“DarkMatter Sparks Conversations on Cyber Resilience at GITEX Tech Week 2016”

Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 07 September 2016

DarkMatter, a leading global cyber security firm located in the UAE, announces its role as the Cyber Security Innovation Partner for GITEX Technology Week 2016. This annual technology exhibition and conference, recognized as the largest ICT event in the Middle East, will take place from 16 – 20 October 2016 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

This year’s GITEX theme is “Reimagining New Realities – Advanced Technologies and Experiences”. DarkMatter aligns closely with this theme, as many revolutionary technologies stem from digitisation, highlighting the importance of a secure framework for peak performance.

According to the EMEA 360 Boardroom Survey conducted by Deloitte earlier this year, which involved 271 non-executive directors from 20 countries in the EMEA region, there is a growing recognition of cyber security challenges and an intensified focus on innovation and digitisation.

Sixty percent of those surveyed identified innovation as a critical concern, with product innovation being prioritized (63%), followed by business model innovation (49%) and digital innovation (47%). Only 9% of respondents noted that their organization lacked an innovation strategy, emphasizing the urgent need for technological advancements that must be secured for efficiency and sustainability.

GITEX acts as a platform for ICT leaders to address pivotal industry issues and engage with global thought leaders. DarkMatter’s Chief Executive Officer, Faisal Al Bannai, is among the senior representatives scheduled to speak at this significant event. In his keynote, Faisal Al Bannai will reference international examples demonstrating how both private and public sectors can collaborate to innovate and enhance cyber security frameworks.

Faisal Al Bannai remarked, “As cyber threats multiply and become increasingly complex, they threaten the growth of smart cities and Internet of Things ecosystems if these frameworks are compromised. DarkMatter advocates for prioritizing cyber security resilience in digital innovations to ensure the integrity of digital networks and all connecting entities.”

He added, “We perceive events like GITEX as vital for elevating awareness regarding the evolving cyber threat landscape, along with the strategies that can be adopted to strengthen defense mechanisms against malicious actors. Our Resiliency Model is one such resource we will present at GITEX, providing insights into the cascading impacts arising from a single cyber attack on interconnected critical networks. Our commitment lies in transforming the perspective and implementation of cyber security to cultivate a safer and more robust digital environment for society’s benefit.”

GITEX Technology Week is anticipated to attract over 140,000 attendees and more than 4,000 exhibitors. Newly introduced segments at this year’s event include augmented and virtual reality, artificial intelligence, AdTech solutions, wearables, smart textiles, vertical farming, space technology, and autonomous vehicles.

Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, commented: “The significance of cyber security in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of interconnected digital networks is becoming increasingly apparent, and we appreciate DarkMatter’s participation at GITEX Technology Week as the Cyber Security Innovation Partner for the first time this year. We fully endorse the necessity of raising awareness about the risks associated with a digitized landscape and the actions that should be taken to mitigate them. DarkMatter’s thought leadership and expertise will provide invaluable contributions at this year’s event.”

DarkMatter comprises elite international cyber specialists who innovate, manage, and implement the most advanced technologies. Their solutions adhere to the company’s Cyber Security Life-Cycle, which encompasses a four-stage methodology that includes planning, detection, protection, and recovery, thus enhancing their secure business offerings.

DarkMatter is leveraging this expertise in the wider market as it seeks to serve both regional and international clients. The company offers a comprehensive range of cyber security solutions and services designed for organizations with complex security needs, from government agencies and infrastructure providers to large enterprises.