Hochiki to present fire safety systems at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025

by Featured NewsFire DetectionMiddle East - EventsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

Hochiki to demonstrate fire solutions at Intersec Saudi Arabia

Hochiki Middle East has reported that it will present a range of fire detection technologies at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.

The exhibition will take place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 29 September to 1 October.

According to the company, the presentation will highlight systems designed to meet the regulatory, environmental, and operational requirements of projects in Saudi Arabia.

It said the products are tailored for high temperatures, rapid construction schedules, and compliance with the Saudi Building Code.

James Morrison, Hochiki’s Regional Sales Manager for the Kingdom, said: “We are not a security company that also does fire, fire safety is the only thing we do.

“This is our singular purpose and has been since we began in 1918.

“Every product, every piece of advice, and every local distributor is focused entirely on protecting lives and property.”

Compliance and international standards

Hochiki stated that it will showcase systems approved to both EN and UL standards, including devices tested to the UL 268 7th Edition requirements.

It explained that this standard is now mandated by Saudi regulations.

The company added that it requires improved smoke detection performance and reduced false alarm incidents.

Hochiki confirmed that its UL 7th Edition-compliant products are designed to meet these benchmarks while supporting installation efficiency and long-term operation.

It indicated that this allows developers to align projects with both Saudi and international safety expectations.

Product ranges on display

The manufacturer outlined that the exhibition will feature its Ekho hybrid wireless fire detection system, which is suited for retrofits, heritage sites, and complex buildings.

It said the Latitude fire control panel will also be shown, offering programmable alarm delays through a Hotel Mode function to reduce disturbance to guests.

The company noted that specialist ranges for ports, offshore platforms, and industrial operations will also be available for inspection.

It explained that these ranges are engineered for high-demand environments where compliance and reliability are key priorities.

Manufacturing and reliability

Hochiki advised that its products are manufactured in Japan, the UK, and the US.

It stated that testing processes are aligned with aerospace-level standards to verify reliability.

The company reported that its systems are currently installed in hospitals, schools, high-rise towers, and commercial buildings throughout Saudi Arabia.

It added that this international production and application supports its ability to serve the Kingdom’s fire protection market.

Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

The group explained that its participation in Intersec Saudi Arabia is linked with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 development programme.

It said that through compliant technologies and regional partnerships it aims to contribute to raising safety standards across the Kingdom.

The company commented that this approach also strengthens the role of advanced fire detection in wider infrastructure projects.

It advised that its presence at the event provides a platform to reinforce these objectives.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

For fire and safety professionals in Saudi Arabia, the presentation offers an opportunity to examine UL 268 7th Edition-compliant systems in person.

The event also highlights the integration of EN and UL standards, giving practitioners insights into how both frameworks are being applied in the Kingdom.

For those working in construction, engineering, and inspection roles, the products showcased at Intersec may support compliance with Saudi building regulations.

Professionals will also gain awareness of new technologies designed for specific environments such as heritage properties and offshore installations.

Hochiki presents fire detection systems in Riyadh: Summary

Hochiki Middle East has confirmed it will attend Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.

The event takes place in Riyadh from 29 September to 1 October.

The company will display EN and UL-approved products.

Devices tested to UL 268 7th Edition will be featured.

This edition is required under Saudi Building Code regulations.

It introduces stricter criteria for smoke detection.

The Ekho hybrid wireless system will be exhibited.

The Latitude fire control panel will be shown.

Marine and industrial ranges will also be presented.

Products are manufactured in Japan, the UK, and the US.

Testing is conducted to aerospace-level standards.

Hochiki systems are installed in hospitals, schools, and commercial buildings.

The firm stated this supports Saudi Vision 2030.

Its technologies are tailored for local conditions.

Regional partnerships form part of its strategy.

Fire and safety professionals can view the products at Hall 5, Stand E-10.

Fire and rescue leaders set for Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - EventsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

Experts call for human-centred security in Saudi Arabia

Intersec Saudi Arabia has reported that fire and rescue will be a central focus of its 2025 edition, alongside safety and security.

According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, experts from the King Salman Park Foundation, Abu Dhabi Police, and Event Concept Consultancy have highlighted the need for advanced technology combined with human expertise to protect mega-events across the Kingdom.

Rasheed Alzahrani, Safety and Security Director at the King Salman Park Foundation, said: “Successful event security in today’s open public spaces, like those in Riyadh, goes beyond just showing a strong presence; it’s a smart, forward-thinking effort focused on safety and a great visitor experience.

“This means combining technology, such as AI-powered cameras that watch crowds, with well-trained staff who can react to real-time information.

“It starts with planning, sharing information among police, event organisers and other groups to understand and prevent threats.”

Technology and real-time monitoring

Lt. Col. Dr. Hamad Khalifa Al Nuaimi, Head of the Telecommunications Division – Information Technology Center at Abu Dhabi Police, explained that real-time monitoring tools are essential for mega-event protection.

He said that technology capable of assessing crowd density, traffic flow, and mobile device activity can support decision-making during live events.

The officer added that such tools allow authorities to respond quickly to developing risks while maintaining public safety and service continuity.

Collaboration and shared lessons

According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, collaboration was another theme stressed by industry experts.

Konstantin Turuntcev, Managing Partner at Event Concept Consultancy QFZ LLC, said: “Knowledge is power, and every experience offers unique insights.

“Global collaboration and the sharing of lessons learned are key to preventing future catastrophes and ensuring safer events worldwide.”

Balancing security with cultural context

Ahmed E. Al Shammari, a Security Operations Lead, noted that security must be applied in ways that respect local communities.

Al Shammari said: “Balancing strong security measures with respect for cultural sensitivity and visitor experience is key.

“Operations must be discreet, community-aware and aligned with heritage protection guidelines.”

Intersec Saudi Arabia programme details

Intersec Saudi Arabia reported that the session “Mega-Event Protection Excellence: Mastering the Security Challenges for Large-Scale Gatherings” will open the Future Security Summit Powered by ASIS International Dhahran Chapter.

The panel will address issues including crowd management, emergency planning, inter-agency coordination, and the use of smart surveillance.

The event organisers confirmed that additional sessions will cover Integrated Security Design for Smart Cities, using NEOM as a case study, and presentations on accessibility and crowd movement.

Alongside the Future Security Summit, a Fire Protection Summit will also be held.

According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Fire Protection Summit will gather regulators, international specialists and regional leaders to examine fire safety issues in the Middle East.

Fire and rescue at the exhibition

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “This year’s edition will see security experts from the Middle East and beyond convene in Riyadh for three days of high-level decision-making, knowledge exchange and innovation.

“With more than 27,000 industry leaders, policymakers and active buyers under one roof, Intersec Saudi Arabia is a must-attend event for professionals from across the entire security value chain.”

The exhibition will feature five product categories: Commercial and Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security and Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health.

The organisers stated that the 2025 show will occupy 30,000 sqm across seven halls and a dedicated outdoor space.

The event will take place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC) from 29 September to 1 October 2025.

It is being organised by 1st Arabia and Messe Frankfurt, with support from the High Commission for Industrial Security and the General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The organisers of Intersec Saudi Arabia have positioned the 2025 event as a platform where fire and rescue will feature alongside wider safety, security, and technology themes.

Fire and safety professionals will gain exposure to regional regulatory developments, international best practices, and emerging technologies relevant to event security and fire protection.

The Fire Protection Summit will provide structured discussions on how fire safety standards are being applied in the Middle East, with input from regulatory bodies and international experts.

The presence of fire and rescue as a dedicated product category within the exhibition highlights its continuing role in large-scale event planning, risk management, and civil defence strategies.

Fire and rescue leaders set for Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025: Summary

Fire and rescue will be a core focus of Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.

Intersec Saudi Arabia has reported that industry experts emphasised the importance of combining technology with human expertise.

Speakers include representatives from the King Salman Park Foundation, Abu Dhabi Police, Event Concept Consultancy, and other security specialists.

The Future Security Summit will include a session on mega-event protection and sessions on smart city security and accessibility.

The Fire Protection Summit will address regional fire safety issues with input from regulators and experts.

The exhibition will present five product categories including Fire and Rescue.

More than 27,000 attendees are expected to participate.

The event will take place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center from 29 September to 1 October 2025.

It is organised by 1st Arabia and Messe Frankfurt with the support of Saudi authorities.

NFPA to host fire standards programme at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsEventsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

Full-day NFPA event to focus on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will lead a full-day programme on 30 September as part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s Fire Protection and Technology Summit.

The event, to be held at Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will focus on how international standards can support fire and life safety across Saudi Arabia, in line with Vision 2030.

According to the organisers, the NFPA Day will address topics such as large-scale event protection, fire regulation compliance and human capital development in the safety sector.

Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, will deliver the keynote address alongside representatives from Saudi Civil Defense.

The sessions will be curated by Zahi Daher, Saudi Country Manager of International Business Development at NFPA.

NFPA to offer sessions on regulation, training and giga-projects

According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the NFPA Day will include multiple presentations and discussions led by industry and government stakeholders.

Planned sessions include ‘Protecting GIGA Developments and Large-Scale Events in the Kingdom’, ‘Building Human Capital in Fire Protection’, and ‘Navigating New Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance’.

NFPA said the programme is intended to provide direct engagement with Saudi professionals on local safety challenges.

Jim Pauley, NFPA President and CEO, said: “As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation aligned with Vision 2030, integrating internationally recognized fire and life safety standards is more vital than ever.

“NFPA is pleased to support the Kingdom by providing the knowledge, resources, and global expertise needed to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure.

“We are honoured to be part of Intersec Saudi Arabia, where we can engage directly with local stakeholders and help drive meaningful progress in fire safety.”

NFPA added that the event will provide practical insights into applying NFPA standards and certification systems to Saudi Arabia’s context.

Regional focus on standards and innovation

Intersec Saudi Arabia said the NFPA Day is one element of a broader Fire Protection and Technology Summit programme spanning 29 September to 1 October.

According to the organisers, the summit aims to address safety challenges specific to the region, including the integration of smart systems, mass event planning and high-rise incident response.

Sessions will feature topics such as AI-enabled fire detection, IoT applications in prevention systems, and HAZMAT coordination frameworks.

The summit will also include case studies from events such as Hajj and Saudi Arabia’s national space sector development.

According to the organisers, the summit is designed to provide sector-specific expertise on safety infrastructure across multiple industries.

Spotlight on training and representation in fire safety

The final day of the summit on 1 October will include sessions focused on building a skilled safety workforce in Saudi Arabia.

Topics will include educational pathways, localised training frameworks, and community-level fire awareness initiatives.

Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director of Intersec Saudi Arabia at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the summit aims to connect experts with emerging talent.

A dedicated session will explore the role of women in the fire protection sector and how they are contributing to sector development in the Kingdom.

Intersec Saudi Arabia stated that these sessions are part of its broader commitment to supporting workforce growth and diversity in safety fields.

Industry and government collaboration featured at event

The NFPA programme is being developed in collaboration with Saudi Civil Defense and various governmental stakeholders.

According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the goal is to align national development priorities with international safety protocols.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 offers a dedicated platform to explore how international fire and life safety standards can be applied to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, accelerating fire protection and safety in the Kingdom.”

Zahi Daher, NFPA Saudi Country Manager, added: “The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia is more than just a series of sessions – it’s a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, building local expertise, and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry leaders, government authorities, and safety professionals.

“Our goal is to elevate fire protection standards across the Kingdom, laying the foundation for safer communities today and for generations to come.”

Networking opportunities will be available throughout the event for participants seeking collaboration or knowledge exchange.

NFPA to host fire standards programme at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025: Summary

The NFPA will host a full-day event on 30 September as part of Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025.

The event will be held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The event forms part of the Fire Protection and Technology Summit.

The NFPA Day will include sessions on fire safety regulations, giga-project protection and workforce training.

Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, will open the event with a keynote address.

Zahi Daher, NFPA Saudi Country Manager, will chair the programme.

Intersec Saudi Arabia is organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt.

The summit will include sessions on AI fire detection, smart city firefighting and HAZMAT response.

The final day will focus on workforce development and women in fire safety.

Networking sessions will be included to promote collaboration and industry engagement.

Serco named in top 1 per cent of global employers

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

Recognition awarded by global employer study

Serco has been recognised among the top 1 percent of employers worldwide, according to a global study conducted by the Institute of Research & Data Aggregation.

The organisation, which provides government services internationally, announced the award on 25 July 2025.

The Global Leading Employers award is based on research carried out by the Germany-based institute, which evaluates employer quality using multiple data sources and criteria.

The ranking reflects assessment across categories including recruitment, employee experience, compensation, workplace culture, and leadership practices.

The company stated that its performance in these areas contributed to its inclusion in the top 1 percent of all employers evaluated globally.

Regional focus on national priorities and inclusion

Serco Middle East has reported several workforce-related milestones which it said contributed to the award recognition.

The company exceeded its Emiratisation targets by 657 percent and achieved a 133 percent increase in the number of female nationals in its workforce.

It also reported achieving gender parity at leadership level and stated that its 2024 gender pay gap review showed a 0.94 percent gap in favour of women.

According to Serco, these figures reflect its focus on inclusion and national development across the UAE and wider Gulf region.

The company also highlighted the integration of advisory firms Climatize and ExperienceLab into its regional operations as part of its growth strategy.

Strategic development and regional alignment

Serco said that its operations in the Middle East have been reshaped under the leadership of CEO Phil Malem.

The company launched its +impact advisory division in 2023, which it described as an expansion of its consulting capabilities in the region.

Serco stated that it aims to support local government priorities and service delivery in line with strategies such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Centennial Plan.

It said that its workforce of over 4,500 employees now contributes to delivering essential services across key sectors.

The company positioned these developments as aligned with its regional public service objectives.

Statement from leadership

Serco Middle East Chief Operating Officer Hana Abu Kharmeh commented on the recognition: “Being recognised among the top 1% of employers globally is a powerful endorsement of the culture we’ve built at Serco in the Middle East.

“Our focus on inclusion, national talent development and employee wellbeing has created an environment where people feel empowered to grow and contribute meaningfully to the communities we serve.

“This award is a tribute to our incredible teams across the region who live our values every day.”

Serco named in top 1 percent of global employers: Summary

Serco has been ranked among the top 1 percent of international employers by the Institute of Research & Data Aggregation.

The Germany-based institute conducts the Global Leading Employers study.

Serco announced the result on 25 July 2025.

The study evaluates employers based on recruitment, employee experience, pay, leadership and workplace culture.

Serco Middle East reported surpassing Emiratisation targets and increasing female national employment.

The company stated that it has achieved gender parity at leadership level.

Its gender pay gap review for 2024 showed a 0.94 percent gap in favour of women.

Serco launched its +impact advisory division in 2023.

It said this move aligned with regional plans such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Serco has over 4,500 employees delivering government services in the region.

Saudi Arabia stationary firefighting pumps market set for robust expansion

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesResearch

Stationary firefighting pumps market growth in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabia Stationary Fire Fighting Pumps Market is valued at US$ 0.22 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.76% from 2023 to 2032, as reported by Research and Markets.

Stationary fire fighting pumps are essential for building safety systems, ensuring a reliable water supply for fire suppression.

These pumps are permanently installed in various properties to provide immediate response during a fire, operating as part of an integrated fire protection system.

Their effectiveness relies on delivering adequate water flow and pressure to meet fire suppression demands.

Manufacturers offer different models to suit various building sizes and compliance standards.

Selecting the right pump is crucial, considering factors such as flow rate, pump head, power source, and compatibility with existing infrastructure.

With increasingly stringent safety regulations, the importance and sophistication of these pumps continue to grow, making them indispensable in modern fire safety management.

Urbanization and infrastructure development

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital, is undergoing rapid urbanization, with extensive construction projects for residential, commercial, and government infrastructure.

This development requires strict adherence to fire safety regulations, including the installation of fire fighting pumps.

The swift urbanization and construction in Riyadh have significantly increased the demand for modern fire safety systems.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on economic diversification and modernization, prioritizes infrastructure development and fire safety measures.

This initiative is expected to boost the demand for fire pumps in Riyadh.

Although cities like Jeddah, Dammam, and Makkah are also developing, their growth is slower, impacting their demand for fire fighting pumps.

Advanced technologies like IoT, cloud computing, and AI have enhanced fire detection and firefighting systems, positively influencing the market for stationary fire fighting pumps across these regions.

Increasing wildfire incidents and industrial growth

Saudi Arabia has seen a notable rise in wildfire incidents, highlighting the need for improved fire suppression measures.

The World Health Organization reported 825 fire-related deaths in 2020, about 0.62% of total deaths.

The extended fire season, spanning nearly the entire year, exacerbates the situation, with 820 high-confidence VIIRS fire alerts reported between May 2023 and April 2024.

These incidents, driven by extreme climate conditions, underscore the urgency for enhanced firefighting infrastructure.

Fire-fighting pumps are vital for quick response and containment efforts, helping to mitigate damage and minimize losses.

The growing severity and frequency of wildfires have led Saudi authorities to invest heavily in modern firefighting equipment and technologies, fostering innovation within the market.

Saudi Arabia’s rapid industrialization has also increased the demand for fire-fighting pumps.

These systems are crucial for safeguarding industrial infrastructure, ensuring worker safety, and reducing fire-related losses, particularly in the high-risk oil and gas sector.

Effective fire suppression systems, including fire-fighting pumps, are essential for maintaining operational continuity by reducing fire emergencies’ frequency and impact.

Regulatory landscape and competitive market

Stringent fire safety regulations mandated by the Saudi Arabian government require reliable fire fighting systems in various facilities to enhance safety standards.

Partnerships, such as UL Solutions with GCC Labs, aim to elevate fire safety standards across the Middle East, reinforcing the commitment to international safety standards.

Companies are motivated to invest in high-quality fire-fighting pumps to meet safety requirements and avoid penalties and legal liabilities.

Safety regulations in Saudi Arabian oil refineries align with international standards, ensuring a high level of protection.

The competitive landscape of the stationary fire fighting pumps market includes prominent entities like The Rosenbauer Group, Sulzer Ltd, KSB SE & Co.

KGaA, Xylem Inc., and Kirloskar Group, collectively accounting for approximately 30.15% of the market share.

The primary competitive factors include pricing, product quality, and technological innovation.

Amantra FM expands firestop solution into construction industry with AL MANQAB acquisition

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

Amantra FM, a Dubai-based niche facilities management company, has announced its acquisition of AL MANQAB Technical Services LLC.

This move marks Amantra’s entry into the construction sector, emphasising the importance of integrating firestop solutions in the early design stages to prevent future fire hazards.

Integration of firestop solutions in construction

AL MANQAB, established in 2018, has developed a comprehensive portfolio in firestop solutions, including safety programmes, fire safety audits, hazard identification, and risk assessment.

Their expertise spans multiple areas such as MEP penetrations, electrical risers, and floor/wall openings, providing vital fire prevention and mitigation solutions in construction.

This broad spectrum of solutions, along with skilled installation technicians, forms the core of AL MANQAB’s offering and now extends to Amantra’s capabilities in the construction industry.

Comments from Amantra FM’s leadership

Sangeetha B., CEO of Amantra FM, expressed the strategic alignment of this acquisition: “AL MANQAB’s tested-and-proven competencies in firestop solutions will synergise perfectly with Amantra’s existing MEP capabilities to offer enhanced value to our customers.

“The construction industry can be the custodian of fire safety in future buildings by incorporating sophisticated solutions in the design stages.

“The resulting preventive rather than reactive approach to fire safety has profound implications for liveability in the urban context.

Amantra FM is proud to champion this righteous cause in GCC.”

Enhancing fire safety and awareness

AL MANQAB has established a reputation for improving fire safety and awareness in organisations through employee engagement programmes.

These programmes focus on accountability measures and administrative controls to align with global fire safety standards and protocols.

Strategic growth and social impact

Naveed Yakub, Area Operations Supervisor at Amantra, commented on the strategic benefits of the acquisition: “AL MANQAB’s competencies, coupled with Amantra’s growing ecosystem and an impact-driven approach to facility operations and management, will help institutionalise fire resistance in buildings across GCC.

AL MANQAB adds a new dimension of MEP capability to the comprehensive suite of value-centric services we are building under the umbrella of Amantra.”

Amantra has been distinguishing itself in the facility management industry with initiatives focused on social impact.

The company’s recent partnership with US-headquartered AtmosAir, aimed at enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ), is a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Neethu Padmanabhan from Contracts and Customer Experience at Amantra FM, reflected on the acquisition’s broader impact: “The acquisition of AL MANQAB, closely following a major partnership with AtmosAir, adds more impetus to Amantra’s aspirations of driving social, economic, and environmental sustainability in FM operations.

“We are building an ecosystem around customer-centricity, partnering with and acquiring companies we believe can add measurable value to life in urban facilities without compromising on the liveability of future generations.”

IFSJ Comment

The acquisition of AL MANQAB Technical Services LLC by Amantra FM signifies a strategic shift in the facilities management industry towards a more integrated approach in fire safety and prevention.

By embedding firestop solutions at the design stage of construction projects, Amantra is setting a precedent for future building safety standards.

As urbanisation continues to grow, such integrated solutions in fire safety will become increasingly important in ensuring the wellbeing and safety of urban dwellers.

The initiative aligns with global trends towards sustainable and safe urban development, highlighting the evolving role of facility management in shaping liveable cities.

Intersec 2024 Summit to address Middle East aviation sector

by AviationEventsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

As the Middle East aviation sector experiences a significant post-pandemic resurgence, the upcoming Intersec 2024 summit in Dubai is poised to address key security and passenger safety challenges.

The event, scheduled for 16-18 January 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will convene experts to discuss the resilient growth of the region’s aviation industry and the emerging security threats it faces.

Substantial investments in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure

The strong recovery in passenger traffic has prompted regional airports to make substantial investments in advanced technology and infrastructure.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Middle East witnessed a 26.6% increase in passenger traffic in September compared to 2022.

Major airports such as Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and Hamad International Airport have heavily invested in state-of-the-art passenger and baggage screening systems and the development of security personnel, demonstrating tangible results in enhancing aviation security​​.

Addressing emerging security threats

The aviation sector in the Middle East is confronted with several security challenges, including political instability, conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and the rising threat of cyber-attacks.

Aaron Le Boutillier, Regional VP at ASIS International and CEO at LBG Le Boutillier Group, emphasized the need for advanced cybersecurity protocols and technologies to safeguard critical infrastructure, aircraft systems, and passenger data.

These issues will be key discussion points at the Security Leader’s Summit during Intersec 2024​​​​​​.

International collaboration for enhanced security

Another significant trend is the collaboration with international organisations like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

This collaboration is aimed at enhancing aviation security through regular updates and implementation of regulations and security protocols to meet international standards.

Such international cooperation among airlines, airports, and regulatory authorities is crucial for the continuous improvement of aviation security in the Middle East​​​​​​​​.

Balancing security measures with passenger experience

Efforts to balance stringent security measures with a seamless passenger experience were highlighted by Le Boutillier.

Strategies include more efficient pre-screening processes, the use of biometric systems to expedite security checks, and improved training and communication for security personnel.

An IATA study revealed that 75% of passengers prefer using biometric data over traditional documents, with Emirates Airlines and Riyadh Airports Company already implementing such technologies​​​​​​​​.

Digital overhaul and cyber threats

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, noted the significant digital transformation in the aviation industry over the past decades.

This overhaul has enhanced safety, efficiency, and service quality but also increased the potential for cyber threats.

The Security Leader’s Summit at Intersec 2024 aims to deepen the industry’s understanding of security measures and foster cooperation to effectively counter these risks​​​​​​.

Event overview

Intersec 2024, celebrating its 25th edition under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is set to be a global hub for security, safety, and fire protection industries.

With 1,000 exhibitors from 60 nations and an expected 45,000 trade visitors, the event will host a diverse range of conference programmes, including Cyber Security, Safety & Health, and Fire & Rescue, featuring the Thought Leadership Pavilion and Intersec Awards​​​​​​​​.

IFSJ Comment

The Intersec 2024 summit signifies a pivotal moment for Middle East aviation security and safety.

Amidst increasing passenger traffic and evolving security challenges, the summit provides a critical platform for industry leaders and experts to collaborate and innovate.

The focus on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and international cooperation reflects the dynamic nature of the aviation industry and its commitment to enhancing passenger safety and experience.

This event underscores the need for continuous adaptation and the implementation of advanced technologies to address the complex security landscape of the aviation sector.