FIREMIKS expands FM-approved range for Intersec 2026 appearance

Firemiks to present approved systems in Dubai

Firemiks will present its expanded FM-approved product line at Intersec 2026 in Dubai, where visitors will be able to review water-driven volumetric pump proportioners across seven flow sizes.

According to FIREMIKS AB, the range includes products approved under FM 5130 (May 2021) and recognised as Variable Viscosity Pump Proportioners.

The portfolio includes 18 FM-approved models, with flow sizes ranging from 450 to 8000.

Visitors will be able to learn more about the systems and their applications at the Swedish Pavilion in Hall 8, stand C30, and at the Solas Safety & Fire stand in Hall 4, B38.

Product range covers viscosity and installation requirements

Firemiks stated that the systems are designed to provide accurate proportioning across a wide viscosity range.

The proportioners can handle foam concentrates from 1 cP to 7288 cP, including non-Newtonian fluorine-free SFFF concentrates.

The range is available with different water motor configurations, including hard-anodised aluminium units with PTFE coating and nickel-aluminium bronze models for marine and offshore environments.

Stainless steel pump head options are also available.

Configurations support varied flow demands

Firemiks said water motor connections range from 2-inch DN50 to 8-inch DN200 depending on the model.

For installations requiring larger flows, systems can be installed in parallel configurations to achieve capacities up to 12,000 or 16,000 litres per minute.

The Intersec presentation will give visitors a chance to review the scope of the range and the applications described by the company.

Intersec Dubai 2026 to spotlight critical gaps in fire protection

Fire & Rescue Conference returns at Intersec Dubai 2026

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has confirmed that the Fire and Rescue Conference will return as part of Intersec Dubai 2026 from 12 to 14 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The organiser said the programme will examine artificial intelligence applications for fire prediction, building life safety system performance, and how psychological factors influence emergency decision-making.

The conference forms one of the technical components of Intersec, which is recognised as a major global exhibition for fire, safety and security industries.

The organiser added that the agenda will also review passive fire protection developments, regional regulatory changes, and how climate trends are affecting fire behaviour across different environments.

The content will be supported by international case studies focused on operational lessons and risk reduction.

The event continues to operate under the patronage of H H Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Advisory Committee announced

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has established an Advisory Committee to shape the technical direction of the Fire and Rescue Conference.

The committee includes Lt Col Dr Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa of Dubai Civil Defence, Abdullah Faza of AESG, Abhishek Chhabra of the Firestop Contractors International Association, Dana Kamal of the NFPA, Ghaith Bakir of UL Solutions, Mohammed Saeefan of Saudi Aramco, Dana Nassif of AECOM, Eng Salma Humaid Saeed of Dubai Civil Defence, Sawsan Dahham of Siena, and Steve Apter QFSM of Apter Consulting.

The organiser said the committee will assess sector risks, evaluate emerging technologies, and ensure the programme remains aligned with operational priorities across the region.

Speaker line up confirmed

The organiser has released the first group of confirmed speakers for 2026.

The list includes contributors from civil defence authorities, engineering bodies, fire laboratories, and international associations.

Confirmed speakers include Major Eng Ali Hassan Al Madfai of Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Dr Aissam Bouadjel of Fujairah Oil Industrial Zone, Andrew Taylor of the ASFP, David Campbell of Emirates Safety Laboratory, Francis Owiti of the Kenya Airports Authority, Jim Pauley of the NFPA, Khalid Al Mandil of Red Sea Global, Nick Searle QFSM of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Olga Caledonia of the NFPA, Steve Hamm of the IFE, and Stephan Wevers of the Federation of European Fire Officers.

The organiser said further speakers will be announced as the conference approaches.

Intersec Dubai context

Intersec Dubai is expected to host more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries across its fire, security, and safety sectors.

The organiser said the exhibition attracts tens of thousands of trade visitors, providing a cross-industry platform that broadens the reach of the Fire and Rescue Conference.

Dubai Civil Defence continues to support the event as a key strategic partner.

Call for contributions

The organiser has invited fire engineering specialists, emergency responders, and regulatory professionals to submit speaking proposals.

The team said submissions should focus on operational lessons, technical case studies, or research that can support knowledge development across the sector.

CPD certification

All Fire and Rescue Conference sessions will be CPD certified.

Intersec 2026 announces comprehensive conference programme

Intersec 2026 expanded edition to address record global demand

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has announced details for the 27th edition of Intersec, to be held from 12–14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

The exhibition will expand its floor space by nearly 12,000 square metres to meet record global demand, bringing the total to 67,000 square metres.

Intersec 2026 will host over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 60 countries and expects over 50,000 trade visitors, according to the organiser.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event continues to receive the support of key UAE government bodies including Dubai Civil Defence, the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), Dubai Municipality, the Cyber Security Council and the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC).

The show will focus on advancing emergency response and strengthening digital and physical infrastructure security.

Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Intersec continues to set the benchmark for advancing global dialogue and partnerships in security, safety and fire protection.

“It also reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub for security innovation and collaboration.”

New features and sector redefinition

The 2026 edition will present five redefined product sectors: Homeland Security & Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, and Health & Safety.

Exhibitors will include Hikvision, Hanwha, Transguard, Genetec, Gunnebo, Salto and TP-Link, alongside national pavilions from the UK, Germany, Singapore, Italy, France and Sweden.

According to the organiser, the expanded layout will enable greater engagement between industry leaders, government representatives and technology providers.

Visitors can expect new product launches, technical content and networking opportunities across all sectors.

Eng. Khalid Al Khatib, Chief Executive Officer of NAFFCO, said: “As a global leader in fire safety solutions and a trusted strategic partner of Intersec, NAFFCO values the event as a driving force for innovation, visibility and industry-wide engagement.

“Intersec stands out as a global premier event where we unveiled next-generation technologies, connected with decision-makers and contributed to transforming the future of fire protection.”

Conferences and national initiatives

The 2026 conference programme will include the International Security Leaders Summit, Fire and Rescue Conference, Health & Safety Conference, Access Control Theatre and SIRA Forum.

Topics will range from artificial intelligence (AI) in policing and predictive analytics in emergency response to workforce protection and smart infrastructure security.

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) will host Passive Fire Day, spotlighting progress in passive fire protection as part of the UAE’s ‘1 Billion Readiness’ initiative.

The initiative aims to train and raise awareness among one billion people worldwide on safety and fire hazard prevention.

Intersec Awards 2026 shortlist revealed

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has also announced the finalists for the Intersec Awards 2026, which will take place on 13 January at the Conrad Hotel Dubai.

The awards will recognise excellence across 17 categories, celebrating innovation, leadership and emerging talent in the global security, safety and fire protection industries.

Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Each year, the Intersec Awards bring to light the people and innovations driving the evolution of our industry.

“The calibre of entries in 2026 has been exceptional, reflecting the rapid advances being made in security technology, fire prevention, emergency response and workplace safety across the region.”

Among the highlights are the Rising Star Award for Emirati Talent and the Women Trailblazers in Security, Fire Safety and HSE category.

Finalists for Industry Leader of the Year include representatives from WSP, AtkinsRéalis, Marriott International, ASIS International, ONVIF, Beyon Cyber and Saudi Aramco.

Fire, safety and security innovation recognised

In the Fire and Safety categories, shortlisted innovations include Siemens Fire Digital Twin, Fike Blue Thermal Management Solutions and NAFFCO’s Falcon 6 ARFF Vehicle.

In passive protection, Jotun’s SteelMaster, Siderise CW Perimeter Barrier and TECFIRE’s ALUFIRE AS85 Door System are recognised.

The Best Safety Protection Solution finalists include Grand Challenge AI’s VitAir Smart Helmet-Mask and VIKING Life-Saving Equipment’s Valkyrie Fire Suit for Women.

In the cyber and security categories, notable contenders include LVS Equipment Trading’s LV STREAM, SwissCCS’ AirMarker, Resemble AI’s Detect Platform and Gallagher Controller 7000.

Projects from Dubai Police and Red Sea Global have been shortlisted for Best Security Project of the Year – Middle East & Africa.

Judging and industry participation

The awards shortlist was determined by 23 international judges representing five countries, including leaders from Dubai Civil Defence, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), UL Solutions, IOSH, WSP and ASIS International.

The awards ceremony will be held as part of Intersec 2026, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Further details and ticket information are available at the Intersec website.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The expansion of Intersec 2026 will offer fire safety professionals, system designers and emergency response managers access to a wider range of technologies and suppliers across fire and rescue, passive fire protection and health and safety sectors.

Conference discussions on predictive analytics, smart infrastructure and workforce protection will inform future practices in risk management and emergency response.

The inclusion of Passive Fire Day by the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen fire prevention awareness and competency.

Shortlisted products such as NAFFCO’s Falcon 6 ARFF Vehicle, Siemens Fire Digital Twin and Jotun’s SteelMaster highlight emerging standards in both active and passive protection.

IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference 2025: A landmark gathering of senior industry leaders in Dubai

On 8 May 2025, 253 senior fire and safety professionals gathered at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai Marina, for the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference, held in partnership with Britannia Fire.

The one-day conference brought together influential voices from across the global fire and safety sector.

Delegates, including technical specialists, strategic decision-makers and policymakers, met to discuss practical responses to the most pressing risks and trends impacting the industry.

From lithium-ion battery hazards to AI-driven detection, circular economy practices and evolving workforce demands, the programme reflected the urgency and complexity of modern fire safety challenges.

A focus on leadership and risk readiness

The day opened with welcome remarks from Ian Stokes, CEO of Centurian Media Ltd, and Terry Johnson, President of the IFE GCC/UAE Branch and Conference Chair.

Their comments set the tone for a programme designed to encourage honest dialogue and knowledge exchange.

Johnson spoke of the need for preparedness and strategic foresight, while Stokes reflected on the role of platforms such as IFSJ Leaders in advancing operational clarity and regional cooperation.

The morning keynote address was delivered by a representative from Dubai Civil Defense, offering an overview of regulatory initiatives and technological advancements aimed at strengthening pre-emptive response measures.

Later in the day, Mike Brunzell, Vice President of Global Business Development at the National Fire Protection Association, delivered a closing keynote that looked at international alignment on standards and the continued need for forward-thinking regulation.

Engaging with complex challenges and practical responses

Throughout the day, panel discussions tackled some of the most difficult questions facing fire safety professionals in the Middle East, Africa and beyond.

In the session focused on lithium-ion batteries, speakers including Ghaith Bakir of UL Solutions, Eman Mattie-Suleiman of VdS Loss Prevention, Lt Col Dr Humaid Al Ali of the UAE General Command of Civil Defense, Chris Chennell of WSP and Ihab Al Bariam of LOAMS examined the risks associated with energy storage systems and the policy adaptations needed to manage them effectively.

The sustainability panel highlighted the growing relevance of circular economy models in fire safety product development and procurement.

Andy Spence of Britannia Fire spoke alongside Aman Sharma of Totus Digital and Ryan Dhindsa of Tuffking, addressing how manufacturers are working to reduce environmental impact without compromising safety or compliance.

The facilities management session brought together representatives from BR Training Solutions, iFM Facilities Management, WSP and ATEIS to explore the lifecycle approach to fire safety, from design and specification through to demolition and replacement.

In another session, the panel led by Eitan Charnoff of the UAE Ministry of Interior’s Secure Communities Forum focused on public safety provision for people of determination, linking to the UAE’s Year of Community and highlighting the importance of inclusion in emergency planning.

Further sessions addressed resilience, recruitment and retention, crisis communication and infrastructure protection.

A high-level panel on workforce development, moderated by Steve Hamm of the Institution of Fire Engineers, featured contributions from Sawsan Dahham of SIENA, Mohammed Saeefan of Saudi Aramco, Marwan Abu Zaid of Emaar and others.

Together, they discussed how to secure and maintain skilled personnel in an increasingly competitive employment environment.

Sponsor and partner contributions

As Platinum Sponsor, Britannia Fire led a dedicated presentation on sustainable fire extinguisher technologies, including the development of PFAS-free P50 composite units.

Their session reflected the broader theme of environmentally conscious safety solutions and the need to future-proof products and systems in line with evolving regulations.

Gold Sponsor ATEIS, Silver Sponsors MSA Safety and RelyOn Nutec, and Supporting Partners Fire Lion Global, FireDos, PAC, Apollo, VdS and Paradigm also featured prominently throughout the event.

Each contributed to the interactive exhibition space and dedicated networking zones, providing a forum for delegates to engage with new technologies and exchange insights directly with solution providers.

Guidance from an experienced advisory panel

The agenda was shaped by the event’s advisory panel, which included returning members such as Engineer Salma Al Ali of Dubai Civil Defense, David Campbell of Emirates Safety Laboratory, Robert Davies of WSP, Mark Buckingham of King Abdulaziz Airport, Dana Kamal of NFPA, and Peter Stephenson of Hydrock.

New panellists for 2025 included Lieutenant Colonel Dr Humaid Al Ali, Deputy Director of Fire Affairs at the UAE General Command of Civil Defense, and Lieutenant Colonel Dr Essa Almutawa, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer at Dubai Civil Defense, whose input ensured the conference maintained its relevance to emerging threats and technologies.

Throughout the day, the conference facilitated meaningful dialogue, the exchange of best practices, and the formation of new professional connections.

Delegates left with a greater understanding of the operational, regulatory and technological shifts that continue to shape the fire and safety profession.

Save the Date: IFSJ Leaders in Fire and Safety – 7th May 2026

IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety will return to Dubai in May 2026.

To register your interest or enquire about speaking and sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://ifsjleadersinfireandsafety.com/registration-2026

Siderise expands Middle East operations with new Dubai manufacturing site

Siderise opens new site to improve lead times for UAE and Middle East customers

Siderise has reported the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to support its growing regional customer base.

According to Siderise, the new site focuses on producing its RH25-120/90 open state cavity barrier for ventilated cladding façade systems.

The manufacturer explained that the facility has reduced customer lead times from six weeks to between three and five days, depending on order quantities.

Siderise stated that this shorter turnaround is intended to help project teams meet construction schedules more easily.

Martyn Gillespie, Managing Director of Siderise MEIAP, said: “Our new Siderise Dubai manufacturing site is not only a symbol of our ongoing success in the region but also demonstrates our commitment to our Customer First value— our agility ensuring our project partners across the Middle East and beyond get the solutions they need as soon as they need them.”

Martyn Gillespie added: “We are looking forward to seeing what opportunities this new capacity offers both our business and our customers.”

Dubai facility focuses on cavity barriers for cladding systems

Siderise explained that the Dubai facility is currently concentrating on the production of the RH25-120/90 open state cavity barrier.

The product is designed for use in ventilated cladding systems, which are common in the region’s building designs.

The manufacturer noted that its ability to offer faster product availability has already benefitted several projects across the United Arab Emirates.

The company reported that the reduction in lead times has helped developers, architects, and contractors avoid delays.

New facility creates jobs and supports local workforce

Siderise confirmed that the Dubai facility has resulted in four new operational positions being created.

The manufacturer stated that it also promoted Dinesh Sivaramakrishnan, formerly Senior Project & Site Service Engineer, to the role of Operations Manager.

Dinesh Sivaramakrishnan said: “I am thrilled to become the Operations Manager for Siderise Dubai, allowing me to further contribute to our business’ development in the region.”

Dinesh Sivaramakrishnan added: “The new facility has been set up and commissioned by Siderise engineers and will be ran in line with high operational and quality standards set in our main UK manufacturing site.”

Dinesh Sivaramakrishnan further stated: “We want customers to be confident that wherever they interact with us and wherever their products are produced, they will always receive the quality experience Siderise is known for.”

Siderise states facility maintains UK quality standards

Siderise emphasised that the Dubai manufacturing site has been established to mirror the operational and quality processes in place at its UK facilities.

The manufacturer explained that this approach is intended to ensure consistency for customers across all regions.

Siderise reported that it aims to maintain customer trust by delivering the same quality levels regardless of manufacturing location.

The company highlighted that the new facility is operated by Siderise engineers trained in the organisation’s existing production standards.

Siderise expands Middle East operations with new Dubai manufacturing site: Summary

Siderise has opened a new manufacturing facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The company reported that the new site is producing its RH25-120/90 open state cavity barrier for ventilated cladding façade systems.

Lead times for customers have been reduced from six weeks to three to five days depending on order quantities, Siderise stated.

Martyn Gillespie, Managing Director of Siderise MEIAP, said the facility is intended to better serve project teams across the Middle East.

The manufacturer added that four new operational jobs have been created at the Dubai site.

Siderise also promoted Dinesh Sivaramakrishnan to Operations Manager for the new facility.

The company reported that the Dubai site follows the same operational and quality standards as its UK manufacturing locations.

Siderise stated that this consistency aims to ensure customer confidence in product quality.

Nathan Waugh appointed to lead Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East

Messe Frankfurt Middle East confirms leadership appointment

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has announced the appointment of Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director, responsible for overseeing Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh’s appointment follows the reported success of the 2025 editions of both events.

Intersec 2025 welcomed 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East recorded a 10 percent increase in attendance to 15,948 visitors.

According to Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Waugh will be responsible for supporting continued development across both exhibitions.

Nathan Waugh brings two decades of industry experience

Nathan Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the exhibitions sector across the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Before joining Messe Frankfurt Middle East, he served as Portfolio Director at Capital Events, part of the ADNEC Group.

In that role, he managed 12 events across several industries, including the security sector.

Waugh now assumes a role that includes oversight of events positioned within the safety, security, lighting and building technology sectors.

Senior leadership comments on appointment

Ted Bloom, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, welcomed Waugh’s appointment.

Bloom said: “We are delighted to welcome Nathan to Messe Frankfurt Middle East as our new Portfolio Director.

“With over two decades of experience in the events and exhibitions industry, Nathan brings invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the security, safety, and technology sectors.

“His proven track record in driving strategic growth and delivering world-class exhibitions will be instrumental as we continue to elevate Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East to new heights.

Nathan’s leadership will be pivotal in strengthening our position as a global leader and shaping the future of these flagship events.”

Waugh said: “I am excited to have joined Messe Frankfurt Middle East to head up Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

“These events are both world-class platforms renowned for innovation, collaboration, and business growth, and the opportunity to lead the team to further build on these credentials is one I relish.

“I’ve been lucky to join a fantastic, passionate team, and I look forward to working alongside them to further grow and develop these events.

“My goal is to create new opportunities, drive industry progress, and deliver exceptionally curated experiences that cater to the needs of our exhibitors, visitors, and stakeholders.”

Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East 2026

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The event will take place under the patronage of His Highness Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

It will feature participation from global leaders, policymakers, investment entities and private sector partners.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East will be held alongside Intersec 2026.

The event will include conference sessions and workshops focused on lighting and building technologies.

Nathan Waugh appointed to lead Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East: Summary

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has appointed Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director for Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the events industry.

He most recently held the role of Portfolio Director at Capital Events, where he managed 12 exhibitions.

Intersec 2025 hosted 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East had 15,948 attendees, marking a 10 percent increase on the previous year.

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 in Dubai.

The event will be co-located with Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh said he looks forward to working with the team to grow the events and create opportunities for industry stakeholders.

Ducab Group to supply fire-resistant cables for Dubai residential projects

Ducab partners with MBRHE for large-scale housing developments

Ducab Group has announced a partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) to supply advanced cable solutions for residential projects in Dubai.

Ducab will provide low-voltage power cables, wires, flexible cables, and Flam BICC2 fire-resistant cables for 432 residential units in Wadi Alamardi and 398 units in Al Awir.

The cables are designed to meet high safety standards, ensuring reliable power distribution and fire protection.

Project supports UAE sustainability strategies

The collaboration aligns with the UAE’s environmental and infrastructure strategies, including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050.

Ducab’s role in the project supports the country’s broader objectives for sustainable urban development and industrial decarbonisation.

Ducab has positioned itself as a key supplier in the UAE’s transition towards eco-friendly infrastructure.

The company’s contributions aim to enhance energy efficiency and fire safety in residential developments.

CEO highlights commitment to resilient infrastructure

Charles Mellagui, CEO of Ducab Cables Business, said: “Our partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment reflects Ducab’s commitment to supporting resilient infrastructure that drives the UAE’s ambitious journey toward sustainable development.

“By delivering innovative and reliable energy solutions, we are contributing to a greener, more secure, and interconnected future.”

He added that the project contributes to the UAE’s net-zero ambitions while ensuring high safety standards for residents in the new developments.

Ducab’s track record in housing and infrastructure projects

Ducab has supplied cabling for various large-scale housing and infrastructure projects in the UAE.

Previous contributions include providing critical cables for the South Shamkha development, which covered 43 neighbourhoods across 39 square kilometres.

The company continues to support major urban projects, reinforcing its role in the UAE’s infrastructure sector.

Ducab Group to supply fire-resistant cables for Dubai residential projects: Summary

Ducab Group has partnered with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) to supply advanced cabling for housing developments in Dubai.

The company will provide low-voltage power cables, flexible cables, and Flam BICC2 fire-resistant cables for 432 residential units in Wadi Alamardi and 398 units in Al Awir.

The collaboration supports the UAE’s sustainability initiatives, including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050.

Charles Mellagui, CEO of Ducab Cables Business, said the partnership reflects Ducab’s commitment to delivering resilient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Ducab has previously supplied cables for major UAE housing projects, including the South Shamkha development.

The company remains a key provider of energy solutions for residential and infrastructure projects in the region.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East highlights advancements in lighting and building technologies

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East showcases global innovations

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East’s 18th edition was inaugurated on 14th January by H.E. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

The show runs from 14th to 16th January at the Dubai World Trade Centre and features over 440 exhibitors from 34 countries.

The theme this year is “Building Commonality Through Community, Creativity and Culture,” focusing on fostering regional and international collaboration.

THINKLIGHT and Smart Building Summit highlight key industry trends

The THINKLIGHT conference opened with a keynote by dpa Lighting Consultants on “The Evolution of Lighting Design in the Middle East: 25 Years of Shaping the Region’s Lighting Design Practice.”

Saudi Arabia was a key topic with a session titled “KSA as a Global Epicentre of Innovative Lighting,” discussing new projects and creative opportunities.

The Smart Building Summit began with an address by Azmi S. Aboulhoda, CEO of EMergy, and will cover topics such as smart building compliance, cybersecurity, and return on investment over three days.

Spotlight on women and future lighting designers

Day two of the InSpotLight stage will feature a panel discussion titled “A Brief Insight into Working as Lighting Designers in the region,” presented by ambassadors from the Women in Lighting project.

Other sessions will focus on outdoor smart lighting, IoT integration, and preparing the next generation of lighting designers.

Event supported by global organisations

The event includes six product sections: Technical Lighting, Electric Lamps and Components, Decorative Lighting, Architectural Lighting, Electrical Engineering, and Smart Home and Building Automation.

It also features pavilions from China, Hong Kong, and Germany and is supported by organisations such as the KNX, Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), and DALI Alliance.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East showcases global innovations: Summary

The 18th edition of Light + Intelligent Building Middle East runs from 14-16 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with over 440 exhibitors from 34 countries. The event is co-located with Intersec, forming the MENA region’s largest trade fair for building services.

It includes conferences like THINKLIGHT and the Smart Building Summit, which focus on lighting design advancements, compliance, and smart building technologies.

Supported by international organisations, the event highlights products across six key sectors, hosting dedicated sessions and workshops aimed at fostering industry collaboration and innovation.

NFPA gears up to shape the future of fire and life safety at Intersec Dubai 2025

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will be participating in Intersec Dubai 2025, the world’s largest business event addressing the future of security, safety and fire protection.

Scheduled for January 14-16, 2025, at the World Trade Center in Dubai, the event is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. NFPA will take center stage on the second day of the event at the NFPA Theatre, a dedicated area showcasing a series of presentations and panel discussions led by global and local fire and life safety experts.

NFPA’s presence at Intersec Dubai 2025

NFPA will host the Day Two agenda at the Fire and Rescue Conference, taking place in Hall Two of the Dubai World Trade Center. The program will bring together a wide array of stakeholders, including prominent government representatives and private sector leaders from throughout the GCC region.

The day will feature a series of dynamic panel discussions and expert-led sessions, addressing crucial topics such as life safety in residential buildings, fire safety in healthcare environments, and the role of IoT in smart buildings.

One of the highlights of the event will be a panel discussion on emergency preparedness and response, providing invaluable insights from industry leaders. In addition, attendees will have the chance to engage in interactive workshops, demonstrating the pioneering VR/AR technologies that are transforming fire safety training.

Another highlight of the day will be a keynote presentation and panel discussion titled “From Tragedy to Triumph – What Grenfell Means for Leading in Fire, Life, and Electrical Safety” delivered by Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s Vice President of Outreach & Advocacy. This session will explore lessons learned from the Grenfell Tower fire, the UK’s deadliest residential fire, and how fire and life safety experts can apply these insights to improve safety practices, especially in high-rise buildings.

NFPA’S Vice President of Outreach & Advocacy, Lorraine Carli’s statement

Lorraine spoke about her upcoming presentation and discussion saying: “The lessons from Grenfell continue to resonate globally, underscoring the critical need for vigilance, preparedness, and leadership in fire, life, and electrical safety.

“My keynote will explore how we transform tragedy into actionable solutions, driving a culture of safety that protects lives and property. I look forward to engaging with attendees to share insights and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in our rapidly evolving world.”

NFPA’S Director of Global Business Development, Olga Caledonia’s statement

Olga Caledonia, NFPA’s Director of Global Business Development, who will moderate the keynote panel discussion, stated that the NFPA Theatre programming aims to help everyone recognize their role in contributing to the fire and life safety system relied upon by the public.

“We all need to reflect on what we can do individually and collectively as part of a system. Whether it is advocating for stronger enforceable regulations, updated codes and standards, or supporting community fire safety initiatives, we all play an important role,” commented Caledonia.

NFPA’s Director of International Development for MENA, Dana Kamal’s statement

“NFPA is honoured to be a part of Intersec Dubai 2025, a platform that will bring together global experts and innovators in the fire and safety industry. With the rapid development of infrastructure across the region, we are committed to highlighting the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, IoT, automation, AR, and VR, in enhancing fire safety practices. Our goal is to work alongside our regional partners to drive progress through knowledge-sharing and innovation, ultimately enhancing safety and saving lives,” said Dana Kamal, NFPA’s Director of International Development for MENA.

Those attending the event

The event will feature prominent leaders from both the public and private sectors, including key organizations such as Dubai Civil Defense, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense, Saudi Aramco, and Dubai Holding Group, as well as industry leaders from Oman Security and Safety Services Corporation, Siena, King Saud University Medical City, QHSEE, and SIBCA. Dubai Civil Defense can be witnessed presenting a session on the role of AI in enhancing fire safety, while Abu Dhabi Civil Defense will be seen highlighting the critical importance of code compliance. Saudi Aramco will offer valuable insights into the integration of automated emergency response systems within the oil and gas sector.

IFSJ at Intersec 2025

IFSJ is proud to once again serve as the Official Strategic Media Partner for Intersec. Visit us at stand 2-H38; we look forward to connecting with you at the show.

NFPA are excited to announce their participation in Intersec Dubai 2025: Summary

NFPA’s presence at Intersec Dubai 2025 reiterates their commitment to advancing fire and life safety practices across the globe. They looks forward to helping make a productive and impactful event, strengthening collaborations and driving progress within the fire, life and electrical safety sector.