OT Attacks Soar: GISEC Global 2025 Responds
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As operational technology (OT) cyberattacks rose by 49% in 2024, GISEC Global 2025 launched a dedicated OT Security track to address critical threats. The event, running until May 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, is the Middle East and Africa's largest cybersecurity gathering.
The new track focuses on securing power grids, oil and gas facilities, factories, and transport systems. Experts discussed evolving risks, system vulnerabilities, and strategies to defend critical infrastructure. Key topics included AI in ICS/OT security, quantum computing threats, SCADA protection, and digital supply chain risks.
This launch comes amid alarming industry developments: The OT security market is set to double to $44.9 billion by 2029 (Markets and Markets).
IBM reports the average cost of a cyberattack in the Middle East is $8.75 million, nearly double the global average.
OT security includes protocols that ensure the safety and continuity of industrial control systems. As threats grow, robust defences are essential for sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, energy, transport, and utilities.
In late 2024, ransomware groups intensified their focus on these sectors. Only aggressive defence, intelligence sharing, and cross-industry collaboration can help protect infrastructure in 2025 and beyond.
At GISEC Global 2025, speakers highlighted AI-driven protection using machine learning, deep learning, and language models. Simone Fortin, Global CISO, Cruise Division, MSC, addressed maritime cybersecurity challenges. He stressed the need for global regulations, noting that maritime systems are governed by UN policies but implemented under complex bilateral agreements.
The OT Security track also examined rising IoT and IIoT threats in oil and gas. Amal Krishna, Executive Director & CISO at ONGC, emphasized the need for asset visibility, segmentation, and secure remote access. He stated that breaking silos between IT, OT, and engineering is just as critical as technology itself.
Albert Vartic, Upstream OT Cybersecurity Officer at OMV Petrom, noted that the Middle East's digital expansion increases attack surfaces. He urged for adoption of IEC 62443 standards and stronger cross-team collaboration to maintain operational resilience.
Ayman Al Issa (CPX) and Mohammed Mousa (CyberKnight) broke down the 49% rise in attacks. Mousa, OT/xIoT Consultant at CyberKnight, warned that legacy systems weren't designed for modern threats. He explained that integrating IT and OT environments increases exposure, especially with aging systems, remote access, and third-party links.
Al Issa, Director – OT Cybersecurity at CPX, said businesses should start with risk and threat assessments. Identifying critical assets and understanding possible attack vectors are key steps. He stressed that defences must be specific to the physical and digital impacts of ICS environments.
Elsayed, Regional OT/ICS Cybersecurity Specialist at CyberKnight, recommended Zero Trust models, real-time monitoring, and workforce training. He advised companies to: Maintain accurate OT asset inventories
Run OT-specific incident response drills
Apply risk-based vulnerability management
He added that a combination of technology, collaboration, and training is vital for long-term resilience.
As the region accelerates digital transformation, cybersecurity becomes a top priority. GISEC Global 2025 may set the stage for new regulations. Al Issa predicted a shift toward AI-driven detection, Zero Trust adoption, and compliance-focused strategies. He expects stronger regional frameworks to shape OT security in the coming years.
Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council, GISEC Global 2025 runs under the theme Securing an AI-Powered Future , with support from DESC, the Ministry of Interior, and Dubai Police.
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