CSC Launching Second Edition of "CyberQ" Conference

The UAE Cybersecurity Council (CSC) has announced that the second edition of the "CyberQ" Conference will take place this November. This year’s edition of the conference, one of the most prominent cybersecurity events in the Middle East, will be held under the theme "Where Quantum, AI, and Cybersecurity Converge" on November 26–27 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi.

The event will unite experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from over 100 countries to tackle the disruptive impact of quantum computing and AI on cybersecurity. Sessions will explore AI-driven attacks, defensive automation, and the urgent need to transition to post-quantum technologies. The conference will also highlight advances in quantum cryptography, international standards, and emerging risks such as organized cybercrime—reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in shaping global cybersecurity solutions.

The "Cyber Q" conference features specialized presentations and interactive sessions, including automated cryptography detection solutions, risk assessment tools, and live demonstrations by leading institutions such as the Technology Innovation Institute, focusing on real-world applications of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and communication resilient to quantum attacks.

The importance of post-classical cryptography techniques lies in providing robust protection against quantum computing threats that could break traditional encryption algorithms, thereby ensuring the confidentiality and security of data in the future. Additionally, cryptographic agility enables dynamic and seamless transition between different encryption algorithms without affecting system continuity or security, allowing rapid adaptation to technological advancements and emerging vulnerabilities, while ensuring continuous protection with minimal cost and effort.

Conference sessions will also cover discussions on post-classical cryptography techniques and cryptographic agility, which enables the dynamic and secure transition between algorithms. Additionally, there will be showcases by specialized companies offering practical solutions in risk analysis, compliance, and integration with modern infrastructures.

Applied sessions will merge cutting-edge research with industrial applications in quantum security, cyber AI, and emerging threats such as organized cybercrime and how to combat it, which reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in shaping global cybersecurity solutions.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, stated that holding the CyberQ Conference for the second consecutive year follows the directives of the nation’s wise leadership, reaffirming the UAE’s vision for global leadership in digital and cybersecurity fields, and cementing its status as a global hub for data. He emphasized that this year’s conference focuses on vital topics, particularly encryption, quantum computing, and their relationship with AI and cybersecurity, stressing the urgency of addressing quantum security challenges, especially as quantum computers are increasingly capable of solving highly complex mathematical problems that call for rethinking traditional encryption methods.

H.E. Dr. Al Kuwaiti further highlighted the importance of continuously advancing cybersecurity in parallel with quantum technologies to ensure strong digital foundations in the face of new complex threats. He affirmed that organizing CyberQ for the second year in a row marks a decisive step in knowledge exchange, strengthening international and regional cooperation, and driving collective readiness for a future where quantum capabilities will radically reshape both challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity.

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), said: “As a supporting partner of CyberQ 2025, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is proud to help shape the global conversation on security in the quantum era. Quantum technologies are redefining the limits of computing and connectivity, bringing both immense opportunities and urgent responsibilities. At TII, we are pioneering quantum-safe cryptographic and communication systems that will anchor tomorrow’s secure infrastructure. CyberQ 2025 serves as a call to action for governments, researchers, and innovators to collaborate in building a resilient and trusted quantum era.”

The CyberQ Conference held for the second consecutive year amidst the efforts of the Cybersecurity Council to enhance the exchange of expertise at regional and international levels. This contributes to shaping the future of cybersecurity and underscores the state’s leadership role in cyber and digital domains. The conference also addresses the profound impact of quantum computing on information security, highlighting the urgent need to understand emerging threats driven by advancements in quantum technology. It aims to provide forward-looking insights to government entities and industry leaders on protecting critical cyber systems by leveraging diverse technical expertise and bringing together thought leaders, opinion makers, and experts to foster mutual knowledge exchange and reinforce the nation’s position as a leading global hub for data and digital services.