Bahrain set to become a cyber security hub

Manama : Bahrain is set to become a hub for cyber technologies and security after the Kingdom was chosen to become a ‘Centre of Excellence’ by a team of experts from London-based Vauban Group. 

With the implementation of the project, around 23 companies specialised in various aspects of cyber technologies and security will bring their expertise to Bahrain. From their base in Bahrain, the companies will cater to the entire GCC region.  

Speaking to DT News yesterday, Vauban Group Chief Executive Officer Mitch Scherr explained that the influx of expertise and technologies into the country would ultimately help companies, organisations and government entities protect themselves against cyber-criminals. 

According to him, it will create myriad opportunities for the Kingdom. “It will create jobs and support innovation. Besides, there is the potential to develop intellectual property from this region with joint efforts of those companies and the local resources here. We can also develop new products based on the needs of the region,” Scherr elaborated.

“People will be coming here from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE and other neighbouring countries for their cyber security needs.”

Commenting on their focus on the GCC region, he said: “After my stint in the GCC countries, I could make out that Bahrain is the right place to anchor our activities. 

“We aim to create jobs and proliferate the technology of these 23 firms. So we will be functioning very closely with the economic development in Bahrain.”

When queried about choosing Bahrain, Scherr remarked, “Primarily, the strategic advantage of being in the Kingdom. Secondly, the business-friendly milieu here.”

 Scherr exuded confidence that cyber security solutions could be made available for small and medium size companies as well. 

“A lot of midsize companies cannot afford to buy the technologies that they need to protect themselves. We want to serve that niche so that they can protect their digital assets,” he added.