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.

This year’s participation underscores OPSWAT’s commitment to strengthening regional cybersecurity resilience as organizations face increasingly sophisticated threats. Attendees will have multiple opportunities to engage with OPSWAT’s cybersecurity experts through interactive demonstrations, thought leadership sessions, and specialized training programs.

Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT

“Our main focus at GISEC Global 2025 will be critical infrastructure, the lynchpin of economic progress and an increasingly popular target for threat actors,” said Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT. “Our partnerships will involve devising ways of protecting the interconnected systems and technologies that drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Through our demonstrations and discussions at GISEC 2025, OPSWAT experts will show how our solutions directly address the latest cybersecurity challenges, especially the ongoing merger of IT and OT.”

The company will showcase its innovative solutions through two unique exhibits. The CIP Mobile Lab, operated by OP/X Labs, will provide live demonstrations of industry-leading technologies designed to protect critical infrastructure. Visitors can gain practical insights into securing vital operational systems against modern cyber threats.

Complementing this will be OPSWAT’s Nuclear Plant Model Reactor display, illustrating the company’s specialized capabilities in securing highly sensitive environments. The exhibit will demonstrate real-world applications of OPSWAT’s technology through an interconnected display with the mobile lab.

OPSWAT’s experts will present across multiple stages during the three-day event:

1. On the opening day, security professionals can attend a live hacking demonstration on the Dark Stage, revealing current vulnerabilities in today’s threat landscape.
2. Day two features two significant presentations. Founder and CEO Benny Czarny will deliver a keynote address titled “Breaking the Firewall: Revolutionizing Cyber Defense for a Connected World” on the Government Stage. His session will challenge conventional security paradigms and propose innovative approaches to counter AI-driven threats and encrypted attacks.
3. Simultaneously, Director of Products and Solutions Kris Voorspoels will participate in a Critical Infrastructure Stage panel discussion examining security challenges in the regional oil and gas sector’s Industrial IoT (IIoT) ecosystem. The session will explore security implications of connected devices in petrochemical operations and strategies for protecting this vital economic sector.

Supporting the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy’s capacity-building objectives, OPSWAT Academy will offer complimentary certification courses throughout the event. Professionals can earn credentials in File Security (OFSA), Secure Storage (OSSA), Email Security (OESA), Web Traffic Protection (OWPA), and Data Transfer Security (ODSA).

At GISEC Global 2025, OPSWAT will exhibit from Stand C55, Hall 7.

The summit will feature keynote presentations, expert panel discussions, real-world case studies, and an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge solutions. Topics will span AI-powered threat detection, OT/ICS infrastructure security, cloud resilience, Zero Trust frameworks, and national-level collaboration between public and private sectors.

Abdullah Al Shaheen, Director of Public Relations and Media Department at National cybersecurity center said, “This edition of the Cyber First Conference, held under the patronage of the National Cybersecurity Center serves as a platform for business leaders, professionals to come together and exchange experiences, share best practices, and explore the latest developments for security and protection against the rapidly evolving cyber threats and attacks. These challenges require us to remain informed and constantly evolving.”

“The National Cybersecurity Center in the State of Kuwait is working to build an effective system to protect the cyberspace by collaborating with both local and international entities in the field of cybersecurity. This is to create a safe digital environment, while maintaining the trust of technology operators and users. We hope this conference will serve as a gateway to more important meetings and events that focus on cybersecurity,” he added.

“Cyber First Kuwait is a national dialogue and strategic catalyst,” said Shyam Reddy, Partnerships Director. “With Vision 2035 and the National Cybersecurity Strategy serving as our guiding frameworks, this summit brings together government and enterprise to create actionable pathways toward a digitally secure and resilient Kuwait.”

The conference featured keynotes, panels, one-on-one networking sessions, a cybersecurity hackathon, and the Kuwait Cybersecurity Awards, recognizing trailblazers across innovation, leadership, and operational excellence. The event hosted over 300 delegates, including CISOs, risk management leaders, OT and cloud architects, regulators, leading solution providers, more than 20 sponsors, 15 media partners, and 10 ministries.

“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cyber resilience is not just an option—it’s a necessity,” said Fady Richmany, Regional Vice President & General Manager, Emerging Markets, CEE, CIS & META at Commvault. “At Commvault, we’re redefining how organizations move from continuous threats to continuous business. With AI-driven security, innovative solutions, strategic partnerships, and a cloud-first approach, we are empowering enterprises across EMEA’s Emerging Markets to stay ahead of cyber risks and build a future-ready defense. Join us in Dubai for Commvault SHIFT as we unveil the next era of cyber resilience.”

The SHIFT Dubai agenda will feature keynote sessions, a deep dive into the Commvault product roadmap, panel discussions, and expert insights from Microsoft, IDC, Core42, AWS, Pure Storage, and other industry leaders. Attendees will gain exclusive access to thought leadership and direct strategy on modern cyber resilience strategies, AI-driven security trends, how to maintain continuous business and understanding the concept of Minimum Viable Company.

The UAE’s cyber market, projected to grow to $9.8 billion by 2028, highlights the nation’s commitment to innovation. However, 58% of UAE enterprises report their cybersecurity measures fail to match the scale of their digital acceleration. Commvault’s SHIFT Roadshow reinforces its mission to close this gap, empowering UAE businesses to future-proof data protection, streamline compliance, and neutralize threats in an era of relentless AI-powered attacks.

Egypt is a regional leader in digital technology. Between 2022 and 2024, the number of internet users in the country increased by 6.3 million, exceeding 82 million. According to the 2023–2024 report by the International Telecommunication Union, Egypt was one of 12 nations to receive the highest rating in the Global Cybersecurity Index. Meanwhile, the rapid digitalization has caught the attention of cybercriminals: Positive Technologies ranks Egypt second in Africa for the number of cyberattacks, accounting for 13%.

In 2024, Positive Technologies uncovered over a hundred listings on dark web forums offering stolen databases for sale or free distribution. These databases contained confidential information belonging to Egyptian citizens and organizations. Most of the reports about data breaches involved individuals (40%), followed by e-commerce (22%), as well as the service and transportation sectors (10% each). One of the posts, for example, advertised the sale of personal data of 85 million Egyptian citizens. Safeguarding companies’ cybersecurity and protecting client data have become top priorities for both businesses and the government.

Dmitry Serebryannikov, Chief Hacking Officer at Positive Technologies, said, “The meetup in Cairo will mark a significant step forward in building a global community of cybersecurity experts. We see this as our mission: to share knowledge, collectively enhance security, and combat the rising tide of cyberthreats worldwide.”

Ilya Leonov, Regional Director for MENA, Positive Technologies, stated, “In Egypt, our company is represented through local partners: last year, we signed cooperation agreements with several providers of cybersecurity services and solutions in Egypt and the broader region. We will continue to expand our partner network in the Middle East and Africa, support the development of human resources through joint educational projects, and share our rich expertise and practical experience with our colleagues.”

At Positive Hack Talks in Cairo, speakers will cover key cybersecurity topics, including business logic vulnerabilities, client-side attacks, GraphQL security, and IoT exploitation. They include Ahmed Qaramany, Penetration Tester at DeepStrike, LLC, who will be demonstrating a structured approach to pentesting GraphQL; Fares Walid, Senior Security Consultant at Buguard, who will be exploring unconventional techniques for identifying business logic bugs and analyzing JavaScript; and Ksenia Naumova, Senior Malware Analyst at Positive Technologies, who will be sharing insights on detecting new threats using generic network rules. The event will also feature discussions on eBPF security, JVM fuzzing, and high-impact hacking techniques, offering attendees valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.

Positive Technologies kicked off its global meetup series in 2024. In October, an open cybersecurity event was held in Bengaluru (India), and in November, the meetups continued in Hanoi (Vietnam).

With these agreements, the total value of contracts signed during the first two days of the exhibitions has reached AED 9.77 billion across 18 deals. The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Majed Ahmed Al Jaberi, Mohammed Saif Al Zaabi, and Mahra Bilal Al Dhaheri, the official spokespersons for Tawazun Council.

The press briefing detailed the council’s contracts for the Ministry of Defense at IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and organized by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense and Tawazun Council.

Mahra Bilal Al Dhaheri stated that the second day’s local deals amounted to three contracts worth AED 5.57 billion. These included a contract with “Calidus Aerospace” to Procure HEDA Missile System (Phase 1) worth AED 3.76 billion, a contract with “International Golden Group” for the procurement of ammunition worth AED 492 million, and an agreement with “DTEC Industries Limited” to purchase 50 meter marine traffic boats worth AED 1.38 billion.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Saif Al Zaabi announced that international contracts for the second day of IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 amounted to two deals worth AED 213 million. These included an agreement with the French company “MBDA” to provide spare parts, maintenance, repairs, and technical support for naval equipment, valued at AED 32 million. Additionally, a contract was signed with “Augusta Westland Aviation Services “of Italy to provide technical, engineering, and logistics support, along with aircraft spare parts, worth AED 181 million.

Majed Ahmed Al Jaberi highlighted Tawazun Council’s commitment to enhancing cooperation between leading local and international defense companies. He pointed out that IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 serve as pivotal platforms for showcasing the latest technologies and innovations. Al Jaberi further remarked that these contracts play a key role in supporting the nation’s strategy to bolster its defense capabilities and expand its local manufacturing base—efforts that contribute to sustainable development and stimulate investment in advanced technologies.

EDGE is unveiling its most advanced suite of radars and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems, seamlessly expanding its all-domain portfolio. In the radar category, EDGE is introducing the NEMUS family, multi-threat active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars engineered for a broad range of intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) operations. Additionally, EDGE is launching next-generation 3D radars – the next generation TAWAQ family of ground radars, with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.

EDGE is also showcasing its MIRSAD family of advanced EO/IR systems, designed for high-precision surveillance and targeting across air, naval, and ground domains. Equipped with cutting-edge imaging, tracking, and laser designation technologies, the MIRSAD family enhances situational awareness and operational effectiveness, delivering superior performance in complex environments.

In the EW domain, EDGE is unveiling two new variants of the GPS PROTECT GNSS anti-jamming system, the GPS PROTECT-4 and GPS PROTECT-8. Utilising advanced digital signal processing and array antenna technology, the new systems effectively protect users’ GNSS receivers from radio-frequency (RF) interference signals. EDGE is also unveiling two new variants of the SKYSHIELD counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS), the SKYSHIELD-N (Naval) and SKYSHIELD-T (Trailer-mounted), designed to identify UAS and jam their command-and-control (C2) channels within the full range of the GNSS spectrum.

Making its debut at IDEX 2025, BORDERSHIELD is EDGE’s new end-to-end surveillance system, designed for superior border security operations. Featuring AI-driven automatic detection of UAS, personnel, and vehicles up to 15km, BORDERSHIELD integrates a high-power cellular system (operating across GMS, UTMS, LTE, and 5G NSA frequency bands), a thermal optical camera, a high-resolution radar, and a C2 system to provide real-time, persistent situational awareness.

EDGE’s expansion into critical electronic warfare, radar, and EO/IR technologies is underpinned by the strategic consolidation of expertise within its newly established Technology & Innovation (T&I) cluster. This cluster is designed to accelerate innovation, optimise production through dedicated Centres of Excellence, and transform advanced research into deployable solutions. As a strategic initiative, it enhances efficiency, sovereignty, and technological leadership, reinforcing EDGE’s position as a global leader in defence technology.

To be held from 8-12 February 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, WDS will showcase the latest advancements in defense technologies across all five defense domains — air, land, sea, space, and security. Building on the success of its two prior editions, WDS 2026 will bring together global defense stakeholders to further foster collaboration, innovation, and international partnerships to strengthen global defense capabilities. WDS contributes to Saudi Arabia’s growth in the defense sector and is aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to localize 50 percent of defense spending in the Kingdom.

World Defense Show 2026 will span 273,000 sqm of exhibition space, including a new fourth hall. Since its inception in 2022, the area of exhibition stands has seen a considerable 58% growth. WDS 2026, in its third edition, is set to be even bigger and has received global participation with 65% of exhibition stands already sold. Attendees can experience several world-class features, take part in strategic networking opportunities, engage in discussions on crucial topics transforming the defense landscape, and view dynamic live and static displays at the expanded 2026 venue.

Andrew Pearcey, CEO, said, “We are excited to announce that WDS 2026 is surpassing the success of the previous edition. The 2026 show will be larger in size and expanded in scope, with increased international and local participation, expanded exhibition space, and a stronger focus on technological advancements, zooming in on unmanned systems and naval. WDS has introduced a range of important new features to promote further integration across the full spectrum of defense operations and deliver attendees another unmatched experience.”

WDS 2026 has announced new groundbreaking show features in addition to the successful programs from the previous edition. In 2024, these will contribute to an even more inclusive environment, bring the most cutting-edge technologies, and ensure wider industry coverage.

Among the highlights is Future Defense Lab, a revolutionary platform showcasing a new era of innovators, from startups to global primes, presenting never-before-seen cutting-edge technologies. In addition, the Unmanned Systems Zone brings the latest advancements in autonomous technology to the forefront, offering attendees the opportunity to experience the next phase of unmanned developments across all defense domains. Further, the new Naval Zone offers a comprehensive look at the future of maritime defense, underscoring the integral role of naval capabilities in maintaining global stability and securing economic interests.

A key new feature that reflects the Kingdom’s growing defense sector capabilities is the Saudi Supply Chain Zone, which enables small- and medium-sized Saudi enterprises the opportunity to connect with key players in the global defense supply chain, thereby strengthening local and international partnerships.

Pearcey added, “We’ve received resounding positive feedback from the previous two editions, with 2024 exceeding our expectations across the board. In response, we’ve set even more ambitious goals for 2026. By extending the show to offer more networking opportunities, greater deal-making potential, and enhanced collaboration between startups, local SMEs, and global industry leaders, we are committed to strengthening industry connections across the entire supply chain.”

With a core focus on innovation and thought leadership, the exhibitions will see the return of key features such as IDEX NEXT_GEN, a dedicated platform for global startups, and IDEX THINK_TANK, which will convene leading defence and security experts from around the world for high-level discussions on critical topics. The IDEX Talks and NAVDEX Talks will also return to host thought leaders, policymakers, influencers, researchers, and futurists to exchange insights on the new products and disruptive technologies that will shape the future of the sector.

As a leading provider of advanced defence systems and expertise for more than thirty-two years, STREIT Group has built a global presence at the forefront of innovation in the industry across land, sea, and air domains. With a highly skilled workforce of over 1,200 professionals worldwide, the Group specialises in the production of armoured personnel carriers, MRAPs, MAVs, and LAMVs, along with fortified boats and integrated marine technologies that ensure comprehensive defence solutions. These platforms are complemented by advanced systems such as UAVs, UGVs, and robotics developed according to the highest global industry standards.

Saeed Al Mansoori, Advisor of Military & Defence Shows at ADNEC Group, said: “ADNEC Group is very proud to announce our prestigious partnership with STREIT Group as a Diamond Sponsor. The IDEX and NAVIDEX 2025 exhibitions are set to be the largest so far and will offer an unparalleled opportunity to engage with ground-breaking technologies, seal new business partnerships, and joining enriching discussions shaping the future of the defence and security industry. With STREIT Group being a shining example of how UAE companies are leading global innovation in the sector, our new partnership is committed to serving our leadership’s vision of embracing cutting-edge technologies to bolster national security and foster sustainable growth to benefit the generations to come.”

Guerman Goutorov, The Chairman of STREIT Group, said: “STREIT Group is proud to be a Diamond Sponsor of IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, the events that exemplify global excellence in the defence and security sectors. Over the past three decades, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to innovation, advancing technologies, and quality products that address the evolving challenges of modern protection.

We are extremely proud to be headquartered here in the UAE and partnering with ADNEC Group aligns perfectly with our aim to support the country. Our mission for this year’s landmark exhibitions is to deliver cutting-edge solutions while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing on a global stage. We look forward to showcasing our latest advancements and forging meaningful partnerships at these world-class events.”

The hugely successful 16th edition of IDEX and 7th edition of NAVDEX in 2023 welcomed 132,507 attendees to ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Across the platforms offered by both events, 41 international pavilions were hosted and total of 1,353 exhibitors from 65 countries took part. New features included the inaugural edition of IDEX NEXT_GEN, which provided a platform for more than 100 startups drawn from around the world, and the IDEX THINK_TANK with a series of sessions moderated by exclusive partners that generated exclusive strategic white papers.

Co-organized by Tahaluf and the Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)—a joint venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund—LEAP 2025 promises advanced features. These include a new series of ‘LEAP Nights’ activities, the return of DeepFest, a dedicated Tech Arena, a SportsTech Track, and a commitment to fostering innovation across multiple sectors such as space, gaming, education, and smart cities, spread over 20 stages.

Tahaluf anticipates the fourth edition will see a significant increase in valuable interactions between exhibitors and visitors, with LEAP 2025 guests engaging with more than 680 start-ups, over 1,000 expert speakers, and over 1,800 global tech brands. LEAP 2025 is set to offer attendees more exclusive experiences, with a focus on connecting the right people with the latest and most exciting technologies.

A brand new SportsTech Track will merge the world of sports with cutting-edge tech trends. Attendees can step into the future of sports through live demos, industry announcements, and the latest innovations from clubs, industry leaders, and sector pioneers. Notable speakers include Patrice Evra, successful entrepreneur and former Manchester United forward, and Mathieu Pierre Flamini, former French professional footballer and co-founder of GF Biochemicals.

Another new addition to LEAP 2025 is the Tech Arena, where attendees can witness live product demos, get hands-on with prototypes, and see groundbreaking technology in action. This arena will feature a lineup of interactive engagements, connecting participants directly with tomorrow’s breakthrough technologies and innovations.

The Startup Stage at LEAP 2025 will shine a spotlight on the brightest innovators and startups. Whether pitching, networking, or exploring attendees will find the Startup Stage to be the place where ideas take flight and the future of tech unfolds. Expanding beyond the convention halls, LEAP 2025 introduces LEAP Nights. Attendees can immerse themselves in Riyadh’s vibrant cultural scene with an exciting lineup of dinners, meetups, and live entertainment. LEAP Nights will provide the perfect backdrop for networking, socializing, and soaking in the city’s energy while forging new connections across the global tech community.

LEAP 2025 will also feature enhanced matchmaking, investor-to-investor workshops, and more mentorship sessions. Attendees can join LEAP’s investor and startup ecosystem, bringing over 1,500 global investors and startups to Riyadh. The Investor Program includes dedicated lounges, an exclusive area for investors to connect with General Partners, Limited Partners, Funds of Funds, and a matchmaking zone with personalized networking spaces.

LEAP 2025 boasts an impressive lineup of notable international figures. Confirmed attendees include Ken Kutaragi, former Chairman and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, coinciding with PlayStation’s 30th anniversary on December 4th; Javier Tebas, President of LA LIGA, Spain’s professional football league; Connie Chan, General Partner of Andreessen Horowitz; and Andrea Vena, Chief Climate and Sustainability Officer of the European Space Agency.

The event will also welcome back familiar guest speakers and global technology leaders, such as Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM, who attended last year. Previous LEAP editions have featured renowned tech experts like Eric Yuan, Founder and CEO of Zoom Video Communications; Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok; and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google and renowned tech commentator.

Attendees can anticipate more high-calibre speakers and exhibitors as LEAP continues to solidify its reputation as the premier venue for connecting technology thought leaders and pioneers. With 75 per cent of conference speakers travelling to Saudi Arabia to participate, LEAP promises to be a significant event in the global tech calendar.

His Excellency Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasized LEAP’s role in defining the Kingdom’s future, saying, “LEAP has made an outstanding contribution to the realisation of the Saudi Vision 2030 goals and has rightly positioned the country as a global technology hub. The decision to move to a ticketed format this year makes LEAP more of an exclusive experience for attendees and relevant to today’s global technology elite. LEAP 2025 will showcase exceptional technology innovations, business opportunities and content – ensuring Saudi Arabia becomes the world’s undisputed technology aggregator.”

Faisal Alkhamisi, Chairman of the SAFCP, said the new LEAP 2025 initiatives reflected the event’s role in mirroring the rapid pace of tech industry developments and hinted at even more to come. “Over the past three years, LEAP has evolved at a rocket-fuelled pace, playing a critical role in nurturing talent, creativity, and investment. Yet, this is just the beginning. LEAP will continue to reflect the ever-changing tech landscape and inspire pioneers from across the globe,” Alkhamisi added.

Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, Saudi Arabia’s largest B2B event organiser and organiser of iconic brands LEAP, Cityscape, and Black Hat MEA, explained, “By transforming LEAP, we are creating a more curated experience. Transitioning to a ticketed model will allow exhibitors and participants to benefit from direct access to a highly engaged and laser-focused audience, leading to more meaningful collaborations and business opportunities. This change reflects our commitment to delivering an event that continues to set the gold standard for tech innovation globally. In the space of just three years, LEAP delivered an incredibly public and private onsite investment totalling more than $27.5 billion, set ever higher benchmarks for tech events worldwide, and delivered the economic impact that stretched well beyond the exhibition and conference floors. With our new strategically focussed format, we expect to accelerate the investment stream and supercharge innovation.”