Gulf Business Machines (GBM) has released its 12th annual security report, titled “Embracing Opportunities and Mitigating Risks in the Age of AI”, which explores the significant influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on cybersecurity and data privacy across the Middle East.
According to the report, AI adoption is rapidly growing, with 59% of organizations in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait integrating AI at moderate to high levels in 2024. This marks a shift as enterprises in the region increasingly rely on AI for technological innovation, economic diversification, and reducing oil dependency.
National initiatives such as the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 are key drivers behind this surge, positioning the Middle East as an emerging AI powerhouse. However, this rapid AI integration brings challenges, particularly around data privacy and regulatory compliance.
Focus on Data Privacy and Compliance
The report identifies data privacy as the top concern for 31% of respondents, with regulatory and compliance challenges following closely behind at 27%. Ethical concerns, including AI bias, were flagged by 25%, while 17% pointed to security vulnerabilities. The report also highlights a leadership gap, with 45% of organizations lacking a Chief AI Officer to guide their AI strategies.
Balancing AI Opportunities with Emerging Risks
While AI is transforming cybersecurity by improving threat detection, automating security processes, and enhancing incident response, it also introduces new vulnerabilities. Nearly half of the surveyed organizations face difficulties embedding strong data privacy measures into AI systems, and 35% are grappling with global data protection regulations.
Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping industries, driving operational efficiency for 37% of organizations and sparking innovation and creativity for 22%.
A Strategic Roadmap for Enhanced Cybersecurity
GBM’s report recommends several strategies to address these challenges, including the creation of shared threat intelligence platforms and fostering cross-sector collaboration. It also stresses the importance of adhering to international standards and increasing research and development efforts.
Upskilling talent and hiring experts to manage AI-related risks are crucial steps. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), and Chief Privacy Officers (CPOs) are expected to play pivotal roles in aligning security strategies and ensuring data protection.
Bassam Rached, General Manager of Technology at GBM, stated, “The Middle East is leading AI-driven transformation, backed by visionary leadership and national strategies. Our report highlights AI’s potential to accelerate innovation while also addressing critical cybersecurity and privacy risks. A collaborative approach between public and private sectors is essential to secure a responsible digital future.”
Rached added that public-private partnerships will be key to responsibly leveraging AI and ensuring ethical practices in the region’s AI-driven future.
