Latest news with #GulfInformationSecurityExpoandConference
Business Mayor
13-05-2025
- Business
- Business Mayor
Pakistan's tech startups shine at GISEC
DUBAI: All seven Pakistani tech startups participating in this year's Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC) made it to the pitch competition semi-finals, amid a backdrop of reports that there was a major uptick in cyber attacks between India and Pakistan during recent tensions. The group of budding entrepreneurs was sponsored by Ignite – National Technology Fund, a Pakistan Ministry of IT & Telecom initiative. While none made the final cut, they found there were other wins to be made at the expo. Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy backs 127 startups in Q1 'We just signed a deal with an IT distributor in the Gulf, which has presence in Bahrain, the UAE, Ireland and New Zealand,' Waqar Ahmed, CEO of Securitanium, told Business Recorder . 'We will be onboarding with them as a vendor for email security, and hopefully, we will collaborate with them to offer our product to their clients in future.' 'More than 80% of cyber attacks are caused by phishing emails despite having email gateway protection,' said Ahmed. 'They are not detecting the content or analyzing the body of the email. Our artificial intelligence (AI) powered solution not only looks at the IP and domain, but also analyzes the content for indicators of phishing and removes such emails.' According to the participants, AI is not just a trend but the next step in strengthening online security. 'AI is the talk of the town, wherever you go, wherever you speak, whatever you hear, there is always AI,' said Muhammad Ali Inayat, founder of Pakistani company According to him, it's an exciting time to be in the cybersecurity industry in the Gulf region, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where the Personal Data Protection Act has been recently enacted. Inayat is also CEO of Kinverg, parent company that already has a presence in the Gulf region. Globally, he said, data protection has taken off in the last decade, and that has made compliance challenging for companies to operate across the world. 'We are promising to reduce the cost of compliance by 50% by providing companies with pre-built controls which are mapped to all of these regulatory frameworks.' Pakistani startups offered all kinds of security products at the event. Thingzeye featured its network security protection service for home and office smart devices, as well as for medical devices. 'Our Smart Home Firewall provides protection to all the smart gadgets that kids use at home,' said CEO Ghalib Asadullah Shah. 'It also provides parental control and children's social behaviour analysis. It profiles all the devices that are used at your home.' 'It identifies and provides information about all the devices which may be connected to your home network,' he added. The protection is also extended to devices that capture personal health data, including smartwatches and heart monitors. Shah said coming to GISEC gave him confidence in his company's product. 'The experience has been wonderful for us,' he said. 'I got exposure and I got some confidence as well because it gives us a platform where we can compete at the international level. That's what we have gained here: don't be afraid of coming to an international stage and don't underestimate yourself, you have the potential.' It is the presence of such talent that encouraged 'Ignite – National Technology Fund, a Ministry of IT & Telecom initiative,' to bring Pakistani startups to the event. Ignite focuses on fourth industrial wave tech and on ecosystem development initiatives to fulfill its mission of creating a knowledge economy in Pakistan, says the organization's website. Its national network of incubators nurtures startups, while tech innovation grants are offered to innovative, deep tech projects and startups. 'GISEC is our partner at Digital Pakistan Cyber Security Hackathon and we're looking forward to a long-lasting relationship,' said Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, Ignite's CEO, adding that they're hoping to bring more teams and startups to next year's event. Inayat and Shah both said they would encourage Pakistani youth to step into this trending industry. 'Pakistan is full of potential when it comes to cybersecurity,' said Inayat. 'The first virus in the world was also built right in Lahore, by the way. We know this field very well.' Shah echoed his peer's words. 'If you have an interesting, innovative idea, just come and pitch [at GISEC] and you will find a lot of people who are interested in your product,' he said. Khalid Yacoob, an event visitor, was surprised to see a Pakistan pavillion. 'I'm originally from Pakistan and it is lovely to see that Pakistan is getting involved in the industry of cybersecurity,' said the director of business development at IT consultancy HiveMind Global. GISEC took place from May 6 to 8, attracting some 750 cybersecurity companies and 25,0000 visitors from over 160 countries. Attendees were able to participate in hackathons and panel discussions. The UAE Cybersecurity Council, host of GISEC Global, earned 11 Guinness World Records through the event, it said. This included 'most nationalities in a simulated Dark Web intelligence training session' and 'largest ransomware awareness session.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
13-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Pakistan's tech startups shine at GISEC
DUBAI: All seven Pakistani tech startups participating in this year's Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC) made it to the pitch competition semi-finals, amid a backdrop of reports that there was a major uptick in cyber attacks between India and Pakistan during recent tensions. The group of budding entrepreneurs was sponsored by Ignite - National Technology Fund, a Pakistan Ministry of IT & Telecom initiative. While none made the final cut, they found there were other wins to be made at the expo. Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy backs 127 startups in Q1 'We just signed a deal with an IT distributor in the Gulf, which has presence in Bahrain, the UAE, Ireland and New Zealand,' Waqar Ahmed, CEO of Securitanium, told Business Recorder. 'We will be onboarding with them as a vendor for email security, and hopefully, we will collaborate with them to offer our product to their clients in future.' 'More than 80% of cyber attacks are caused by phishing emails despite having email gateway protection,' said Ahmed. 'They are not detecting the content or analyzing the body of the email. Our artificial intelligence (AI) powered solution not only looks at the IP and domain, but also analyzes the content for indicators of phishing and removes such emails.' According to the participants, AI is not just a trend but the next step in strengthening online security. 'AI is the talk of the town, wherever you go, wherever you speak, whatever you hear, there is always AI,' said Muhammad Ali Inayat, founder of Pakistani company According to him, it's an exciting time to be in the cybersecurity industry in the Gulf region, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where the Personal Data Protection Act has been recently enacted. Inayat is also CEO of Kinverg, parent company that already has a presence in the Gulf region. Globally, he said, data protection has taken off in the last decade, and that has made compliance challenging for companies to operate across the world. 'We are promising to reduce the cost of compliance by 50% by providing companies with pre-built controls which are mapped to all of these regulatory frameworks.' Pakistani startups offered all kinds of security products at the event. Thingzeye featured its network security protection service for home and office smart devices, as well as for medical devices. 'Our Smart Home Firewall provides protection to all the smart gadgets that kids use at home,' said CEO Ghalib Asadullah Shah. 'It also provides parental control and children's social behaviour analysis. It profiles all the devices that are used at your home.' 'It identifies and provides information about all the devices which may be connected to your home network,' he added. The protection is also extended to devices that capture personal health data, including smartwatches and heart monitors. Shah said coming to GISEC gave him confidence in his company's product. 'The experience has been wonderful for us,' he said. 'I got exposure and I got some confidence as well because it gives us a platform where we can compete at the international level. That's what we have gained here: don't be afraid of coming to an international stage and don't underestimate yourself, you have the potential.' It is the presence of such talent that encouraged 'Ignite - National Technology Fund, a Ministry of IT & Telecom initiative,' to bring Pakistani startups to the event. Ignite focuses on fourth industrial wave tech and on ecosystem development initiatives to fulfill its mission of creating a knowledge economy in Pakistan, says the organization's website. Its national network of incubators nurtures startups, while tech innovation grants are offered to innovative, deep tech projects and startups. 'GISEC is our partner at Digital Pakistan Cyber Security Hackathon and we're looking forward to a long-lasting relationship,' said Adeel Aijaz Shaikh, Ignite's CEO, adding that they're hoping to bring more teams and startups to next year's event. Inayat and Shah both said they would encourage Pakistani youth to step into this trending industry. 'Pakistan is full of potential when it comes to cybersecurity,' said Inayat. 'The first virus in the world was also built right in Lahore, by the way. We know this field very well.' Shah echoed his peer's words. 'If you have an interesting, innovative idea, just come and pitch [at GISEC] and you will find a lot of people who are interested in your product,' he said. Khalid Yacoob, an event visitor, was surprised to see a Pakistan pavillion. 'I'm originally from Pakistan and it is lovely to see that Pakistan is getting involved in the industry of cybersecurity,' said the director of business development at IT consultancy HiveMind Global. GISEC took place from May 6 to 8, attracting some 750 cybersecurity companies and 25,0000 visitors from over 160 countries. Attendees were able to participate in hackathons and panel discussions. The UAE Cybersecurity Council, host of GISEC Global, earned 11 Guinness World Records through the event, it said. This included 'most nationalities in a simulated Dark Web intelligence training session' and 'largest ransomware awareness session.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Channel Post MEA
05-05-2025
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
DESC To Participate As Official Government Cybersecurity Partner At GISEC 2025
The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) is set to participate as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year in the 14th edition of the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC Global 2025), taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Center's participation in GISEC Global 2025, which gathers over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals representing more than 160 countries, aligns with its strategic objectives aimed at advancing the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and reinforcing Dubai's position as one of the world's digitally safest cities. This participation reflects the Center's commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and promoting robust cooperation at both the local and international levels. During the three-day event, DESC will spotlight a number of key initiatives, including the 'Dubai Cyber Challenge', an exclusive competitive simulation designed to enhance the cyber readiness of Dubai government entities, and the 'School of Cyber Defense' CTF competition, which attracted registrations from over 300 university students, engaging them in technical challenges and hands-on training. These programmes form a key part of DESC's ongoing efforts to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals equipped to navigate evolving digital threats. H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of the Dubai Electronic Security Center, commented: 'DESC's participation in GISEC Global 2025 reflects our steadfast commitment to securing Dubai's digital future through proactive cybersecurity measures, innovation-driven initiatives, and an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration by building partnerships across public and private sectors. GISEC continues to serve as a dynamic platform where industry leaders, experts, and innovators come together to shape the future of cybersecurity.' 'GISEC 2025 provides a critical platform for strategic engagement with global cybersecurity innovators, allowing us to gain insights into emerging technologies and anticipate future threats. These interactions directly support our efforts to create forward-looking policies, develop advanced cyber solutions, and empower national talent to lead in this field. Through such initiatives, we continue to strengthen Dubai's position as a global hub for cybersecurity excellence and digital innovation,' Al Shaibani added. DESC experts will also take part in high-level panel discussions addressing key challenges and emerging trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The Center will also formalise strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration and strengthening national efforts to secure the cyber space. Visitors to GISEC Global 2025 are invited to explore DESC's initiatives at Stand A80 in Hall 7, where DESC will showcase its latest projects, including future-ready cybersecurity guidelines and certification programmes designed to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape and strengthen national capabilities. The stand will also serve as a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with DESC's experts and explore opportunities for joint collaboration. Secure your pass and learn more: GISEC GLOBAL | The World's Leading Cyber Security Exhibition | 6 – 8 May 2025 0 0
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Electronic Security Center to Showcase Cybersecurity Initiatives at GISEC 2025 as Official Government Partner
DESC will highlight its role in advancing Dubai's cybersecurity ecosystem and strengthening Dubai's digital infrastructure The Center will showcase strategic initiatives designed to empower the next generation of cybersecurity talent H.E. Al Shaibani: 'We are committed to strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem and building strategic partnerships across the public and private sectors.' Dubai, UAE – May, 2025: The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) is set to participate as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year in the 14th edition of the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC Global 2025), taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Center. The Center's participation in GISEC Global 2025, which gathers over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals representing more than 160 countries, aligns with its strategic objectives aimed at advancing the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and reinforcing Dubai's position as one of the world's digitally safest cities. This participation reflects the Center's commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and promoting robust cooperation at both the local and international levels. During the three-day event, DESC will spotlight a number of key initiatives, including the 'Dubai Cyber Challenge', an exclusive competitive simulation designed to enhance the cyber readiness of Dubai government entities, and the 'School of Cyber Defense' CTF competition, which attracted registrations from over 300 university students, engaging them in technical challenges and hands-on training. These programs form a key part of DESC's ongoing efforts to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals equipped to navigate evolving digital threats. H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of the Dubai Electronic Security Center, commented:'DESC's participation in GISEC Global 2025 reflects our steadfast commitment to securing Dubai's digital future through proactive cybersecurity measures, innovation-driven initiatives, and an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration by building partnerships across public and private sectors. GISEC continues to serve as a dynamic platform where industry leaders, experts, and innovators come together to shape the future of cybersecurity.' 'GISEC 2025 provides a critical platform for strategic engagement with global cybersecurity innovators, allowing us to gain insights into emerging technologies and anticipate future threats. These interactions directly support our efforts to create forward-looking policies, develop advanced cyber solutions, and empower national talent to lead in this field. Through such initiatives, we continue to strengthen Dubai's position as a global hub for cybersecurity excellence and digital innovation,' Al Shaibani added. DESC experts will also take part in high-level panel discussions addressing key challenges and emerging trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The Center will also formalize strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration and strengthening national efforts to secure the cyber space. Visitors to GISEC Global 2025 are invited to explore DESC's initiatives at Stand A80 in Hall 7, where DESC will showcase its latest projects, including future-ready cybersecurity guidelines and certification programs designed to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape and strengthen national capabilities. The stand will also serve as a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with DESC's experts and explore opportunities for joint collaboration.
Hi Dubai
02-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
DESC to Showcase Cybersecurity Initiatives at GISEC 2025 as Official Government Partner
The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) is set to participate as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year in the 14th edition of the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC Global 2025), taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Center. The Center's participation in GISEC Global 2025, which gathers over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals representing more than 160 countries, aligns with its strategic objectives aimed at advancing the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and reinforcing Dubai's position as one of the world's digitally safest cities. This participation reflects the Center's commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and promoting robust cooperation at both the local and international levels. During the three-day event, DESC will spotlight a number of key initiatives, including the 'Dubai Cyber Challenge', an exclusive competitive simulation designed to enhance the cyber readiness of Dubai government entities, and the 'School of Cyber Defense' CTF competition, which attracted registrations from over 300 university students, engaging them in technical challenges and hands-on training. These programs form a key part of DESC's ongoing efforts to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals equipped to navigate evolving digital threats. H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of the Dubai Electronic Security Center, commented: 'DESC's participation in GISEC Global 2025 reflects our steadfast commitment to securing Dubai's digital future through proactive cybersecurity measures, innovation-driven initiatives, and an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration by building partnerships across public and private sectors. GISEC continues to serve as a dynamic platform where industry leaders, experts, and innovators come together to shape the future of cybersecurity.' 'GISEC 2025 provides a critical platform for strategic engagement with global cybersecurity innovators, allowing us to gain insights into emerging technologies and anticipate future threats. These interactions directly support our efforts to create forward-looking policies, develop advanced cyber solutions, and empower national talent to lead in this field. Through such initiatives, we continue to strengthen Dubai's position as a global hub for cybersecurity excellence and digital innovation,' Al Shaibani added. DESC experts will also take part in high-level panel discussions addressing key challenges and emerging trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The Center will also formalize strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration and strengthening national efforts to secure the cyber space. Visitors to GISEC Global 2025 are invited to explore DESC's initiatives at Stand A80 in Hall 7, where DESC will showcase its latest projects, including future-ready cybersecurity guidelines and certification programs designed to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape and strengthen national capabilities. The stand will also serve as a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with DESC's experts and explore opportunities for joint collaboration. News Source: Four Agency
