Technology

As AI-driven cyber threats and ransomware attacks escalate worldwide, Dubai is set to host GISEC Global 2025 from 6-8 May, bringing together the world’s leading cybersecurity experts to strengthen global digital defences. The Middle East and Africa’s largest cybersecurity event will see over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals from 160 countries converge at Dubai World Trade Centre to safeguard the region’s digital future under the theme 'Securing an AI-Powered Future.'

Returning for its 14th edition, GISEC Global 2025 unites more than 450 CISOs and 750+ leading brands, including AWS, Huawei, Microsoft, Google Cloud Security, CISCO, Deloitte, and Kaspersky, alongside cybersecurity innovators like Spire Solutions, CPX, and CrowdStrike.

The event comes amid alarming new findings: the World Economic Forum’s Global Security Outlook 2025 revealed that while 66% of organisations view AI as transformative for cybersecurity, nearly 47% warn that generative AI is simultaneously enabling hackers to develop scalable new attack vectors. Yet, only 14% of organisations feel fully prepared to counter such threats.

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, emphasised:
"GISEC Global comes at a critical time as cyber threats grow increasingly sophisticated. In this 'Year of Community,' our collaboration with GISEC highlights the UAE’s dedication to uniting global stakeholders, safeguarding data privacy, securing critical infrastructure, and deploying AI-driven cyber solutions. Through initiatives like the world’s largest Global Cyber Drill, we are translating the UAE’s cybersecurity vision into reality."

The three-day summit will feature major new initiatives:

• Next-Gen Cyber Warriors Competition: A student hackathon challenging youth to solve real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

• Critical Infrastructure Programme: A dedicated OT Security Track tackling convergence of IT and operational technologies.

• Africa Cyber Resilience Initiative: High-level roundtables between African CISOs and government leaders.

• GISEC AI Zone: Deep dives into threats like polymorphic malware, adversarial AI, and deepfake scams.

• GISEC North Star: A new launchpad for innovative cybersecurity startups to scale globally.

• Dubai Cyber Challenge: A 'Capture the Flag' competition for Dubai government entities, organised by DESC.

The event solidifies Dubai’s global leadership in cybersecurity, following the UAE’s recent ranking as #1 in the Global Cybersecurity Index 2024.

H.E. Yousuf Al Shaibani, Director General of Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), commented:
"Dubai’s rapid digitalisation requires unwavering cybersecurity. GISEC Global 2025 is crucial for fostering collaboration and strengthening Dubai’s position at the forefront of secure and intelligent digital innovation."

Trixie LohMirmand, EVP at Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of GISEC Global, added:
"With the cybersecurity landscape constantly evolving, GISEC Global continues to drive impactful conversations and action to future-proof our digital economies."

Sean Yang, Global Cybersecurity and Privacy Protection Officer at Huawei, Lead Strategic Partner for GISEC Global 2025, said:
"Huawei is proud to extend our partnership with GISEC Global. We remain committed to collaborating with global partners to build a secure and trustworthy digital future."

With the cybersecurity sector projected to grow to USD 298.5 billion by 2028, GISEC Global 2025 serves as a vital platform for securing an AI-powered future and shaping resilient global digital ecosystems.

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