Filipe Antunes, Department of Finance, UAE

In the fast-paced digital transformation of the Middle East, the Department of Finance (DoF)
in the UAE is tackling cybersecurity head-on. Under the leadership of Filipe Antunes, the
department has adopted a systematic and proactive approach to cyber resilience, ensuring
they stay one step ahead of evolving threats.
“Our cybersecurity strategy is aligned with the broader goals of the UAE government,
focusing on a mix of cutting-edge technology, frameworks, and internal culture to build
resilience,” says Filipe. One key element of their strategy is the adoption of the MITRE
ATT&CK framework to identify and counter threats, combined with a shift to Zero Trust
Architecture. “We no longer trust by default; every access request is rigorously verified,” he
explains.
Filipe believes that building a strong cybersecurity culture is paramount to ensuring that
everyone—from IT professionals to the wider organization—understands the importance of
safeguarding sensitive information. “Last year, we launched a comprehensive Security
Awareness Program, and this year, we’re enhancing it further with regular phishing
simulations, gamified learning experiences, and tailored educational materials. We want
every employee to feel personally responsible for cybersecurity,” he adds.
On the technology front, the DoF is embracing AI and machine learning to enhance their
defense capabilities. “We use AI-driven threat intelligence to stay ahead of attacks and
analyze emerging risks daily,” says Filipe. This allows the team to react quickly and
effectively to potential threats.
The department also prioritizes compliance with both regional and international
cybersecurity standards. “We consistently score high on government assessments, with a
99% compliance rate last year, but we’re always striving for more,” says Filipe.
Looking to the future, Filipe sees the cybersecurity landscape becoming increasingly
challenging as AI-powered attack tools evolve. “Cybersecurity is becoming more complex,
and we must continuously adapt. Today, you don’t need to be a highly technical expert to be
a hacker. Anyone with malicious intent can use tools to attack organizations. This makes
staying on top of cybersecurity more critical than ever,” he notes. The DoF is already
exploring post-quantum cryptography to prepare for the next generation of cyber threats.
For Filipe and the team at the Department of Finance, cybersecurity is more than just a
technical necessity—it’s a strategic pillar that enables the UAE’s digital future, ensuring that
they are ready for whatever comes next.