What solutions are you highlighting at GISEC this year?
OPSWAT is participating in GISEC as a Diamond sponsor this year and we are proud to showcase our latest cybersecurity advancements in critical infrastructure protection (CIP). We shall have live demos and sessions, through OPX labs, offering practical insights on safeguarding vital systems and networks. Alongside the Lab, will be OPSWAT’s Nuclear Plant Model Reactor, a display that underscores the company’s expertise in securing sensitive environments like nuclear power plants.

How does GISEC help your company engage with the Middle Eastern cybersecurity market?
Our GISEC participation allows us to demonstrate our steadfast commitment to delivering IT/OT cybersecurity solutions and fostering the cyber talent that the region needs to defend its critical infrastructure and sustain economic progress.

Alongside the product showcase and demos, a couple of senior executives from OPSWAT will be holding sessions. During day two, on the Government Stage, hosted by Dubai Electronic Security Center, OPSWAT Founder and CEO, Benny Czarny, will present “Breaking the Firewall: Revolutionizing Cyber Defense for a Connected World”. He will make the case for a fundamental rethinking of the traditional firewall, highlighting how the rise of AI-driven exploits, encrypted attacks, and increasingly complex network environments demands a new approach to cybersecurity.

Also on day two, on the Critical Infrastructure Stage, OPSWAT’s Director of Products and Solutions, Kris Voorspoels, will take part in a panel discussion on the security crisis facing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in the regional oil and gas sector.

Finally, aiming to enhance cybersecurity standards across the region in alignment with the goals of the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy, OPSWAT Academy will offer complimentary CIP certifications, such as File Security Associate (OFSA), Secure Storage Associate (OSSA), Email Security Associate (OESA), Web Traffic Protection Associate (OWPA), and Data Transfer Security Associate (ODSA).

How would you describe the current cybersecurity threat landscape in the Middle East?
The biggest cybersecurity challenge facing many regions will likely be the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure. As organizations become more interconnected and reliant on digital technologies, attackers are focusing on high-impact targets like power grids, government, defense and financial institutions. These types of attacks can cause widespread disruption and significant damage.

From a defender side, we’re seeing a major shift toward zero-trust architectures, increased investment in OT cybersecurity, and a growing emphasis on securing energy, manufacturing, and transportation.

How do cultural or regulatory differences impact cybersecurity strategies in the Middle East compared to other regions?
Many countries in the region enforce localized regulations that require on-premise or air-gapped solutions, limiting reliance on global cloud services. At OPSWAT, we support these regional needs by offering solutions that ensure compliance with local laws, enable secure on-premise deployments, and provide protection across both IT and OT environments. Additionally, there’s a strong push for developing local cybersecurity talent, driven by government initiatives and national strategies. At OPSWAT Academy, we contribute to workforce development by delivering hands-on training and certifications aligned with regional cybersecurity priorities.

How do your company’s products and services address the specific threats faced by regional businesses?
Our approach to cybersecurity has evolved significantly over the last 12 months. Our solutions are designed to secure both IT and OT environments using patented technologies such as multi-scanning, Deep CDR, and advanced threat intelligence.

We’ve focused on enhancing our ability to detect and mitigate advanced threats, particularly those targeting complex and interconnected systems. We’ve integrated AI-powered threat detection, real-time monitoring, and data sanitization into our solutions to ensure that organizations can respond to threats quickly and effectively. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to shift, we’ve also prioritized automation and machine learning to proactively identify vulnerabilities and block attacks before they impact operations.

Are you partnering with any local entities or governments to enhance regional cybersecurity resilience?
Yes, we actively partner with local entities, government agencies, and critical infrastructure operators across the Middle East to enhance regional cybersecurity resilience. These collaborations focus on securing OT and IT environments, aligning with national cybersecurity frameworks. By working closely with regional stakeholders, we ensure our solutions meet compliance requirements while addressing the unique cybersecurity challenges faced across sectors such as energy, defense, and government.

What advice would you give to regional businesses looking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture in 2025?
My recommendation to organizations investing in cybersecurity today is simple: Prioritize a multi-layered, proactive approach to security. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and it’s no longer enough to simply have strong defenses in place; you need to anticipate potential risks, continuously monitor your systems, and invest in technologies that can detect and respond to threats in real-time. This means leveraging AI and machine learning to identify vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.

Additionally, ensure comprehensive training for your employees to prevent human error and reinforce a security-conscious culture. By implementing robust, proactive, and adaptable security measures, organizations can significantly enhance their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats, ultimately safeguarding their assets and ensuring long-term resilience in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

This year’s participation underscores OPSWAT’s commitment to strengthening regional cybersecurity resilience as organizations face increasingly sophisticated threats. Attendees will have multiple opportunities to engage with OPSWAT’s cybersecurity experts through interactive demonstrations, thought leadership sessions, and specialized training programs.

Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT

“Our main focus at GISEC Global 2025 will be critical infrastructure, the lynchpin of economic progress and an increasingly popular target for threat actors,” said Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT. “Our partnerships will involve devising ways of protecting the interconnected systems and technologies that drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Through our demonstrations and discussions at GISEC 2025, OPSWAT experts will show how our solutions directly address the latest cybersecurity challenges, especially the ongoing merger of IT and OT.”

The company will showcase its innovative solutions through two unique exhibits. The CIP Mobile Lab, operated by OP/X Labs, will provide live demonstrations of industry-leading technologies designed to protect critical infrastructure. Visitors can gain practical insights into securing vital operational systems against modern cyber threats.

Complementing this will be OPSWAT’s Nuclear Plant Model Reactor display, illustrating the company’s specialized capabilities in securing highly sensitive environments. The exhibit will demonstrate real-world applications of OPSWAT’s technology through an interconnected display with the mobile lab.

OPSWAT’s experts will present across multiple stages during the three-day event:

1. On the opening day, security professionals can attend a live hacking demonstration on the Dark Stage, revealing current vulnerabilities in today’s threat landscape.
2. Day two features two significant presentations. Founder and CEO Benny Czarny will deliver a keynote address titled “Breaking the Firewall: Revolutionizing Cyber Defense for a Connected World” on the Government Stage. His session will challenge conventional security paradigms and propose innovative approaches to counter AI-driven threats and encrypted attacks.
3. Simultaneously, Director of Products and Solutions Kris Voorspoels will participate in a Critical Infrastructure Stage panel discussion examining security challenges in the regional oil and gas sector’s Industrial IoT (IIoT) ecosystem. The session will explore security implications of connected devices in petrochemical operations and strategies for protecting this vital economic sector.

Supporting the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy’s capacity-building objectives, OPSWAT Academy will offer complimentary certification courses throughout the event. Professionals can earn credentials in File Security (OFSA), Secure Storage (OSSA), Email Security (OESA), Web Traffic Protection (OWPA), and Data Transfer Security (ODSA).

At GISEC Global 2025, OPSWAT will exhibit from Stand C55, Hall 7.

“Saudi Arabia has become a cornerstone of OPSWAT’s growth in the Middle East,” said Sertan Selcuk, Vice President of METAP & CIS Region at OPSWAT. “The establishment of our local office in Riyadh is a significant step in our ongoing commitment to the Kingdom. As demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions continues to grow, this new office enables us to better support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ambitious digital transformation agenda. We will continue to strengthen our local partnerships and contribute to securing the Kingdom’s critical infrastructure as it builds a resilient and secure digital future.”

“The opening of our new office in Riyadh is a pivotal moment for OPSWAT,” said Amjad Quteifan, Regional Sales Director for Saudi Arabia, Central Gulf, and North Africa at OPSWAT. “It’s a significant step in our efforts to better serve our customers and partners in the Kingdom. With this office, we can more effectively support Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, ensuring that our cybersecurity solutions are readily available to protect critical infrastructure from emerging threats. We are excited about the opportunities to engage more closely with local stakeholders and contribute to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

OPSWAT has achieved a remarkable four-fold year-on-year growth in Saudi Arabia, with the Kingdom now standing as the top contributor to OPSWAT’s business in the MEA region. Through its partnerships with leading IT enterprises and key stakeholders, OPSWAT has built a strong reputation in the region for its innovative cybersecurity technologies. Its flagship Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) technology is increasingly sought after in the Kingdom, neutralizing potential threats hidden within files without compromising data integrity.

The new Riyadh office will not only bring OPSWAT closer to its growing customer base but also support local talent development. Through OPSWAT Academy, the company aims to upskill Saudi cybersecurity professionals by providing certifications and training tailored to the region’s unique needs. The Academy’s initiatives align with OPSWAT’s global SAR 37.5 million scholarship program, further reinforcing its dedication to addressing the growing demand for certified CIP cybersecurity experts in the country.

The establishment of the Riyadh office is the beginning of OPSWAT’s long-term growth plans in Saudi Arabia. The company is committed to expanding its footprint across critical infrastructure sectors capitalizing on the increasing demand for advanced cybersecurity technologies and supporting the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure and safeguard its digital economy.

“The MetaDefender Optical Diode is engineered to meet the highest standards of safety and security, providing organizations in high-risk sectors with the confidence that their critical systems remain protected,” said Mark Toussaint, Senior Product Manager, OPSWAT. “In industries where any equipment failure could have catastrophic consequences, this certification reinforces our commitment to delivering resilient, reliable security solutions that safeguard both data and operations.”

The C1D2 certification is essential for organizations operating in environments with potential explosive hazards, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and pharmaceutical industries, where combustible gases, vapors, or dust pose significant risks. This certification assures organizations that the MetaDefender Optical Diode has undergone rigorous testing to ensure safe operation in these environments, meeting both regulatory requirements and industry safety standards.

By incorporating C1D2-certified equipment, businesses enhance operational safety, reduce the risk of accidents, and ensure compliance with stringent industry regulations. The MetaDefender Optical Diode plays a crucial role in preventing data breaches and securing information flow across industrial networks, helping industries maintain both physical safety and cybersecurity.

The MetaDefender Optical Diode offers unidirectional data flow, ensuring that sensitive networks remain isolated from potential threats originating from less secure, lower-level networks. This unique capability is essential for safeguarding critical infrastructure, especially in environments where physical safety and cybersecurity are equally vital.

“With the Din Rail version now certified, the MetaDefender Optical Diode is the only data diode capable of safely operating in hazardous environments where this certification is required,” said Mark Toussaint, Senior Product Manager, OPSWAT. “This milestone highlights the importance of advanced security solutions that not only protect critical OT assets but enable business continuity in the most challenging conditions.”

The C1D2 certification enables deployment across key industries, including oil and gas, where it protects critical operational data in remote and hazardous locations; chemical processing, where it secures data exchange between mission-critical systems in volatile environments; and pharmaceuticals, ensuring safe and compliant data transfer in regulated industries.

Can you provide an overview of the current cybersecurity landscape for critical infrastructure in the MEA region?
The cybersecurity landscape for critical infrastructure in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is one of both immense opportunity and significant risk. As digital transformation accelerates across industries like energy, healthcare, and transportation, the need to protect vital infrastructure is becoming even more urgent.

The region has always been strategically important, and now, with the growing complexity of the global geopolitical environment and the continued digitisation of everything from industrial control systems to cloud platforms, the attack surface is rapidly expanding. We’re seeing a combination of increasingly sophisticated, state-sponsored threats alongside an uptick in financially motivated attacks from cybercriminals. The regional challenges are unique, given the variety of government approaches to cybersecurity and varying levels of infrastructure maturity.

But at its core, the MEA region is dealing with the same overarching issue: the gap between the speed of technological innovation and the speed at which security measures can evolve to match these new threats.

What are the most notable trends in cyber attacks targeting these systems?
If there’s one thing we’ve seen in recent years, it’s that the diversity of attack methods has dramatically increased. Ransomware is still a significant threat—attackers are targeting critical sectors like healthcare and energy, knowing that they can disrupt essential services and demand large ransoms. But what’s more concerning is the rise in advanced persistent threats (APTs). Nation-state actors are not only after financial gain—they’re after strategic advantage, stealing intellectual property or trying to destabilise key regions. In some cases, these attacks are also focused on geopolitical leverage.

Another major trend we’re seeing is the exploitation of supply chains. Hackers are now targeting third-party vendors—companies that have access to critical infrastructure but often have less robust security measures. It’s a classic example of how an attack doesn’t always come directly through your organisation but via a trusted partner. Lastly, IoT vulnerabilities are becoming more apparent as we digitise our energy grids, healthcare systems, and transportation networks. These IoT devices are often not properly secured, making them a prime target for cybercriminals.

Which sectors in the MEA region are most vulnerable to cyber attacks, and why?
I believe the energy sector stands out as one of the most vulnerable in the MEA region. Countries that rely on oil and gas for economic stability, like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, face constant threats from state-sponsored cyber actors trying to disrupt operations or steal valuable data. It’s not just about cybercriminals; these attacks are highly sophisticated, driven by geopolitical motivations.

The healthcare sector is another area of concern. With digital health records, connected devices, and the overall shift toward telemedicine, the healthcare system in many parts of MEA has become increasingly digitised—and underprotected. Ransomware attacks targeting hospitals can be devastating, especially when attackers hold critical systems hostage, which is exactly what we saw in the past few years.

Then, we can’t ignore transportation. Whether it’s maritime shipping or air traffic, these sectors are essential for global trade, and a cyber-attack could have significant ripple effects across the world’s supply chain. Port infrastructure in the region, which is key for both regional and global trade, has become a frequent target for both financial and strategic motives.

What are the primary motivations behind cyber attacks on critical infrastructure in the MEA region?
When it comes to motivation, the drivers are multi-layered. Geopolitical tension is a major factor. A lot of the attacks we’re seeing aren’t just about stealing data or holding a company ransom—they are about sending a message or destabilising a government or economy. The energy sector, for example, is frequently targeted by actors seeking to disrupt the regional balance of power.

But financial gain is still a huge motivator, especially in sectors like healthcare and financial services. Ransomware operators know that shutting down vital services is a quick way to demand a ransom, and unfortunately, these industries often have no choice but to pay to get systems back online.

Then there’s the classic case of cyber sabotage, where an attack is purely designed to cause disruption. This could be in an effort to undermine trust in a government or to cause chaos during a period of political instability. These are often less about stealing data and more about sending a political message or leveraging cyberattacks to further a larger agenda.

How important is employee training and awareness in preventing cyber attacks on critical infrastructure?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over my career is that people are the weakest link in cybersecurity. No matter how advanced your technical systems are, if your employees aren’t properly trained to recognise threats—like phishing emails or suspicious links—you’ll always have vulnerabilities. Employee training and awareness are critical.

It’s not just about sending out a checklist of best practices, either. It’s about creating a culture of cybersecurity across your organisation, where everyone—from the top down—understands the risks and the role they play in preventing them. We need to empower individuals to spot threats early and respond appropriately. I can’t overstate how essential it is for leadership to take this seriously and lead by example.

What role does proactive threat intelligence play in securing critical infrastructure systems?
Proactive threat intelligence is more critical than ever in the current cybersecurity environment. Threat actors today are faster, smarter, and more persistent, so waiting until an attack occurs to react, simply isn’t enough. By tapping into threat intelligence, organisations can stay ahead of emerging risks, whether it’s a new attack vector or a shift in attack tactics from a known adversary. Real-time intelligence, for example, can help identify vulnerabilities before they’re exploited, so that organisations can adjust their defenses ahead of time. Sharing intelligence between governments, private organisations, and even across borders, allows for a more collective approach to mitigating risk.

Are there any technologies being deployed to safeguard critical infrastructure in the region?
There’s no silver bullet when it comes to securing critical infrastructure, but AI and machine learning are becoming game changers. These technologies can identify abnormal patterns and suspicious activities faster than a human ever could. They’re excellent for proactive defense, helping to detect zero-day attacks or even malware that hasn’t been seen before.

Another critical trend is the adoption of zero-trust architecture. In a region where critical infrastructure spans multiple sectors and often connects with external networks, zero-trust principles—where verification is required for every user, device, and network interaction—are helping to minimise the risk of unauthorised access. Encryption is also key, particularly for protecting sensitive data as it moves between systems or is stored in cloud environments. Secure data transmission and storage should be non-negotiable, especially in industries like healthcare and energy, where the stakes are incredibly high.

What are the biggest challenges companies face in securing critical infrastructure in the MEA region?
I think one of the biggest challenges we face in the MEA region is the lack of resources—specifically, skilled professionals and budget for adequate cybersecurity investments. A shortage of cybersecurity talent continues to be an issue, especially as threats evolve. There’s a constant battle to hire and retain the best talent, and many organisations are underprepared.

Legacy systems also remain a huge hurdle. Critical infrastructure often depends on old, outdated systems that weren’t designed with modern cybersecurity in mind. Modernising these systems without disrupting services is a major challenge, but it’s one that organisations must tackle.

Finally, inconsistent regulation across countries can be a major stumbling block. While some governments have made great strides in regulating cybersecurity, others are still lagging behind. Without consistent, region-wide standards, it’s hard for businesses to implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that meets the necessary compliance requirements.

What role do MEA governments play in regulating and enforcing cybersecurity standards for critical infrastructure?
Governments in the region are starting to realise that cybersecurity is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have been proactive in establishing national cybersecurity strategies, and these efforts are a step in the right direction. However, the enforcement of these regulations is still a work in progress. For many organisations in the region, navigating the patchwork of national regulations can be a challenge. What we need is a more harmonised approach across MEA that allows companies to meet consistent standards, reducing the complexity of compliance and making it easier for businesses to implement effective security measures.

How can companies ensure business continuity while recovering from a cyber attack on their critical systems?
When it comes to ensuring business continuity after a cyber attack, the key is preparedness. Organisations need to have detailed incident response plans in place, backed up by strong recovery protocols. A good plan not only helps you respond quickly, but it also ensures that you’re communicating effectively with stakeholders throughout the process. I’m a firm believer that businesses should be practicing their response to cyber incidents as if they’re real—because when an attack happens, it’s no time to learn on the fly.

One of the most important things to have in place is a reliable data backup strategy. Regular backups are essential for minimising downtime. And once the systems are back online, it’s essential to conduct a thorough post-incident review. This review isn’t just about identifying what went wrong but also about adapting and strengthening defenses to ensure that you’re better prepared next time.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasises the importance of cybersecurity to drive digital transformation and economic diversification, has pushed the growth of the Saudi cybersecurity market which is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5%, reaching SAR 15 billion by 2025. The industry still faces a significant shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with an estimated gap of 500,000 experts across the Middle East. OPSWAT’s solutions, combined with its educational initiatives through OPSWAT Academy, aim to address this skills gap by upskilling local professionals and reducing dependency on highly specialised in-house expertise through the solutions provided in collaboration with TCC.

“The demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions in Saudi Arabia has surged throughout 2023 and 2024, driven by the Kingdom’s ambitious digital transformation initiatives,” said Amjad Quteifan, Regional Sales Director at OPSWAT. “Through our partnership with TCC, we are uniquely positioned to deliver comprehensive security solutions that protect the critical infrastructure, empowering Saudi organisations to innovate and scale securely in support of Saudi Vision 2030.”

TCC has been a trusted provider of cutting-edge security solutions across Saudi Arabia since 2008. Commenting on the partnership, Mohammed AlMarri, TCC’s General Manager of Cybersecurity Services, stated, “With the growing convergence of IT and OT environments, the demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions is at an all-time high. At TCC, we leverage decades of expertise to deliver tailored cybersecurity services that protect critical infrastructure and sensitive data. Through our partnership with OPSWAT, we enhance our ability to provide comprehensive, scalable solutions that empower organisations to navigate the evolving threat landscape and safeguard their most valuable assets with confidence.”

Check out the GITEX 2024 Special Edition: https://arabianreseller.com/oct2024

Tell us about your participation in GITEX 2024. Which products and solutions will you showcase at the event?
The central showcase of OPSWAT’s GITEX booth will be our Mobile Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Lab where delegates can get an in-depth understanding of the company’s MetaDefender platform. Interactive demonstrations of region-specific use cases will cover storage security, supply-chain security, secure managed file transfer, peripheral and removable media protection, access and endpoint security, email security, OT security, cross-domain security, and many others.

Visitors can also tour OPSWAT’s Nuclear Plant Model Reactor, which reinforces our credentials in securing the most sensitive industrial environments. GITEX visitors will see how OPSWAT’s IT/OT platform deployment works in real-world scenarios relevant to GCC critical infrastructure. Regarding IT-centric cybersecurity environments, we will highlight solutions that fit ideally into critical infrastructure networks using a multi-layered security approach implemented through the company’s comprehensive MetaDefender platform.

How has the regional tech landscape evolved in the past couple of years?
In the evolving regional tech landscape, cybersecurity has become a top priority, especially with the increase in remote work and digital operations. As organizations notice increased threats, the demand for robust cybersecurity solutions has grown. Companies like OPSWAT are positioned well in this environment, offering advanced solutions for data protection and secure access.

Our focus on critical infrastructure protection and operational technology is particularly important as industries become more interconnected. As regional tech worlds grow, the need for specialized cybersecurity expertise will continue to drive innovation and investment, highlighting the importance of companies like OPSWAT in ensuring security across various sectors.

What are your expectations from the event this year?
The expectations from the event this year will be that OPSWAT engages with customers in the region through strategic partnerships, tailored cybersecurity solutions, and ongoing support. OPSWAT will collaborate closely with regional stakeholders to understand their specific challenges, providing solutions that protect critical infrastructure and ensure compliance with local regulations.

GITEX offers an ideal platform for deepening these relationships by allowing us to showcase our latest innovations, provide hands-on demonstrations, and offer in-person consultations. It also facilitates meaningful discussions with IT professionals and decision-makers, creating stronger partnerships and driving collaborative efforts to address evolving cybersecurity threats in the region.

What will be your theme of participation at GITEX 2024?
At GITEX Global 2024, OPSWAT will be participating under the theme “Future Forward CIP”. Trusted by several of the region’s governments and largest private sector entities, our participation at the 44th GITEX will demonstrate our ongoing commitment to delivering cybersecurity solutions that are capable of spanning the OT-IT divide and arming security professionals with a range of tools to support their daily battle with threat actors.

Do you plan to run any online engagements such as webinars and offline engagements such as tech talks, demos, keynotes, and so on, alongside GITEX 2024?
In addition to the product demos, as part of October’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we will be offering complimentary CIP certifications to attendees at our event stand and through on-demand sessions. This initiative not only enhances the GITEX learning experience for participants but reinforces our commitment to advancing cybersecurity knowledge and skills across the industry.

Also as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the OPSWAT Academy will be running a Cyber Challenge, where participants can enhance their skills while having the chance to win prizes. Additionally, there will be quizzes designed to test and expand visitors’ understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals.

How have your regional strategies changed in recent months?
OPSWAT is set to expand in the Middle East, starting with the launch of our new entity in Saudi Arabia. This move is part of our plan to strengthen our presence and provide tailored cybersecurity solutions for our clients. Our regional team has already grown by 45%, and we expect this growth to continue as we expand our channel ecosystem. GITEX will play an important role in our strategy by allowing us to showcase our innovative technologies and connect with industry leaders and partners.

Through our participation in GITEX, we aim to enhance our offerings and boost our market presence. OPSWAT is dedicated to helping our clients navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape effectively. With these efforts, we strive to establish ourselves as a leader in the Middle East and deliver real value to our partners and customers.

OPSWAT, a global leader in CIP solutions with headquarters in Florida, United States, has seen a significant expansion of its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marked by tremendous business and overall economic growth of the country over the past two years. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 sets certain goals for the sector and as a contributor to the success of the global and Saudi cybersecurity space, OPSWAT has specific commitments to support and be part of the country’s development.

In alignment with Vision 2030, which also focuses on enhancing the resilience and preparedness of critical national infrastructure and cybersecurity education and awareness in the Kingdom. OPSWAT’s expansion in Saudi Arabia is dedicated to protecting the Kingdom’s essential services against an evolving landscape of cyber threats as well as addressing the need for improved educational and technical training.

Sertan Selcuk, OPSWAT Vice President METAP & CIS, emphasized the importance of this strategic expansion, stating, “Safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s critical infrastructure against the rising tide of cyber threats is essential to the nation’s security and economic stability. OPSWAT is dedicated to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 by fortifying the Kingdom’s defences through advanced cybersecurity training and innovative solutions. Our commitment is to ensure that Saudi Arabia’s vital assets remain resilient in the face of evolving cyber challenges.”

OPSWAT has been named the official educational partner for the MENA Information Security Conference 2024, which it is also a gold sponsor of. As part of this broader strategy, OPSWAT Academy, the educational arm of OPSWAT, will offer complimentary CIP certifications to all event attendees, tailored specifically to the needs of the region’s cybersecurity professionals.

“We are committed to equipping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals with the skills needed to safeguard critical infrastructure. Our partnership with MENA ISC 2024 opens new avenues for participants to access world-class CIP cybersecurity training,” said Irfan Shakeel, VP of OPSWAT Academy. “This initiative is part of OPSWAT’s global SAR 37.5 million (US $10 million) scholarship program, reinforcing our dedication to addressing the growing demand for certified CIP cybersecurity experts.”

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s critical infrastructure, driven by the nation’s rapid digital transformation. With the average cost of a data breach in the Kingdom reaching approximately SAR 30 million (US $8 million), the need for robust cybersecurity measures and human resources has never been more urgent. OPSWAT’s initiatives directly address these challenges, ensuring that young aspiring Saudis receive world-class training and that the Kingdom’s essential services remain secure.