The United Nations, represented by its Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), has chosen Riyadh as the headquarters for its first office dedicated to cybersecurity. The decision was formalized during a signing ceremony between the Saudi Arabian National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) and UNITAR at the NCA headquarters in Riyadh.
The new office will launch initiatives and projects in capacity building and policy development related to cybersecurity, as well as joint research and development programs. It aims to enhance the skills of a wide range of beneficiaries and specialists, thereby strengthening international cybersecurity. This initiative aligns with the Global Capacity Building Initiative in Cyberspace, launched by the Kingdom in partnership with the United Nations.
The office will focus on research, training, and workshops targeting policymakers, law enforcement, diplomats, and cybersecurity professionals worldwide. NCA Governor Eng. Majid bin Mohammed Al-Mazed highlighted the Kingdom's leading position in cybersecurity, noting its first-place ranking in the Global Cybersecurity Index for the second consecutive year. UNITAR Executive Director Ms. Michelle McDonough emphasized that the office will bridge cybersecurity capacity gaps globally and transform shared risks into shared cyber resilience.
The event is closely related to the Cyber Security Summit 2026 (Saudi Arabia), which will take place in Riyadh on June 18, 2026.