Riyadh event will bring together global cybersecurity experts as the Kingdom strengthens its position as an international cyber innovation hub
Saudi Arabia is stepping up efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity workforce and attract global expertise, with Riyadh set to host the world’s largest Capture the Flag (CTF) competition during Black Hat Middle East and Africa (Black Hat MEA) 2026.
- Riyadh event will bring together global cybersecurity experts as the Kingdom strengthens its position as an international cyber innovation hub
- Global cybersecurity competition to strengthen talent pipeline
- Building on a Guinness World Record achievement
- Tuwaiq Academy highlights focus on national talent
- Black Hat MEA continues to expand global reach
The competition, scheduled for December 1–3, forms part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to develop national cyber capabilities, encourage innovation, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for cybersecurity and advanced technologies.
Global cybersecurity competition to strengthen talent pipeline
The event is being organised by Tahaluf in partnership with the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones and Tuwaiq Academy. It will bring together cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, and experts from around the world to compete in advanced cyber challenges.
Moreover, organisers say the competition aims to develop practical cybersecurity skills, promote innovation, and strengthen collaboration between global cyber professionals while supporting Saudi Arabia’s growing digital ecosystem.
The 2026 edition will offer prize money exceeding SR790,000 ($209,957). Additionally, the top 150 teams will compete in the in-person finals in Riyadh after qualifying through the global competition.
Building on a Guinness World Record achievement
The competition follows the success of previous editions, including Saudi Arabia’s Guinness World Records recognition for hosting the world’s largest Capture the Flag cybersecurity competition during an earlier Black Hat MEA event.
The achievement reflects the Kingdom’s continued investment in cybersecurity and its ambition to become a leading destination for global technology events. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s wider efforts to attract international expertise while developing homegrown digital talent.
Tuwaiq Academy highlights focus on national talent
Commenting on the initiative, Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi, CEO of Tuwaiq Academy, said hosting the competition reflects the academy’s commitment to empowering Saudi cybersecurity talent while attracting global expertise.
“Hosting the competition comes as an extension of the academy’s efforts to empower national competencies, attract global expertise, and provide a competitive environment that contributes to discovering talent and enhancing innovation in the cybersecurity sector,” Al-Hammadi said.
He added that the Kingdom’s hosting of the global event demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s rapid progress in advanced technologies and its growing role in building a competitive digital ecosystem.
Black Hat MEA continues to expand global reach
Black Hat Middle East and Africa has grown into one of the world’s largest cybersecurity gatherings. The 2025 edition attracted more than 45,000 visitors from over 140 countries, bringing together cybersecurity professionals, technology companies, policymakers, and business leaders.
As a result, the 2026 edition is expected to further strengthen Saudi Arabia’s standing as a global destination for cybersecurity innovation, digital talent development, and international technology collaboration.
