Intersec 2025: AI reshaping Middle East cybersecurity strategies

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly central role in the cybersecurity landscape of the Middle East.

As reported by Intersec, this topic will be a key focus at the Intersec 2025 Security Leaders’ Summit, taking place from 14-16 January 2025 in Dubai.

The event will bring together cybersecurity experts to discuss the evolving strategies needed to address the growing sophistication of AI-driven cyberattacks.

Cisco’s 2024 Cybersecurity Readiness Index highlights the importance of AI, with 91% of companies in the UAE integrating AI technologies into their cybersecurity frameworks.

Bahrain and the UAE are leading in this effort, balancing AI’s potential with the need to mitigate the risks posed by AI-powered cyber threats.

AI’s role in national security and critical infrastructure

Fawaz Alsumaim, Head of the Anti-Internet and Information Systems Crime Division at Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior, emphasised the importance of AI in national security: “AI is rapidly transforming the landscape of cyber warfare, altering how nations and organisations defend themselves and how adversaries conduct attacks.”

He noted that future conflicts could see AI-driven autonomous systems leading both offensive and defensive cyber operations, with limited human intervention.

AI-driven solutions are now central to protecting critical infrastructure, ensuring operational security, and maintaining economic resilience.

This technology is seen as essential for defending against increasingly complex cyber threats, including hybrid warfare.

Alsumaim highlighted that Bahrain and the UAE are key players in fostering regional collaboration to address these threats.

Regional collaboration in cybersecurity efforts

No single nation can tackle these sophisticated cybersecurity challenges alone.

Cross-border cooperation has become critical to sharing knowledge and intelligence in the fight against AI-driven cyberattacks.

Both Bahrain and the UAE have developed advanced frameworks for digital security, with Bahrain focusing on strong legal and regulatory measures and the UAE advancing through its National Cybersecurity Strategy and investments in smart city technologies.

“Bahrain has developed a strong legal and regulatory framework for digital security, while the UAE leads in AI adoption and cybersecurity,” Alsumaim added.

Their strategic positions and digital infrastructure are crucial in maintaining regional and global cybersecurity resilience.

Intersec 2025 to spotlight AI in cybersecurity

The 26th edition of Intersec, to be held at Dubai World Trade Centre, will be a major platform for discussing the latest developments in safety, security, and fire protection.

Cybersecurity will be a central focus at the Security Leaders’ Summit, with key sessions dedicated to next-gen integrated security and balancing innovation with risk management.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, stated: “At Intersec 2025, summit attendees will be offered key insights into how AI is reshaping the cyber threat landscape in the Middle East, providing organisations with practical steps to mitigate risks and enhance their resilience.”

The UAE Cyber Security Council will support the event, with a dedicated startup zone and Innovation Stage to showcase cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.

AI and cybersecurity in focus at Intersec 2025: Summary

Intersec 2025 will see AI and its impact on cybersecurity as a major topic of discussion.

Taking place in Dubai from 14-16 January 2025, the event will bring together experts to examine how AI is transforming defensive and offensive strategies in the Middle East.

The UAE and Bahrain are leading efforts in this space, with 91% of UAE companies already utilising AI technologies in their cybersecurity strategies.

Collaboration between nations is viewed as essential to address the growing threats posed by AI-driven cyberattacks.

The event will also highlight innovations in cybersecurity, with key sessions on AI-power