Bahrain to Host First DEFCON Middle East

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has secured the hosting rights for the first-ever DEFCON Middle East conference, marking the regional debut of one of the world’s most influential cybersecurity gatherings.

The agreement was signed between the National Cyber Security Center and DEFCON during a ceremony held in Manama.

This move represents DEFCON’s first expansion into the Middle East, bringing the global cybersecurity and ethical hacking community to the Kingdom.

Officials said the decision underscores Bahrain’s growing ambition to position itself as a regional hub for cybersecurity innovation, talent development and international collaboration.

Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of the National Cyber Security Center, said the partnership would help develop a new generation of cyber professionals across the region.

He said cybersecurity is no longer limited to technology systems alone, it increasingly depends on human expertise capable of protecting critical digital infrastructure.

“We always talk about advanced systems and technologies, but human expertise remains the most important element,” he said, adding that the conference would give students and young professionals access to global experts and emerging technologies.

DEFCON founder and chief executive Jeff Moss said Bahrain was selected not only for the event itself but also for its strategic role as a connector within the Gulf region.

“I think of Bahrain as a connector to the GCC,” he said.

Moss said the event is designed as a hands-on learning platform, allowing participants to explore cybersecurity tools using open-source technologies without financial barriers.

He added that the Bahrain edition is expected to include specialised tracks covering artificial intelligence, aviation, satellites, maritime systems, aerospace, automotive security and biohacking.