SANS Institute, a global cybersecurity training and certification provider, has introduced the Falcon 180 Mission, a regional learning initiative aimed at improving cyber readiness across the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Türkiye and Africa.
The programme offers cybersecurity professionals 180 days of SANS OnDemand access, preparation for GIAC certification, and the flexibility to attend SANS instructor-led training events either in person or online. As a result, participants can strengthen their technical skills without stepping away from their day-to-day responsibilities.
Addressing the cybersecurity skills challenge
The launch comes as organisations face increasingly complex cyber threats while struggling to provide employees with enough time for professional development.
According to SANS Institute, 60% of cybersecurity professionals identify lack of time as their biggest barrier to training. At the same time, security teams must protect expanding digital environments and keep pace with rapidly changing technologies.
The Falcon 180 Mission addresses these challenges by combining self-paced learning with live instructor engagement. Therefore, professionals can continue working while following a structured pathway towards certification and practical skill development.
Flexible learning with recognised certification
The programme allows participants to revisit course material through hands-on exercises and practice tests before attempting the GIAC certification for eligible courses.
In addition, learners receive a flexible live pass that enables them to attend the same course at upcoming SANS training events across the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Türkiye and Africa. This blended approach combines online learning with classroom interaction, helping professionals reinforce technical knowledge over a 180-day period.
SANS said the initiative reflects its commitment to helping organisations strengthen cyber resilience through continuous workforce development rather than one-time training programmes.
Executive perspective
Ned Baltagi, Managing Director for the Middle East, Turkey and Africa at SANS Institute, said continuous learning has become essential for cybersecurity professionals.
“The fast pace of change in cybersecurity means that professionals do not have the luxury of learning only once every few years. It must become part of the job,” said Ned Baltagi, Managing Director, Middle East, Turkey and Africa, SANS Institute.
He added that organisations need security teams that continuously strengthen their expertise while responding to new threats. He said the Falcon 180 Mission provides a structured learning pathway that balances flexibility with technical depth, allowing professionals to learn at their own pace without compromising training quality.
Limited-time enrolment offer
To encourage participation, SANS Institute is also offering a 10% discount on eligible Falcon 180 Mission enrolments for a limited period. The offer enables cybersecurity professionals to access training, earn GIAC certification and improve job-ready skills through a flexible learning model.
The initiative is available exclusively to cybersecurity professionals across the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Türkiye and Africa.
About SANS Institute
Founded in 1989, SANS Institute is one of the world’s largest providers of cybersecurity training and certifications. The organisation delivers more than 85 instructor-led and OnDemand courses globally. Its affiliate, GIAC, offers more than 50 hands-on cybersecurity certifications that validate technical skills across multiple security disciplines.
