How Saudi Arabia is leveraging AI to strengthen cybersecurity leadership

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Updated 11 October 2024
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How Saudi Arabia is leveraging AI to strengthen cybersecurity leadership

  • AI helps detect cyber threats in real time by sifting through vast datasets and flagging suspicious activities
  • Saudi cybersecurity spending reached $3.55bn in 2023, a 10.83% increase from the previous year

RIYADH: As the digital world becomes more interconnected, the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks are on the rise. In response, governments and companies are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to fortify their cybersecurity measures.

Among the global leaders in this space is Saudi Arabia, which has emerged as a critical player, not only adopting AI-driven cybersecurity solutions but also making significant strides in the global rankings for preparedness.

In 2024, Saudi Arabia secured the top spot in the UN Global Cybersecurity Index, achieving a perfect score of 100/100 across five critical pillars: legal, organizational, cooperation, capacity development, and technical measures.

This achievement reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a resilient cybersecurity infrastructure across both the public and private sectors.

Indeed, the Saudi Arabia government’s investments in cybersecurity products, services, and solutions surged to SR13.3 billion ($3.55 billion) in 2023, a 10.83 percent increase from the previous year.

A key component of the Kingdom’s cybersecurity success is its integration of cutting-edge AI technologies, which are transforming the way cyber threats are identified and mitigated.

“As cyber threats grow in complexity and frequency, traditional security measures often struggle to keep pace,” Moataz BinAli, regional vice president and managing director for the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Africa region at Trend Micro, told Arab News.

“This is where AI steps in, offering a new level of defense through enhanced automation, predictive capabilities, and real-time analysis.

By harnessing the power of AI, organizations can now sift through massive datasets in real time, flagging suspicious activities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

This capability is crucial in a world where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, allowing businesses to stay one step ahead of potential attackers.

“AI-powered tools can help organizations stay ahead by learning from previous cyberattacks and continuously adapting to new tactics used by hackers,” said BinAli. “This adaptive nature is crucial as cyber threats become more sophisticated.”

BinAli points out that phishing and ransomware are among the most common types of cyberattacks.

Phishing involves attackers using deceptive emails to trick users into revealing sensitive information, while ransomware encrypts a company’s data, with hackers demanding payment for its release.

However, such attacks are preventable with the right precautions. BinAli says a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity is required, starting with basic steps.

“Enforcing strong password policies and using multi-factor authentication are essential steps that add extra layers of security,” he said. “Regular software updates are equally important to protect against known vulnerabilities, ensuring systems and applications stay secure.”

Employee training is another critical component of this defense strategy. “For companies, employee training and awareness are critical. Human error, often exploited through phishing and social engineering, can be minimized through continuous education.”

While AI has undeniably transformed cybersecurity, it also presents new challenges. Cybercriminals are increasingly weaponizing AI, using it to automate phishing campaigns, develop more adaptive malware, and bypass traditional security measures.

“Hackers use AI to automate phishing campaigns, develop more adaptive malware, and bypass security defenses, making them more difficult to detect and counter,” said BinAli.

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False positives are another downside of AI-powered cybersecurity tools. According to Trend Micro’s Attack Surface Risk Management data, more than 40 percent of companies using AI for cybersecurity report excessive false alerts.

These false positives can overwhelm security teams and divert their attention from real threats.

“AI systems also heavily depend on the quality of the data they are trained on. Without robust, diverse datasets, AI models risk leaving critical vulnerabilities exposed,” said BinAli.

Trend Micro, a global leader in cybersecurity, is one of the companies at the forefront of AI-driven security solutions.

Its flagship platform, Trend Vision One, leverages AI-driven technologies to offer extended detection and response across a wide range of environments, including endpoints, emails, networks, and servers.

This unified approach provides real-time threat monitoring and proactive response capabilities.

Additionally, Trend Micro’s Attack Surface Risk Management offers companies a comprehensive view of potential vulnerabilities, enabling them to address areas of weakness before they can be exploited.

“AI-driven solutions like these will be pivotal in protecting against cyberattacks and data breaches,” said BinAli.

DID YOU KNOW?

1. Saudi Arabia topped the 2024 UN Global Cybersecurity Index with a perfect score of 100/100 across 5 key pillars.

2. Saudi cybersecurity spending reached SR13.3 billion ($3.55 billion) in 2023, a 10.83% increase from the previous year.

3. AI helps detect cyber threats in real time by sifting through vast datasets and flagging suspicious activities earlier than humans can.

4. Phishing and ransomware are the most common cyberattacks, but a multi-layered approach can prevent them.

Saudi Arabia’s success in the cybersecurity arena is part of a broader strategy that aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and technological advancement.

With AI playing an increasingly central role in its cybersecurity initiatives, the Kingdom is setting a global standard for other nations to follow.

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, AI-driven solutions will remain essential in safeguarding not only Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure but also the data and systems of organizations around the world.

With its robust investments in cybersecurity and commitment to integrating the latest technologies, the Kingdom is well-positioned to lead the fight against cyber threats on the global stage.

 


Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

Updated 23 November 2024
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Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

  • Unique taste, aroma make it popular locally, internationally

RIYADH: The Asir region is currently in the midst of the Sidr honey season, with local markets flooded with high-quality honey produced from the nectar of Sidr trees.

The recent heavy rainfall in the region has led to a prolific flowering of Sidr trees, providing ideal conditions for bees to produce abundant and flavorful honey, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Sidr honey, which is renowned for its health benefits, is particularly prized for its antioxidant properties and ability to strengthen the immune system.

The unique taste and aroma of the honey have made it a sought-after commodity, both locally and internationally, the SPA reported.

Beekeepers in Tihama Asir have been busy harvesting the golden nectar, with prices ranging from SR350 to SR500 ($93-133) per kg.

The region’s diverse ecosystem, characterized by its fertile valleys and abundant flora, provides an optimal environment for beekeeping.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is actively supporting the development of the beekeeping industry. Initiatives such as the beekeeping and honey production development initiative improve practices, protect bee populations, and enhance the quality of honey.

By promoting sustainable beekeeping and preserving the natural habitats of bees, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its position as a leading producer of high-quality honey while contributing to the global market.


Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

  • Al-Ahsa event to promote communities’ role in economic growth

RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture will host the 1st International Forum for Saudi Reef in Al-Ahsa from Dec. 16-18, aiming to strengthen rural communities, and promote their role in driving sustainable development.

Maha Aldhahi, head of the forum’s executive committee, said: “The forum is pivotal in advancing rural development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030. It will support rural communities, while contributing to global efforts and research on sustainable agriculture.”

Aldhahi said that the forum will unite regional and international experts to address the challenge of rural-to-urban migration, a widespread issue. To counter this, the forum will propose practical solutions to ensure rural areas remain economically viable, vibrant, and sustainable.

Additionally, it will explore innovations in agriculture and rural development, fostering economic growth and social cohesion through job creation and investment promotion, she added.

Aldhahi said that the forum builds on the Saudi Reef Program, recognized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as the world’s largest development initiative of its kind.

The program has supported over 77,000 agricultural projects, achieved a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 65 percent in vital sectors, and provided upskilling and career opportunities for rural communities.

Ghassan Bakri, secretary-general of the Saudi Reef Program, said: “The program is a model of sustainable growth, addressing food security and job creation while preserving cultural heritage. By hosting this forum, we aim to attract global partnerships and exchange cutting-edge solutions for rural empowerment.”

Bakri added that the forum will feature dynamic discussions on key topics, including sustainable agricultural practices, rural entrepreneurship, and the role of modern technology in agriculture.

The three-day event will also include an exhibition showcasing unique rural practices, handicrafts, and the work of local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. It will highlight how traditional techniques integrate with modern innovations to create sustainable livelihoods.


Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week

Updated 23 November 2024
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Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week

  • A total of 11,336 people were arrested for violations of residency laws

Riyadh: Saudi authorities arrested 19,696 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,336 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 5,176 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,184 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,547 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 32 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 71 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 22 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts

Updated 23 November 2024
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Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts

Riyadh: Palestinians in Gaza who received Saudi aid have expressed gratitude to the Kingdom for its humanitarian support through aid agency KSrelief.

They likened the Saudi assistance to rain that quenches their thirst for hope, alleviates suffering and rekindles optimism amid immense challenges, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Samaher Eid Awkal, 47, said she struggled with health issues while living in Khan Younis with her blind mother in a basic tent. She thanked KSrelief for providing her family with a suitable tent, which has eased their hardship and restored hope.

A Gaza mother who endured freezing conditions with her children without shelter also expressed appreciation after receiving essential aid. She described the support as a source of joy and hope during difficult times.

Mahmoud Nabil Abu Alwan, displaced from Rafah to Mawasi in Khan Younis, thanked KSrelief after he received a new tent. He previously lived in a dilapidated tent borrowed from relatives amid shelling and harsh displacement conditions.


Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

TOKYO: The Saudi National Orchestra’s performance in Tokyo is “bridging cultural boundaries” as part of Vision 2030, the CEO of the Kingdom’s top music body has said.

Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, added that music has a “very important part to play in each of the three main pillars of Vision 2030” as it represents a proud nation, a vibrant society and diversified economy.

Bringing the Saudi National Orchestra to Tokyo has given people the opportunity “to communicate with our language and it allows everybody to come together and share an experience that allows us to appreciate each other’s cultures, and really to be in harmony,” Pacifico said.

“And that’s why I think it’s so special that the orchestra is here for the first time.”

The program for the performance last night included traditional music directed by Saudi director Reab Ahmed, as well as the Japanese Imperial Court Orchestra “Gagaku.”

Pacifico said: “We’re able to show Saudi culture on one of the most prestigious stages in one of the world’s great cultural capitals here at Tokyo Opera City, and we’re doing that with authentic Saudi music, and authentic traditional Japanese music with Gagaku.

“But also with that great fusion between the two sets of musicians coming together and doing something really unique and beautiful.

“The Saudi National Orchestra and choir is really at the vanguard of developing the music landscape in Saudi Arabia as it builds the depth and richness and uniqueness of its beautiful culture, both traditional and modern.”

Pacifico said it was “an honor” to share the stage with the Japanese Imperial Orchestra performers. “It also shows how our cultures are different and yet similar: The regard for tradition and modernity, the appreciation of music, the sense of formality in public, but warmth and a sense of fun as well in private.”

He hoped that Friday’s performance was not a one-off but the foundation of a rich and longstanding collaboration with “our Japanese friends, the Tokyo College of Music, who we’re collaborating with on this concert.

“We hope that Saudi artists will start to have opportunities to play on stages here in Tokyo, like the Blue Note and Billboard Live and the Cotton Club, or festivals like Summer Sonic or Fuji Rock. And equally, we’d love to see Japanese artists playing more in Riyadh and all over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“Saudi Arabia has a very exciting story to tell.”

This article originally appeared on Arab News Japan