The GISEC Global 2026 conference is set to take place from September 16 to 18 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, under the theme “Cyber First: The New Digital Order.” This event, organized by inD—a collaboration between the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Informa—marks the 15th edition of the world’s third-largest cybersecurity event and the most influential platform in the Middle East and Africa. The conference has expanded by 20% year-on-year, reflecting a growing international demand for cybersecurity innovation and collaboration.
With over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals, more than 750 exhibiting brands, and 350 expert speakers from over 180 countries expected to attend, GISEC Global 2026 aims to tackle the pressing cybersecurity challenges that are shaping the future of the global digital economy. The event is endorsed by key UAE authorities, including the UAE Cyber Security Council, the Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC), the Ministry of Interior, and Dubai Police.
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the cybersecurity landscape. He noted that while AI strengthens defenses, it also facilitates more sophisticated cyberattacks. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026, 94% of organizations anticipate AI will be the primary driver of cybersecurity change in the coming year, with 87% identifying AI-related vulnerabilities as the fastest-growing cyber risk. Dr. Al Kuwaiti stated, “As cyberthreats become increasingly sophisticated and interconnected, no single nation or organization can address these challenges alone.”
Focus on Cyber Resilience and Collaboration
The UAE is committed to fostering international collaboration and advancing cyber resilience, aiming to build trusted digital ecosystems that promote innovation and sustainable economic growth. GISEC Global 2026 will serve as a platform for governments, industry leaders, and the global cybersecurity community to develop practical solutions for safeguarding the digital future.
H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Chief Executive of DESC, highlighted the importance of GISEC Global as a venue for engaging with the cybersecurity community and sharing expertise. This year, DESC will also host the second editions of two flagship competitions: the Dubai Cyber Challenge – Government Edition and the School of Cyber Defence, which will provide university students across the UAE with opportunities to showcase and enhance their skills. Al Shaibani remarked, “Together, they reflect our continued investment in strengthening cyber capabilities at every level.”
Introducing Cyber First Leadership Summit
GISEC Global 2026 introduces “Cyber First” as its overarching strategic theme, recognizing the evolving role of cybersecurity in national resilience, economic competitiveness, and digital trust. Central to this theme is the new Cyber First Leadership Summit, which will convene ministers, national cyber authorities, global Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), and technology leaders to discuss the geopolitical implications of AI, digital sovereignty, nation-state cyber threats, and the resilience of future digital economies.
The expanded conference program will address a rapidly changing cyber landscape, focusing on critical issues such as AI, quantum computing, dual-use technologies, and the resilience of critical infrastructure. As the event approaches, stakeholders are eager to explore innovative strategies and collaborative efforts to enhance cybersecurity across the region.
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