SANS Institute, the global leader in cybersecurity training and certifications, recently announced the launch of the Gulf edition of its AI Security Maturity Model eBook, a practical framework designed to help companies assess their AI security readiness, strengthen governance, and build resilient AI security programs across regional enterprises. ย
As AI adoption accelerates across the Gulf, organizations are facing emerging challenges such as unverified models, data leakage, compliance risks and AI-enabled cyber threats. Developed by Chris Cochran, Field CISO and Vice President of AI Security at SANS Institute, the eBook provides organizations with a structured approach to navigating these challenges and scaling AI securely, irrespective of where they are on their AI journey.
“Across the Gulf, organizations are adopting AI for innovation and growth, but the pace of cyber threats continues to intensify,โ said Chris Cochran, Field CISO and Vice President of AI Security, SANS Institute. โAs highlighted in our latest SANS global cybersecurity report, attackers are already using AI to increase the speed and sophistication of attacks, while time-to-exploit has fallen from more than two years in 2019 to less than 24 hours today. Security leaders can no longer rely on reactive approaches. They need a consistent way to evaluate their readiness, establish stronger governance, and build resilience as AI becomes integral to business operations.โ
With โProtectโ, Utilizeโ, and โGovernโ as its three core pillars, the framework enables enterprises to secure AI systems, strengthen cybersecurity operations through AI, and establish effective governance for the responsible use of AI. Together, these pillars provide a solid foundation for building resilient AI security programs.ย
The framework also defines five stages of AI security maturity, ranging from organizations with little or no formal AI governance to those operating mature, adaptive AI security programs. Each stage includes practical controls, measurable indicators, recommended actions, and a self-assessment tool to benchmark current capabilities and identify next steps toward improving AI security maturity.ย
Aligned with globally recognized standards and guidance, including the NIST AI Risk Management Framework, ISO/IE 42001, the EU AI Act, and the CSA AI Controls Matrix, the Gulf edition helps organizations turn AI security strategy into execution while supporting compliance with evolving international best practices.ย
Ned Baltagi, Managing Director, Middle East, Turkey and Africa at SANS Institute, said, “The Gulf Edition of the AI Security Maturity Model rightfully addresses the regionโs unique priorities and regulatory landscape. This will help the regional organizations to build trust in AI, strengthen cyber resilience, and enable innovation with confidence.”
To mark the launch, SANS Institute will host a webcast with Chris Cochran on August 4, at 3:00 p.m. GST, where attendees will gain practical guidance on assessing AI security maturity and building resilient AI security programs.
