Abu Dhabi, UAE – November 9, 2015: The first RSAConference 2015 Abu Dhabi has ended with the event receiving tremendous response and participation from the regional information security industry. With more than 1000 information security professionals in attendance from across Europe, Middle East and Africa, RSA Conference Abu Dhabi was held in collaboration with the UAE National Electronic Security Authority (NESA) and served as a platform for networking, strategic debate and knowledge share.

The Conference featured 32 exhibitors, nine keynote sessions and six tracks comprised of more than 50 engaging sessions. The tracks included Critical Infrastructure, Cybercrime & Threats, Policy & Strategy, Security for a Smart City, Security Operations and Sponsor Special Topics. It also served as a platform for Infosec professionals to keep track of rapid changes in the industry, specifically in the Middle East where technological advancements outpace cyber-infrastructure and cybercriminals continue to be a threat to social, economic and national security.

Key highlights from RSA Conference 2015 Abu Dhabi included:

• The ‘Vendor Showcase’ that was the hub of the event, where leading information security vendors showcased and demoed new products and solutions.

• An opening keynote by Saif Al Nuaimi, Chief of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs, NESA who looked at how the UAE has evolved over time to become a digital powerhouse fueled by technology.

• Closing keynote by the internationally recognized cybersecurity expert, Richard Clarke, the former National Coordinator for Security, Infrastructure Protection and Counter-terrorism for the United States. He shared insights on the importance of public-private partnerships to combat threats.

• Sessions on the popular subject of ‘The Internet of Things’ by the likes of Cisco and Palo Alto Networks who examined the critical importance of securing data and devices as more of our lives go digital.

• The ‘Security Basics Seminar’ that explained some of the most important security principles and is designed by RSA Conference, for practitioners with three years or less of information security experience.

• RSA Conference Cyber Safety: Kids initiative that was brought to the Middle East for the first time and provided guidance to conference delegates on promoting safe online habits for kids today.

Commenting on the success of the event, Linda Gray, General Manager, RSA Conference said, “We’ve seen an incredible response in terms of participation, which reflects that cybersecurity is a key priority in the Middle East. I look forward to the positive impact these discussions will make on this region moving forward.”

Saif Al Nuaimi, Chief of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs, NESA added, “Cybersecurity awareness is key to NESA’s long term vision to promote a safer cyber-culture in the UAE. RSA Conference 2015 Abu Dhabi, provides a good opportunity for both private and public sector organizations to improve their understanding of cybersecurity trends and plan for the future.”

Exhibitor quotes:

Faisal Al Bannai, CEO, Dark Matter:

"It is clear that a bold new approach is needed to cyber security in an increasingly hyper-connected world. We can no longer perceive security as a ‘nice-to-have’ element, and we congratulate RSA Conference Abu Dhabi for creating a platform in which discussions on just how important securing networks and infrastructure is in the region.” 

Greg Day, Vice President and Regional Chief Security Officer, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Palo Alto Networks:

“One of the most critical discussions we heard from the CSO's was on the Internet of Things.  Now is the time for companies to start thinking about security strategies against tomorrow’s cyber-attacks through the Internet of Things. An event like RSA Conference Abu Dhabi allows us to share information with important stakeholders on the strategies that companies need to have in this evolving, internet enabled world.”

Wolfgang Kandek, Chief Technical Officer, Qualys:

“It’s great to see this popular information security event expand into the Middle East. RSA Conference Abu Dhabi brings industry leaders and businesses together to get a common understanding on the latest challenges that we face in cybersecurity. For Qualys, it provides an ideal platform to showcase our cloud based security and compliance solutions that deliver critical security intelligence on issues that businesses face today.”

RSA Conference 2015 Abu Dhabi was held from November 4-5, 2015 at the Emirates Palace Hotel while RSA Conference 2016 will take place from February 29 - March 04 2016, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco.

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About RSA Conference

RSA Conference is the premier series of global events where the world talks security and leadership gathers, advances and emerges. Whether attending in the U.S., the EMEA region, or the Asia-Pacific region, RSA Conference events are where the security industry converges to discuss current and future concerns and get access to the people, content and ideas that help enable individuals and companies to win, grow and do their best. It is the ultimate marketplace for the latest technologies and hands-on educational opportunities that help industry professionals discover how to make their companies more secure while showcasing the most enterprising, influential and thought-provoking thinkers and leaders in security today. For information on events, online programming and the most up-to-date news pertaining to the information security industry visit www.rsaconference.com

RSA is either a registered trademark or trademark of EMC Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other products and/or services referenced are trademarks of their respective companies.

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Ibrahim Ahmed

Edelman Middle East

Email:    Ibrahim.Ahmed@edelman.com

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