Bahrain to Host First DEF CON Middle East Cybersecurity Conference

The National Cyber Security Centre has signed an agreement with DEF CON to host the first-ever DEF CON Middle East conference in Bahrain.

The event will be held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Prime Minister, marking the first full DEF CON edition to be hosted in the Middle East.

Shaikh Salman bin Mohamed Al Khalifa, CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre, described the move as a strategic milestone reflecting Bahrain’s growing leadership in cybersecurity and digital innovation.

He said the partnership highlights international confidence in Bahrain’s national expertise and advanced digital infrastructure, noting that DEF CON is among the world’s largest cybersecurity conferences, attracting thousands of experts, researchers, specialists, and technology enthusiasts each year.

Shaikh Salman added that the conference is widely known for its specialised “villages” — interactive platforms featuring workshops and training sessions focused on areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud security, industrial control systems, Internet of Things security, space technologies, and biosecurity.

He noted that the event will also include hands-on demonstration labs and innovation showcases, creating opportunities for researchers, students, and startups to present projects and connect with global cybersecurity experts.

According to the National Cyber Security Centre, hosting DEF CON Middle East is expected to strengthen the region’s cybersecurity ecosystem, support local talent development, enhance digital readiness, and reinforce Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for cybersecurity and technological innovation.