In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, the pace of digital growth is something the world is watching. But as infrastructure modernises and data moves online, the region is also facing another reality: cyber threats are evolving just as quickly.
From deepfake impersonations to AI-driven phishing campaigns, cyberattacks today are more sophisticated, persistent and harder to detect. What used to be occasional, disruptive incidents are now everyday business risks. The stakes are no longer just operational — they’re reputational, financial, and often regulatory.
That’s why more and more organisations across the region are turning to Managed Security Services (MSS) as a critical layer of defence — not as a luxury, but as a necessity.
Why the shift to managed security
At the core, it’s about capacity and clarity. Many public and private sector organisations simply don’t have the time, expertise or internal resources to track every threat, manage every alert or keep up with shifting compliance requirements.
A Managed Security Services provider that operates a Security Operations Centre (SOC) fills that gap. With 24/7 threat monitoring, real-time response, and continuous system assessment, MSS brings a level of oversight and readiness that’s hard to build in-house. For many CISOs in the Middle East, it’s the peace of mind they didn’t know they were missing.
Ransomware is hitting harder. AI tools are being used to manipulate emails and steal identities. And when the difference between a near miss and a breach could come down to minutes, real-time visibility becomes non-negotiable.
Local needs, regional regulations
In the UAE, frameworks like the Information Assurance Standards (IAS) and regulatory bodies such as Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) are setting new expectations for organisational resilience. In Saudi Arabia, the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) has been firm in requiring Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC) across sectors.
With compliance now directly tied to operating licences, revenue streams, and reputation, businesses aren’t just looking for support, they need partners who understand the regional landscape.
Where Goaco comes in
At Goaco, we’ve seen this shift up close. Our regional teams work hand-in-hand with clients in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to deliver managed security services built around the threats and frameworks they’re dealing with — not just what’s trending globally.
Our Security Operations Centre runs around the clock, staffed by experts trained to spot threats before they escalate. We don’t just monitor. We help clients investigate, respond, and recover while ensuring that systems are aligned with local standards and global best practices.
What makes the difference
- Localised compliance expertise including NESA, NCA and federal data protection laws.
- Real-world threat intelligence based on patterns we’re seeing across the region.
- A practical approach with clear reporting, straightforward advice, and solutions that don’t slow down your business.
In a region as fast-paced and digitally ambitious as the Gulf, security can’t be an afterthought. Managed Security Services aren’t just about protection — they’re about enabling your organisation to grow confidently, knowing someone’s got your back.
Want to talk about what managed security could look like for your organisation?
Speak to our team at Goaco. We’re here to help you stay secure, compliant, and one step ahead.
Click here to learn more about our Cyber Security services.
Insights
United Arab Emirates – rapid growth in MSS adoption
- Market expansion – The UAE’s MSS market was valued at USD 415.3 million in 2023 and is projected to surpass USD 928.2 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.3%. This growth is driven by rising cyber threats, increased cloud adoption, and stringent regulatory compliance requirements.
- Cloud deployment dominance – Organisations in the UAE are increasingly opting for cloud-based MSS solutions due to benefits like cost-effectiveness, scalability, and remote monitoring capabilities.
- Sector demand – The Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector is a significant adopter of MSS in the UAE, given the critical need to protect sensitive financial data and comply with regulatory standards.
Saudi Arabia – strategic investment in MSS
- Market growth – Saudi Arabia’s MSS market is expected to grow from USD 255.31 million in 2025 to USD 498.08 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 14.3%. This growth is fuelled by increasing cyber threats, digital transformation initiatives, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Regulatory influence – The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) in Saudi Arabia has implemented the Essential Cybersecurity Controls (ECC), mandating organisations to enhance their cybersecurity posture, thereby driving the demand for MSS.
- Key sectors – Critical sectors such as energy, finance, and government are leading adopters of MSS in Saudi Arabia, aiming to safeguard national infrastructure and sensitive data.
Regional trends – MENA’s embrace of MSS
- Outsourcing surge – A survey indicates that 70% of organisations in the MENA region are either outsourcing or planning to outsource their information security functions, highlighting the growing reliance on MSS providers.
- Global market outlook – The global MSS market is projected to grow from USD 30.6 billion in 2023 to USD 52.9 billion by 2028, with the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region expected to hold a higher CAGR during this period.
About Goaco
Goaco is an award-winning global consultancy collaborating as a partner with the public and private sector, delivering innovative solutions and experiences that align to the needs of people, places and planet. Click here to find out more.
