Black Hat MEA 2024: Largest Cybersecurity Event by Space

Black Hat MEA 2024 is poised to set a global record as the largest cybersecurity event by space, spanning over 53,000 square meters when it takes place from November 26 to 28 at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Centre in Malham. This year’s event marks a remarkable 51% increase in space compared to last year, alongside a 135% surge in startups and a 52% rise in new brands participating.

The event is expected to welcome over 40,000 attendees, featuring more than 330 speakers, 335 sessions, and 175 hours of invaluable content. Notable industry pioneers like Vijay Bolina from Google DeepMind and Ugo Vignolo Lutati from the Prada Group will be keynotes, joining representatives from major companies such as Coca-Cola, Scale AI, Peloton, Relativity Space, and Panasonic.

This year, Black Hat MEA will include eight “hacking villages,” focusing on the cybersecurity of various sectors, including automotive, ATMs, and smart homes. The event will elevate global cybersecurity discussions, with the Announcement Segment highlighting significant news and innovations that will shape the industry.

Organized by Tahaluf, an Informa PLC joint venture in collaboration with the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, the summit will gather the brightest minds in cybersecurity for three days of presentations, panel discussions, and networking. Attendees can anticipate new contests and personal development courses, with Offensive Security serving as the official strategic training partner.

The Investor & Startup Program at Black Hat MEA will provide startup founders with the platform to showcase their products and connect with industry opportunities. Participants can register for the Cyberseed Pitch Competition, where selected startups will compete for a $30,000 prize during a three-minute pitch session, followed by a Q&A.

In addition, an exclusive “byte-sized” networking breakfast will foster collaboration among CISOs, while a strategic leadership forum will facilitate private roundtables designed to enhance cybersecurity leadership skills.

More than 450 exhibitors will participate, including NetWitness, a leader in network security known for real-time network forensics and automated threat detection. “Black Hat has held some of the most relevant cybersecurity events over the past two decades,” said Ken Naumann, CEO of NetWitness. “We look forward to showcasing our innovative products and services while engaging with key cybersecurity professionals and decision-makers.”

The event will also feature a jeopardy-style Capture the Flag tournament, anticipated to be one of the largest in the GCC, with over 1,000 competitors.

“Building on the event’s 25-year history, Black Hat MEA has rapidly grown to become the world’s largest cybersecurity gathering by floor space,” said Annabelle Mander, Senior Vice President of Tahaluf. “This reflects Saudi Arabia’s significant investments in the cyber sector, addressing pressing cyber issues that require global collaboration. We are offering cutting-edge insights and exclusive access to experts, ensuring the region is prepared for tomorrow’s cyber challenges.”