SANS Riyadh Cyber Leaders: Empowering the Future of Cybersecurity

The SANS Institute, renowned for its rigorous cybersecurity training and certification programs, is set to host the SANS Riyadh Cyber Leaders event from August 24 to 28, 2025. This gathering will take place at the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya and is poised to equip security managers and SOC leaders with essential skills tailored to confront the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity threats.

A Five-Day Intensive Training Experience

This five-day event promises an intensive blend of leadership and technical training. Participants will dive deep into the complexities of cybersecurity, empowering them to steer their organizations effectively through a myriad of challenges. Designed for today’s fast-paced digital environment, the session will teach professionals how to enhance their strategies and bolster their teams’ capabilities against evolving threats.

Saudi Arabia’s Emergence as a Cybersecurity Leader

Saudi Arabia has carved out a significant role on the global cybersecurity stage, clinching the top spot in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook cybersecurity indicator. This accomplishment is a testament to the relentless efforts of the National Cybersecurity Authority and the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE), whose collaboration has fortified the Kingdom’s cyber resilience, promoted technology localization, and fostered international partnerships.

Ned Baltagi, Managing Director for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey at SANS Institute, remarked on the significance of this progress. "Saudi Arabia’s position as a global cybersecurity leader isn’t merely by chance; it stems from strategic vision and a long-term commitment." He emphasized SANS’s role in nurturing the next wave of cybersecurity talent by delivering world-class training in Riyadh.

Specialized Courses Tailored for Leaders

The training agenda features specialized courses meticulously crafted for security leaders looking to sharpen their expertise. Notable courses include:

LDR512: Security Leadership Essentials for Managers

This course is designed to bolster the strategic planning and leadership skills necessary for modern security professionals. By focusing on real-world applications, it prepares participants to make informed decisions in their respective roles.

LDR514: Security Strategic Planning, Policy, and Leadership

LDR514 empowers participants with the essential tools to develop a comprehensive cybersecurity strategic plan and effective IT security policies. The course also emphasizes leadership techniques to guide teams through successful implementation phases, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

LDR551: Building and Leading Security Operations Centres

Aimed at those involved in SOC management, this course presents a holistic view of the processes involved in establishing and directing an SOC. Participants will learn how to align operations with their organization’s risk profile and strategic objectives. Notably, the curriculum features 17 hands-on labs and Cyber42 interactive leadership simulations, enhancing practical learning experiences.

Focused Sessions on Emerging Threats

Part of the training will include a focused session led by expert instructor Jan D’Herdt, covering the topic of “Detecting Cryptocurrency Mining in Corporate Environments.” This session aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with unauthorized crypto mining and its ramifications for enterprise networks. Attendees will benefit from practical insights and strategies to identify and mitigate this increasing threat.

Conclusion

The SANS Riyadh Cyber Leaders event represents a significant opportunity for cybersecurity professionals in the region. By delivering essential training and emphasizing the importance of strategic leadership, SANS is playing a crucial role in strengthening the cybersecurity framework not just in Saudi Arabia, but globally. As organizations continue to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, initiatives like these ensure that their leaders are well-equipped to face the challenges ahead.