Circularo is playing a key role in nurturing the UAE’s future cybersecurity experts by once again supporting the 2026 School of Cyber Defence competition as a Gold Sponsor. This student-centered initiative, orchestrated by TechFirm Technology LLC with the backing of the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), is set to challenge university students through practical cybersecurity operations. Designed to mirror real-world scenarios, the competition aims to enhance participants’ skills in areas such as network protection, threat management, and system security, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies.
The competition will unfold over several months, culminating in a final showdown at GISEC Global in Dubai on September 18, 2026. It begins with an online qualification round, where students will demonstrate their foundational skills. Successful teams will then be tasked with a case study that demands a thorough assessment and strategic response to a simulated security situation. After expert evaluation, the top five teams will receive mentorship to refine their solutions, which they will present before a panel of cybersecurity experts in the finals.
The initiative builds on the success of the inaugural School of Cyber Defence competition held in 2025 during GISEC Global, which saw robust participation from UAE universities. With over 300 applications and 130 students engaging in the initial rounds, the competition has quickly become a significant platform for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Participants must be at least 17 years old and can form teams of up to five members, with no prior competition experience required. A prize pool exceeding AED 20,000 adds further incentive for teams to excel.
Circularo’s commitment extends beyond sponsorship; the company is dedicated to equipping students with practical experience that complements their theoretical knowledge. By providing industry insights and engaging directly with participants in classroom settings, Circularo aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Founded in 2013, the company specializes in digital trust solutions and secure document workflows, serving government agencies, businesses, and institutions across the Middle East and beyond.
As the registration deadline of September 3, 2026, approaches, interested students are encouraged to seize the opportunity to partake in this comprehensive program. The competition schedule includes online qualifications by September 6, case study analysis and jury assessment from September 7 to 11, and mentoring for finalists on September 14, leading up to the final event at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai. For further information, participants can visit Circularo’s website or contact their media team directly.
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