The Middle East and Africa are rapidly becoming hotbeds of technological innovation, but with this progress comes increased vulnerability to cyber threats. Enter Black Hat MEA, the region’s premier cybersecurity event, held this year from November 26-28 at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Centre.
A Record-Breaking Event
Black Hat MEA 2024 has already made history as the largest cybersecurity event by space, spanning over 53,000 square meters. This year saw a massive increase in attendees, with over 40,000 cybersecurity professionals, technology leaders, and government officials from over 100 countries converging in Riyadh. The event also boasts a 135% increase in startups and 52% growth in new brands compared to 2023, highlighting the burgeoning cybersecurity sector in the region.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Speaker Lineup: The event features over 330 speakers, including industry giants like Vijay Bolina of Google DeepMind and Ugo Vignolo Lutati of the Prada Group, alongside experts from Coca-Cola, Scale AI, Peloton, and more.
- Comprehensive Content: Attendees can choose from 335 sessions and 175 hours of content, covering cutting-edge topics like AI-powered security, threat intelligence, cloud security, and incident response.
- Interactive Experiences: Black Hat MEA goes beyond traditional presentations with an interactive Activity Zone, offering attendees the chance to test their skills and win prizes.
- Focus on Innovation: The event provides a platform for startups and established companies to showcase their latest cybersecurity solutions, fostering collaboration and driving innovation in the field.
Why Black Hat MEA Matters
Black Hat MEA plays a crucial role in strengthening cybersecurity posture in the Middle East and Africa. By bringing together global experts, fostering knowledge sharing, and showcasing cutting-edge technologies, the event empowers organizations and individuals to combat the evolving threat landscape.
Beyond the Buzzwords:
While the event is packed with the latest buzzwords like AI and threat intelligence, Black Hat MEA delves deeper into the practical applications of these technologies. Attendees gain valuable insights into real-world challenges and solutions, helping them make informed decisions about their cybersecurity strategies.
Whether you’re a seasoned security professional, a tech enthusiast, or a business leader, Black Hat MEA offers something for everyone. It’s an essential event for anyone invested in staying ahead of the curve in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity.
