The Cyber Sniper Initiative:
 
This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to cybersecurity excellence. Led by the CSC, the Cyber Sniper is a transformative training program aimed at empowering UAE government employees with advanced skills in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. Delivered in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), alongside partners such as SANS Institute and CyberGate Defense, the initiative aligns with the UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision. By strengthening national cyber defenses, securing digital infrastructure, and preparing participants to address emerging cyber threats, the Cyber Sniper Initiative plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s digital future.  
 
 

 

Goals:   
  

1. Technical Skill Development  
   Enhance the skills of federal government trainees in advanced cybersecurity.  
    
2. Cyber Threat Analysis  
   Enable participants to analyze evolving cyber threats and implement effective mitigation strategies.    
    
3. Enhancing Cybersecurity Standards    
   Position the UAE as a regional leader in cybersecurity by cultivating a workforce of globally certified professionals.    
   
   
    

Cyber Sniper consists of 3 training tracks:   

  

1. Track 1: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH V12)
   
   This course introduces participants to foundational and advanced ethical hacking concepts, covering:    
   
   - Cybersecurity fundamentals and methodologies 
   
   - Vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and exploitation techniques    
   
   Key topics:    
   
   - Footprinting and Reconnaissance    
   
   - Enumeration and Vulnerability Analysis    
   
   - Malware Threats, Social Engineering, and Denial-of-Service    
   
   - Hacking Web Servers, Applications, and Wireless Networks    
   
   - Cryptography, IoT, and Cloud Security    
   
   
    
2. Track 2: Certified Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PEN-200)  
   
   A comprehensive program focused on mastering penetration testing techniques using Kali Linux, including:    
   
   - Active and passive information gathering 
   
   - Threat intelligence and vulnerability scanning with Nessus 
   
   - Hands-on skills in penetration testing and cybersecurity laws 
   
   Key topics:    
   
   - Enumeration and System Hacking    
   
   - Social Engineering and Malware Threats    
   
   - Advanced report writing for penetration testers
      
   
    
3. Track 3: Certified Enterprise Penetration Testing (SEC560)  
   
   A specialized course for security professionals and ethical hackers to identify vulnerabilities and remediate risks.   
   
   Key topics:    
   
   - Password Attacks and Lateral Movement in Azure environments.    
   
   - Effective business communication and reporting  
   
   - Hands-on Capture-the-Flag (CTF) exercises  

 

Key Achievements in 2024
 

1. Capture the Flag Competition 
   
   The training concluded with a Capture the Flag (CTF) competition at GITEX GLOBAL 2024, the world’s largest tech event. Trainees showcased the skills and knowledge they gained from the program, demonstrating their mastery of the three global certifications.
    
2. Cyber Sniper Training Series
   
   This initiative is a collaboration between the CSC, FAHR, and industry leaders such as SANS Institute and CyberGate Defense. It aligns with the UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision by strengthening the nation’s cyber defense infrastructure and equipping government employees to tackle future digital challenges.

 

More Objectives:

 

• Strengthen cyber threat preparedness by familiarizing participants with emerging cyber threats and challenges. 
   

• Enable professionals to analyze, mitigate, and respond effectively to evolving cyber risks.
   

• Promote a culture of cybersecurity by raising standards and fostering awareness within government entities.
   

• Position the UAE as a regional leader in cybersecurity by preparing globally certified professionals. 
   

• Support the UAE’s We the UAE 2031 vision by building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.  
   

• Contribute to national efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and address future technological challenges.
   

• Showcase expertise through competitions such as Capture the Flag event, which allows participants to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in real-world scenarios.