The UAE was the Gulf region’s most frequently targeted country during the first half of 2026, accounting for 35 per cent of recorded cyberattacks, according to a new security study.
Saudi Arabia represented 15 per cent of attacks, meaning the two countries together accounted for half of the regional total. Iran represented 17 per cent.
Approximately 96 per cent of incidents recorded during the six-month period occurred in the first quarter, with researchers linking the concentration to increased malicious activity during regional tensions.
Government organisations accounted for 27 per cent of successful attacks, followed by attacks without a specific sector at 23 per cent and industrial organisations at 17 per cent.
Exploitation of software and hardware vulnerabilities was the most common attack method, representing 38 per cent of incidents. Malware accounted for 31 per cent and social engineering for 27 per cent.
Researchers said frequently observed tactics included AI-assisted malware and phishing distributed through email, WhatsApp and other messaging services.