UAE government entities, representing nuclear regulation, emergency preparedness and public health sectors, underscored importance of information security, emergency preparedness and mental health to protect the community and ensure entities are able to maintain their mandates, especially in times of emergencies.
Such views were made in a one-day workshop, organized by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) in cooperation with the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) to discuss the importance of information security and business continuity challenges during the pandemic and lessons learned.
The workshop brought together national experts and decision makers to share knowledge and expertise in regards to information protection and business sustainability. During the workshop, they presented their case studies to illustrate best practices to eliminate information security threats; promote information security culture among UAE government entities.
In his opening remarks, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) Christer Viktorsson: “at the time, the world experienced unprecedented challenges, disrupting businesses, trade, industries and others due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the United Arab Emirates, thanks to its wise leadership, has successfully managed the pandemic, ensuring public safety and continuing business. FANR took swift actions to ensure its staff safety and wellbeing as well as continue its essential regulatory oversight. During such times, we achieved historic milestones for the UAE when we issued the Operating Licenses of Units 1 and 2 of Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, making the nation the first Arab country to operate a nuclear power plant.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Taher Al Ameri, Spokesperson for the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) stressed that business continuity is mandatory for government entities to carry out their duties. He presented various stages of emergency preparedness and coordination mechanism across the government to ensure the smooth operation of the workplace.
HE Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Executive Director of Infection Diseases Sector in Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC) and Official Spokesperson for Health Sector in the UAE, maintained that physical and mental health during times of pandemics is critical to ensure public safety. Dr. Al Hosani said that at such times it is imperative to maintain resilience by building connections, seeking help and embrace healthy thoughts in workplaces. Dr. Al Hosani stressed that government entities have an important role in developing initiatives to support staff and foster their mental health.
Dr. Naill Al Momani, Head of Crisis Management Department in in Dubai Police Academy presented a case study on “are we prepared for future disasters”. He stressed that business continuity is required for business functioning, underscoring that preparedness lead to better performance. Dr. Al Momani underscored roles of individuals and organizations in developing and supporting business continuity to ensure smooth operation of the business. He further stated that academics have a role to play in disaster management by producing and spreading knowledge, promoting risk protection and evaluation emergency response effectiveness.
The workshop participants stressed that community awareness play an important role in supporting government efforts to ensure business continuity and information security, especially in times of crises.