UAE Cybersecurity Council Celebrates Completion of Inaugural AWS/CTIB Startup Accelerator, Boosting 23 Innovative Cybersecurity Ventures
The UAE Cybersecurity Council (CSC), in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), CrowdStrike, and e&, recently marked a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of the inaugural AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator Programme. The closing ceremony took place at the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, representing the first in-person gathering of the initiative’s key commercial supporters since its launch at GITEX Global in October 2025.
A Government-Backed Initiative
This multi-year initiative is a cornerstone of the UAE Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Bureau (UAE CTIB) and aligns with the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy. The programme aims to accelerate the growth of over 500 cybersecurity startups, providing selected founders with equity-free access to global technology expertise, regional capital networks, personalized mentorship, and market pathways. The focus is on fostering ‘Made in UAE’ cybersecurity innovations that address pressing global cyber challenges.
Running from March 25 to May 4, 2026, the programme attracted 157 applications from more than five countries and ultimately selected 23 startups. These startups cover a diverse range of sectors, including Cloud Security, Application Security, Identity and Access Management, Generative AI for Cybersecurity, and Data Security. The programme featured 23 curated sessions, totaling over 30 hours of content, which included 15 business strategy sessions, six technical deep-dives, and two keynote addresses, all supported by contributions from various delivery partners. More than 25 distinguished speakers and mentors participated, representing the upper echelons of global cybersecurity leadership.
Value Delivered to Startups
Participating startups gained substantial advantages, including access to e& for venture investment, AWS Marketplace listing and co-sell support, discounts on CrowdStrike Falcon® Pro, investor pitch coaching, and advisory on go-to-market strategies. The initiative also reinforced CyberE71’s mission to cultivate the next generation of cybersecurity and AI ventures by connecting startups with potential partners, investors, enterprise opportunities, and government-backed enablement platforms.
During the closing ceremony, the Top 5 winning startups were unveiled, having been selected by a senior CISO Evaluation Panel composed of representatives from initiative supporters and organizations. The panel evaluated all 23 startups through a Shark Tank-style virtual pitch session, focusing on customer value, competitive differentiation, innovation, and growth traction. The winning startups will benefit from increased visibility among enterprise customers, investors, and government stakeholders throughout the region.
Cohort 1: A Testament to Commitment
Cohort 1 was executed entirely in a virtual format and adhered to its schedule, showcasing the dedication and professionalism of all organizations involved. This accomplishment serves as a powerful indication that the UAE continues to be a resilient and forward-looking innovation hub.
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, emphasized the significance of the programme’s completion. He stated that it validates the UAE’s vision of establishing a robust, innovation-driven cybersecurity ecosystem. The 23 startups represent the next generation of ‘Made in UAE’ cybersecurity champions. Their achievements illustrate the UAE’s commitment not only to safeguarding its digital future but also to exporting cybersecurity excellence globally. Dr. Al Kuwaiti expressed eagerness to welcome future cohorts as the nation progresses toward its goal of accelerating 500 cybersecurity startups under its National Cybersecurity Strategy.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
Chris Erasmus, General Manager for the UAE, Rest of Middle East and North Africa at AWS, remarked on the programme’s success, noting that the results of Cohort 1 surpassed expectations. From 157 applications to 23 exceptional startups developing solutions in cloud security, AI-driven threat detection, and identity management, the programme has demonstrated that the UAE possesses the talent, ambition, and ecosystem necessary to become a world-leading cybersecurity innovation hub. AWS remains committed to providing the cloud infrastructure, technical mentorship, and go-to-market support that startups require to scale globally.
Daniel Bernard, Chief Business Officer at CrowdStrike, highlighted the importance of collaboration among governments, industry leaders, and founders. He noted that the first cohort illustrates that the UAE is building more than just a startup ecosystem; it is laying a long-term foundation for cyber resilience and large-scale innovation. Alongside AWS, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, and e&, CrowdStrike is dedicated to assisting the next generation of cybersecurity companies in scaling faster, addressing urgent security challenges, and advancing the vision of technology that is both ‘Made in UAE’ and ‘Protected by UAE.’
Abdulla Al Ahmed, Chief Government and VVIP Relations Officer at e& UAE, pointed out that cyber resilience has become a pillar of national resilience and a catalyst for digital economies. The success of Cohort 1 exemplifies the potential of combining regional infrastructure, venture ecosystems, and enterprise capabilities to create an environment where cybersecurity startups can innovate responsibly, protect effectively, and scale globally—all while rooting their growth in the UAE’s trusted digital ecosystem.
The completion of the AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator Programme not only underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation but also positions the nation as a key player in the global cybersecurity landscape.
Source: mystartupworld.com
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