Rabdan Academy, a specialised institution in safety, security, defence, emergency preparedness and crisis management, has signed a strategic agreement with Abu Dhabi Global Market Academy (ADGMA), the knowledge arm of the international financial centre in Abu Dhabi.

The collaboration seeks to enhance the safety and security system within Abu Dhabi's financial sector aligning with the comprehensive vision of both entities involved.

The signing ceremony took place during the Problem Statements and Risk Edition symposium organised by ADGMA Research Centre. The event was attended by His Excellency James Morse, President of Rabdan Academy and representatives from both parties.

The strategic cooperation between the two academies will foster the development of the research, development, and innovation system related to safety and security in Abu Dhabi's financial sector. Joint working teams will be established to create and deliver specialised academic and professional programmes focused on combating financial crimes, specifically in areas such as money laundering, terrorist financing, proliferation financing, cybersecurity, and other related fields.

James Morse, President of Rabdan Academy, said: “We warmly welcome this exceptional partnership with the Abu Dhabi Global Market Academy, which aligns with the national strategies to combat financial crimes and terrorism financing. Through coordination, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, we are confident that we can enhance the capabilities of organisations and individuals while developing highly qualified national professionals capable of combating financial crimes on a global scale.”

Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the ADGMA Board of Directors, said: “We are delighted to partner with Rabdan Academy to enhance the safety and security measures across the UAE’s growing financial sector through systems that keep research and innovation in its core. As our nation’s strategies focus on continuously strengthening AML/CTF initiatives, it is important to advance the capacities of the organisations and individuals in the UAE while also equipping professionals with the necessary skills to implement these strategies in real scenarios.”

Both academies possess specialised research centres and have access to a highly skilled global research workforce. The will unite research and academic efforts, enabling the development of essential tools and technologies to detect and deter highly intricate financial crimes while adopting international best practices.

The two parties will collaborate on joint programmes, projects, conferences and workshops. The entities will also provide consultations, and case study activities along with the opportunity to discuss business development, technology and artificial intelligence related to the field.