Qatar hosted the second edition of Cyber First Qatar, bringing together over 300 cybersecurity leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss the future of the nation’s digital security. The event aligns with the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2024–2030 and contributes to the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Yasir Rauf, Head of Market Development at Events First Group, highlighted that the conference gathered top business leaders and experts to shape the future of Qatar’s digital economy while addressing real-world cybersecurity threats. As the country advances toward becoming a digitally empowered society, ensuring a secure and resilient cyber environment is critical.
Participants engaged in several insightful panels, including one titled “Safeguarding the Digital Future: Aligning Qatar’s Vision 2030 with the National Cyber Security Strategy 2024–2030.” This discussion explored the essential alignment between national development goals and robust cybersecurity measures to ensure sustainable growth, innovation, and trust in Qatar’s digital ecosystem.
With the rapid digital transformation, experts emphasized the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in protecting Qatar’s growing digital infrastructure. As cyber threats evolve, AI provides adaptive, real-time defense capabilities crucial for safeguarding the country’s digital assets. Industry leaders also underscored the importance of integrating AI into cybersecurity strategies to ensure resilience and continuity in the country’s push toward a smart, secure future.
The security of critical infrastructure is another key focus, with officials noting that Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Operational Technology (OT) are vital to sectors like energy, water, and utilities. As cyber threats targeting these systems rise, the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has proactively enhanced security measures.
In addition, the NCSA launched a specialized training program for 70 professionals in information security and OT, recognizing that human expertise is vital to maintaining the integrity of critical systems. These initiatives align with Qatar’s National Cyber Security Strategy, which emphasizes protecting critical infrastructure as a fundamental pillar of national security.
The summit, organized by Events First Group, comes at a crucial time as Qatar accelerates its efforts to safeguard its digital infrastructure. Qatar’s cybersecurity market, valued at over $1 billion (QR3.64 billion) in 2022, is expected to reach $1.6 billion (QR5.83 billion) by 2026, highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in the country’s digital future.
