GISEC 2025: Empowering cybersecurity and Women in Tech

GISEC Global 2025, set to take place in Dubai, promises to be a pivotal event in the cybersecurity landscape, offering a platform for innovation, networking, and knowledge sharing. This year, the event will showcase cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity strategies and highlight the UAE’s significant strides in empowering women in the tech sector, particularly through initiatives like the Women in Cyber Security Middle East.

The event is one of the largest and most influential cybersecurity events in the Middle East, attracting thousands of attendees and featuring over 750 exhibiting brands. The event will focus on bridging the gap between innovation and defense, offering insights into AI-driven security solutions, blockchain advancements, and real-world cyber defense tactics. This strategic focus makes GISEC a must-attend for cybersecurity professionals, IT leaders, and business executives seeking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital world.

Empowering Women in Cybersecurity

The UAE has been at the forefront of promoting gender balance, with significant achievements in empowering women in various sectors, including cybersecurity. Women in Cyber Security Middle East plays a crucial role in this effort by promoting women’s participation and leadership in cybersecurity across the region. GISEC Global 2025 will continue this trend by hosting panels and discussions focused on women in cybersecurity, providing a platform for female leaders to share their experiences and insights.

Beyond GISEC, the UAE has launched several initiatives to support women’s reintegration into the workforce, particularly in tech roles. For instance, Emirates NBD’s “Women’s Returnship” programme offers mentoring, learning, and flexible working arrangements to help women transition back to work after career breaks. This aligns with broader discussions on the need for enterprises to engage with motherhood and support women’s career continuity.

As noted in past events by Heide Young, co-Founder of Women in Cybersecurity Middle East: “We need business to engage with motherhood,” emphasising the importance of policies like maternity leave and return-to-work programs. “You don’t check these policies until you need them. When it affects you, you (may have to) request a change to be made — maternity leave is really important.” Moreover, “When you go away and come back, are there policies for re-entering your position? We need return-to-work programmes, and that is something that is not being done.” These sentiments highlight the need for comprehensive support systems to ensure women can balance career and family responsibilities effectively.

GISEC 2025 in Dubai is poised to be a landmark event for cybersecurity advancements and promoting gender balance in the tech industry. With the UAE’s commitment to empowering women through various initiatives, the event will serve as a powerful platform for inspiring a new generation of female cybersecurity professionals. As the region continues to evolve in its approach to gender equity, events like GISEC and initiatives by groups like Women in Cyber Security Middle East will play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and technologically advanced society.