Saudi Arabia has solidified its place in the global cybersecurity arena with the establishment of Honeywell Himaya Center in Jubail. Announced at the In-Kingdom Total Value Add (IKTVA) Forum and Exhibition 2025, the facility promises to enhance operational technology (OT) security, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative. With Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity market projected to expand from $3.60 billion today to $10.50 billion by 2032, this development underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to digital transformation and data protection.

The Himaya Center is more than a facility—it’s a strategic move to localize cybersecurity expertise, support compliance with the National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) regulations, and empower industries with cutting-edge solutions.

Driving Industrial Cybersecurity: Honeywell’s Vision

Honeywell, a global leader in OT cybersecurity, has long supported Saudi Arabia’s industrial ambitions. The Himaya Center will serve key sectors, including energy, manufacturing, and utilities, by providing:

1. Managed Security Services (MSS): These services include Honeywell’s proprietary Cyber Insight and Cyber Watch software, which enhance compliance with OT Cybersecurity Controls (OTCC).
2. AI and Automation Integration: The center will enable organizations to adopt AI-driven automation technologies, improving operational efficiency and cybersecurity resilience.
3. Local Talent Development: Honeywell’s training programs aim to equip Saudi professionals with the skills needed to sustain the Kingdom’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.

Abdullah Al Juffali, President of Honeywell Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, highlighted the facility’s role in fostering a resilient and self-reliant industrial ecosystem, stating, “The Himaya Center aligns with the ambitious vision set forth by the IKTVA program.”

Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Cybersecurity Market

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to digital transformation has catalyzed its cybersecurity market. Recent statistics forecast the market will experience an annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 12%, driven by:

• Rising Cyber Threats: Increased cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.
• Vision 2030: The national strategy to diversify the economy and invest in technological innovation.
• Increased Cloud Adoption: Reliance on cloud technologies has amplified the demand for advanced security solutions.

Global Context

Globally, OT cybersecurity has become a cornerstone for industries such as energy, manufacturing, and utilities. George Bou Mitri, President of Honeywell Industrial Automation for the Middle East and Central Asia, emphasized, “AI and industrial automation are pivotal in driving operational efficiency and business resilience.”

10 Key Steps to Avoid Cybersecurity Threats

To mitigate risks in the ever-evolving cyber landscape, experts recommend:

1. Adopting Zero Trust Architecture: Always verify access requests, whether internal or external.
2. Regular System Audits: Conduct routine evaluations of OT systems to identify vulnerabilities.
3. Comprehensive Training Programs: Equip employees with knowledge to identify phishing and other cyber threats.
4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen access controls with MFA across systems.
5. Data Encryption: Secure sensitive data with end-to-end encryption.
6. Network Segmentation: Isolate critical systems to limit exposure in case of a breach.
7. Incident Response Plans: Develop and test plans to address potential cyberattacks.
8. Continuous Monitoring: Deploy advanced tools to monitor for unusual activity in real time.
9. Compliance with Regulations: Ensure adherence to local and international cybersecurity standards.
10. Partnerships with Experts: Collaborate with cybersecurity leaders like Honeywell to implement robust solutions.

Conclusion

The launch of Honeywell Himaya Center positions Saudi Arabia as a key player in the global cybersecurity market. By prioritizing industrial cybersecurity, fostering local talent, and aligning with Vision 2030, the Kingdom is not only safeguarding its digital infrastructure but also paving the way for sustained economic growth.

Stay informed and take actionable steps to protect your business from evolving threats.

Want to stay on top of cybersecurity news? Follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube for the latest threats, insights, and updates!