GISEC Global 2026 Launches Cyber First to Shape the Digital Order
Artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global cybersecurity landscape. While AI strengthens digital defences, it also enables faster and more sophisticated attacks.
According to the Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026, 94% of organisations expect AI to drive cybersecurity change. Meanwhile, 87% consider AI-related vulnerabilities the fastest-growing cyber risk.
Against this backdrop, GISEC Global 2026 will run from September 16 to 18 at Dubai Exhibition Centre. The 15th edition will operate under the theme “Cyber First: The New Digital Order.”
Moreover, the event has expanded by 20% year-on-year. This growth reflects rising demand for cybersecurity innovation, investment and international collaboration.
The UAE Cyber Security Council, DESC, the Ministry of Interior and Dubai Police support the event. Additionally, it will welcome over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals from more than 180 countries.
The programme will also feature over 750 exhibiting brands and more than 350 expert speakers. Together, they will address major security challenges affecting the global digital economy.
Cyber First Expands the Leadership Agenda
Cyber First recognises cybersecurity as a boardroom, government and national priority. Therefore, the platform moves security discussions beyond purely technical concerns.
At its centre, the new Cyber First Leadership Summit will bring together ministers and national cyber authorities. Moreover, global CISOs and technology leaders will join the discussions.
The summit will examine AI’s geopolitical impact, digital sovereignty and nation-state cyber threats. Additionally, speakers will explore the resilience of future digital economies.
Confirmed speakers include senior cybersecurity executives, government representatives and technology leaders. Meanwhile, more international officials will join the programme.
The expanded agenda reflects major changes across the cybersecurity sector. In particular, AI, quantum computing and dual-use technologies continue to alter the global security environment.
Additionally, geopolitical instability has increased the need for stronger critical infrastructure. As a result, governments and businesses must prepare for more complex digital threats.
Quantum Security and Cyber Defence Take Priority
Alongside the leadership summit, the National Defence and Sovereign Cyber Track will examine national security. Meanwhile, the Quantum Security Summit will focus on preparations for the post-quantum era.
The programme will also introduce the Global Quantum Drill. Notably, organisers plan to develop it into the world’s largest quantum-readiness exercise.
Furthermore, the drill builds on the former Global Cyber Drill. DESC and the UAE Cyber Security Council will also lead an expanded government programme.
Dedicated stages will cover operational technology security and critical infrastructure protection. In addition, sessions will explore cyber diplomacy, ethical hacking and AI-powered defence.
The agenda also includes cloud security and cybersecurity workforce development. Therefore, attendees can explore both technical risks and long-term talent requirements.
The exhibition will feature cloud providers, technology leaders and cybersecurity innovators. Participants include AWS, Google Cloud, Huawei, EDGE, CPX Holding, CyberKnight and Spire Solutions.
Moreover, hundreds of international companies will present new security technologies. Their solutions will cover cyber resilience, AI-enabled defence and secure digital transformation.
Strengthening International Cyber Resilience
As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, international cooperation becomes increasingly important. At the same time, AI continues to expand both opportunities and risks.
Therefore, the event will connect governments, businesses and academic institutions. Participants can exchange knowledge, create partnerships and develop practical security solutions.
Moreover, the programme aims to protect critical infrastructure and support secure digital transformation. It will also help organisations build stronger and more resilient economies.
Finally, the event supports the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It also aligns with the Digital Economy Strategy and We the UAE 2031.
Through these initiatives, the UAE aims to strengthen secure digital transformation. Additionally, the country seeks to expand international cybersecurity cooperation.
