Kuwait hosts Sixth Gulf Cybersecurity Conference to strengthen regional cooperation for safe digital environment
Amid accelerating global digital transformations and the growing cyber threats that endanger national security and stability, the Kuwait hosted the Sixth Gulf Conference on Cybersecurity Challenges, under the patronage of the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef.
Organized by the National Cybersecurity Center, the conference was held under the theme “A Safe Digital Environment,” with the participation of a distinguished group of experts and specialists from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, reflecting a shared commitment to building integrated digital defense systems and strengthening regional cooperation to secure cyberspace.
Strengthening Gulf Cybersecurity Cooperation
In his opening address, Brigadier General Anwar Al-Yatami, Head of the Human Resources and Information Technology Sector at the Ministry of Interior and representative of the event’s patron, highlighted that the conference is being held amid increasing cybersecurity challenges, emphasizing the need to enhance Gulf cooperation, exchange expertise, and bolster digital infrastructure to confront growing threats.
Al-Yatami noted that cybersecurity has become a cornerstone of national security and sustainable development, stressing that the conference aims to explore the latest developments and cooperation opportunities to protect the Gulf’s shared cyberspace. He extended his gratitude to all organizing and participating entities, expressing hope that the event would yield outcomes that strengthen collective Gulf cybersecurity.
Facing Evolving Digital Threats
Engineer Abeer Al-Awadhi, Head of Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center, stated that the conference builds upon the GCC’s collective approach to countering cyber threats, underscoring Kuwait’s firm commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure and maintaining the stability of its cyberspace in the face of rapidly evolving technological challenges.
She emphasized that the participation of leading experts and specialists provides an invaluable opportunity to exchange best practices, review innovative solutions, and showcase emerging technologies in the cybersecurity field. These discussions, she said, are expected to generate practical and actionable recommendations that contribute to the security and resilience of the Gulf’s digital systems.
Al-Awadhi added that the complex and fast-evolving nature of cyber threats requires continuous preparedness, robust defenses, and collective action to build a secure, reliable, and resilient digital infrastructure capable of protecting vital national interests.
Protecting the Financial Sector
For his part, Yaqoub Al-Rifai, Secretary General of the Kuwait Banking Association, affirmed that hosting the conference reflects the leadership’s deep commitment to safeguarding information security and digital infrastructure, particularly amid growing regional and global challenges.
Al-Rifai noted that the banking sector is among the most targeted by cyberattacks, given the sensitivity of financial data and the massive volume of electronic transactions processed daily. He stated that Kuwaiti banks have demonstrated leadership in this domain through significant investments in cybersecurity, establishing advanced protection systems and robust risk management policies.
He emphasized that the banking sector continues to adopt artificial intelligence technologies and data monitoring systems to detect and neutralize cyber threats early, in alignment with its commitment to protecting customer information and preserving the stability of Kuwait’s financial system.
Building a Safer Cyberspace through Regional and Global Coordination
Al-Awadhi reaffirmed that Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center continues its mission to strengthen the national cybersecurity framework, enhance institutional capabilities, and coordinate closely with Gulf and international partners to ensure a safer, more stable cyberspace.
She underscored the importance of joint GCC efforts to develop comprehensive national cybersecurity strategies that keep pace with rapid technological changes and effectively address emerging risks.
The conference concluded with a unified call to enhance Gulf coordination, develop innovative solutions, and prioritize cybersecurity awareness, ensuring that Gulf countries remain resilient, interconnected, and prepared to face the challenges of the digital age.
