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INTERPOL Chooses Riyadh for New MENA Headquarters

In a significant move to bolster regional security, Saudi Arabia and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) have signed an agreement to establish a Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regional office in the Kingdom. Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz and INTERPOL President Major General Dr. Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi witnessed the signing, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s growing role in global security governance. Ministry of Interior Undersecretary Dr. Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al-Faleh and INTERPOL Secretary-General Jürgen Stock formalized the agreement on Wednesday. The signing followed Prince Abdulaziz’s meeting with the Interpol chief at his ministry office, where they discussed the organization’s efforts and explored topics of mutual interest.

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

The Riyadh office will streamline intelligence-sharing among 22 MENA nations, targeting organized crime, terrorism, and cyber threats. Undersecretary Dr. Hisham Al-Faleh and INTERPOL’s Jürgen Stock highlighted faster crisis responses during Wednesday’s signing.

This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to advance tech-driven security and global partnerships. Experts predict Riyadh will emerge as a policing innovation hub, attracting global expertise and investments.

Riyadh’s selection underscores Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in combating extremism, cybercrime, and trafficking. The Kingdom’s strategic location, bordering eight nations, enhances its regional security influence.

Commitment to Global Security Frameworks

Saudi Arabia donated EUR 1 million to INTERPOL’s I-CORE program in 2023, boosting biometrics and police messaging systems. Col. Abdulmalik Al-Sogiah signed the agreement in Lyon, reinforcing anti-crime collaboration.

The Riyadh office will open in early 2025, staffed by 150 specialists. INTERPOL praised Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity infrastructure and proactive diplomacy during the announcement.

Transforming Regional Security Dynamics

Analysts expect improved data-sharing mechanisms and AI-driven policing across MENA. Prince Abdulaziz and Al-Raisi also discussed expanding forensic tech to counter financial crimes and human trafficking.

The establishment of INTERPOL’s MENA regional office in Riyadh reflects the trust in Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting, promoting, and coordinating international and regional efforts. This move aims to strengthen global security cooperation and address transnational crime effectively. The Kingdom’s active support for INTERPOL initiatives highlights its dedication to staying abreast of digital transformation and leveraging artificial intelligence in law enforcement.

Saudi Arabia’s hosting of INTERPOL’s MENA regional office marks a significant milestone in international police cooperation. The Kingdom’s strategic location, crime-combating commitment, and INTERPOL support highlight its crucial role in regional and global security. This progress will strengthen transnational crime responses and boost stability across the Middle East and North Africa.

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