Dr. Noora Hassan
In recent years, the Gulf States have made significant progress in prioritising cybersecurity, recognising the critical importance of safeguarding their digital infrastructures from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, including the oil and gas, finance, and government sectors. Regional cooperation, advanced technological investments, robust public-private partnerships, and the establishment of dedicated national cybersecurity organisations across the GCC, alongside initiatives such as Qatar National Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, and the UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy, have all been key components of their collective strategy. However, despite these efforts, the rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats and the increasing complexity of the threat landscape still pose significant challenges, necessitating further strengthening of defences and continuous adaptation to the evolving challenges posed by hostile actors. Threat actors, which include cybercriminals and hacktivists, among others, continuously adapt their tactics, heightening the risks to data, systems, and operations across the region as they seek to disrupt the technology infrastructure for varying reasons.
The rapid pace of technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), has further complicated the threat environment. Malicious entities now have new tools to exploit vulnerabilities, automate sophisticated attacks, and evade traditional security measures with unprecedented precision and scale. However, while AI introduces new risks, it also holds tremendous potential to transform cybersecurity defences in the GCC. AI has already played a pivotal role in enhancing cybersecurity, including during the Qatar World Cup. AI technologies enabled real-time threat detection, predictive analytics, and automated incident response, paving the way for quicker identification and mitigation of potential attacks. These tools enhanced the monitoring and surveillance of critical infrastructure and digital services, allowing for swift, accurate, and efficient responses to threats, thereby creating a secure environment throughout the World Cup.
One critical area where AI is making a significant impact is in cyber threat intelligence, which involves gathering and analysing information on threat actors’ motives, targets, and behaviours. Traditionally, behavioural and criminal analysts in the GCC relied on manual processes to review vast amounts of security data, often leading to delays, missed threats, and inaccuracies. AI improves the process by introducing speed and accuracy, enabling the identification of anomalies, correlating seemingly unrelated events, and detecting potential threats specific to a country, which can be shared regionally if necessary. AI is also a powerful tool for attribution, assisting the Ministry of Interior in identifying the perpetrators behind cyberattacks. By analysing attack patterns, malware, and other artefacts, AI can detect similarities with past incidents linked to known threat actors, reducing the time and resources needed for analysts in the GCC to accurately attribute attacks. Through continuous training on extensive threat data, AI gains a deeper understanding of evolving attack methodologies and trends, particularly those targeting the region, enhancing its effectiveness over time.
Moreover, AI has the potential to revolutionise various aspects of cybersecurity operations in the GCC, from security operations centres to patch management, incident response, and penetration testing. Within security operations centres, AI can refine threat detection and response by filtering out noise and focusing on relevant signals. In incident response, AI accelerates threat identification and mitigation, reducing response times critical to safeguarding vital infrastructure. In patch management, AI improves system scanning capabilities, enabling more effective prioritisation of patches, which is crucial for maintaining the security of the region’s increasingly interconnected systems. Similarly, in penetration testing and red team operations, AI enhances vulnerability identification and simulates cyber-attacks, helping organisations in the GCC bolster their defences against emerging threats. AI-driven approaches also hold significant promise in securing software development processes, identifying vulnerabilities early in the development lifecycle, and reducing the risk of exploitation by malicious actors.
The collaboration between human analysts and AI systems is particularly crucial in ensuring comprehensive protection against emerging cyber threats. In this symbiotic relationship, AI acts as a force multiplier, empowering cybersecurity professionals to adapt and respond effectively to the ever-evolving digital security landscape. By adopting proactive measures and strategically investing in AI-driven solutions, organisations and institutions across the GCC can strengthen their cyber resilience and safeguard their digital assets in an increasingly complex and interconnected environment.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of AI in cybersecurity will depend on how well organisations in the GCC manage these risks while maximising the benefits. A balanced approach that includes continuous investment in AI-driven solutions, robust cybersecurity frameworks, and skilled behavioural and criminal analysts will be essential. Through this strategic application of AI, the GCC can bolster its cyber resilience while skilfully navigating the challenges posed by transformative technologies.
Dr. Noora Hassan is a lawyer and scientist specialising in strategic defence consulting. Her expertise bridges law and science to address complex global security challenges.
Dr. Noora Hassan is a lawyer and scientist specialising in strategic defence consulting. Her expertise bridges law and science to address complex global security challenges.
