Dubai Police Academy has unveiled a new master’s degree in cybersecurity, the first of its kind among police colleges in the Arab world. The one-year programme, which begins in December 2025, comes with tuition fees of Dh60,000 and is open to both UAE citizens and residents.

Dr Ebtsam Al Awadhi, Director of Graduate Studies at the academy, said the degree will cover four key areas: policies and management, digital forensics, digital infrastructure and security, and scientific research and publishing. Unlike traditional police academic programmes that usually take two to three years, this one is designed to be completed in a single year, requiring 30 credit hours across three semesters and a summer term.

Eligibility/Admission
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in law, security sciences or a related field from a university recognised by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. At least five years of professional experience in cybersecurity is required, alongside English proficiency (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL CBT 5.5, TOEFL IBT 550, or equivalent). Candidates must also pass an academic exam and a personal interview.

Industry-driven approach
Dr Saeed Al Rashdi, a cybersecurity expert, said the programme has been designed in line with market needs. “Practical training will take the largest share, supported by theoretical study, and industry specialists will deliver the teaching,” he explained.

Cybercrime expertise
Dubai Police has been at the forefront of tackling digital crime, with its Criminal Data Analysis Centre working alongside the CID to use AI and advanced systems for detecting criminal hotspots and predicting cyber threats. The force has successfully disrupted high-value cyber fraud operations, including tracking a gang behind a multi-billion-dirham scam.

Graduates of the new programme will be well-placed to support such missions, with strong prospects for roles in the cybersecurity sector, and potentially within Dubai Police’s own cybercrime units.

Registration is now open on the Dubai Police Academy website, with the first intake expected to include 15–20 students.

Abu Dhabi Police has reminded motorists that they must come to a complete stop at least five metres away when a school bus activates its side-mounted stop sign arm. The rule applies to drivers approaching from both directions to ensure students can cross the road safely.

Penalties for violations

• Fine: Dh1,000
• 10 traffic points
• All violations will be detected electronically

Rules for school bus drivers
To avoid traffic disruption, bus drivers must follow these guidelines when using the stop arm:

• Stop directly in front of a student’s home (unless blocked by construction or obstacles).
• Avoid stopping at public bus stops on highways or major roads, which are unsafe for students.
• Do not activate the stop arm while a student is still inside the home.
• Misuse of stop arms, such as activating them in prohibited areas, may allow other drivers to contest violations.

Both drivers and bus operators must strictly follow school bus safety rules to protect children and ensure smooth traffic flow across the emirate.

Families in Dubai will soon have more education choices as the city’s private education sector continues its strong growth. For the 2025-26 academic year, 16 new early childhood centres (ECCs), six schools, and three international universities are set to open their doors.

More seats for students
Together, the new institutions will add more than 11,700 school seats and welcome over 2,400 children at early childhood centres, giving families more flexibility when choosing where to enrol their children.

New schools this year

• UK curriculum: GEMS School of Research and Innovation (Sports City), Victory Heights Primary School (City of Arabia), Dubai British School (Mira), Dubai English Speaking School (Academic City), and Al Fanar School (Nad Al Sheba).
• French curriculum: Lycée Français International School (Mudon).

Early learning options
The 16 new ECCs will cater to Dubai’s diverse communities with:

• 11 offering the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• 3 following the Creative Curriculum
• 1 Montessori centre
• 1 Maple Bear centre

Higher education expands
Three new international universities will also welcome students:

• Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) – ranked 27th globally in Business & Management (QS Rankings)
• American University of Beirut – ranked 237th globally (QS Rankings)
• Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia

KHDA’s view
Her Excellency Aisha Miran, Director General of KHDA, said the expansion reflects investor confidence in Dubai and aligns with the city’s Education 33 Strategy. “By welcoming trusted operators and innovative models into more communities, we are creating new opportunities for our learners to thrive, while supporting Dubai’s long-term economic and social aspirations,” she said.

Number of institutions 

• 331 early childhood centres
• 233 schools
• 44 higher education institutions