Microsoft, in partnership with CPX (a G42 company) has launched “She Protects”, a national initiative to equip young women in UAE universities with cybersecurity skills. The launch at Microsoft’s Dubai office brought together leaders from government, academia, and industry to promote a more inclusive cyber workforce.
Timed to coincide with Safer Internet Day 2026, the initiative emphasizes Microsoft and CPX’s shared commitment to building a safer, more inclusive digital ecosystem by empowering the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.
The launch event featured opening remarks from Microsoft and CPX leadership, and panel discussions with female cybersecurity experts. Attendees participated in LinkedIn career development sessions and networking opportunities, underscoring the programme’s commitment to real-world impact and professional growth.
The shifting economic climate and rapidly evolving threat landscape have placed enormous pressure on the existing global cybersecurity workforce. This has resulted in both talent shortages and widening skills gaps at a time when demand has been higher than ever. The need for cybersecurity professionals, particularly those with expertise in GenAI is especially acute in the UAE. Despite a well-documented global talent shortage in the cybersecurity industry, women still feel discouraged from joining it, constituting only about 25% of cybersecurity professionals according to a recent ISC2 report.
She Protects runs from February 2026 to June 2026, offering participants a comprehensive pathway into cybersecurity careers. The initiative features CPX-led webinars on cyber hygiene and threat landscapes, Microsoft’s SC-900 Security, Compliance & Identity certification track, career readiness training through IDEA HR, LinkedIn’s “Rock Your Profile” workshops, immersive cyber labs powered by Cyberbit and supported by INJAZ UAE.
“For more than three decades, Microsoft has partnered with the UAE to expand opportunity through technology. Today, She Protects strengthens that partnership by building the talent that will secure our digital future. At Microsoft, we believe that empowering a diverse new generation of security professionals is essential for safeguarding our communities and driving innovation in an AI-driven era. Through this initiative, we are reaffirming our commitment to equipping young women with the skills, resources and global standards needed to defend against evolving cyber threats and uphold trust in the region’s digital economy.” — Amr Kamel, General Manager, Microsoft UAE
“Despite the opportunities available, young working women still feel discouraged from entering the industry, and through this program, CPX aims at creating awareness to make the sector more inclusive and gender diverse, says Hadi Anwar, CEO at CPX, “Empowering women in cybersecurity is not just about closing a gap—it’s about unlocking new potential for innovation and resilience and building trust in the UAE’s future digital and AI-powered economy.”
By training and upskilling 50 young women, She Protects strengthens the UAE’s cyber talent pipeline and advances diversity in a field where women remain underrepresented. The initiative forms part of Microsoft Elevate UAE, reinforcing Microsoft’s long-term commitment to upskilling talent and supporting the nation’s digital and AI ambitions, while empowering individuals to thrive in a digital-first world.
Endorsed by the UAE Cyber Security Council, She Protects is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to diversity and excellence in technology. By investing in young women, we are investing in the future of cybersecurity.
