In an era where cybersecurity holds the greatest importance, the role of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) has become increasingly critical, especially in various sectors.
Dubai, a leading global hub ranking 5th globally in cybersecurity, is home to some of the most innovative and effective CISOs who ensure the security and integrity of financial institutions.
Below, we highlight the Top 10 CISOs in Dubai till date, recognized for their contributions and leadership in cybersecurity.
1. Waqas H. – HBL Microfinance Bank Ltd.
28,005 Followers on LinkedIn
Industry: Banking
Waqas Haider’s journey is a compelling narrative of growth and adaptation. With two decades of experience across different industries like Telecom, Banking, Fintech, Education, and IT, he began his career in Branch Banking before transitioning into Risk Management. His first decade saw him mastering areas from Credit Risk to Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), encompassing Basel standards, Operational Risk, Business Continuity Management (BCM), Market & Liquidity Risk, Internal Controls, and Financial Reporting. The following decade was dedicated to Technology and Digital Risk Management, including Cyber and Information Security. Driven by dedication to knowledge, he continuously upskilled, earning additional master’s degrees in Computer Science and Information Security alongside his MBA in Finance. His journey is marked by a commitment to lifelong learning, volunteering for extra responsibilities, and a passion for delivering innovative solutions to organizational challenges.
LinkedIn Profile –: https://www.linkedin.com/in/00000wh/
2. Aus Alzubaidi – MBC GROUP
Industry: Broadcast Media Production and Distribution
Aus Alzubaidi’s journey is a compelling story of innovation and leadership in the fields of IT, cybersecurity, and media management. With over 18 years of experience, he has skillfully integrated these disciplines to drive business growth and enhance operational efficiency. Starting as a passionate tech enthusiast, he has advanced to become a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Director of IT & Media Management. His strategic vision and innovative approach have successfully led large-scale digital and cloud transformations, strengthened cybersecurity governance, and implemented AI-driven solutions that significantly enhanced productivity. He is not only a technical excellence but also a skilled communicator, frequently sharing his insights at international conferences and garnering numerous top global CIO/CISO awards. His career is a blend of technical expertise, strategic foresight, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Linkedln Profile – : https://www.linkedin.com/in/ausalzubaidi/
3. Jagmohan Singh – Sukoon Insurance
Industry: Insurance
Jagmohan Singh’s career unfolds as a remarkable journey of leadership and innovation in Information Security within the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors. With over 27 years of experience in the industry he was the Global Head of Information Security (Group CISO) at Canara Bank, Jagmohan spearheaded transformative strategies that harmonized technology with business imperatives, aligning them to achieve business objectives while meeting diverse stakeholder expectations. After his tenure at Canara Bank, he got the role of Head of Information Security – CISO at Sukoon Insurance in Dubai, where he continues to drive cybersecurity excellence and operational resilience in the dynamic landscape of the insurance industry. His academic journey is marked by achievements such as an MCA, MBA in Project Management, and M.Com in Information Technology from Delhi University which states his commitment to continuous learning and excellence.
LinkedIn Profile -: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jagmohan-s-122b161a/
4. Jordan Savvides – Global CISO Advisory
Industry: Banking
Jordan Savvides is a seasoned Global CISO with a reputation for developing Cyber Security Strategies and executing successful Cyber Security Programs across diverse global markets, including the UK, UAE, Bahrain, Balkans, Greece, and Cyprus. With over 28 years of continuous experience in IT, IT Security, and Cyber Security leadership roles within the banking sector, he has sharpened exceptional communication, coordination, and project management skills. Known for his dynamic leadership style, he has effectively led Information Security initiatives at prominent institutions such as the National Bank of Fujairah (NBF), National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, Alpha Bank Group, and Alpha Bank Cyprus. His comprehensive skill set includes expertise in ISO 27001:2013 implementation, ISMS development, and IS Risk Management.
Linkedln Profile – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordansavvides/
5. Hussain AlKhalsan – Zand
Industry: Banking
Hussain AlKhalsan is an accomplished Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), leading the cybersecurity initiatives at Zand in Dubai since June 2019. With a solid foundation spanning over 14 years, Hussain has excelled in IT Infrastructure, IT Security, Risk Management, and Technology Risk Management roles, as Deputy Head of IT Risk & GRC at the Commercial Bank of Dubai. Known for his meticulous and respectful approach, Hussain navigates organizational structures precisely, ensuring adherence to cybersecurity incident management, information security policies, and regulatory compliance. His expertise extends to governance, risk assessments, and business continuity management, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding organizational assets while fostering a culture of security and resilience.
Linkedln Profile – https://www.linkedin.com/in/hussain-alkhalsan-ciso-65ab76a/
6. Ayoub Fathi – Noon
Industry: Retail
Ayoub Fathi is the Group VP of Information Security and CISO at Noon Group, where he leads the charge in protecting millions of customers across the MENA region. Since joining in 2017, he has built Noon’s information security program from the ground up, leveraging his background in the Whitehat ecosystem where he was recognized globally for identifying vulnerabilities in major companies. Beyond his duties, Ayoub remains deeply engaged in tackling complex security challenges and has recently discovered a critical loophole in OpenAI. His approach combines technical expertise with strategic leadership, driving Governance, Risk and Compliance, Offensive Security, and more across the organization. He is dedicated to fostering collaboration, ensuring compliance with global standards, and guiding Noon Group toward security excellence through innovative solutions and strong leadership.
Linkedln Profile – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoubfathi/
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is based on research conducted by CXO Junction using keywords such as “Most followed CISOs in Dubai.” The primary source of this research is LinkedIn. The information provided is intended for informational purposes only and reflects the data available at the time of the research. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy. Source: LinkedIn
