As the Middle East braces for escalating cyber threats, the upcoming GISEC Global 2024 event emerges as a pivotal platform for addressing the region’s cybersecurity concerns. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, at the forefront of technological advancement in the region, are witnessing a significant rise in cyber threats, with the UAE alone fending off more than 50,000 cyberattacks daily in 2023, as revealed by the UAE Cybersecurity Council.
According to analysts Frost & Sullivan (F&S), the first three quarters of 2023 saw the successful prevention of over 71 million attempted cyberattacks across the Middle East.
The surge in cyberattacks underlines the exponential growth of the region’s cybersecurity landscape, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced protective measures. ecosystems. The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) cybersecurity industry is projected to triple in value by 2030, reaching US$13.4 billion, driven by countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which are diversifying their economies away from oil and embracing digitalization.
Amidst this digital transformation, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, exacerbated by regional geopolitical instability. GISEC Global 2024, the Middle East and Africa’s largest cybersecurity event, organized by DWTC and hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council, stands as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and talent development in safeguarding digital.
The ‘Middle East Cybersecurity: Exploring the Middle East Cybersecurity Market Potential’ report by F&S, released ahead of the GISEC Global 2024 event, sheds light on these challenges and opportunities facing the region’s cybersecurity sector.
Strategic Responses to Cyber Risks
The UAE and Saudi Arabia have witnessed a surge in technology adoption across sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, necessitating enhanced cybersecurity measures and regulatory frameworks. However, challenges persist, including a shortage of skilled professionals and inadequate awareness among businesses regarding proactive cyberattack mitigation.
In response, Middle Eastern countries are taking tangible steps to enhance their cybersecurity defenses. Initiatives include setting up cyber-specific departments, launching innovation centers, and promoting cybersecurity conferences to bridge the skills gap and foster entrepreneurship. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have ranked among the top five countries globally in terms of regulatory approaches to cybersecurity, according to the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index 2020.
Government-Led Initiatives
Governments in the region are also establishing dedicated cybersecurity authorities to oversee industry efforts. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain have launched the National Cybersecurity Authority, the National Electronic Security Authority, and the National Cybersecurity Centre, respectively, to strengthen cybersecurity governance.
Parminder Kaur, Director and Head of Security Advisory, MEASA, Frost & Sullivan, emphasizes the pivotal role of compliance and regulation in driving cybersecurity growth.
“Compliance and regulation remain the strongest multipliers for cybersecurity growth. The proliferation of technology has greatly increased organizational exposure to complex cyber risks, while the surge in e-commerce and digital banking across the Middle East has generated a heightened need for security. As a nerve centre for the oil and gas industry – as well as several large financial institutions and fintech startups – the region is fast-becoming a preferred provider of next-gen cybersecurity products and services worldwide, requiring a stringent approach to cybersecure solutions that protect both financial dealings and personal data,” said Kaur.
GISEC Global 2024: Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
This year, the 13th edition of GISEC Global 2024 will take place from 23 to 25 April. GISEC Global 2024 stands as the region’s premier cybersecurity event, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and talent development.
With over 20,000 visitors, 750 exhibitors, and 350 speakers from around the world, the event serves as a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and cybersecurity experts to exchange insights and forge partnerships in safeguarding digital ecosystems.
As organizations accelerate their digital transformations, cybersecurity awareness and leadership across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman are on the rise.
With government support and growing awareness, organizations in the region are investing heavily in cybersecurity measures to build resilient and sustainable business frameworks in an era of evolving cyber threats.
Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.