NCA Launches the Cybersecurity Drills for Hajj Season 1447 AH

The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) has announced the launch of the “Cybersecurity Drills for Hajj Season 1447 AH,” aimed at strengthening cyber readiness among the national entities participating in this year’s Hajj season, enhancing the skills of their cybersecurity specialists, and enabling them to enhance their cybersecurity posture, thereby contributing to a seamless experience for the pilgrims. This initiative forms part of NCA’s Cybersecurity Fostering Program for the Hajj season, which seeks to improve the cyber readiness of the services and technical systems linked to this year’s Hajj season, supporting national efforts to provide the highest level of service to the pilgrims. 

NCA stated that the drills, conducted over two days in Jeddah, involves more than 300 national entities represented by over 1,000 experts and professionals in cybersecurity. The drill simulates various types of real‑world cyberattacks and incidents, implements response mechanisms, and familiarizes participants with the latest attack techniques. It also includes a series of technical and administrative activities for cybersecurity experts and specialists to develop innovative solutions to cyber challenges associated with the technical systems supporting services offered during the Hajj season, in line with the highest standards and best practices. The drill is carried out on a dedicated platform built, hosted, and operated locally in collaboration with NCA’s technical arm, Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE). 

The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) is the national entity in charge of cybersecurity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and serves as the national authority and reference in all its affairs. NCA aims to improve the cybersecurity posture of the Kingdom in order to safeguard its vital interests, national security, critical infrastructures, high-priority sectors, and government services and activities. Additionally, NCA is dedicated to developing national capabilities in cybersecurity and participating in the creation of educational and training programs in this essential field.