The Dubai Police ethical hacking competition has been officially launched to identify, encourage, and reward some of the best cybersecurity talent in the UAE. This initiative, organized by the Cybercrime Department of Dubai Police, will run throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month and reflects the UAE’s growing focus on building a safe, digitally resilient society. With total prizes worth AED 223,000, the competition highlights the country’s strong commitment to nurturing the next generation of ethical hackers and cybersecurity professionals.
Dubai Police Ethical Hacking Competition: A Breakdown of Categories
The Dubai Police ethical hacking competition is structured to include participants across different levels of expertise. It has three main categories with specific prize allocations:
- School Students: AED 40,000 in prizes to inspire the youth to explore careers in cybersecurity.
- University Students: AED 78,000 in rewards for the next wave of digital defenders.
- Professionals: AED 95,000 in prizes aimed at experienced cybersecurity experts.
The online qualifiers will take place from October 5 until the end of the month, and the finalists will move forward to the in-person rounds at the Dubai Police Officers’ Club on October 25–26.
By including students, fresh graduates, and professionals, the competition ensures a wide pool of participants, building long-term cybersecurity awareness and expertise across society.
The Role of Dubai Police Ethical Hacking Competition in Cybersecurity Awareness
The timing of the Dubai Police ethical hacking competition during Cybersecurity Awareness Month is no coincidence. Cybercrime is on the rise globally, with reports showing that cybercrime costs could reach USD 10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures). The UAE, with its rapid digital transformation and adoption of smart technologies, recognizes the importance of developing skilled cybersecurity talent to stay ahead of evolving threats.
By creating an engaging and rewarding environment through a “Capture the Flag” (CTF) contest, Dubai Police is directly addressing the need for hands-on experience in cybersecurity. Participants will be tested in areas such as vulnerability identification, penetration testing, digital forensics, and secure coding — all of which are vital skills for modern cyber defense.
Workshops, Dialogues, and Cybersecurity Forums
Alongside the competition, Dubai Police will host workshops, dialogue sessions, and a dedicated cybersecurity forum for businesses. These additional activities are designed to:
- Provide tailored guidance for students on pursuing cybersecurity careers.
- Help professionals and companies understand emerging threats.
- Raise community-wide awareness of safe online practices.
The inclusion of workshops emphasizes that the Dubai Police ethical hacking competition is not just about rewards but also about education, skill-building, and preparing society to handle digital challenges.
eCrimeHub: A Digital Weapon Against Cybercrime
In parallel with the competition, Dubai Police has launched eCrimeHub, a digital platform that allows residents to report suspicious online activities. From fraudulent phone numbers to phishing emails and online scams, reports made on the platform are acted upon immediately by the authorities.
This initiative shows how the Dubai Police ethical hacking competition ties into broader efforts to strengthen public safety through technology. The ability to quickly block and investigate threats not only protects individuals but also builds trust in the UAE’s digital infrastructure.
Leadership and Vision Behind the Competition
Key figures within Dubai Police have stressed the importance of these initiatives. Major Engineer Khalil Al Hosani, Acting Deputy Director of the Cybercrime and AI Crimes Department, explained that the platform blends cutting-edge technology with public safety. Similarly, Lt Col Dr. Saeed bin Abid, Director of the Information Security Centre, and Major Dr. Rashid Al Baloushi, Deputy Director of the International Centre for Protecting Victims of Online Exploitation, emphasized that the competition and its surrounding activities are aligned with the UAE’s vision for a responsible and resilient digital society.
Their focus on ethical hacking highlights the UAE’s understanding that cybersecurity is no longer a specialized niche but a mainstream necessity for every individual and organization.
Why the Dubai Police Ethical Hacking Competition Matters
The launch of the Dubai Police ethical hacking competition comes at a time when demand for cybersecurity professionals is soaring worldwide. According to the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC²), there is currently a global shortage of 3.5 million cybersecurity professionals. Competitions like this not only identify talent but also motivate young students and professionals to consider careers in cybersecurity, bridging the global skills gap.
By investing in cybersecurity awareness, training, and recognition, Dubai Police is strengthening the UAE’s defense against digital crime while also contributing to the global cybersecurity workforce.
The Dubai Police ethical hacking competition is more than just a contest. It is a national initiative to encourage innovation, identify talent, and build resilience in the face of increasing cyber threats. With substantial prizes, educational workshops, and the launch of the eCrimeHub platform, Dubai Police is creating a comprehensive approach to tackling cybercrime while empowering individuals and businesses to protect themselves online.
By engaging school students, university students, and professionals alike, the competition sets a new standard for how countries can prepare their citizens for the digital challenges of tomorrow. Ultimately, this initiative reinforces Dubai’s role as a global leader in cybersecurity innovation and digital safety.
