CRITICAL IDEOLOGIES OF CYBER DIPLOMACY FRAMEWORK FOR MANAGING FOREIGN AFFAIRS: A SAUDI ARABIAN CONTEXT

Abstract

The rapid advancement of technology has facilitated globalization and interconnectedness, but it has also increased vulnerabilities to cyber threats, affecting businesses, governments, and international relations. Despite significant investments in cybersecurity, Saudi Arabia faces persistent cyber risks, particularly in critical sectors such as energy, finance, and defense, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and state-sponsored cyberattacks. This study addresses the gap in Saudi Arabia’s foreign affairs strategy by examining the role of cyber diplomacy in enhancing cybersecurity governance and international cooperation. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore the relevance, challenges, and priority areas for implementing cyber diplomacy in Saudi Arabia. Guided by security theory, the research answers three key questions: (1) What is cyber diplomacy's relevance in promoting national interests? (2) What challenges hinder its establishment across partner states? (3) What are the priority areas for developing cyber diplomacy in Saudi Arabia? Interviews with 12 cybersecurity professionals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and private sectors were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal that cyber diplomacy is crucial for protecting critical infrastructure, fostering economic stability, and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global influence. However, trust deficits, legal barriers, and geopolitical tensions pose significant challenges. Key recommendations include establishing a National Cyber Diplomacy Strategy, enhancing capacity-building programs, and fostering public-private partnerships. The study concludes that cyber diplomacy is essential for Saudi Arabia’s national security and recommends a multi-stakeholder approach to strengthen cyber resilience and international cooperation. Future research should expand to comparative studies with other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations to develop regional cyber norms.