In a bid to bolster the burgeoning cybersecurity talent pool in the UAE, Circularo is returning as a Gold Sponsor for the School of Cyber Defence competition in 2026. This student-focused event, organized by TechFirm Technology LLC and supported by the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), aims to bring university students together to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges. The competition will culminate in a final event at GISEC Global in Dubai on September 18, 2026, where the top five teams will present and defend their solutions before a panel of cybersecurity experts.
Participants will first compete in an online qualification round, with selected teams advancing to work on a detailed case study that tests their ability to assess and respond to a simulated security scenario. Following expert evaluations, the five leading teams will receive mentorship to prepare for the final showdown. This year’s program will cover critical areas such as network protection, threat management, system security, and incident response, while also incorporating artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies.
Circularo’s sponsorship reflects its commitment to providing students with practical cybersecurity experience that complements their academic learning. Beyond financial support, the company intends to engage with participants through classroom involvement, sharing industry insights and expertise. The competition is open to students aged 17 and above, allowing teams of up to five members to participate without prior competition experience. A prize pool exceeding AED 20,000 awaits the winners.
The 2026 competition builds on the success of the inaugural School of Cyber Defence held during GISEC Global 2025, which drew over 300 applications from UAE universities and witnessed 130 students participating in the qualification rounds. This initiative is a testament to the growing emphasis on nurturing cybersecurity skills among the youth, crucial for safeguarding digital infrastructures in the region.
Circularo, established in 2013, specializes in digital trust and document workflow solutions, including secure digital transaction services and electronic signing. Its clientele spans government entities, businesses, and institutions across the Middle East and beyond. The competition will be hosted at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, with key dates including registration closure on September 3, 2026, online qualification by September 6, 2026, and case study assessment from September 7 to September 11, 2026. Finalists will be announced on September 14, 2026.
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