GITEX GLOBAL 2023 unveils the urgent imperative of Cybersecurity

In a bold initiative to tackle the escalating threat of cybercrime, GITEX GLOBAL 2023 has brought together world-renowned cybersecurity experts. The event, held in the UAE, aims to address the urgent challenges posed by cybercriminals, who are projected to inflict annual damages of $10.5 trillion by 2025. From ransomware to risks linked with Generative AI, key threats in the digital landscape are under scrutiny. Notably, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, emphasized the nation's pivotal role in fostering collaboration and innovation on a global scale. This report delves into the critical discussions and groundbreaking solutions unveiled at the event.

As GITEX GLOBAL 2023 kicks off, experts are sounding the alarm about the escalating threat of cybercrime, with projections indicating it could lead to staggering annual damages of $10.5 trillion by 2025.

Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, articulated a vision of global collaboration and service, stating, “Our vision is to create a great place to collaborate, work, and serve the entire world.”

The event has become a crucial platform for cybersecurity specialists worldwide, as they grapple with an array of challenges including ransomware, crypto crime, and the risks entailed by Generative AI in the digital era.

Huawei, a prominent presence at the exhibition, is showcasing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. Dr. Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer for Huawei Middle East & Central Asia, emphasized the dual nature of generative AI, acknowledging its potential to enhance cybersecurity while also introducing new vulnerabilities. He called for proactive measures in regulating its ethical use and establishing robust governance frameworks.

Dr. Aloysius underscored the importance of collaboration and information-sharing among organizations in combatting cyber threats. He advocated for a focus on Data Security Governance and adopting a 'follow the data' model to address emerging technologies like cloud and AI.

A panel discussion titled "Cybersecurity at the Heart of Digital Transformation" featured key figures including HE Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Amer Sharaf of Dubai Electronics Security Centre, Nathan Swain, and ministers from Brunei and Gambia. The discussion emphasized the delicate balance between security and innovation in the digital age, and stressed the imperative of sustained investments in cybersecurity.

GITEX GLOBAL 2023 marked the inaugural showcase of GITEX Cyber Valley, hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council. The Cyber Valley played host to various hackathons, engaging over 500 white-hat hackers across five challenges aimed at addressing global tech issues. Participants also had the opportunity to explore X-Labs Security, a platform featuring technical talks and the latest product demonstrations.

Leading cybersecurity firms such as Huawei, Netscout, ESET, Kaspersky, Norton, Palo Alto, and Fortinet are using GITEX GLOBAL to demonstrate how their solutions are safeguarding organizations' most critical assets.

In a parallel development at the event, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) unveiled the Super Formula Dallara model, a milestone in autonomous mobility. This innovative vehicle is set to make its debut at the Abu Dhabi F1 track in April 2024, promising to redefine mobility through extreme sports.

Dr. Tom McCarthy, Executive Director of ASPIRE, ATRC's technology transition arm, highlighted the significance of this development, stating, "A2RL marks a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, setting the stage for disruptive innovations in mobility through extreme sports."

GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star jointly occupy an expansive 2.7 million sq. ft. of exhibition space, reflecting a remarkable 40% growth year-on-year. This impressive expansion has drawn 1,800 startups to the combined mega-events. Together, GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star serve as a platform for the brightest minds and most visionary companies to shape, challenge, and drive the digital agendas of the world.