Fortinet has released its 2025 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report, revealing persistent and emerging challenges caused by the shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals worldwide.
The report finds that as organisations increasingly deploy AI-driven security solutions, they are also aware of the risk of AI exploitation in cyberattacks, particularly due to limited AI expertise among teams.
A lack of cybersecurity awareness and training remains the leading cause of breaches, while corporate boards often lack sufficient knowledge despite prioritising cybersecurity initiatives. The report also notes that organisations prefer personnel with cybersecurity certifications, underlining the demand for skilled and credentialed professionals.
In Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030 initiatives have accelerated digital transformation, cloud adoption, e-government services, and smart city development, making AI-enabled cybersecurity capabilities essential. The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) stresses the importance of developing local talent, yet demand continues to exceed supply.
“As Saudi Arabia accelerates its digital transformation under Vision 2030, cybersecurity has become a foundational pillar for national resilience and economic growth. The Fortinet Skills Gap Report confirms the on-the-ground observation that while AI is essential to enhancing cyber defense, the Kingdom must prioritise upskilling the cybersecurity workforce to fully realise its benefits.”
— Sami Alshwairakh, Senior Regional Director Sales at Fortinet
Over 50% of respondents reported losses exceeding US$1 million per incident, while 54% cited a lack of IT security skills and training as a primary factor in breaches.
AI adoption is widespread, with 97% of organisations using or planning AI-enabled cybersecurity tools. Although 87% of professionals believe AI will support rather than replace their roles, nearly half of IT decision-makers identified insufficient AI expertise as a major barrier.
The study also found that 89% of employers value certifications for cybersecurity personnel, though support for funding these certifications has declined.
Closing the cybersecurity skills gap is essential for organisational resilience, requiring coordinated efforts in awareness, training, and adoption of advanced security technologies. Fortinet aims to train one million people globally by the end of 2026, addressing the growing demand for qualified, AI-savvy cybersecurity professionals.
