Jeddah: The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) today announced the launch of the Cybersecurity Exercise for the 1447 AH Hajj season, aimed at strengthening the readiness of participating national entities, developing the skills of their specialists, and reinforcing cyber resilience to support an integrated experience for pilgrims.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the exercise comes within the Cybersecurity Enhancement Program for the 1447 AH Hajj, implemented by the authority to enhance the cyber readiness of services and technical systems associated with this year's Hajj season, supporting national efforts to harness all capabilities to provide the best services for pilgrims.

The NCA noted that the two-day drill, held in Jeddah Governorate, involves more than 300 national entities represented by over 1,000 officials and cybersecurity specialists. It includes simulations of various types of real-world cyberattacks and incidents, the application of response mechanisms, and familiarization with the latest methods used in cyberattacks.

The authority added that the exercise features a range of technical and administrative activities for cybersecurity officials and specialists to develop innovative solutions to challenges related to the technical systems supporting services during the Hajj season, in accordance with best standards and practices. It is delivered through a specialized platform built, hosted, and operated locally in cooperation with the NCA's technical arm, the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE).