https://arab.news/bmt9f
RIYADH: The cybersecurity market in Saudi Arabia is set for significant growth, fueled by increasing technology investments and the rising demand for digital protection.
Hesham Al-Taleb, VP of R&D at Saudi Information Technology Co., highlighted this trend in an interview with Arab News, noting that as technology investments rise, the need for cybersecurity will grow correspondingly.
Al-Taleb explained that the relationship between technology investment and cybersecurity is intertwined; more economic activity and digital business operations lead to greater requirements for cybersecurity measures.
Recent data from the National Cybersecurity Authority reveals that Saudi Arabia’s investment in cybersecurity products, solutions, and services rose to SR13.3 billion ($3.55 billion) in 2023, marking a 10.83 percent increase from the previous year.
Al-Taleb also pointed out the unique challenges organizations face regarding cybersecurity threats, which can disrupt vital services. He anticipates continued growth in both cybersecurity solutions and advisory services, alongside a burgeoning demand for skilled professionals in the field.
Al-Taleb underscored the essential role of partnerships in achieving success, whether with regulators, customers, or international entities. He emphasized that collaboration is vital for fostering effective relationships.
A key aspect of their approach is actively listening to customers’ needs and pain points, which helps in developing effective products and solutions. This strong focus on customer engagement not only informs product development but also highlights the significance of advisory services within their operations. By providing tailored guidance, they ensure that clients receive the support necessary to tackle their specific cybersecurity challenges effectively.
“We also work hand-in-hand with the NCA as their technical arm to make sure that the regulations and the things that are done from the policies side are actually aligning with the challenges,” Al-Taleb said.
He added: “When it comes to cybersecurity, challenges meet either on the technology side, on the governance side.”
Al-Taleb noted that cybersecurity was identified as a critical issue for Saudi Arabia in 2017, prompting its incorporation into a national strategy. This led to the establishment of NCA as the regulatory body responsible for overseeing digital defense initiatives.
Endorsed by a royal order, the plan aims to protect the Kingdom’s national entities and critical infrastructure while also capitalizing on economic opportunities within the expanding cybersecurity and secure-by-design technology sectors. This strategic approach underscores the importance of cybersecurity not only as a protective measure but also as a driver of economic growth.