The 12th edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Week in Muscat brought together over 600 decision-makers, experts, and specialists from 60 countries to discuss major developments in the field of cybersecurity. The event was organized by the Regional Cybersecurity Centre of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and hosted by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in Oman. The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of Sayyid Hamoud Faisal Al Busaidi, Minister of Interior, emphasizing the importance of joint international cooperation in cybersecurity.
During his speech at the opening ceremony, Eng. Said Hamoud Al Ma’awali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, highlighted the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to supporting international cooperation efforts led by the ITU. He mentioned that the Regional Cybersecurity Centre has supported over 190 projects and initiatives in more than 50 countries, benefiting more than 10,000 cybersecurity specialists. Al Ma’awali also announced the launch of the CREST CAMP program, aimed at boosting companies’ readiness to provide cybersecurity services.
In addition to the CREST CAMP program, the Regional Cybersecurity Week featured the first GCC Cybersecurity Hackathon and Hadatha Cybersecurity Award. The week also celebrated the achievements of institutions and individuals excelling in the Cybersecurity Programme. Furthermore, a partnership with CREST organization of Britain led to the inauguration of cybersecurity industry centers in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS).
One of the key highlights of the Regional Cybersecurity Week was the launch of the Cybersecurity Monitoring Centre, the first of its kind in the world. This center aims to measure and monitor the growth of the cybersecurity industry sector, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance digital security and support the digital economy at regional and international levels. The event also included the 12th Regional Cybersecurity Conference where international experts and speakers exchanged best practices and experiences in the cybersecurity industry.
An exhibition held alongside the Regional Cybersecurity Week showcased products from companies operating in the cybersecurity sector, focusing on common risks and threats in the industry. The event also included the first symposium for Arab and African countries, the 16th Annual Conference of the Islamic Cooperation Organisation (ICO) Cybersecurity Centres, and the 12th Regional Cybersecurity Exercise for Arab Countries and OIC Member States. These activities aimed to enhance cooperation between specialized entities and organizations in cybersecurity and address the growing threats faced in the digital age.
