Meet Nouf Al Baloushi, an Emirati trailblazer in defence security

Dubai: An Emirati woman has become the first UAE citizen to earn a Master’s degree in Engineering Design and Simulation of Defence Systems from Cranfield University, UK, making her the first graduate in this field from the UAE’s police and security sector.

Lieutenant Nouf Al Baloushi from the Dubai Police’s Unmanned Aerial Systems Centre (UASC) has become the first Emirati to graduate from the programme at the Defence Academy of the UK Ministry of Defence.

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The programme enables participants to train on complex scenarios in safe, realistic virtual environments, improving crisis response skills while minimising risks to lives and resources.

This specialised field focuses on preparing officers in technical, military, and security domains by providing them with skills in simulating defence systems, training on virtual scenarios, and leading complex defence projects.

Lt Nouf shared her inspiration, which began at age 13 during a visit to the Dubai Airshow. Her fascination with aviation led her to study Aerospace Engineering at Khalifa University and eventually join Dubai Police.

Lt Nouf currently works in the Design and Implementation Section of UASC at the General Department of Operations. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Khalifa University. She is a member of Dubai Police’s Drone Network Development Project, which leverages AI and drone technologies to enhance police operations, foster innovation, and train personnel using advanced simulation systems to sustain security and community protection.

She said: “It is an honour to be the first Emirati and police officer to complete this prestigious programme. This accomplishment is a testament to the unwavering support of our wise leadership and Dubai Police, which continually invests in the development of its personnel.”

Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs, highlighted the direct support of Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, in equipping officers with specialised education.

Brigadier Turki bin Faris, Director of the General Department of Operations, said: “Lt Nouf Al Baloushi exemplifies the calibre of talent we aim to nurture. Her expertise in defence design and simulation is pivotal for enhancing operational readiness and leadership decision-making under pressure.”