The global Black Hat event returns to Riyadh for its fourth edition from December 2-4, 2025, organized by the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, and the “Alliance” company in partnership with global “Informa” and the Investment Events Fund, under the slogan “A Global Platform for Cybersecurity”.
Connecting the cybersecurity ecosystem with economic and investment opportunities
Black Hat is one of the most prominent international events specializing in cybersecurity, and this year it is witnessing significant expansion focusing on the business and corporate sector, through platforms that bring together technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors, aiming to connect the cybersecurity ecosystem with economic and investment opportunities.
The event attracts over 45,000 visitors from 140 countries, with participation from 450 exhibitors and 300 speakers, and offers more than 500 hours of specialized content across 12 stages, including live ethical hacking demonstrations, technical workshops, 18 dialogue sessions, and 7 interactive sessions.
The hosting of the event for the fourth consecutive year reflects leadership in cybersecurity and enhances Riyadh’s position as a global technology destination.
The event features participation from global and local companies such as Google Cloud, Cisco, Haboob, SITE, Infoblox, along with experts from Microsoft, INTERPOL, Mastercard, and Riot Games, in collaboration with Tuwaiq Academy.
Black Hat
“Black Hat” likely refers to the Black Hat Sect, a major school of Tibetan Buddhism known for its emphasis on esoteric rituals and meditation practices. It was founded in the 11th century by the tantric master Drogön Rechungpa, a principal disciple of Milarepa. The name originates from the distinctive black crowns worn by its lineage holders during certain ceremonies.
Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, serving as the nation’s political and administrative center. Historically a walled oasis town and a significant trading hub, it became the capital in 1824 and experienced immense growth and modernization following the discovery of oil in the region. Today, it is a modern metropolis that blends contemporary architecture with its historic roots in the Najd region.
Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones
The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP) is a government federation established in 2019 by a royal decree to advance the Kingdom’s capabilities in the digital and technological fields. Its mission is to develop national talent, support innovation, and build a robust digital economy through initiatives, training programs, and major events like the global tech conference LEAP.
Google Cloud
Google Cloud is a suite of cloud computing services offered by Google, launched officially in 2008 with the introduction of the App Engine platform. It has since grown into a major competitor in the cloud market, providing infrastructure, platform, and serverless computing services built upon the same technology that powers Google’s own consumer products like Search and YouTube.
Cisco
Cisco is a historic ghost town located in Utah, USA, that thrived during a late 19th-century silver and gold mining boom. Founded in the 1880s, its population and prosperity declined sharply after the mines were exhausted and the main railway line was rerouted in the 1940s. Today, it is a collection of abandoned buildings and a well-known, atmospheric stop along Highway I-70.
Microsoft
Microsoft is an American multinational technology corporation founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, which played a central role in the personal computer revolution. It is most famous for its Windows operating system and Microsoft Office suite, becoming a dominant force in the software industry. Today, it has expanded into cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and gaming, remaining one of the world’s most valuable companies.
INTERPOL
INTERPOL is the International Criminal Police Organization, established in 1923 to facilitate cross-border police cooperation. It enables law enforcement agencies from its 195 member countries to share and access data on crimes and criminals, while itself having no law enforcement powers.
Mastercard
Mastercard is a multinational financial services corporation, not a physical place or cultural site. It was founded in 1966 as a cooperative to create a seamless system for electronic payments, competing with other card networks. Today, it operates one of the world’s largest payment processing networks, connecting consumers, financial institutions, and merchants globally.
