BSA to launch Space Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025
Manama, Oct. 28 (BNA): Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Bahrain Space Agency (BSA) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) announced the launch of the Space Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025.
The hackathon, a strategic partnership with DEF CON and the first of its kind in the region, aims to enhance innovation and empower Arab youth. It will take place from November 5 - 6 at Exhibition World Bahrain.
The event reflects Bahrain’s pioneering vision of embracing advanced sciences and promoting sustainable development and scientific progress by combining space science and cybersecurity. It provides an opportunity for Arab youth aged 18 to 35 to develop innovative solutions to protect space-cyber infrastructure, enhance national and regional capabilities in space cybersecurity, and engage with real-world challenges in a stimulating competitive environment.
Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, CEO of the NCSC, said that the hackathon reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in positioning Bahrain as a regional hub for innovation and excellence in science and technology. It also translates the continued support of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister to empower national talent and open new horizons for Bahraini and Arab youth to contribute to building a sustainable, innovation-driven future.
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, Chief Executive of the BSA, said that the hackathon marks a milestone reflecting the Kingdom’s vision to invest in advanced sciences for security and sustainable development. He noted that the event is not only a technical competition but a pioneering Arab platform that brings together young creative minds to develop practical solutions addressing global space cybersecurity challenges.
Dr. Al Aseeri added that the BSA, under the comprehensive development path led by His Majesty the King, continues to elevate the Kingdom to the ranks of advanced nations in space science and technology. The initiative aligns with the goals of the government’s work programme, underscoring that investing in young minds is the best path toward a safer, more prosperous future. Hosting the first edition of the hackathon aims to strengthen Arab and international cooperation, advance innovation, and build national capabilities in line with the directives of Lieutenant-General His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor, Royal Guard Commander, and Secretary-General of the Supreme Defence Council (SDC), and the aspirations of the agency’s Board of Directors chaired by Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa.
The organisation of the Space Cybersecurity Hackathon 2025 within the Arab International Cybersecurity Conference & Exhibition adds a strategic dimension to the event, combining technical sessions with innovation competitions to empower youth and enhance cybersecurity in vital sectors such as space.
The 2025 conference highlights its position as a leading Arab platform bringing together decision-makers, experts and young talents to promote cooperation, exchange expertise, and drive innovation towards a more secure and sustainable future in the field of space cybersecurity.
