As cyber threats grow, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is stepping up, fast. The country’s cybersecurity market is projected to hit US$543.47 million by 2025, with Security Services alone expected to account for over US$294 million. This growth signals more than just investment; it reflects a national push to build a future-ready digital defense system.
At the heart of this transformation are women leaders who are redefining what cybersecurity leadership looks like. Whether advising global enterprises, leading incident response, or shaping national policy, these 25 women are not just part of the conversation—they are driving it.
Here’s a look at the women powering the UAE’s cybersecurity rise in 2025.
Dee Deu CISSP, Director of Information Security, Chalhoub Group
Dee Deu is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with over 18 years of experience across industries like banking, retail, insurance, and real estate. At Chalhoub Group, she leads information security strategy and governance, helping to build strong privacy and risk management programs. Dee is known for her people-first approach and ability to engage teams, stakeholders, and suppliers to drive security transformation across the business.
She combines technical know-how with leadership to deliver results and create a culture of cyber awareness. Dee’s passion for knowledge-sharing and transparency has made her a respected voice in the industry.
Her achievements include being named ‘CISO of the Year’ at the Cyber Security Awards in 2019 and making it to the SC UK list of the 50 Most Influential Women in Cybersecurity.
Hessa Almatrooshi, Director of Information Technology – Acting, Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)
Hessa Almatrooshi has over a decade of experience in cybersecurity and IT leadership. She started her career at Ajman Free Zone in 2011, working in IT infrastructure and helpdesk support. In 2018, she moved into cybersecurity, leading key security initiatives across the organization. Her expertise includes ISO 27001, ISO 20000-1, and risk management.
Hessa holds certifications like CISSP, MCTP, and ITIL, showing her strong commitment to continuous learning. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she focuses on building strong teams and promoting security awareness. Hessa is passionate about solving problems and driving innovation in cybersecurity.
Eman Al Awadhi, Vice President – Network and Cyber Security, Expo City Dubai
Eman Al Awadhi is the Vice President of Network and Cyber Security at Expo City Dubai. She leads key areas including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, physical security tech, and tech innovation. Eman played a major role in protecting the digital systems of Expo 2020, where she built one of the most advanced cybersecurity frameworks for a World Expo.
With over 16 years of experience, she started her career as a Network Security Engineer at UAE’s Computer Emergency Response Team. Eman is known for blending technical expertise with strategic thinking to drive innovation and secure smart city technologies.
She is a public speaker, mentor, and instructor in cybersecurity, often seen representing Expo City on global platforms. Eman also works with institutions like AIT and WINS and serves on advisory boards of leading universities in the UAE. She holds degrees from the American University of Sharjah and Khalifa University.
Seema Sharma, Head of Information Security, Wio Bank
Seema Sharma is the Head of Information Security at Wio Bank. With years of experience in cybersecurity, she is known for building strong security teams and driving impactful strategies. Her core strengths include risk and compliance, data privacy, DevSecOps, and cloud security. Seema also leads security incident response and business continuity efforts.
She brings a hands-on approach to security engineering and threat management, making her a trusted leader in the banking sector. Her work ensures that Wio Bank stays secure, resilient, and ready for the future.
Heide Young, Manager Cyber Strategy & Engagement, NEOM
Heide Young leads Cybersecurity Strategy & Engagement at NEOM Tech & Digital. She focuses on building future-ready security programs and driving secure-by-design practices in the region’s cognitive city ecosystem. Heide is a Founding Partner and Board Member at Women in Cyber Security Middle East (WiCSME), where she works to advance and support women in the field. She also serves as a Global Ambassador for the Global Council for Responsible AI.
Known for her thought leadership in cyber strategy, digital trust, and ethical AI, Heide has received several global recognitions, including being named Top Cybersecurity Woman of the World in 2023 and 2024. She is also listed among the Top 10 Tech Leaders in the Middle East and the 100 Most Inspirational Women in Cyber. Heide often speaks at global forums, sharing insights on responsible innovation and emerging technologies.
Mouza Al Romaithi, Director – Information & Cybersecurity, ADQ
Mouza Al Romaithi is the Director of Information and Cybersecurity at ADQ. With over 16 years of experience, she has played a key role in building and strengthening ADQ’s cybersecurity strategy. Her work focuses on protecting systems and data against evolving cyber threats.
Mouza also brings her expertise to the boardrooms of TAQA and Pure Health, where she serves as a board member. She is known for her leadership, strategic thinking, and hands-on approach to tackling cybersecurity challenges.
She holds a master’s degree in Cybersecurity and a bachelor’s degree in Network Systems, both from Zayed University. Mouza continues to be a strong voice in the UAE’s cybersecurity landscape.
Sara Khalid Mohamed Alhosani, Director – Cyber Threat Intelligence Division (Gov Information Security), Department of Government Enablement
Sara Khalid Mohamed Alhosani is the Director of the Cyber Threat Intelligence Division at the Department of Government Enablement, Abu Dhabi. With over a decade of experience in government cybersecurity, she specializes in cyber threat intelligence, threat modeling, and proactive defense strategies.
Sara holds a Master’s degree in Information Security from Zayed University and is certified as a Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA) and CRISC, among others. She has previously served as Chief Information Security Officer at Abu Dhabi Digital Authority, driving cyber resilience and cross-government collaboration. Sara is a sought-after public speaker on cybersecurity, actively shaping Abu Dhabi’s digital security posture.
Dr.Hoda A.Alkhzaimi, Associate Vice-Provost for Research Translation and Entrepreneurship at New York University Abu Dhabi
Dr. Hoda A. Alkhzaimi began her career in sovereign wealth funds, working on long-term investments in science, technology, and industry. At NYUAD, she leads programs that connect research with business, aiming to create real-world impact. Dr. Hoda advises major global bodies like the World Economic Forum, BRICS, and G20 on emerging technologies and innovation. She also works closely with companies like Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Group.
With multiple degrees in law, computer science, cryptology, and business from top global universities, she brings deep technical and strategic knowledge. A strong advocate for women in STEM, she leads several global and regional women-in-tech organizations. Her work reflects a unique blend of technical expertise, policy insight, and a passion for empowering future leaders.
Linoy Kidd, GBM MENAT CIO
Linoy Kidd is the Chief Information Officer for Markets & Securities Services at GBM MENAT. With 18 years at HSBC, she has held senior roles across five countries — the UK, Hong Kong, China, Mexico, and the UAE. Known for her strong leadership, she has built and led teams across global markets.
Outside work, Linoy is passionate about giving back. She has helped build eight schools in Africa, Haiti, and Nicaragua, and even built a home for the homeless in Mexico.
Her professional strengths include foreign exchange operations, market risk, project management, business analysis, and electronic trading. Linoy is admired for combining global banking expertise with a deep commitment to social impact.
Khulood Alawadhi, Director – Advanced Technology Services, Moro Hub
Khulood Alawadhi is the Director of Advanced Technology Services at Moro Hub, where she leads AI-driven solutions, digital transformation projects, and data services. With 18 years of experience, she has played a key role in shaping Dubai’s tech ecosystem, especially across government and critical infrastructure. Khulood is known for her hands-on leadership and her ability to get things done—her personal motto. She has been part of several award-winning teams at DEWA and continues to guide innovative initiatives in the region.
In 2024, she was named “The Most Innovative Transformational Women Leader” by Berkeley Middle East. She also serves on the Product Advisory Board for DataRobot in Emerging Markets and mentors tech talent through programs like the Dubai App Olympics.
Khulood stands out for her passion, impact, and clear focus on outcomes in a fast-changing digital world.
Shamma Bin Hammad, Senior Cybersecurity Assurance Analyst, Emirates
Shamma Bin Hammad is a dedicated cybersecurity professional focused on protecting critical infrastructure. She specializes in vulnerability management and cybersecurity awareness programs that help organizations stay ahead of threats. At Emirates, she plays a key role in improving the overall security posture through continuous monitoring and risk mitigation strategies.
Shamma is known for her ability to translate complex cybersecurity issues into practical actions. Her efforts have strengthened digital defenses and built a strong culture of awareness within her organization. With a clear vision and hands-on approach, she continues to contribute to a safer cyber environment across the UAE.
Sofia Scozzari, CEO (Chief Executive Officer) and Founder, Hackmanac
Sofia Scozzari is an Italian tech expert with over 30 years in ICT and more than 18 years in cybersecurity. She started her career as a system administrator and went on to lead teams as a cybersecurity manager and CEO of an ICT security firm. In 2017, she moved to Dubai and launched Hackmanac, a company focused on strategic cyber threat intelligence.
Sofia is part of the steering committee at Clusit and Women For Security and helps coordinate the Cyber Think Tank at Assintel. She’s been co-authoring the Clusit Report since 2012 and leads the Hackmanac Global Cyber Attacks Report.
Sofia also writes articles, creates cybersecurity guides, and speaks at global events. Her work focuses on raising cybersecurity awareness and supporting women in the field.
Leen AlHalabi, Associate Principal Cybersecurity Consultant, Dragos, Inc.
Leen AlHalabi is an Associate Principal Cybersecurity Consultant at Dragos, Inc. She specializes in industrial cybersecurity and works closely with clients to assess architectures, analyze network vulnerabilities, and perform compromise assessments. Her work also includes PCAP analysis and consequence-driven modeling.
Leen began her career as an automation engineer, where she commissioned DCS and SCADA systems across various industries. Over time, she transitioned into OT/ICS cybersecurity, taking on responsibilities such as firewall configuration, endpoint security, backup and recovery planning, and system hardening.
With hands-on experience in both engineering and cybersecurity, Leen brings a strong technical background to her role. Her expertise helps critical infrastructure organizations strengthen their defenses and respond to emerging threats effectively. Leen is passionate about securing operational environments and continues to contribute to the field through her work at Dragos.
Nisha Rani, Chief Information Security Officer, Emirates Leisure Retail
Nisha Rani is the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at MMI ELR and a well-known name in the UAE’s cybersecurity space. She brings years of experience in information security, IT governance, and risk management. At MMI ELR, she leads the efforts to protect critical systems and ensure compliance with security standards.
Nisha is not just focused on building strong cyber defenses — she’s also passionate about supporting young professionals in the field. She regularly mentors upcoming talent and actively promotes women’s participation in tech and cybersecurity. Her work is helping create a safer and more inclusive digital environment in the region.
Jumanah Kadri, Senior Specialist – Technology Governance, Fintech – Financial Services Regulatory Authority, ADGM
Jumanah Kadri is a seasoned Information Security professional with over a decade of experience in cybersecurity and technology governance. She currently serves as a Senior Specialist in Fintech at the Financial Services Regulatory Authority, ADGM. Jumanah holds 17 IT certifications and has completed a program in Information Security Risk Management from Harvard University. Her expertise lies in information security strategy, governance, and performance management.
She also holds a Master’s degree in Blockchain and Digital Currencies, reflecting her deep interest in digital transformation. Known for her clear communication style, Jumanah is a regular speaker on topics like cybersecurity, blockchain, and risk management. Her work blends technical strength with a strategic mindset, making her a recognized leader in the UAE’s cybersecurity landscape.
Noura A, Director of Digital and Technology Services, Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company)
Noura A. is a cybersecurity and IT leader currently serving as Director of Digital and Technology Services at Masdar. She brings years of experience in driving digital transformation and aligning technology strategies with business goals. Known for her strong mix of technical expertise and leadership, Noura helps organizations stay ahead by adopting emerging technologies and improving operational efficiency.
She is passionate about building high-performing teams, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring governance and compliance across IT functions. Noura leads efforts to protect critical information assets, using a hands-on approach to cybersecurity. Her focus lies in enhancing system architecture, streamlining processes, and promoting innovation. With a deep commitment to excellence, she continues to shape the future of digital and cybersecurity strategy in the UAE.
Hannah Suarez, CISO, Loyalty Status Co
Hannah Suarez is a cybersecurity leader with nearly a decade of experience across startups and large enterprises in telecom, entertainment, marketing, airlines, and tech. As the CISO at Loyalty Status Co, she leads information security and compliance programs, helping protect data and systems at scale. She has worked on multi-million-dollar cyber risk projects impacting millions of users.
Hannah brings deep expertise in policy development, security training, risk analysis, and frameworks like ISO, SOC, NIST, and SOX. A global professional, she has lived and worked across five countries and is passionate about empowering teams and sharing knowledge through public speaking and her volunteer work with ISC.
Dr. Yasmin Razack, CISO at MAVEN INTERNATIONAL
Dr. Yasmin Razack is the Chief Information Security Officer at MAVEN INTERNATIONAL, bringing over 25 years of expertise across IT, fintech, and airline sectors. With a doctorate in Cybersecurity from the University of Fairfax, she specializes in IT Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), Cloud Security, and emerging technologies like blockchain.
Yasmin is a certified ISO Lead Auditor and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, known for driving cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and service improvements in mission-critical environments. Passionate about research and education, she also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Manipal Academy of Higher Education in Dubai.
Alya Al Marzooqi, Group Digital Risk Management and Compliance Manager, ADNOC Group
Alya Al Marzooqi is a seasoned cybersecurity leader with strong roots in the oil and gas sector. At ADNOC Group, she leads digital risk and compliance initiatives, ensuring resilience across critical operations. With experience spanning government, engineering, financial services, and manufacturing, she brings a broad perspective to every challenge.
Alya is known for her sharp leadership, clear communication, and ability to work across multidisciplinary teams. She has successfully managed security programs for global organizations in diverse sectors like FMCG, retail, and IT services. Her work continues to shape robust cybersecurity practices in high-risk industries.
Irene Corpuz, Founding Partner and Head of Governance & Communications, Women in Cyber Security Middle East
Irene Corpuz is a well-known cybersecurity leader in the Middle East. She is passionate about building safer digital ecosystems and preparing organizations for the future of AI and quantum technologies. Irene is a Founding Partner of Women in Cybersecurity Middle East (WiCSME), where she helps create opportunities for women in the field.
She also serves on the Strategic Steering Committee at the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE), working with global partners to improve cyber capacity and tackle emerging threats.
Irene’s strengths lie in cyber policy, AI, quantum governance, and thought leadership. She regularly shares insights on the future of cybersecurity and was named one of the Top 20 Cybersecurity Women of the World in 2024. Through her work, she continues to drive innovation and inclusion across the cybersecurity landscape.
Rajvi Modi, Information Security Manager, Banque Misr UAE
Rajvi Modi is an experienced cybersecurity professional with over 10 years in the field. She has worked across multiple industries, including finance, FMCG, aviation, and pharmaceuticals. Her core strengths lie in risk assessment, data protection, compliance, and vulnerability management.
Rajvi has led several global projects, performing security audits and ensuring alignment with frameworks like ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and GDPR. She is skilled in cloud platforms such as Azure and AWS and has hands-on expertise in tools like Nessus, Burp Suite, and Qualysguard.
Her broad technical knowledge and deep understanding of regulatory requirements make her a trusted leader in the UAE’s cybersecurity landscape.
Siham Benhamidouche, VP cybersecurity and data risk, Digital Customer Relations, Schneider Electric
Siham Benhamidouche is the Vice President of Cybersecurity and Data Risk for Digital Customer Relations at Schneider Electric. She leads the cybersecurity strategy for the region, focusing on digital risk management. Her work covers key areas like cyber risk, data privacy compliance, and PCI-DSS standards.
With a strong background in digital trust and governance, Siham plays a critical role in ensuring secure and compliant digital experiences for Schneider Electric’s customers. She is also passionate about creating awareness around cybersecurity best practices in the business landscape.
Badreya AlMehairi, AVP Senior Manager – Data privacy- Information Security, Mashreq Bank
Badreya AlMehairi is a seasoned cybersecurity leader at Mashreq Bank. She is certified in CISSP, ISO 27001, and ISO 22301, and brings strong expertise in data privacy, information security, and business continuity. Badreya leads security planning, risk assessments, and incident response.
She holds a Master’s degree in AI, Knowledge Management, and Data Analysis. Her background includes deep knowledge of network security, vulnerability management, and threat mitigation. Known for her hands-on approach and leadership, she excels at aligning security processes with business goals. Badreya is passionate about securing digital ecosystems while promoting a culture of cyber resilience.
Sheeba Sultan Hasnain, Chairwoman & CIO, Sentiente
Sheeba Sultan Hasnain is a seasoned tech leader with over 20 years of experience in IT, AI, and cybersecurity. As Chairwoman and CIO of Sentiente, she drives digital transformation while championing responsible AI and women in tech. Throughout her career, Sheeba has taken on multiple leadership roles, including CIO, CISO, programmer, and strategist, building strong IT operations and leading major AI projects.
She’s a passionate public speaker and mentor, especially focused on empowering women and mothers in tech. Through her “Women Empowering Women” initiative, she shares stories of strength and innovation.
Her work has earned her recognition through several awards, including the Visionary AI Leader Award and Global CIO & CISO honors. Sheeba believes in purpose-led innovation, inclusion, and tech that drives real impact.
Lorna Trayan, Sr. Executive Partner, CISO Advisor, Gartner
Lorna Trayan is a seasoned cybersecurity advisor with over 20 years of experience. At Gartner, she serves as a Senior Executive Partner and CISO Advisor, having worked closely with more than 65 CISOs across the GCC, Europe, and the UK. She is known for helping leaders simplify complex security issues and make informed decisions. Lorna often speaks at industry events and leads awareness sessions for boards and executive teams. Her strength lies in making cybersecurity practical, clear, and aligned with business goals.
Conclusion
As the UAE rapidly advances its cybersecurity capabilities, these 25 women stand at the forefront, leading strategy, shaping policy, and securing the future. Their diverse expertise and visionary leadership not only reflect the country’s digital ambitions but also redefine what it means to be a cybersecurity leader in today’s digital world.
The path ahead is digital, and these women are making sure it’s secure.
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