Saudi Arabia has secured the top position globally in the cybersecurity indicator in the latest 2024 World Competitiveness Yearbook by the Swiss-based Institute for Management Development (IMD). In addition to this achievement, the Kingdom ranked 16th out of 67 of the world’s most competitive countries.
NCA’s vital role
National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) board of directors chairman Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban commented on this achievement highlighting the country’s leading role in international cybersecurity. Al-Aiban emphasized the strategic development of the cybersecurity sector in the Kingdom in line with Vision 2030. This development encompasses both security and growth aspects, with a focus on both domestic and international dimensions. Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity model has become a pioneer in the field, attracting international emulation. Notably, the Kingdom established the NCA as the central authority and the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE) serves as its technical arm.
To propel Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity sector forward, the NCA has taken major steps, including the launch of the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF), a platform for global dialogue on strategic cybersecurity issues. Moreover, the GCF Institute fosters international collaboration in this crucial sector.
In addition, the establishment of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Cybersecurity Ministerial Committee and the Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers, both spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional and pan-Arab cooperation. The NCA has also conducted cybersecurity exercises with over 40 countries, demonstrating its commitment to international collaboration.
In Saudi Arabia, the NCA prioritizes cybersecurity through regulations, partnerships with industry stakeholders, and targeted initiatives including the National Cybersecurity Academy. Moreover, the NCA works on facilitating workforce development and programs stimulating industry growth and investment. Besides, Saudi Arabia launched the National Program for Research, Development, and Innovation in Cybersecurity, which showcases the Kingdom’s long-term commitment to this vital field.
Read: Saudi Arabia emerges as key investor in Elon Musk’s $24 billion startup xAI
Saudi Arabia leads multiple indicators
In addition to ranking first in cybersecurity, Saudi Arabia secured the global top spot in crucial areas like long-term employment growth, social cohesion, long-term labor market growth, awareness about the need for economic and social reforms, and internet user penetration per thousand residents.
The Kingdom also secured second place globally in indicators like digital transformation in companies, stock market capitalization and venture capital availability among others.
Saudi Arabia also ranked third place globally in trade, economic resilience, government adaptability to economic changes, unemployment legislation, and overall early-stage entrepreneurial activity.
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