Jeddah, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia has launched a large-scale exercise to test Saudi Hajj cybersecurity systems ahead of the 1446H pilgrimage season. The initiative, led by the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA), aims to strengthen cyber defenses for over 300 government entities supporting Hajj operations.
The two-day simulation in Jeddah brought together more than 800 cybersecurity professionals. Participants engaged in real-time exercises simulating a wide range of cyber threats. These included attacks on digital systems critical to transport, health, infrastructure, and crowd management.
Saudi Hajj Cybersecurity: Real-Time Drill for Threat Response
The cybersecurity drill tested how agencies detect, respond to, and recover from complex cyber incidents. Using a locally built simulation platform, the exercise exposed participants to scenarios mirroring actual threat conditions during Hajj.
Developed in partnership with the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE), the platform enabled full-cycle testing — from early detection to post-incident reporting. The goal was to validate the readiness of Saudi Hajj cybersecurity protocols under stress.
According to the NCA, ensuring the safety of digital services is essential to delivering a secure and smooth pilgrimage. With millions of pilgrims depending on high-tech systems, cyber readiness is critical.
Strategic Role of the NCA in Securing Hajj Digital Systems
The National Cybersecurity Authority leads national efforts to protect critical digital infrastructure. For Hajj, the Authority coordinates with government sectors to secure IT systems from cyber threats. It also provides training to develop a capable cybersecurity workforce.
This simulation reflects the Kingdom’s broader cyber defense strategy. It emphasizes both operational preparedness and long-term investment in digital skills and infrastructure.
The Saudi Standard’s View: Hajj Cybersecurity as a National Benchmark
This cybersecurity drill highlights Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to protecting digital assets during global religious events. It positions the Kingdom as a regional leader in event-based cyber preparedness. As Hajj services continue to digitize, ensuring cybersecurity is not only essential — it is foundational to trust, safety, and national resilience.
