Cybersecurity in Kuwait calls for stronger regional cooperation as digital threats continue to rise. Moreover, officials highlighted the importance of securing data, which they described as today’s most valuable resource. Yaqoub Al-Refaei, Secretary General of the Kuwait Banking Association, warned that rapidly evolving cyber risks threaten companies, individuals, and critical infrastructure. Additionally, he noted that low public awareness continues to expose systems to attacks.
The warning came during the opening of the sixth Gulf Cybersecurity Conference and Exhibition in Kuwait. Consequently, the two-day event brought together security leaders, government officials, and private-sector representatives to share knowledge and strengthen Gulf-wide cybersecurity. Attendees discussed strategies to protect the region’s digital future and anticipate emerging threats.
Cybersecurity in Kuwait is guided by three main pillars, outlined by Al-Refaei. First, enhancing national defense through proactive measures, and second, investing in human capital and expert training. Third, improving collaboration between government agencies and private institutions. Furthermore, he emphasized that cybersecurity is a collective responsibility. Awareness at the individual and organizational level today ensures stronger protection and digital stability tomorrow.
Kuwait has already launched initiatives to strengthen cyber defense. For example, these include the cybersecurity committee of the Kuwait Bankers Association and a shared virtual operations room. The operations room brings together the Ministry of Interior, the Central Bank of Kuwait, and the association to monitor and respond to threats 24/7. In addition, Al-Refaei stressed that quick reporting can prevent losses and sometimes recover stolen funds.
Major General Ali-Misfer Al-Adwani, acting undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, reinforced the need for Gulf countries to collaborate. He explained that cybersecurity has become a core component of national security and sustainable development. Meanwhile, the conference also aims to share best practices and plan future regional cooperation.
Abeer Anwar Al-Awadhi, chief of the National Cybersecurity Center in Kuwait, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting digital infrastructure. She highlighted the importance of secure, reliable systems and stressed continued cooperation among nations and institutions. “We reaffirm the need to confront the complex cybersecurity challenges facing the world today,” she added.
The conference also features an International Gulf Exhibition, a national student innovation competition, and workshops on advanced cybersecurity technologies. Furthermore, it attracts officials, decision-makers, industry leaders, and experts from government, private, and academic sectors.
International experts from Spain, the United States, Denmark, and China presented innovative solutions for companies locally and globally. As a result, Kuwait’s annual hosting of the event under the National Cybersecurity Center’s strategic patronage ensures collaboration across the GCC and beyond.
