Cloud service scope
Define the cloud services, platforms and operating environments covered by the assessment.
DUBAI CLOUD SECURITY • DESC CSP
DESC CSP Certification in UAE & Dubai
Independent assessment against the Dubai Electronic Security Center Cloud Service Provider Security Standard for cloud providers serving Dubai government and semi-government entities.
DESC CSP Security Standard
ISO/IEC 27001 aligned scheme
Dubai government cloud services
DESC CSP
Cloud Service Provider
CLOUD SECURITY STANDARD
Secure cloud.
Secure cloud.
Demonstrable assurance.
A Dubai-focused cloud security framework connecting provider controls, data centre arrangements, third parties and independent assessment.
DESC CSP • CLOUD SERVICE PROVIDER SECURITY
A Dubai cybersecurity standard for cloud service providers.
The DESC CSP Security Standard sets out security controls and guidance for CSPs and organizations using cloud services.
WHAT IS DESC CSP CERTIFICATION?
DESC CSP certification addresses cloud security for providers serving Dubai government and semi-government entities.
The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) publishes the Cloud Service Provider (CSP) Security Standard for cloud service providers and organizations using cloud services. DESC states that compliance is mandatory for CSPs wishing to offer cloud services for Dubai government and semi-government entities.
DESC also states that the CSP Security Standard is based on ISO/IEC 27001:2013, ISO/IEC 27002:2013, ISO/IEC 27017:2015, ISR:2017 v.02 and the Cloud Security Alliance Cloud Controls Matrix 3.0.1.
The certification process was designed to align with the established international certification scheme applied for ISO/IEC 27001. Existing certifications may be acknowledged where they apply to the defined certification scope.
Important distinction
DESC CSP certification is a Dubai-specific certification scheme for the
Cloud Service Provider Security Standard. It is not an ISO certificate issued
by ISO; DESC states that its certification process aligns with the established
ISO/IEC 27001 certification scheme.
DESC CSP IN PRACTICE
Build the certification scope around the cloud services you actually operate.
A cloud provider's certification scope should reflect the services, platforms, locations, data centres, supporting teams and external dependencies that make up the service being assessed. A clearly defined scope makes the assessment easier to understand and keeps the certificate connected to the actual cloud operation.
DESC specifically addresses CSPs that use one or more co-located third-party data centres. In those cases, the certification process needs to consider how the provider manages the security of the third-party arrangement and associated risks.
Existing ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 27002 and ISO/IEC 27017-related evidence can be relevant where it matches the applicable scope. DESC states that existing certifications can be acknowledged within its certification process without additional audits for those existing certificates, subject to applicability.
For UAE cloud providers, the practical objective is to connect the Dubai-specific certification scope with the security controls already operating across the cloud service.
Security controls
Demonstrate how information security controls operate across the defined cloud environment.
Data centre arrangements
Address relevant data centre locations, ownership models, providers and security arrangements.
Third-party risk
Show how external providers and dependencies are evaluated and controlled within the service model.
Operational evidence
Maintain objective evidence showing that the applicable controls are operating in practice.
Independent assessment
Use the applicable certification scheme to obtain an independent assessment of the defined scope.
DESC CSP CONTROL FRAMEWORK
Organize cloud security evidence around the service, technology and operating model.
Preparation is stronger when the certification scope is connected to the way the cloud service is designed, operated, monitored and supported.
Define the cloud service
Identify the services, platforms, locations, organizational functions and supporting environments included in the certification scope.
Map security controls
Connect the applicable DESC controls with existing security policies, procedures, technologies and management practices.
Review operational evidence
Check that access management, monitoring, incident handling, supplier controls and other applicable safeguards produce usable evidence.
Evaluate external dependencies
Identify data centres, technology providers and other third parties that influence the security of the cloud service.
Strengthen assessment readiness
Review evidence, internal findings and operational records before the external certification assessment begins.
Maintain the security framework
Use audit findings, security events, reviews and changes in the cloud environment to keep the system effective over time.
DESC CSP CERTIFICATION READINESS
Assessment readiness is built from evidence across the cloud service operation.
The evidence reviewed depends on the agreed scope, cloud architecture, locations, data centre arrangements, supporting functions and third parties included in the certification programme.
Document the cloud platforms, services, environments and technical boundaries included in scope.
Demonstrate how identities, privileges, authentication and access reviews are managed.
Show how monitoring, event handling, vulnerability management and security operations are performed.
Provide evidence for relevant physical and operational security arrangements at in-scope data centres.
Demonstrate how supplier risks, service dependencies and co-located facilities are managed.
Show how security incidents, service disruptions, response activities and recovery arrangements are handled.
INDUSTRIES WE CERTIFY
ISO certification across the industries we serve.
DESC CSP certification is most relevant to cloud service providers supporting government, regulated, enterprise and digitally delivered services in Dubai and the UAE.
IT & Technology
Cloud platforms, managed services, software environments and technology providers operating services for enterprise and public-sector customers.
Explore IndustryBanking & Financial Services
Cloud services supporting financial applications, digital banking platforms, payment environments and technology operations.
Explore IndustryHealthcare
Cloud environments supporting healthcare applications, records, digital services and technology-enabled clinical operations.
Explore IndustryGovernment & Public Sector
Cloud providers supporting government platforms, digital services and public-sector technology environments in Dubai and the wider UAE.
Explore IndustryTelecommunications
Cloud and digital infrastructure services supporting communications, customer platforms and network-related technology environments.
Explore IndustryRetail & E-commerce
Cloud services supporting online commerce, customer applications, transaction platforms and digital retail operations.
Explore IndustryLogistics & Supply Chain
Cloud environments supporting logistics platforms, supply-chain systems, tracking services and operational coordination.
Explore IndustryHospitality & Tourism
Cloud applications supporting reservations, guest services, digital experiences and hospitality technology operations.
Explore Industry
DESC CSP CERTIFICATION SCOPE
The certificate scope should describe the cloud service that was actually assessed.
A precise scope is important because cloud services can involve multiple platforms, regions, facilities, support teams and external providers. The scope should identify the service boundaries that the certification assessment covers.
For CSPs serving Dubai government or semi-government entities, the scope should also make the relationship between the provider, its cloud services and relevant supporting environments clear.
Cloud services
Define the cloud products, platforms and services included in the certification scope.
Locations
Identify relevant UAE facilities, data centres and other locations included in the assessment.
Technology
Clarify the platforms, systems, environments and supporting technology covered by the service scope.
External provision
Identify data centre providers, suppliers and other third parties that influence the cloud service.
DESC CSP CERTIFICATION PROCESS
From cloud scope definition to certification and ongoing surveillance.
The certification programme follows the applicable certification scheme and is planned around the CSP's services, locations, existing certifications, technology environment and readiness for assessment.
Define the certification scope
Identify cloud services, locations, platforms, supporting functions and third-party arrangements included in the intended assessment.
Map the DESC framework
Review the applicable security controls and map existing policies, certifications, procedures and technical safeguards to the assessment scope.
Prepare objective evidence
Confirm that operational records, technical evidence, security monitoring and management processes can demonstrate effective implementation.
Complete the certification audit
The certification body assesses the defined CSP scope against the applicable DESC certification criteria and reviews relevant evidence.
Address findings and certification
Review assessment findings, complete applicable corrective actions and proceed through the certification decision process.
Maintain certification
Continue operating and improving the security framework through surveillance audits and the three-year re-certification cycle described by DESC.
BENEFITS OF DESC CSP CERTIFICATION
A structured route for demonstrating cloud security to Dubai public-sector customers.
DESC CSP certification can help cloud providers demonstrate that the defined cloud service has been independently assessed against the Dubai-specific CSP security framework.
Defined cloud scope
Connect certification to the actual cloud services, platforms and environments being assessed.
Security assurance
Demonstrate independent assessment of applicable cloud security controls within scope.
Dubai public-sector relevance
Address the DESC framework used for CSPs providing cloud services to Dubai government and semi-government entities.
Third-party visibility
Bring data centres, suppliers and other service dependencies into a clearly defined security scope.
Existing certification recognition
Use applicable existing certifications as part of the DESC certification process where the scope matches.
Ongoing assurance
Maintain the certification cycle through surveillance audits and periodic re-certification.
MAINTAINING DESC CSP CERTIFICATION
Cloud security must remain current as services, technology and suppliers change.
DESC states that its certification cycle includes yearly surveillance audits and re-certification every three years. Ongoing maintenance should therefore keep the certified scope and supporting security evidence aligned with the live cloud service.
01 Review cloud service changes
Reassess the certification scope when cloud platforms, products, locations or service models change.
02 Monitor third-party dependencies
Keep data centre, supplier and technology-provider information current and aligned with the security model.
03 Maintain objective evidence
Preserve current records for security monitoring, incidents, access management, reviews and control operation.
04 Prepare for surveillance
Review open findings, changes and evidence before each surveillance or re-certification activity.
DESC CSP FAQ
Frequently asked questions about DESC CSP certification in UAE.
Find concise answers about the DESC Cloud Service Provider Security Standard, certification scope, assessment process and ongoing surveillance.
Request a DESC CSP QuoteWhat is DESC CSP certification in the UAE?
DESC CSP certification is an independent conformity assessment against the Dubai Electronic Security Center Cloud Service Provider Security Standard for a defined cloud service provider scope. DESC states that the standard applies to CSPs and organizations using cloud services, and that certification can demonstrate compliance for CSPs serving Dubai government and semi-government entities.
What does CSP mean in DESC CSP certification?
CSP means Cloud Service Provider. In the DESC context, the CSP Security Standard is designed for providers of cloud services and addresses the security of cloud services used by Dubai government and semi-government entities.
Who publishes the DESC CSP Security Standard?
The Cloud Service Provider Security Standard is produced by the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), the Dubai government entity responsible for cybersecurity initiatives and standards described on its official website.
Who needs DESC CSP certification?
DESC states that compliance with the CSP Security Standard is mandatory for cloud service providers wishing to offer cloud services for Dubai government and semi-government entities. The applicable scope should be confirmed for the provider and service arrangement concerned.
What does the DESC CSP Security Standard cover?
The standard provides security controls and guidance for cloud service providers and organizations using cloud services. The certification scope should identify the cloud services, locations, systems, supporting functions and relevant third-party arrangements included in the assessment.
Which standards form the basis of the DESC CSP Security Standard?
DESC states that its CSP Security Standard is based on ISO/IEC 27001:2013, ISO/IEC 27002:2013, ISO/IEC 27017:2015, ISR:2017 v.02 and the Cloud Security Alliance Cloud Controls Matrix 3.0.1.
Is DESC CSP certification related to ISO 27001?
Yes. DESC states that the CSP certification process was developed to align with the established international certification scheme applied for ISO/IEC 27001. Existing certifications can be acknowledged within the DESC process where they are applicable to the defined scope.
Can an existing ISO 27001 certificate support DESC CSP certification?
It can support the DESC certification process where the existing certification covers applicable services, locations and controls. DESC states that the basis of its process includes acknowledgement of existing certifications without further audits for those existing certificates, subject to the applicable scope and process.
What is the DESC CSP certification process in Dubai?
A certification programme normally starts with defining the CSP scope and reviewing the applicable security framework. The organization then prepares objective evidence, completes the assessment through the applicable certification scheme and addresses any findings before the certification decision. DESC describes the process as aligned with the established ISO/IEC 27001 certification scheme.
What can be included in a DESC CSP certification scope?
The scope can identify the cloud services offered, relevant data centres, technology platforms, organizational functions, locations, supporting processes and third-party services that are covered by the assessment. Scope wording should accurately describe the services being assessed.
Does DESC CSP certification apply to third-party data centres?
DESC specifically addresses CSPs using one or more co-located third-party data centres. The certification process should consider whether the data centre is covered by relevant existing or new certificates or whether the CSP controls and third-party risks need to be assessed within the certification programme.
Is DESC CSP certification mandatory for all cloud providers in the UAE?
No. DESC states that compliance with its CSP Security Standard is mandatory for CSPs wishing to offer cloud services for Dubai government and semi-government entities. That does not make DESC CSP certification a universal UAE obligation for every cloud provider.
How long does DESC CSP certification take?
There is no single duration for every CSP. Timing depends on the certification scope, number of services and locations, existing ISO/IEC certifications, technology architecture, third-party arrangements, evidence availability and readiness for assessment.
How long is a DESC CSP certificate valid?
DESC states that certificates issued through this process follow the usual management system certification cycle used by accredited certification bodies, with yearly surveillance audits and a re-certification audit every three years.
Does DESC CSP certification include surveillance audits?
Yes. DESC states that yearly surveillance audits are part of the certification cycle, with re-certification occurring every three years. The detailed audit programme depends on the certification body and agreed certification scope.
What evidence may be reviewed during a DESC CSP assessment?
Depending on scope, assessment evidence can include cloud security policies, risk information, access controls, asset and service inventories, security operations, incident handling, supplier arrangements, data centre controls, technical safeguards, monitoring records, audit results and corrective action records.
Can DESC CSP certification be used for cloud services in Dubai government projects?
Yes. DESC states that compliance with the CSP Security Standard is mandatory for CSPs wishing to offer cloud services for Dubai government and semi-government entities. Individual procurement, contractual and service conditions should still be checked for the specific engagement.
Can DESC CSP certification be used with ISO 27017?
Yes. DESC identifies ISO/IEC 27017:2015 as one of the international standards on which the CSP Security Standard is based. Organizations may use ISO/IEC 27017 as part of their broader cloud security framework where applicable.
Can DESC CSP certification be used with ISO 27018?
It can be considered alongside ISO/IEC 27018 where public cloud processing of personally identifiable information is relevant. The two standards address different aspects of cloud security and privacy, so the applicable scope should be defined separately.
How should a CSP prepare for DESC certification in the UAE?
Start by defining the cloud service scope, locations, platforms, data flows, supporting functions and third-party dependencies. Review the DESC framework, map available ISO/IEC certifications and security evidence to the applicable controls, close identified gaps and ensure the operating environment can demonstrate objective evidence during assessment.
AUTHORITATIVE DESC REFERENCES
DESC CSP information from authoritative Dubai cybersecurity sources.
The following sources support the DESC CSP Security Standard, certification process, scope and certification-cycle information presented on this page.
DESC · OFFICIAL SOURCE
Cloud Service Provider Security Standard
Official DESC certification page covering the CSP Security Standard,
its scope, certification process and certification validity.
Open official source
DESC · OFFICIAL SOURCE
Dubai Electronic Security Center
Official DESC website and source for Dubai cybersecurity standards,
initiatives and published information.
Open official source
DESC · OFFICIAL NEWS
Oracle Cloud Dubai certification
DESC publication describing a cloud service provider security standard
audit for Oracle Cloud Infrastructure in Dubai.
Open official source
AWS · OFFICIAL SOURCE
DESC CSP Security Standard
AWS describes its DESC CSP certification and the security standards used
within its Dubai cloud service compliance programme.
Open official source
DESC CSP CERTIFICATION IN UAE
Start with a clearly defined cloud service scope and a practical assessment plan.
Share your cloud services, locations, platforms, existing ISO certifications and third-party data centre arrangements so the appropriate DESC CSP certification route can be considered for your organization.
Request a DESC CSP Certification Quotation
