The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to drive digitization in the public and private sectors, aiming to foster a thriving computerized economy that plays a pivotal role in its future. The Kingdom has a population of 35 million, with internet penetration at an impressive 99% and monthly mobile Internet data consumption averages at 37 GB per capita. Given that the estimated global cybersecurity losses to date (in 2023) are at a staggering $8.4 trillion and projected at $24 trillion by 2027, and cyber threat ranking as the world’s fourth most significant risk, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical.
Over the last few years, Saudi Arabia has made remarkable progress in bolstering its cybersecurity measures, thanks to its highly skilled workforce and adoption of cutting-edge technologies. As a result, the nation has successfully minimized the impact of daily cyberattacks. Yet the Kingdom is dedicated to the ambitious goal of comprehensive cybersecurity. Achieving this aggressive feat necessitates the utilization of the most advanced technologies, best practices, and methodologies, and the further development of security expertise and awareness of the population.
Driven by this vision to secure its citizens and the nation, Saudi Arabia continues to invest massively to fortify both private and corporate entities. Additionally, driven by Vision 2030 goals that aim to reach an important non-profit sector that is supportive and influential, the Non-profit Organizations, such as Hemaya, play a supportive role in serving the community of cybersecurity through excellence in providing awareness, consultancy, and training.
In line with these efforts, the upcoming Middle East, and North Africa Information Security Conference (MENA ISC 2023) is centered around the theme of “Cognitive Cyber: Evolution from Reactive to Predictive Cyber Leveraging AI & Emerging Technologies IT, OT & IoT.” The event will focus on promoting cybersecurity as the fundamental element of several sectors, such as finance, telecommunications, transportation, and energy. With the Kingdom’s steady advance towards digitalization in all economic spheres, evolving the cybersecurity industry has become of paramount importance.
Aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 MENA ISC is joined by Hemaya, a Saudi Information Security association, that aims to be a leader in the community by raising awareness of the safe use of technology. The association, which is the first nonprofit of its kind in Saudi Arabia, uses cybersecurity experts to help raise awareness of information security. Its services range from consultations, training, workshops, campaigns, and most importantly, building partnerships in the public and private sectors.
This year’s conference aims to address secure digital transformation, development, and protection of digital infrastructure as integral components of this initiative. This includes devising strategies to safeguard digital assets from cyberattacks and fortifying cybersecurity measures to protect private, corporate, and state networks from unauthorized access and systematic cyber-penetration.
With nearly five billion Internet users globally and online businesses reaching approximately $6.3 billion, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical mission. Which requires safer digital practices, robust access permission controls, resilient infrastructure, and vigilant monitoring and prevention of unauthorized data access. The continued advancement of cybersecurity is not only essential for national security but also for the protection of businesses and individuals from the escalating threats of cyberattacks. By fostering a culture of cyber vigilance, implementing proactive measures, and continuously enhancing cybersecurity strategies, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the global community can collectively fortify their digital domains for a safer and more secure future.
