Cyber Warriors Power List 2025: Palo Alto Networks

The Cyber Warriors Power List celebrates the most influential leaders, innovators, and disruptors in cybersecurity. These are the individuals and teams shaping the future of digital security, defending against cyber threats, and driving cutting-edge solutions in an era where resilience is paramount. From ethical hackers to policy leaders, this list recognises those making a significant impact in securing our digital world.

Palo Alto Networks – Haider Pasha, Chief Security Officer at Palo Alto Networks, EMEA and LATAM

What innovative cybersecurity solutions does Palo Alto Networks offer, and how do they address the region’s unique challenges?

Recent research by Censuswide, commissioned by Palo Alto Networks, surveyed 250 CEOs and senior managers from UAE companies between 18-25 September 2024. Findings revealed that almost 90% of respondents had implemented AI for cybersecurity, with 52% reporting extensive deployments and 28% indicating limited implementation. However, perspectives varied on AI’s most valuable contributions: 42% cited automation for speed and efficiency, 39% highlighted improved threat detection, and 35% focused on enhanced vulnerability management.

Haider Pasha, Chief Security Officer at Palo Alto Networks, EMEA and LATAM, commented on the findings, stating: “These insights underscore the necessity for organisations to move beyond fragmented security solutions and embrace a connected platform approach. Platformization is not just a technological shift; it is a fundamental business enabler that enhances security, operational efficiency, and resilience.”

How is Palo Alto Networks leveraging advanced technologies to combat emerging threats like AI-powered cyberattacks or sophisticated bugs?

The AI cybersecurity market is expected to reach $102.78 billion by 2032, according to Deloitte, reflecting the technology’s widespread adoption. However, AI is also being weaponised by adversarial actors to launch highly evasive and damaging zero-day attacks, which traditional security solutions struggle to detect. Palo Alto Networks observes an average of 2.3 million new and unique threats daily, blocking approximately 11.3 billion threats inline per day.

In response, the company has introduced Precision AI, a proprietary innovation that combines machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) with generative AI (GenAI) to deliver real-time security. This approach enables organisations to outpace cyber threats and protect critical infrastructure.

“AI has reached a tipping point where it is both the problem and the solution,” stated Pasha. “To effectively counter AI-powered cyberattacks, organisations must harness AI itself—through platformization and Precision AI—to fortify their cybersecurity strategies.”

How can cybersecurity effectively tackle challenges related to AI misuse or malicious activities online?

While AI provides immense advantages to enterprises, it is also increasingly used by adversarial actors to create evasive and damaging cyber threats. Palo Alto Networks records an average of 2.3 million new and unique threats daily and blocks approximately 11.3 billion threats inline per day.

To address AI-powered cyberattacks, the company emphasises the importance of AI-driven solutions. “To combat the misuse of AI in cyberattacks, organisations must adopt an AI-first security strategy. Precision AI and platformization ensure that cybersecurity systems remain proactive, automated, and resilient against evolving threats,” Pasha noted.

What current industry trends are driving cybersecurity strategies, and how is Palo Alto Networks preparing for the future?

Cybersecurity awareness is increasing across the Middle East, with organisations recognising the need to bolster their security posture against sophisticated, automated threats. However, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal deployment of AI in cybersecurity. Research conducted by Palo Alto Networks in collaboration with IBM found that 70% of surveyed companies have embraced security platformization, reporting tangible benefits such as improved operational efficiency and revenue generation.

As supply chain vulnerabilities continue to pose significant risks, cyber resilience is becoming a prerequisite for doing business. Companies that invest in robust cybersecurity measures are not only mitigating threats but also gaining commercial advantages by ensuring secure and seamless operations.

How do you see the role of cybersecurity evolving in a hyperconnected digital world?

Looking ahead, Palo Alto Networks envisions a future driven by platformization, underpinned by Precision AI, to counter AI-generated cyber threats.

“Reducing complexity is a critical challenge for enterprises navigating an increasingly interconnected digital landscape,” added Pasha. “Our research with IBM found that 75% of organisations prioritise security platformization, recognising the importance of integrating cybersecurity with AI, hybrid cloud, and other key technologies.”

By adopting a holistic security approach, organisations in the Middle East can enhance their resilience, streamline operations, and safeguard their digital transformation journey against evolving cyber threats.