Darktrace’s Karim Benslimane On Why The UK-Based Cybersecurity Enterprise Has Set Up Shop In Saudi Arabia
According to Benslimane, the Kingdom has emerged as the Middle East’s most critical market for cyber defense.
Global artificial intelligence (AI) cybersecurity company Darktrace is sharpening its focus on the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a central pillar in its regional expansion plans.
The UK-based company recently opened its first office in the Kingdom, a step that reflects its view of Saudi Arabia as a key market shaping the future of cybersecurity.
Speaking to Inc. Arabia at Black Hat MEA 2025, Karim Benslimane, Vice President and Field Chief Information Security Officer at Darktrace, explained that the move builds on years of momentum across the GCC, particularly within Saudi Arabia’s public and private sectors.
According to Benslimane, the current opportunity arising from the Kingdom's digital transformation, coupled with the support that the government is offering to cybersecurity companies entering the market, makes it clear that having a footprint in Saudi Arabia today is a must.
"They have the pool of resources, they have the skilled talent..., they have the market, and they have the maturity...," Benslimane noted. "So, it's a big sign from top to down that investors and vendors must come [to] the country. If you don't come, you won't be part of the game."
Check out the full video for more of Benslimane’s insights.
