CyberSHE is launching in the UAE through a new agreement between the University of Dubai and Women in Cyber Security Middle East (WiCSME). The bootcamp aims to build a pipeline of women ready for cyber roles. It focuses on final‑year students and recent graduates with relevant degrees. A pilot ran earlier this year in Kuwait. More cohorts are planned across the region. Here is what matters for students and employers in the UAE.
What is CyberSHE
CyberSHE is a regional bootcamp under WiCSME’s “She Talks Security.” It trains women for real roles in cybersecurity.
- Hands‑on training in labs
- Workplace readiness modules
- Mentorship from industry leaders
The focus is on market skills, not theory. Sessions are practical. The boot camp targets women at the start of their careers, specifically final-year students and new graduates in cybersecurity, computer engineering, IT, or similar fields. The aim is clear: to build confidence, close the skills gap, and prepare participants for entry-level roles and beyond.
Why the UAE matters
The programme aligns with the UAE Cybersecurity Strategy. That means skills for national priorities, not just certificates.
- Strong digital infrastructure and partnerships
- Push for specialised local talent
- Ecosystem support from academia and industry
Running CyberSHE in Dubai connects students with local labs, mentors and employers. It supports the UAE’s broader efforts to secure services and expand cyber jobs. With government, academia and industry in the mix, graduates should find clearer entry points into work.
How the bootcamp runs
CyberSHE uses small, repeatable cohorts across countries to scale.
- Minimum 25 students per country per cohort
- Pipeline target of 1,500 trained women in three years
- Kuwait pilot completed in May 2025; UAE launch is next; Oman, Saudi and others to follow
Each cohort combines technical labs, soft skills training, and mentoring. The format is structured yet flexible across markets. Students have the opportunity to work with experts, practice on real tools, and receive support for CVs, interviews, and workplace norms. The goal is employability.
Who is behind it
Two groups lead delivery in the UAE: WiCSME and the University of Dubai.
- WiCSME provides the community network and mentors
- University of Dubai provides facilities and faculty via the C‑SAR Centre
- Leadership buy‑in from senior figures across both sides
This mix combines regional community reach and academic credibility. The C‑SAR Centre and cyber labs bring the proper kit and environments. Faculty and mentors give feedback and guidance. For participants, that means access to a support network that lasts beyond graduation.
What students and employers should expect
Expect clear entry routes for talent and focused outcomes for hiring managers.
- Students: hands‑on labs, mentoring, and career skills
- Employers: a vetted pipeline with practical training
- Region: consistent cohorts and standards that scale
The signing event in Dubai pulled together the people who will run and support the programme. That includes leadership from WiCSME UAE and UoD’s cyber centre. The roadmap now is to set dates, confirm selection and work with the industry for placements and projects. Keep an eye on official channels for application details.
FAQs
Who can apply to CyberSHE in the UAE?
Final‑year students and recent graduates with a Bachelor’s in cybersecurity, computer engineering, IT or an equivalent field.
How big is each cohort, and how many participants will CyberSHE train?
Each country runs cohorts of at least 25 students. The goal is 1,500 trained women across the Middle East over three years.
What does the University of Dubai provide?
Access to the C‑SAR Centre, cyber labs, faculty resources and academic networks to run the programme and support participants.
