The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence has drastically reduced the time window between a software vulnerability being discovered and it being exploited by malicious actors. During the third FutureSec conference held by Khaleej Times, industry experts warned that UAE businesses are facing heightened risks as cyber attackers leverage AI to strike faster than ever. Panelists from major regional organizations, including Schneider Electric and Sukoon Insurance, emphasized that cybersecurity can no longer be viewed as a secondary protective layer. Instead, it must be embedded directly into the foundational business practices and corporate culture of a company from the very beginning.

A major point of concern raised during the discussion involved the integration of AI agents into corporate environments. Providing these automated tools with access to sensitive credentials and data without stringent oversight significantly increases an organization's vulnerability, especially if their existing security posture is already lackluster. To mitigate these threats, experts urged companies to adopt rigid security controls aligned with international benchmarks. Furthermore, they stressed that as businesses embrace digital transformation, they must prioritize transparency and responsible AI usage, particularly when automated systems are used to process customer data or make decisions that impact the public.