Saudi Arabia participates in drafting the rules for the Cybercrime Conference
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia strengthened its influential international presence in the field of digital security by sending an official delegation, headed by the National Cybersecurity Authority, to the meetings of the committee tasked with drafting the rules of procedure for the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. These important meetings were held at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna, Austria, from January 26 to 30, 2026.
Active Saudi participation in Vienna
The meetings saw the completion of the work of the ad hoc committee following the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. Discussions focused on drafting the legal and procedural provisions that will govern the future work of the Conference of the States Parties. This step aims to ensure a clear and effective mechanism for implementing the Convention's provisions, reflecting the international community's commitment to translating theoretical texts into concrete, practical measures.
The importance of the international convention against cybercrime
These moves are of paramount strategic importance, as this agreement is the first multilateral treaty to combat cybercrime adopted under the auspices of the United Nations in over twenty years. It also represents the first legally binding international instrument aimed at unifying global efforts to combat transnational crimes in cyberspace. This international initiative comes in response to the rapid evolution of cyberattack methods and the urgent need for an international legal framework that facilitates the exchange of digital evidence and judicial cooperation between states.
The Kingdom's leading role in the Arab world
The Kingdom's participation was not limited to mere attendance; it played a pivotal role in unifying regional visions. As chair of the Arab Cyber Diplomacy Committee, established by the Council of Arab Ministers of Cyber Security, the Kingdom spearheaded intensive efforts to coordinate with all Arab states. These efforts culminated in the formulation of a unified Arab position on the draft internal regulations, thereby strengthening the Arab group's influence in international forums and ensuring the protection of its interests in cyberspace.
This role comes as an extension of Riyadh’s ongoing efforts to support international stability and consolidate cooperation concepts to combat cybercrimes that have become a threat to the economies and vital infrastructure of countries.
National Cybersecurity Authority: The National Reference
It is worth noting that the National Cybersecurity Authority is the competent authority and national reference for cybersecurity matters within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Authority's primary objective is to enhance the Kingdom's cybersecurity to protect its vital interests, national security, and critical infrastructure.
The Authority also undertakes the responsibility of representing the Kingdom in various regional and international organizations, bodies and committees, and following up on the implementation of the Kingdom’s international commitments in this field, reflecting the qualitative leap that Saudi Arabia has achieved in global cybersecurity indicators.
