Black Hat Middle East & Africa (MEA), the rapidly expanding cybersecurity event, is gearing up for its second edition this November. The event is set to take place at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Centre and is expected to witness significant growth in various aspects, including floor space, exhibitors, national and industry pavilions, and speakers.
Under the theme ‘Infosec on the Edge’, Black Hat MEA 2023, organized by Tahaluf in partnership with the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP), has already seen a remarkable 119 percent increase in early day visitor registrations compared to its launch edition in 2022. The CEO of Tahaluf, Michael Champion, expressed excitement about the participation of prominent CISOs, C-level executives, IT directors, and government officials who are eager to explore new business opportunities and innovative solutions against existing and emerging threats in the era of AI.
The event is expected to be 41 percent larger than its previous edition and is on track to surpass last year’s impressive figures, which included over 30,000 attendees, 182 exhibitors, and more than 250 speakers. This year, the organizers are anticipating more than 300 exhibitors from 120 countries, solidifying Black Hat MEA’s position as the largest cybersecurity event in the region and the most attended in the world.
The event will host a distinguished lineup of more than 300 international experts who will participate in interactive workshops, certified training programs, and an Executive Summit featuring renowned professionals from various industries, such as entertainment, finance, hospitality, aviation, electronics, defense, and FMCG. Confirmed speakers include CISOs from major companies like Huawei, Netflix, Uber, and Zoom.
The content will focus on critical cybersecurity issues, such as generative AI, machine learning, compliance, identity and access management, privacy and data protection, risk management, incident response, talent management, IoT security, hacking, supply chain risk, software supply chain, and the growing role of women in the cyber sector.
Exhibitors like Spire Solutions, a strategic partner and long-time participant, will showcase solutions addressing big data and cybersecurity challenges. Snap Inc., the enterprise behind Snapchat, will also be among the exhibitors, highlighting its strong commitment to privacy and information security.
This year’s edition introduces the CISO Chapter, where over 500 end-user CISOs from the region and beyond will receive insights and benefits leading up to the event, including access to lounges, boardrooms, and workshops aimed at addressing industry challenges. Additionally, the Black Hat Campus will provide a dedicated matchmaking area for investors and startups, featuring cybersecurity investment podcast and webinar sessions, investor panels, and the launch of the first Black Hat MEA 966 Chapter for ethical hackers and security leaders in the Kingdom.
CyberSeed, the ground-breaking startup pitch competition, will also see expansion with more awards, prizes, and cybersecurity champions. Startups will compete in different categories based on their stage of development and profile, with each semi-finalist being assigned a mentor to increase their chances of victory. Moreover, a special award will recognize the highest-scoring female-led startup, promoting equal opportunities in cybersecurity.
The event aims to foster education, awareness, and cooperation within the global infosec community, bringing together experts to find practical solutions for cybersecurity challenges. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve rapidly, Black Hat MEA strives to ensure that the region remains at the forefront of cybersecurity for the safety of all.
