KUWAIT: With the world increasingly dependent on technology, protecting data has become a matter of national security. “Data and information are today’s true wealth, and protecting them is a shared national responsibility,” warned Yaqoub Al-Refaei, Secretary General of the Kuwait Banking Association, as he addressed rising digital threats facing Kuwait and the Gulf region. Al-Refaei described a fast-changing digital landscape marked by escalating cybersecurity risks, from attacks on critical infrastructure to breaches targeting companies and individuals. “We face rapidly evolving and complex cybersecurity challenges,” he said, adding that a persistent lack of public awareness continues to make systems vulnerable.
His remarks came during the opening of the sixth Gulf Cybersecurity Conference and Exhibition on Tuesday, a regional platform held in Kuwait to exchange expertise and strengthen Gulf cooperation in confronting cyber threats. The two-day event gathered security leaders, government officials, and private sector representatives to discuss strategies for safeguarding the region’s digital future.
Al-Refaei outlined three key pillars guiding Kuwait’s approach to cybersecurity: enhancing national defense capabilities through proactive strategies, investing in human capital, and strengthening cooperation between government entities and the private sector. “Cybersecurity is a collective responsibility, starting with the individual and extending to institutions and the state,” he said. “The awareness and cooperation we cultivate today will yield tomorrow’s digital security and sustainable stability.”
He pointed to several ongoing initiatives, including the cybersecurity committee of the Kuwait bankers association and a shared virtual operations room that brings together the Ministry of Interior, the Central Bank of Kuwait and the association. The operations room functions as a 24/7 central authority to monitor, respond to, and contain any cyber incidents. Al-Refaei emphasized the importance of public awareness and swift reporting, noting that quick action can prevent losses and, in some cases, help recover stolen funds. Although he did not share specific statistics, he said increased awareness among citizens and residents has already contributed to a noticeable decline in cyber incidents.
Acting undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Major General Ali-Misfer Al-Adwani underscored the urgency of regional cooperation in addressing cybersecurity challenges. Speaking on behalf of the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, he said the conference comes at a time when joint efforts are more crucial than ever to protect digital infrastructure and strengthen national capabilities. “Cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical choice; it has become a fundamental pillar of national security and sustainable development,” he said. He added that the conference aims to review the latest developments, share best practices, and anticipate the future of Gulf cooperation in protecting cyberspace.
Echoing this spirit of cooperation, Abeer Anwar Al-Awadhi, chief of the national cyber security center in Kuwait, reaffirmed Kuwait’s steadfast commitment to protecting its digital environment. “This conference reflects Kuwait’s deep commitment to strengthening cybersecurity and ensuring the stability of its digital space,” she said. Al-Awadhi highlighted the need for nations and institutions to maintain a high level of preparedness and to continue building secure, reliable digital infrastructure. “As we gather at this important Gulf forum,” she added, “we reaffirm the importance of strengthening cooperation to confront the complex cybersecurity challenges the world faces today.”
The conference, which includes a variety of events such as an International Gulf Exhibition, a national student innovation competition, and international workshops on advanced cybersecurity technologies, is hosted annually by Kuwait with the participation of GCC countries. It serves as a platform for officials, decision-makers, thought leaders, and those interested in cybersecurity and digital safety from government, private and academic sectors.
Several international experts from Spain, the United States, Denmark and China also participate, showcasing the best solutions and services for local and international companies. The conference is held under the strategic patronage of the National Cybersecurity Center, with participation from a large number of government and private institutions.
