Penetration Testing: A Comprehensive Guide for UAE Organizations

Regular penetration testing is essential for UAE businesses and often required by regulators. Here's what you need to know about planning and conducting effective pen tests.

Penetration testing — authorized simulation of cyberattacks against your systems — is the most effective way to identify exploitable vulnerabilities before attackers do. For UAE organizations, penetration testing is not just a best practice — it's mandated by regulators including CBUAE for financial institutions, DHA for healthcare, and NESA for critical infrastructure.

Types of Penetration Testing

External penetration testing targets your internet-facing assets: websites, APIs, email servers, and VPN endpoints. Internal penetration testing simulates an insider threat or post-breach scenario within your network. Web application penetration testing focuses specifically on application-level vulnerabilities. Social engineering testing evaluates your employees' resistance to phishing and pretexting.

Scoping Your Pen Test

Define scope carefully: which systems, IP ranges, and applications are in scope? Are there any systems that must be excluded (production databases, critical infrastructure)? What testing windows are acceptable? For UAE businesses, ensure the scope covers all regulatory requirements — CBUAE mandates testing of internet banking, mobile banking, and payment systems.

Choosing a Pen Testing Provider

Evaluate providers on certifications (OSCP, CREST, GPEN), methodology (OWASP, PTES, NIST), reporting quality (actionable findings, not just vulnerability scanner output), and remediation support. Local providers understand UAE-specific regulatory requirements and can conduct on-site testing where needed. Request sample reports before engaging.

Bayden's offensive security team conducts penetration testing for UAE organizations across all industries, providing detailed findings with clear remediation guidance and executive-level reporting. We help you understand your real security posture, not just your compliance status.