The article examines the role of cybersecurity in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Much of the focus in the GCC is protecting cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the energy sector. However, as GCC countries begin to diversify their economies, cybersecurity remains an important element in projects such as Saudi Vision 2030, Oman Vision 2040, Qatar Vision 2030, Kuwait Vision 2035 and Bahrain National Plan 2030. Due to the increased digitization of GCC economies in accordance with these projects, cybersecurity becomes significantly more important for GCC countries. The article underscores some concerns over privacy and censorship and the role of cybersecurity in cracking down on dissidents. The article notes that cybersecurity is also a critical mechanism in cracking down on radical groups that recruit members online. Specific to GCC countries is the threat of advanced persistent threats (APTs) from state-sponsored cybersecurity from countries, mainly Iran. The article also examines the broader future role of GCC countries in great power competition.
