GISEC Global 2025 is currently underway in Dubai, focusing on the integration of AI to bolster secure and resilient infrastructures in the cybersecurity sector. The event, under the theme ‘Securing an AI-Powered Future,’ has drawn over 750 leading cybersecurity companies, 450 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), futurists, and 25 000 visitors from more than 160 countries. The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach $298.5 billion by 2028, according to Markets and Markets.

During the opening day, numerous panel discussions, workshops, and roundtables were held that addressed how AI can transform the cybersecurity landscape. H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, delivered a significant address highlighting the urgent need to address increasing cyber threats, revealing that the UAE faces over 200 000 daily cyberattacks, primarily targeting government entities.

Dr. Al-Kuwaiti emphasized the necessity for robust security measures and the importance of adapting cybersecurity strategies to counter the threats posed by AI tools. He pointed out the need for an urgent review in areas such as human-data interfaces, autonomous systems, AI governance, and digital ethics. He stated, “Cybersecurity has become an integral part of everything that we do, and the UAE is already moving towards becoming an AI-nation in cybersecurity.”

Cybersecurity expert Eugene Kaspersky, CEO of Kaspersky, also spoke at the event, noting that AI serves as a tool beneficial to both cybercriminals and businesses. He stressed that organizations must enhance their efforts to create a secure AI-driven future, stating, “We are living in a world where it’s very much AI vs AI – defence against attack.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by cybercrime but expressed optimism about the investments and innovations being made to improve cybersecurity defenses.

Faisal Abdulaziz, director of the Cybersecurity Threat Center at Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), shared insights into Dubai’s commitment to digital protection as it works towards becoming a ‘smart’ city. He highlighted the importance of embedding cybersecurity within every layer of Dubai’s digital transformation to protect smart services and critical infrastructure.

Aarti Borkar, CVP of Security, Customer Success, and Incident Response at Microsoft, also emphasized the urgency of establishing secure infrastructure. She reported that 80 percent of leaders view the leakage of sensitive data as their primary concern, while 88 percent are worried about indirect prompt injection attacks. Borkar stated, “Success in AI is defined by your practical techniques and security must come above all else.”

GISEC Global 2025 has gathered prominent industry players, including Huawei, AWS, Microsoft, Google Cloud Security, and Deloitte, along with innovative cybersecurity firms like Spire Solutions and CrowdStrike. The event, hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council and supported by DESC, the UAE Ministry of Interior, and Dubai Police, will continue until May 8, featuring more panel discussions and debates on critical issues related to AI and cybersecurity.