk & Governance and International Security, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
Vipin Kumar Bhaskaran is a cybersecurity leader with over 25 years of experience, specializing in AI governance, threat intelligence, and data security. He drives innovation in cyber defense, risk management, and secure AI adoption across complex financial and cloud ecosystems.
Badreya AlMehairi
AVP Senior Data Privacy, Mashreq Bank
Badreya AlMehairi is a seasoned information security leader with expertise in risk management, threat mitigation, and secure system integration. She delivers strategic security solutions, aligns operations with enterprise goals, and excels in incident response, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Linoy Kidd
GBM MENAT CIO, HSBC Bank Middle East Limited
Linoy Kidd is an award-winning technologist and global CIO with over 18 years at HSBC. Known for driving innovation across five countries, she blends leadership in finance and technology with a deep commitment to global philanthropy and sustainable impact.
Ahmed Alshamsi
Chief Corporate Affairs & Security Officer, e& UAE
Ahmed Alshamsi is a seasoned telecommunications and technology leader with over 30 years of experience. He champions forward-thinking strategies and robust security practices, ensuring operational excellence and driving innovation across complex digital and network environments.
Jasim Al Awadi
Chief ICT Officer, du
Jasim Al Awadi is a telecommunications leader driving digital transformation and network expansion across the UAE. With deep engineering expertise and a strong commercial focus, he enables advanced connectivity solutions for government and enterprise, fueling national growth and innovation.
Thomas Heuckeroth
Senior Vice President IT Infrastructure & CyberSecurity, Emirates
Thomas Heuckeroth is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with over 25 years of global experience. He drives enterprise-wide cyber resilience, regulatory compliance, and digital risk management, while actively shaping the future of cybersecurity through mentorship, innovation, and strategic advisory roles.
Frank Meyer
Chief Digital Officer, Etihad
Frank Meyer is a digital transformation leader with over 20 years of experience across various industries. He drives technology strategy and innovation, delivering impactful digital solutions and leading high-performing teams to accelerate business growth and operational excellence.
Kausar Mukeri
Vice President, CISO, GEMS Education
Kausar Mukeri is a senior cybersecurity expert with over 20 years of experience. He excels in designing, implementing, and maintaining complex IT infrastructures and security systems. A skilled problem-solver, Kausar holds multiple certifications and leads teams to achieve organizational goals.
Nick Charnley
CISO – Director Cyber Security, TAQA Group
Nick Charnley is an award-winning Chief Information Security Officer with 25 years of experience, specializing in IT and OT security. He leads cybersecurity at TAQA Group, excels in team building, and drives innovation by aligning cybersecurity with business transformations.
Saquib Malik
Head of Information Security, Al Tamimi & Company
With over 18 years in IT and security, Saquib Malik specializes in cybersecurity and business continuity. He excels in risk management, compliance, vulnerability assessment, and governance, delivering robust security strategies for leading organizations.
Jagmohan S
Head of Information Security – CISO, Sukoon Insurance
Jagmohan S is a senior information security practitioner and Chief Information Security Officer with extensive experience aligning technology and business to achieve common goals. He specializes in integrating IT with business strategies, ensuring stakeholder satisfaction, and driving success across organizations.
