Hackers are flying to GISEC 2025

This week, most of the prominent and senior cybersecurity professionals, tech giants, government agencies, and both the good and bad hackers from across the world will be flying to Dubai to attend one of the largest cybersecurity gatherings in the region, the GISEC Global 2025. And yes, I too am honoured to be invited to attend, meet, network and explore the latest in cybersecurity this year.

My article today will focus on all that is expected to happen at this event for your kind perusal. Oman is becoming digital, fully connected and intelligent, big thanks to the accelerating uptake of technologies such as 5G, cloud and AI. Full-fledged telecom operators and ISPs, i.e., Omantel, Ooredoo, Vodafone and Awasr, would need to continue to not only find ways to offer promotions (and discounts) to their solutions but also need to ensure their offerings are secured too. Cybersecurity should indeed be one of the top concerns for everyone, be it a provider or consumer. From as simple as using a secured handset to a robust telecom network infrastructure, being in the know of what is happening will keep everyone ahead of the game.

Briefly, the event is the 14th edition of GISEC Global. Every year, the latest and best of cybersecurity solutions are demonstrated at the event. More than 750 cybersecurity brands will be showcasing their solutions, and approximately 25,000 visitors from over 160 countries will be walking at the 8 massive halls of the Dubai World Trade Centre Convention. GISEC this year is supported and is run in collaboration by the UAE Cybersecurity Council and the Dubai Electronic Security Centre – clearly an attest from the government on the importance of cybersecurity, especially now with the negative impact that AI brings to the table (such as deepfakes, to name a prime example).

According to the 2025 World Economic Forum’s Global Security Outlook report, about 66% of organisations view AI as a game-changer in cybersecurity. Furthermore, the report highlighted that nearly half warn that generative AI is simultaneously arming hackers with scalable new attack vectors.

However, only 14% of organisations feel confidently equipped to respond. These insights obviously highlight how fast the global cybersecurity market is changing. Last year, a survey conducted by PWC’s Global Digital Trust noted that 45% of organisations in the Middle East consider mitigating cyber risks as their top operational priority. Hence, such events bring organisations, consumers and the tech heavyweights under one roof to discuss challenges and solutions for the same.

Huawei, one of the leading technology solution providers in the world, who is also the lead strategic partner of the event, would be showcasing the latest cybersecurity solutions and strategies in areas such as cloud, AI, and telecom infrastructure security. Experts will be actively engaging with partners and policy-makers to help shape a more secure digital future. Several exclusive events will be organised during the week on comprehensive AI-native security solutions. This clearly reflects the company’s ongoing investment in global cybersecurity collaboration and its push to build more resilient digital ecosystems, especially in regions like the Middle East and Africa. I will try to share some of the highlights for you next week.

GISEC Global 2025 isn’t just about tech; it’s about trust, talent, and the tools one would need to navigate the future of digital security. From AI-driven threats to critical infrastructure protection. Every discussion at the event would not only be relevant but also urgent, especially with our digitally connected world. Keeping an eye out for the latest trends is vital for keeping oneself, organisations associated and the nation as a whole safe.

Cybersecurity is a top concern for many countries and industries worldwide. Building digital trust and ensuring cybersecurity has become a practice that everyone around the world, let alone Oman, is keen to pursue. Addressing the evolving threats in an increasingly AI-driven landscape is paramount for a safe, digitally connected nation. Where on the planet would be the best place to catch virtually everything in one spot? Stay tuned as I share the learnings next week.