Riyadh hosts 20-day cybersecurity event featuring 13 expert-led courses, NetWars tournaments, and community talks
SANS Institute has launched Cyber Safari 2025, the most comprehensive cybersecurity training event in the Kingdom, running October 4–23 at the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya. The 20-day program features 13 specialized courses, three NetWars tournaments, and four Community Night Talks, designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to defend against evolving threats.
Saudi Arabia continues to lead globally in cybersecurity, ranking first in the World Competitiveness Yearbook’s 2025 cybersecurity indicator. With the market valued at $2.19 billion and projected to reach $3.67 billion by 2030, the Kingdom’s focus on training and resilience is driving regional transformation.
“Skill development is a core component for building robust and resilient defenses—and a key reason Saudi Arabia leads the world in cybersecurity.”
— Ned Baltagi, Managing Director, Middle East, Turkey & Africa, SANS Institute
Cyber Safari’s curriculum spans AI-powered threat detection, cloud security, zero trust architecture, digital forensics, and offensive operations. Each course offers hands-on labs, simulations, and the opportunity to earn GIAC certifications and CPE credits. Participants can choose from in-person or online formats, supported by certified instructors and immersive virtual labs.
NetWars tournaments will challenge attendees with gamified cyber range scenarios across three tracks: Cyber Defense, DFIR, and Core NetWars. Community Night Talks will feature sessions on AI’s workforce impact, LLMs in security, early warning systems, and modern search techniques—led by SANS experts including Brian Correia, Timothy McKenzie, Kevinn Holvoet, and Mark Jeanmougin.
“SANS Cyber Safari is more than training—it’s a platform for collaboration, innovation, and community building,” said Baltagi. “We encourage participants to engage deeply and expand their networks.”
With Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority emphasizing human-centric defense strategies, Cyber Safari 2025 reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to building a resilient, future-ready cybersecurity workforce.
