Qatar National Cyber Security Agency Achieves Two ISO Certifications. Doha, Qatar – The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of excellence by securing two prestigious ISO certifications: the ISO/IEC 20000 for IT Service Management and the ISO/IEC 27001 for Information Security in Data Centers.
These certifications underscore the agency’s commitment to maintaining the highest international standards in cybersecurity and IT service management, ensuring the security and quality of its internal digital operations.
A Commitment to International Standards
The acquisition of these two ISO certifications highlights the NCSA’s dedication to upholding global best practices in cybersecurity. With rising cyber threats worldwide, maintaining robust information security is critical for ensuring the protection of data and digital infrastructure. By obtaining the ISO/IEC 20000 certification, the NCSA has demonstrated its excellence in managing IT services, focusing on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and ongoing improvements to its service management processes. This certification aligns the agency’s IT management practices with global benchmarks, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality IT services that meet the needs of its users.
Sarah Hassan Al Abdulmalik, Director of the Information Technology Department at the National Cyber Security Agency, expressed the importance of achieving the ISO 20000 certification, stating: “This certification affirms the high standards of IT services we provide. It is grounded in key principles designed to achieve operational excellence, meet customer needs, and continuously enhance our IT management practices in line with global standards.”
Strengthening Cybersecurity with ISO 27001 Certification
In addition to the IT Service Management certification, the NCSA also obtained the ISO/IEC 27001-2022 certification, which is a global standard for information security management. This certification is particularly significant for safeguarding the security of data centers, critical infrastructure, and digital systems. With increasing threats to data security and the rising sophistication of cyberattacks, obtaining ISO 27001 certification enables the agency to implement stringent security protocols and ensure business continuity in the face of potential risks.
Al Abdulmalik praised the agency’s team for their diligence and hard work, noting that the certifications are a reflection of their dedication to meeting stringent international standards. “Receiving these certifications is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our teams. They successfully fulfilled all requirements and completed the necessary procedures, passing rigorous technical and security evaluations without any remarks,” she remarked.
The ISO/IEC 27001 certification allows the National Cyber Security Agency to enhance its capability in protecting sensitive data and ensuring that its systems and applications are secure against potential breaches. This achievement is particularly vital for Qatar, as the country continues to develop its digital infrastructure in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to create a robust and secure digital economy.
Enhancing Business Continuity and Risk Management
One of the core benefits of the ISO 27001 certification is its emphasis on risk management and business continuity. The certification enables the NCSA to establish and implement effective internal and external security protocols that protect the organization during critical situations, including disasters or cyberattacks. By continuously monitoring risks and improving security measures, the agency ensures that business operations remain intact under all conditions.
The National Cyber Security Agency has placed significant emphasis on ensuring the security and reliability of Qatar’s critical infrastructure. By safeguarding data centers and ensuring that IT systems and applications operate securely, the agency can effectively support national goals and ensure the safety of digital assets.
The Role of Certifications in Strengthening Qatar’s Digital Infrastructure
As Qatar moves toward becoming a global leader in digital innovation, the ISO 20000 and ISO 27001 certifications play a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity framework. These certifications demonstrate the NCSA’s ability to meet the highest standards of IT service management and information security, ensuring that Qatar’s digital infrastructure remains secure, resilient, and capable of supporting the country’s economic and technological growth.
By achieving these certifications, the National Cyber Security Agency sets a benchmark for other organizations in the region, showcasing how adherence to international standards can lead to greater operational efficiency, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced data security. The NCSA’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures that Qatar remains at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, building a digital ecosystem that is both secure and sustainable.
Conclusion
The National Cyber Security Agency’s achievement of the ISO/IEC 20000 and ISO/IEC 27001 certifications represents a significant leap forward in Qatar’s journey to becoming a global leader in cybersecurity and digital safety. With these certifications, the agency has proven its commitment to maintaining the highest levels of operational excellence, data security, and risk management.
As digital threats continue to evolve, the NCSA’s proactive approach to cybersecurity will help safeguard Qatar’s critical infrastructure and ensure that the country is well-prepared to address future challenges. By setting a strong foundation of internationally recognized standards, the NCSA not only protects its own operations but also contributes to Qatar’s broader vision of a secure and thriving digital economy.