Young Arab innovators will have the chance to reach for the stars as Bahrain hosts the first-of-its-kind hackathon that combines space science and cybersecurity.
The Space Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025, organised by the Bahrain Space Agency (BSA), in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Centre (NCC), will be held at the Arab International Cybersecurity Conference and Exhibition on November 5 and 6.
It will be held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
It offers young minds, aged 18 to 35, an opportunity to innovate and develop solutions that enhance the protection of space cybersecurity infrastructure, while also building national and regional capacity and engaging participants in real-world challenges within a competitive environment.
“This strategic event is not just a technical competition but a pioneering Arab platform that brings together creative young minds to develop innovative solutions that address the growing challenges of space cybersecurity,” said NCC chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.
“We firmly believe that investing in young minds is the most valuable investment for a safer and more prosperous future.
“Through hosting the first edition of the hackathon, we aim to strengthen Arab and international co-operation, foster innovation and build national capacities.”
He stated that the event helps highlight His Majesty King Hamad’s vision to solidify Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for innovation and excellence in scientific and technological fields.
He also thanked His Royal Highness Prince Salman for his dedication to empowering national talent and opening new opportunities for Bahraini and Arab youth to contribute to a sustainable, innovation-driven future. Additionally he commended National Security Adviser and Royal Guard Commander Lieutenant General Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa for his commitment to supporting national initiatives that enhance Bahrain’s readiness in cybersecurity and technology.
“The launch of the Space Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025 marks a milestone that reflects Bahrain’s ambitious vision to invest in advanced sciences and harness them for security and sustainable development,” added Shaikh Salman. “Under the wise leadership of His Majesty the King, the BSA continues to elevate the kingdom’s position among advanced nations in space sciences and technologies, contributing to comprehensive and sustainable development programmes led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince.”
The hackathon will be held within the Space Science Village at the conference as part of ongoing efforts to promote research and development in cybersecurity.
It will bridge academia with the public and private sectors, preparing a new generation of Arab innovators and building local and international expertise capable of leading the future and addressing global technological challenges in vital fields such as cybersecurity and space science.
The event comes as part of commitments to nurture a generation of Arab talents capable of shaping and securing the future of space.
nader@gdnmedia.bh