RIYADH: The Diriyah Co. signed a memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, known as SAFCSP, on Sunday to strengthen the digital security of Diriyah city, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The partnership will enhance cybersecurity measures and safeguard the city’s digital infrastructure as it continues to evolve into a modern hub of culture and heritage, SPA added.

Under the agreement, Diriyah Co. will join BugBounty, the Middle East’s first cybersecurity research platform.

BugBounty uses the expertise of cybersecurity specialists to identify and address software vulnerabilities, which will allow Diriyah Co. and SAFCSP to implement strategies to mitigate potential digital threats.

To further support this, SAFCSP will provide specialized training programs to Diriyah Co. employees, equipping them with cybersecurity skills and raising awareness about the importance of digital security.

The MoU will grant the company access to SAFCSP’s database of professionals, facilitating the recruitment of cybersecurity talent. The partnership also enables the design of tailored assessments to evaluate candidates’ suitability for cybersecurity roles. In addition, outstanding students with relevant certifications will be identified for potential training opportunities.

Speaking about the collaboration, Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of Diriyah Co., said:
“This MoU aligns with Diriyah’s commitment to realizing Saudi Vision 2030, marking a crucial step toward creating a secure and sustainable digital future for Diriyah. Our collaboration with government and private sectors, especially the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, is essential for empowering the next generation in advanced technology, driving cultural and economic growth.”

The partnership will also involve joint cybersecurity projects, including conferences, workshops, and public awareness initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of digital security.

RIYADH: A Saudi-Iraqi dialogue on music has been held as part of the “Common Ground” festival at Riyadh Boulevard, which runs until Dec. 31.

The dialogue featured Saudi artist Abadi Al-Johar and Iraqi artist Naseer Shamma, who presented their musical creations.

It highlighted the points of convergence between the rich cultures of both nations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture, the event aims to highlight the shared cultural elements between Saudi Arabia and Iraq through various cultural and artistic activities.

The goal is to strengthen cultural cooperation between the Kingdom and Iraq and provide an opportunity to explore Iraqi culture and its creative landmarks, the SPA reported.

Iraqi visitors expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and the festival’s recognition of Iraqi artists, particularly the honoring of renowned singer Saadoun Jaber and the late poet Karim Al-Iraqi.

Many said that this reflected the festival’s respect for Iraq’s artistic legacy and its role in fostering cultural ties between the two nations.

An art exhibition at the festival showcases dozens of works by Saudi and Iraqi artists, which visitors praised for vividly portraying the historical and cultural diversity of the two countries while highlighting their shared heritage.

The event has also included discussions on the historical roots of economic ties and recent efforts to strengthen them.

Researchers and historians from both countries gathered to discuss their shared history and explored ways to cooperate in the future.

The festival includes a children’s area with heritage games, arts and crafts, and interactive storytelling.

It also offers a culinary experience blending Saudi and Iraqi flavors, while visitors can enjoy Saudi coffee and Iraqi tea, reflecting Arab hospitality.

The event is being held in collaboration between the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives and the Iraqi National Library and Archive.