The 2024 Global Competitiveness Yearbook study, published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland, has ranked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the top country in the world for cybersecurity.
On this momentous occasion, Dr. Musaed bin Muhammad Al-Aiban, Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Cybersecurity Authority, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister. This significant achievement in the Annual Report on Global Competitiveness for 2024 is a testament to the Kingdom's dedication to cybersecurity.
Dr. Al-Aiban emphasized that this global recognition solidifies Saudi Arabia's leadership in cybersecurity. It aligns with other international indicators and contributes to advancing Vision 2030, which aims to foster growth and prosperity across various development and economic sectors.
He noted that the Crown Prince's continuous guidance has been instrumental in the accomplishments of the cybersecurity sector since the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Authority. His vision has made the Kingdom a global model in various fields, showcasing a series of successes in recent years.
The cybersecurity sector in Saudi Arabia was founded with a dual focus on security and development, incorporating both local and international dimensions. The goal has been to create a pioneering cybersecurity model, resulting in record-breaking advancements since the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Authority.
The Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) was established as the technical arm of the Saudi Cybersecurity Authority (KSA), the national authority responsible for cybersecurity in the Kingdom. The KSA recognizes the crucial role of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure, government services, priority entities in both the public and private sectors, and the nation's vital interests.
The National Cybersecurity Authority attributes the Kingdom's impressive ranking to proactive cybersecurity measures on both national and international scales, alongside strong collaboration among government agencies. The International Cybersecurity Forum, a global platform for discussing cybersecurity strategies, was also initiated.
The International Cybersecurity Forum Foundation, an independent Riyadh-based NGO, strives to enhance global cybersecurity efforts. It coordinates initiatives worldwide to benefit people and economies. Additionally, the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf established the Ministerial Committee for Cybersecurity following the Kingdom's proposal. The Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers, with Riyadh as its headquarters, was also established. The Authority has coordinated cybersecurity exercises with over 40 nations and organizations.
To improve cyber readiness, the National Cybersecurity Academy was launched, offering training programs and cyber exercises. The Authority works with relevant parties to regulate the local cybersecurity sector and has developed initiatives to encourage investment and growth in this field. A nationwide program for cybersecurity R&D and innovation has also been established.
For comprehensive cybersecurity information in Saudi Arabia, the National Cybersecurity Authority is the key entity. It aims to safeguard the state's critical interests, infrastructure, and national security. The Authority formulates policies, governance mechanisms, frameworks, and standards for the cybersecurity industry in the Kingdom, promoting growth, innovation, and investment. It establishes a secure Saudi cyberspace conducive to economic development.
