The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and the UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC), have conducted a comprehensive cybersecurity drill to enhance cyber resilience in the healthcare sector.
The cybersecurity drill simulated scenarios, aimed at testing the readiness of healthcare facilities and to strengthen their response to cyber incidents. In addition, it assessed the strength of established communication and incident response protocols under cyber threat conditions.
The exercise fostered best practices and cybersecurity behaviors among professionals. This initiative will reinforce DoH’s leadership in harnessing digital health technologies to deliver world-class care. Meanwhile, it highlights the Cyber Security Council’s commitment to fostering collaboration with public sector institutions while safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure.
The Council seeks to ensure service continuity and protect national data through technical and advisory support and specialized training programs, strengthening cyber resilience in line with global standards.
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, highlighted that the Council is dedicated to developing a robust, secure digital infrastructure across the UAE, embedding cybersecurity as a key component of both institutional and individual culture—fully aligned with the UAE leadership’s forward-thinking approach to navigating the challenges of rapid digital transformation.
The drill, held at Bab Al Bahr Hotel in Abu Dhabi, gathered trainees from various DoH-affiliated entities. It reviewed global best practices and practical recommendations to prepare healthcare institutions to handle digital risks. The exercise focused on maintaining the delivery of essential healthcare services, even during cyber incidents.
Additionally, the drill included a detailed presentation, showcasing the digital services of DoH, highlighting the importance of advanced and precise protocols to securely store and protect patient data and sensitive information, ensuring the highest levels of confidentiality and privacy.
Furthermore, the exercise featured a realistic simulation of the department’s Medical Command Operations Centre, emphasizing measures to safeguard vital health data and ensure the continuity of medical services.
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi was the first health regulator in the UAE and the region to introduce a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy for the healthcare sector. The strategy establishes a comprehensive framework, outlining the key principles of Abu Dhabi’s approach to securing this critical sector.
