The 9th edition of the Global Security Symposium concluded successfully in Riyadh, bringing together some of the most influential voices in cybersecurity and digital transformation. With a sharp focus on AI-Driven Cybersecurity, this year’s event acted as a critical platform for regional and global experts to exchange insights, strategies, and visions for a secure digital future as we move toward 2025 and beyond.
Hosted by GEC Media Group, the symposium provided a timely forum for deep discussions on how artificial intelligence is transforming cyber defense, threat intelligence, governance, and risk management frameworks.
The day began with a compelling keynote address by Anushree Dixit, Chief Strategy Officer at GEC Media Group. Her speech framed the rapidly evolving cyber landscape and emphasized how AI is no longer just a support tool but a strategic pillar for cyber resilience.
The first high-level discussion of the day focused on the shifting contours of the threat landscape. Moderated by Mohammed Al Doseri, Group CISO and CDO at Tasheel Finance, this panel brought together top cybersecurity decision-makers to unpack what lies ahead.
Panelists:
Maaz Khan, Head of Information/Cyber Security, Lendo For Finance
Abdullah S Marghalany, CCISO, Medina Health Cluster
Adeel Agha, Cybersecurity, Risk and Compliance, Al Ittefaq Steel Production Co.
Abdullatif Al-Rushaid, Cybersecurity GM & Board Risk Management Committee Member, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources
The session highlighted how emerging technologies—while transformative—also open new threat vectors. Panelists explored how AI and automation are becoming indispensable in identifying and mitigating these risks in real-time.
With AI becoming central to SOC operations and security frameworks, the second expert panel explored its role in elevating real-time detection and threat hunting. The session, moderated by Saghir Khan, Security Operations Center Lead at SBM, was both technical and visionary in scope.
Panelists:
Saad Alqarni, CISO, Malaa
Mohamad Abdul Wajid Tanveer, Group CIO, BALUBAID Group of Companies
Aijaz Regoo, Chief Information Technology Officer, MIS Connect
Adnan Rafique Ahmed, Lead Specialist – Business Continuity, Enterprise Risk Management, MA’ADEN
Speakers explored how organizations can strike the right balance between automated systems and human oversight, and how AI can both enhance and challenge cybersecurity strategies. A recurring theme was the importance of ethical frameworks and data governance in deploying AI at scale.
The event also recognized industry pioneers through its prestigious awards segment, spotlighting exceptional leadership and innovation across cybersecurity, governance, and business continuity:
CISO Awards – Honoring forward-thinking cybersecurity leaders who are redefining organizational defense
GRC & BCM Awards – Acknowledging excellence in Governance, Risk & Compliance, and Business Continuity Management
These accolades not only celebrated achievement but also inspired others to raise the bar across their organizations.
A special note of appreciation goes to Ermetix and Yash Technologies, our Silver Partner, Kissflow – Gold Partner, and DX Wand -AI Knowledge Partner.
As the 9th Global Security Symposium comes to a close, one message resonates clearly: the future of cybersecurity is intelligent, adaptive, and AI-driven. With cyber threats growing more sophisticated, the need for smart, scalable, and collaborative solutions has never been greater.
