Following its inaugural edition held as part of Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), Spark has confirmed plans to expand and relocate to a new venue in 2027. The new event format brings together content creators, production specialists, broadcasters, agencies, and technology companies, connecting the worlds of production, advertising, gaming, and immersive experiences.
During the four-day programme at Fira Gran Via’s Hall 8.1, thirty conference sessions were held, featuring sixty-three speakers, including representatives from Netflix and 0207 Def Jam. The event’s headline sponsor was Samsung, which showcased its The Wall for Virtual Production platform, while partners MoSys, 3Cat, and Lab of Tomorrow presented a series of interactive demonstrations and installations.
“What’s exciting about Spark is bringing together different manufacturers, speakers, and end users to really show what’s happening in the broadcast space right now and where it’s going next,” said Mark Taylor, Head of Vertical Markets at Samsung Display Solutions Europe. Discussions focused on artificial intelligence, virtual production, immersive media, and new production models that increasingly connect creative and technology teams.
In response to growing demand, Spark will move to the Fira Montjuïc venue in 2027, where it will offer an expanded programme, larger installations, and new experience-driven formats. The next edition of the event will take place in Barcelona on 3–4 February 2027.
As Saudi Arabia builds one of the world’s most ambitious infrastructure pipelines, fire protection is moving beyond compliance to become a cornerstone of resilient, future-ready development. Reflecting this evolution, the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, part of Intersec Saudi Arabia 2026, will bring together the world’s leading engineers, policymakers and technology specialists to explore the innovations, global standards and practical solutions shaping the Kingdom’s next generation of life safety.
Taking place from 16–18 November at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC), the CPD-certified Summit, which runs on the first two days of the exhibition, will include expert-led discussions and real-world case studies, allowing delegates to explore topics ranging from AI-enhanced fire detection and digital life safety systems to industrial hazard protection, fire resilience, workforce development and the future of fire engineering.
The programme will also see the return of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which will lead a dedicated second day of the Summit under the theme Innovating Fire & Life Safety: Bridging Global Standards with Local Vision.
Bringing together international and regional experts, the partnership will explore how globally recognised standards, professional development and knowledge sharing can strengthen fire resilience while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions.
According to Sutharson Sathaiah, HSE Director – Six Flags and Aquarabia at Qiddiya City, and Advisory Committee Member for the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, the Kingdom’s rapid transformation is reshaping the role of fire safety across major developments.
“Across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, one of the most notable trends is the move towards integrated risk-based approaches. As developments become larger, more complex and more interconnected, fire safety can no longer operate in isolation. It must be considered alongside security, crowd management, emergency preparedness and overall operational risk management.
Sathaiah also added that the latest innovations need to be combined with engineering expertise and operational preparedness. He said: “The organisations that set the benchmark in the years ahead are those that successfully integrate advanced technologies with capable people, robust emergency planning and strong organisational values.” Recognising these priorities, the conference programme combines strategic discussion with practical examples from organisations responsible for protecting some of the Kingdom’s most complex environments.
Drawing on frontline experience, Abdulrahman M. Al-Qahtani, Fire Chief at Saudi Railway Company (SAR), will outline proven approaches to commanding major incidents at critical infrastructure during the vital first hour of an emergency, when resources are stretched, external support is delayed, and rapid decision-making is essential.
Meanwhile, Faris Alzahrani, Health, Safety & Security Consultant at the Ministry of Education, and Yousif Mohamed P.E., Fire Prevention Officer at King Fahd International Airport (KFIA), will examine the evolving role of artificial intelligence in fire safety, exploring how engineers and intelligent systems can work together to improve decision-making while maintaining human oversight in critical situations.
Other confirmed speakers include, amongst others, David Bartlett, Chief Fire Officer – Head of Airport Fire & Rescue Service, Heathrow Airport; Phil Garrigan, Chair, National Fire Chiefs Council; Asim Almohammadi, Fire Chief, National Petrochemical Industrial Company, Yousif Mohamed P.E., Fire Prevention Officer, King Fahd International Airport (KFIA), and Fahad Aljabr, Vice President – Projects Delivery, KAFD
Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director, Intersec Saudi Arabia, said: “Saudi Arabia is setting new global benchmarks in infrastructure development, and fire protection must evolve at the same pace. The Fire Protection & Technology Summit brings together the expertise, technologies, and international best practices needed to help organisations move beyond compliance towards more intelligent, resilient, and integrated approaches to life safety.
“By combining technical knowledge, real-world case studies and international collaboration through our continued partnership with NFPA, the Summit provides an important platform for professional development, knowledge exchange and industry collaboration.”
As part of the Kingdom’s leading platform for security, safety and fire protection, the Fire Protection & Technology Summit is one of two CPD-certified summits, the other being the Future Security Summit. Together, the exhibition and its summits provide a platform for industry leaders, government stakeholders and solution providers to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships and help shape the future of safety and security across the Kingdom. Intersec Saudi Arabia is expected to welcome more than 25,000 visitors, 500 exhibitors and over 110 expert speakers from around the world.
For more information, please visit Intersec Saudi Arabia’s website
Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has won the prestigious Sammy Award (Sales and Marketing Excellence Award) for the second consecutive year, taking top honours in the Creative Awards – Power Players category for its “Push Beyond” campaign. Presented by the Business Intelligence Group, the award recognizes the creative initiative that successfully energized the global AV community, promoted innovation, and reinforced ISE’s position as the world’s leading exhibition for the professional audiovisual and systems integration industry.
According to the organizers, the campaign contributed to the most successful edition in the show’s history, delivering record numbers of attendees, exhibitors, and audience engagement. The judging panel highlighted the campaign’s ability to combine a bold creative vision with clear business objectives, measurable results, and strong attendance growth despite challenging market conditions.
“When an entire category is in decline, most teams play defence. ISE did the opposite—they turned ‘Push Beyond’ into a rallying cry that united their internal teams and challenged an entire industry to think bigger. That kind of bold, two-word clarity is exactly what creative excellence looks like,” said Russ Fordyce, Chief Recognition Officer at the Business Intelligence Group.
“Being recognized with a Sammy Award for the second consecutive year is a tremendous achievement for ISE and reflects the creativity, ambition, and commitment of our entire team. With ‘Push Beyond,’ we wanted to capture the energy of a global community that continues to challenge expectations, drive progress, and shape the future of the AV and systems integration industry,” said Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events.
The next edition of ISE 2027 will take place from 2–5 February 2027 at Fira de Barcelona Gran Via. More information and newsletter registration are available at: ISE Newsletter.
The Aikom Partner Conference 2026 has recently come to a close. The event brought together partners and vendors from the ICT, telecommunications, security and professional communications sectors in Rimini to celebrate Aikom Technology’s twentieth anniversary.
Originally created as a meeting opportunity for the channel, the Aikom Partner Conference has now become an international event, with a strong attendance of guests from across Europe and beyond. This result confirms Aikom’s growth path and the progressive strengthening of its presence in foreign markets.
The 2026 edition drew inspiration from the imagery of Federico Fellini and, in particular, from the metaphor of the “fog” taken from his masterpiece Amarcord. It was an invitation to move through the current fog of the market, marked by geopolitical instability and the rapid acceleration of Artificial Intelligence, transforming fear into courage and uncertainty into vision.
The payoff “Shaping the Next” guided the entire conference, expressing Aikom’s ambition to interpret change and build new opportunities together with its ecosystem of partners and vendors. During the event, the company shared its vision for the coming years: to evolve from a specialised distributor into a leading master distributor for Southern Europe and Turkey, through an integrated technology portfolio, high value-added services, channel training, digitalisation with AikomGo and international expansion.
The day of 6 May was dedicated to Aikom Technology’s core business. Participants attended technical sessions, presentations and case studies led by the main vendors in the company’s portfolio. Direct exchange among professionals was encouraged through an exhibition area, where guests had the opportunity to test the solutions, explore the technologies and gain a closer understanding of how they work.
Not only training and networking, but also cultural, convivial and sporting experiences. Guests were accompanied through Rimini’s historic centre on an exclusive tour by small trains, discovering the places connected to Fellini’s memory, from Borgo San Giuliano to Cinema Fulgor. The evening then continued with a celebratory dinner at Rockisland, in a setting overlooking the sea. The event concluded on the afternoon of 6 May with a moment of sport and togetherness through the “AikomGo Padel Challenge” tournament.
Through this event, Aikom Technology renews its commitment to supporting the channel in the transformation of the ICT, telecommunications and security markets, continuing to build value through expertise, relationships and shared vision.
With a market exceeding $7 billion, South Korea’s security ecosystem marked the show’s 25th anniversary by demonstrating full convergence between physical and cybersecurity, redefining the role of AI in protecting critical infrastructure and future smart cities
By: Dženana Bulbul
E-mail: redakcija@asadria.com
As the global security industry faces the fastest technological changes in its history, one theme dominates every conversation: how to build trust in the age of artificial intelligence. That exact question was at the center of SECON & eGISEC 2026, which opened on March 18 in South Korea and became a focal point for addressing the challenges of the modern security landscape.
“Building Trust in the Age of AI” was not just a convenient event slogan. It articulated the fundamental dilemma the entire industry is currently confronting. On the occasion of its 25th anniversary, the exhibition positioned South Korea as a meeting point of theory and concrete application, where solutions that will define the coming years are already being tested and deployed.
The event’s importance on the global stage is also confirmed by Trevor Clarke, Chief Analyst at Omdia, who sees SECON as an excellent platform for establishing relationships with South Korean companies in both cybersecurity and physical security. According to him, as one of the largest events in the region, it provides an outstanding environment for learning about market trends and technological developments.
A global hub
Across 28,000 square meters of exhibition space at KINTEX, SECON & eGISEC brought together 412 companies and institutions from 19 countries, with a total of 1,770 booths. The exhibition welcomed 26,389 visitors from 31 countries and regions, including security professionals, managers, decision-makers, procurement leaders, and government officials, as well as more than 100 hosted buyers.
The event also holds the status of “International Certified Exhibition+”, the highest certification awarded by the Association of Korean Exhibition Industry.
The exhibition welcomed 26,389 visitors from 31 countries and regions, including security professionals, managers, decision-makers, procurement leaders, and government officials, as well as more than 100 hosted buyers.
At SECON & eGISEC 2026, the boundaries between physical and digital security effectively disappeared. The exhibition showcased a comprehensive range of security solutions, from AI-based video surveillance and access control to critical infrastructure protection, smart city security, and protection for autonomous vehicles and maritime traffic.
From detection to prevention
In the field of physical security, the emphasis was placed on harmonizing video surveillance and biometric access control within advanced cyber monitoring platforms. At the same time, the industry is shifting from detection to prevention. Sophisticated solutions are now capable of identifying anomalies in real time, including falling, loitering, concealment, and possession of weapons.
Particular attention was given to next-generation artificial intelligence. This primarily refers to Explainable AI, which enables systems to explain why a certain decision was made. At the same time, proactive AI was presented as a model that does not wait for incidents to occur, but instead predicts threats and acts preventively before situations escalate.
Technology in action
This approach was best illustrated by Hanwha Vision, a key player not only in the Korean but also in the global market, which demonstrated how AI theory is being translated into practical security infrastructure. According to the company, the exhibition proved highly productive, with a noticeable increase in enterprise-level clients seeking concrete solutions, as well as industry professionals looking for deployable security infrastructure.
“Interest in AI analytics and workplace safety has never been higher. That was clearly reflected in the response to our key product lines, such as the Wisenet 9 chipset, T AI PTZ ruggedized cameras, and AI-based industrial and traffic solutions. We deliberately designed our booth to focus on live demonstrations. Seeing our cameras and AI systems operating in real time allowed visitors to validate the technology on the spot,” says ManGeun Cho, Head of Business in Korea.
Engagement exceeded expectations, with visitors moving from general inquiries to in-depth discussions about how AI video surveillance can address specific operational challenges.
“Our presence this year focused on our latest camera lines powered by the next-generation Wisenet 9 chipset. By integrating two neural processing units for AI analytics and image enhancement, this chipset sets a new industry standard in both image quality and intelligence. The response has been outstanding,” Cho adds.
For demanding environments, Hanwha’s AI PTZ ruggedized cameras attracted strong interest from infrastructure and energy sectors due to their reliability under extreme conditions. By combining highly durable hardware with advanced AI analytics, these cameras enable precise object detection and automated monitoring even in the harshest environments, from intense heat to industrial locations with high vibration.
“By showcasing real-time AI capabilities, such as forklift detection, we demonstrated how Hanwha Vision now delivers proactive security solutions that actively protect both critical assets and personnel,” Cho explains.
The company’s strategy is focused on evolving into a comprehensive visual solutions provider, supported by significant investments in AI research and development and the strengthening of its global supply chain.
“Our goal is to expand our international presence by delivering localized solutions tailored to specific industries, such as smart cities and automated logistics, and to strengthen our position in key markets by building long-term ecosystem partnerships,” Cho concludes.
Held across 28,000 square meters at KINTEX, SECON & eGISEC 2026 brought together 412 companies and institutions from 19 countries, featuring 1,770 exhibition booths.
Focus on the Middle East
Hanwha Vision places particular strategic importance on the Middle East, which it sees as a key growth hub due to rapid digital transformation and ambitious infrastructure projects. “Our Wisenet 9-powered cameras and AI ruggedized PTZ cameras are primary growth drivers, as they directly reflect our deep understanding of this environment. Our Wisenet 9 SoC delivers a new level of image clarity and AI precision required for intense lighting conditions and demanding environments typical of the region.
At the same time, our ruggedized PTZ cameras are engineered to meet the high durability requirements needed to operate in extreme heat. By combining our specialized regional expertise with these advanced technologies, we aim to remain a key partner in the Middle East’s ongoing transition toward a smarter and safer future across multiple sectors,” Cho says.
Precision down to the detail
Deputy CEO at CMITech Jay Jeong: “Our technologies are currently deployed globally in government, airport, and corporate environments where a high level of security and reliability is required”.
Among the companies present at SECON & eGISEC 2026 was CMITech, a Korean manufacturer specializing in advanced biometric technologies, particularly iris and facial recognition systems.
In an interview, Deputy CEO Jay Jeong reflected on the key trends shaping the biometric market. Since its founding, the company has focused on developing high-precision, contactless biometric solutions for identity authentication, border control, access control, and attendance tracking across various sectors.
“Our technologies are currently deployed globally in government, airport, and corporate environments where a high level of security and reliability is required. What sets CMITech apart is our long-standing expertise in iris recognition technology, which is considered one of the most accurate contactless methods of identity verification,” Jeong explains.
Trends and challenges
In recent years, CMITech has expanded its portfolio by introducing advanced facial recognition with Novaface-3 and multimodal biometric systems EF-70 and EFM-70. These solutions allow users to choose the most appropriate authentication method depending on the application and required security level. “One of the biggest changes in the biometric market is the rapid adoption of contactless authentication technologies. After the pandemic, users increasingly demand solutions that are both secure and hygienic, which has accelerated the adoption of iris and facial recognition,” Jeong notes.
Another key trend is the rapid advancement of AI-based facial recognition technologies. Modern systems can now achieve highly accurate and reliable results even in challenging conditions, such as outdoor environments and low-light scenarios.
“We are also seeing growing demand from government and border control sectors, especially at airports and within national identity programs where large-scale biometric identification is required. Given the current situation in the Middle East and future prospects for the region, the security market leveraging biometric technologies is expected to continue growing,” Jeong adds.
Contactless biometrics
JJ Kim KJTECH, Smart Systems Sales Manager
A similar direction is evident in the approach of KJTech, another Korean manufacturer whose solutions further confirm that contactless biometrics are becoming the global standard. In recent years, the company has increasingly focused on palm vein recognition, which is gaining importance due to its higher level of security and hygienic advantages compared to traditional methods. KJTech has experience across multiple international markets, including Asia and parts of Europe, and has established partnerships abroad.
The company continues to expand its international presence by participating in global industry events, with a particular focus on building partnerships in the European market.
Interactive zone
The KINTEX exhibition space also enabled direct testing of future technologies. MONITORAPP used interactive reflex-based activities to educate visitors about Zero Trust architecture, while SAENUN demonstrated real-time smart city security through intelligent kiosks. IDIS attracted significant attention with its Safety CINEMA tour, which simulated fire detection scenarios. The power of AI was further demonstrated by INNODEP and HUNESION, whose systems enable operators to manage surveillance through natural-language interaction. CATIS presented advanced hidden-object scanning technologies, while Cudo Communication combined technological innovation with artistic performances and influencer engagement.
Strategic evolution
Trevor Clarke, Chief Analyst at Omdia: “SECON is an excellent platform for establishing relationships with South Korean companies in both cybersecurity and physical security”.
One of the exhibition’s key strategic focuses was cybersecurity, which is no surprise given that global spending in this sector is expected to reach $311 billion in 2026, with growth of 12 percent, according to Trevor Clarke of Omdia.
This figure does not reflect only the increase in threats. It signals a structural transformation of the industry in the age of AI, defined by five key trends. For starters, platformization is accelerating. Clients are overwhelmed by fragmented systems, which is why as many as 70 percent of companies plan to consolidate their security solutions to reduce training and maintenance burdens.
Next, sovereignty is becoming a design principle. Geopolitics and regulations such as NIS2 and DORA are reshaping how companies manage data, with data residency becoming a central risk management factor. At the same time, ecosystem economics are evolving. Every dollar invested in technology now generates up to two dollars in services, while within platform ecosystems, this multiplier can reach four.
Speaking of new technologies, artificial intelligence is becoming the operational model. AI-driven service delivery is replacing traditional labor-based approaches, with the main challenge being the integration of automation and orchestration into core intellectual property. Finally, the surveillance paradox is intensifying. While AI takes over investigative and reactive tasks, human oversight becomes more important than ever, requiring new governance structures to maintain trust and accountability in high-risk environments.
Extensive program
While exhibitors such as Hanwha Vision dominated the exhibition floor, the parallel conference program delivered equally ambitious content, featuring 32 thematic tracks and 159 sessions over three days of intensive knowledge exchange.
More than 100 international buyers and delegates from 18 countries participated in the networking program.
The first day focused on future infrastructure and research and development, the second on artificial intelligence, aviation, and global cooperation, while the third addressed counterterrorism, privacy, and specialized defense.
The program also included specialized sessions by ASIS International and the Asia-Pacific Security Association, linking global trends with regional needs.
In cybersecurity, the focus was on reducing the risks associated with AI misuse, strengthening defenses against phishing, ransomware, and credential stuffing, and developing operational security frameworks tailored to modern organizations.
The value of the South Korean security market in 2026 is estimated at $7.15 billion, of which cybersecurity accounts for $2.72 billion and physical security for $4.43 billion.
Market in numbers
The activities of companies such as Hanwha Vision, CMITech, and KJTech are clear indicators of the momentum with which the Korean security ecosystem is expanding globally, and the figures confirm this.
South Korea’s security market is today one of the most dynamic and technologically advanced ecosystems in the global industry. The exhibition once again confirmed that the country not only follows global trends but actively shapes them, particularly in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and integrated security systems.
One of the key messages concerns the continued growth of cyber threats. Despite a high level of digitalization and technological sophistication, the Korean market faces constant and increasingly complex cyber incidents. As a result, companies are investing heavily in AI-based defense solutions. At the same time, AI is increasingly used as a potential attack tool, adding further complexity to the security landscape.
The regulatory framework in South Korea is also evolving rapidly. Strengthening laws and policies in the areas of security and data protection is becoming a key response to growing threats, as well as a means of restoring user trust in digital and security systems.
Trust itself stands out as one of the industry’s central challenges in the coming period. In terms of market size, South Korea’s total security market is projected to reach $7.15 billion in 2026. Of this, cybersecurity accounts for $2.72 billion, while physical security remains dominant at $4.43 billion.
These figures clearly show that, despite the rapid growth of digital threats, traditional segments such as video surveillance, access control, and physical protection continue to play a central role, while increasingly integrating with advanced IT solutions.
Intersec 2026, the world-leading exhibition for security, safety and fire protection, has recorded its largest, most internationally diverse and strategically significant edition to date.
The three-day event, which celebrated its 27th edition, was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, and welcomed 44,764 trade visitors from 151 countries, with a 60/40 domestic versus international split, reinforcing Intersec’s position as the global meeting point for government authorities, regulators, industry leaders and solution providers shaping the future of security, safety and resilience.
Spanning over 65,000 square metres of gross exhibition space, Intersec 2026 featured 1,180 exhibitors from 56 countries, supported by 10 international country pavilions and a comprehensive programme of 14 conferences and specialist features, reflecting the growing complexity and convergence of physical, digital and human safety and security.
International Participation Underscores Intersec’s Global Scale
Global participation remained a key feature of the 2026 edition, with 82% of total exhibitors coming from international markets, underscoring the event’s role as a global marketplace. Exhibitor participation was led by the world’s foremost safety, security and technology markets, including the United States and China; high-growth economies such as India and South Korea; and Europe’s most established industrial and innovative hubs, including France, Germany, Italy, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom.
The United Arab Emirates remained the event’s largest and most influential domestic exhibiting market, reflecting the country’s growing prominence across the global security, safety and fire protection landscape. This momentum is being driven by bold national initiatives that continue to strengthen regulatory frameworks, accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, and embed resilience, innovation, and convergence across the entire ecosystem.
Technology and Solutions Aligned With Global and National Priorities
This leadership was clearly reflected on the exhibition floor, where solutions aligned with national and international priorities were brought to life across five core sectors, including Homeland Security & Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, and Health & Safety. Together, exhibitors showcased next-generation technologies, integrated systems, and operational solutions that address critical challenges, including infrastructure protection, emergency response, cyber resilience, workforce safety, and crisis preparedness.
Intersec Global Underscores Platform’s Evolution
Intersec 2026 marked a significant milestone, unveiling the new Intersec Global identity during a press conference attended by strategic partners and industry leaders.
As part of the Global platform, the evolution of Intersec’s sectors reflects a deliberate macro-to-micro narrative, moving from safeguarding nations to protecting individual lives within a unified international framework. At the macro level, National Security & Resilience supports ministries, police and border authorities shaping sovereign risk strategy, while Cybersecurity underpins digital governance and critical infrastructure protection.
This extends into Surveillance & Physical Security for built environments and smart cities, and Fire, Rescue & Emergency Response for civil defence and climate-driven readiness. This culminates at the micro level with Safety & Wellbeing, aligned with ESG priorities and workforce protection, safeguarding people in their daily environments and demonstrating how Intersec Global connects national resilience with human-centred safety across its worldwide ecosystem.
Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East: “This edition represents a pivotal moment for the platform, highlighting its expanded scale and the increased engagement from the global safety and security community. The launch of the Intersec Global identity reflects the on-the-ground reality, emphasising an international ecosystem rooted in Dubai, with increasing involvement from both established markets and high-growth regions.
“With a significant increase in international exhibitors and visitors, the quality of dialogue has been excellent. From strategic policy discussions to frontline operational challenges, the focus has been firmly on real-world resilience, readiness and collaboration. The breadth of engagement from government authorities, critical infrastructure operators, emergency services and the private sector reinforces Intersec Global’s role as an international platform where meaningful partnerships are formed, knowledge is shared, and industry progress is accelerated.”
Intersec Awards Celebrate Leadership and Industry Excellence
Industry achievement took centre stage at the Intersec Awards 2026, held during a prestigious gala dinner in Dubai. Now in their fifth edition, the Awards recognised excellence across 17 categories, celebrating leadership, innovation, talent, and impact in security, safety, and fire protection.
Headline winners included Khalid Mubarak of Dubai Municipality, who received the H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Emirati Rising Star Award, and Albadr Jannah of Saudi Aramco, named Industry Leader of the Year for his sustained contributions to advancing security and resilience at regional and global levels.
The Women Trailblazers in Security, Fire Safety and HSE award was presented to Jazyah Aldossary, also of Saudi Aramco, recognising her leadership in driving professional excellence, inclusion and safety culture.
“Now in their fifth edition, the Intersec Awards highlight the individuals and organisations setting the pace for leadership, innovation and impact across security, safety and fire protection. This year’s winners reflect the depth of talent shaping the industry, from rising Emirati professionals and women leaders to global figures whose work continues to strengthen resilience and best practice worldwide,” concluded Isaac.
Government Partnership Key to Future Success
Intersec benefits from the strategic support of key UAE authorities, including the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), underlining its alignment with national resilience and safety priorities
The event will return to Dubai from 12-14 January 2027 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, continuing to build on its role as the world’s leading platform for advancing safety, security, and resilience across nations, networks, infrastructure, and people.
Intersec 2026 will cover 67,000 square metres and will welcome over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 60 countries. The scale indicates the level of demand; it also conveys a clear message: throughout our sectors, the demand for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and preparedness has reached unprecedented levels.
By: Dishan Isaac, Show Director, Intersec; E-mail: editorial@asmideast.com
As the 27th edition of Intersec approaches this January, attention is increasingly drawn to the significant shifts occurring across the global security, safety, and fire protection sectors. The rapid pace of geopolitical, technological, and environmental changes has intensified, emphasising the industry’s need for clarity, shared purpose, and a renewed commitment to resilience.
Intersec has always been shaped by the people who participate in it. The strategic thinkers, operational experts, innovators, responders, regulators, and industry leaders whose collective expertise defines the trajectory of our fields. This year, however, holds particular significance. The operational environment has undergone substantial changes, and the challenges and opportunities facing us are now more complex, interconnected, and consequential than ever before.
Unifying an Entire Ecosystem
At the core of Intersec is the ability to unify an entire ecosystem. The industries we serve, including commercial security, fire and rescue, emergency response, cybersecurity, health and safety, homeland security, and policing, once operated within clearer boundaries. Today, those boundaries have blurred. No organisation can think in silos, and neither can an event like ours. This reality has shaped the 2026 programme from the ground up, ensuring every feature reflects the interconnected world in which we operate.
The International Security Leaders’ Summit exemplifies one of the most significant platforms within Intersec. It has evolved into a forum where senior leaders address the realities of modern risk, drawing on practical experience rather than theoretical constructs. Discussions on crisis leadership are particularly relevant because they directly address the human aspect of the industry.
This year, we will hear from professionals like David Warham from Dubai Airports, who will bring this into sharp focus. His reflections on preparation, trust, and multi-agency collaboration offer lessons that extend far beyond aviation. The same applies to the voices joining us from national infrastructure, government ministries, global corporations, and academic institutions. These leaders are facing the same pressures many of our visitors encounter: talent shortages, digital convergence, aligning with national strategies, managing cultural complexity, and navigating the realities of AI and quantum technologies.
Strong Growth of the UAE’s Cybersecurity Market
In recent years, cybersecurity has evolved from a specialised discipline to the thread connecting every operational environment. At Intersec, this evolution is captured in the InCyber Briefing, which brings together global and regional specialists to tackle the next wave of digital risk. With the UAE’s cybersecurity market set to grow significantly by 2030, the conversations around supply-chain resilience, AI-powered threats, regulatory complexity, and board-level reporting are not abstract; they are urgent.
Fire and rescue professionals will also find a dedicated space to examine the challenges shaping their sector. Urban density, climate change, new materials, and rising expectations for building safety have all shifted the demands placed on fire services and life-safety specialists. The Fire & Rescue Conference explores AI-enabled fire prediction, evolving fire dynamics, human behaviour under stress, and global case studies that offer invaluable insights into preparedness.
Another defining feature this year is the emphasis on developing the control room of the future. The new Control Room Innovation Theatre demonstrates how AI, cognitive design, and human-centred environments can enhance operator performance and decision-making under pressure.
Of course, Intersec is also a marketplace, one of the largest and most diverse in the world for security, safety, and fire protection solutions. With over 1,400 exhibitors and a strong presence of international pavilions, the show floor is where global innovation becomes accessible. Whether it’s next-generation surveillance, advanced access control, cyber-physical convergence tools, fire-engineering technologies, PPE advancements, or emergency response equipment, the exhibition floor brings together practical solutions with future-focused thinking.
17 Categories of Intersec Awards
Celebrating the people behind these innovations is equally important. The Intersec Awards return this year with 17 categories, our most comprehensive line-up yet, recognising excellence across fire protection, safety, homeland security, commercial security, cybersecurity, consultancy, leadership, and Emirati talent. We have seen an encouraging rise in submissions, a sign that companies and individuals are eager to showcase their contributions to global best practice.
The aim for visitors at Intersec 2026 extends beyond technology and conference sessions. It is to foster clarity amidst prevailing uncertainty. Attendees are encouraged to establish connections with partners they can depend on in the long term. Ultimately, the goal is to leave with reinforced confidence, grounded in understanding and preparedness, and with a shared sense of purpose.
Our industries carry an extraordinary responsibility. We protect what matters most: people, communities, critical infrastructure, national capability, and the trust that underpins our societies. Intersec exists to support that mission.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Dubai World Trade Centre from 12–14 January 2026, and I look forward to shaping the next chapter of global security, safety, and fire protection together.
The Largest Footprint Yet
We operate in a world where complexity is no longer rare; it has become the norm. The rapid pace of technological change, global uncertainty, climate volatility, and converging physical–digital threats are pushing organisations to rethink their approaches to preparation, response, and innovation. In this context, Intersec 2026 has expanded not only in size but also in responsibility. This edition will cover 67,000 square metres, marking our largest footprint yet, and will welcome over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 60 countries. The scale indicates the level of demand; it also conveys a clear message: throughout our sectors, the demand for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and preparedness has reached unprecedented levels.
Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026, the world’s leading exhibition for AV and systems integration, returns to Barcelona from 3-6 February with a bold new theme: “Push Beyond.” This year’s event is more than a trade show – it’s a unique opportunity to engage with the technologies, strategies, and thought leaders shaping the future of security operations.
By: Charlotte Theobald-Park, PR Coordinator, Integrated Systems Events; E-mail: ctheobaldpark@iseurope.org
One of ISE’s defining megatrends for 2026 is Cybersecurity. These are environments where safeguarding critical infrastructure and public services against cyber threats has become paramount. At ISE 2026, you’ll discover how the cybersecurity ecosystem is pushing beyond boundaries to deliver intelligent, resilient, and secure systems that are equipped to protect public sector operations and ensure ongoing well-being amidst evolving digital threats.
The CyberSecurity Summit: Confronting Urgent Threats
New for 2026, the CyberSecurity Summit on 5 February is a must-attend for anyone responsible for securing public sector systems. As AV and IT infrastructures become more interconnected, the risks of ransomware, data breaches, and denial-of-service attacks grow. The Summit brings together leading voices from across Europe and beyond, including regulatory authorities, technical experts, and industry innovators, to share strategies for compliance, resilience, and proactive defense.
The program will feature key sessions that address navigating emerging regulations such as NIS2 and ISO 270001, alongside strategies for building cyber resilience across smart buildings, transport systems, and public venues. Attendees will gain insight from real-world case studies focused on protecting critical infrastructure, and participate in roundtables dedicated to compliance, governance, and best practices. The expertise of professionals from the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia, TÜV SÜD, and Veolia España will enrich these discussions. For government technology leaders, this is a rare chance to benchmark strategies, network with peers, and leave with a roadmap for adapting to the evolving threat landscape.
Control Rooms Summit: Resilient, Human-Centric Operations
On 4 February, the Control Rooms Summit explores how mission-critical environments – from emergency response centers to city transport networks – are being transformed by advanced AV/IT integration, AI-driven analytics, and ergonomic design. The focus is on resilience: ensuring uptime, empowering operators, and building trust in the systems that underpin public safety and service delivery.
The sessions will emphasize the integration of AV/IT systems to provide actionable insights and facilitate rapid response in mission-critical environments. They will explore how artificial intelligence and automation can be leveraged to enable proactive, human-centered decision-making, ensuring that operators are equipped with the tools needed to anticipate and address evolving challenges. Additionally, there will be a strong focus on designing control rooms that prioritize operator well-being, foster collaboration, and support continuous improvement. To enrich these discussions, case studies and expert panels featuring industry leaders from the International Critical Control Rooms Alliance will be presented, offering real-world perspectives and practical solutions.
Smart Buildings and Secure Infrastructure
ISE 2026 also features the Smart Building Summit, addressing the cybersecurity challenges of modern facilities management. As government buildings become smarter and more connected, the risks and opportunities multiply. Sessions will cover securing IoT devices, implementing layered security, and managing the dual-edged nature of AI in building operations.
Unparalleled Networking and Innovation
With over 1,600 exhibitors and a global audience representing more than 160 countries, ISE 2026 offers an unrivalled opportunity to explore the latest advancements in AV, IT, and integrated systems. Government professionals will have the chance to engage directly with technology providers and innovators, experiencing hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge products and solutions first-hand. Attendees can also participate in carefully curated tours, interactive workshops, and a variety of networking events designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, exclusive content will be available, covering key megatrends such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of government technology.
As the digital and physical worlds converge, the imperative for government leaders is clear: to Push Beyond traditional boundaries, embrace innovation, and build the secure, resilient systems that underpin public trust and national wellbeing.
With registration for ISE 2026 now open, it’s time to secure your place among the visionaries and decision-makers shaping the future of government technology. Register for FREE using code ‘asadria’ at www.iseurope.org/welcome/registration.
Intersec 2026, the world’s leading platform for manufacturers and buyers in the security, safety and fire protection industries, opens next week for its 27th edition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council.
Taking place from 12–14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Intersec 2026 is set to be the largest and most comprehensive edition in the event’s history, welcoming more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries and in excess of 50,000 trade visitors from across the globe.
As a result of the unprecedented demand, which has seen strong international participation with pavilions from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Singapore, Sweden, China, Turkey and Korea, the exhibition has expanded by nearly 12,000 square metres, spanning 65,000 sqm of gross exhibition space across multiple halls and outdoor demonstration areas, underscoring Dubai’s role as a global hub for security innovation, emergency preparedness and resilience.
Intersec 2026 will showcase cutting-edge technologies, frontline solutions and integrated strategies across five core product sectors: Homeland Security & Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, and Health & Safety. Together, these sectors provide an overview of how organisations, governments, and critical infrastructure operators are responding to increasingly complex physical, digital, and environmental risks.
Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Intersec 2026 marks a significant milestone for the event and for the global security, safety and fire protection community. The scale and growth of this edition reflect the urgency with which organisations are seeking clarity, collaboration and future-ready solutions.
“Intersec has evolved into a platform where leadership, innovation and operational realities converge, and we are proud to welcome the industry to our largest and most globally representative edition to date, solidifying our position as a key platform for global collaboration, knowledge exchange and business development.”
A cornerstone of Intersec 2026 is its expanded conference and knowledge programme, delivering high-level insight and practical guidance across multiple dedicated platforms from more than 250 experts. The International Security Leaders’ Summit returns as a flagship forum, bringing together senior decision-makers responsible for national security, critical infrastructure, crisis management and organisational resilience. Sessions will address topics including AI governance, crisis leadership, human risk, public-private collaboration and aligning security strategy with national visions.
The Fire & Rescue Conference will examine advancements in fire prediction, building life-safety systems, passive fire protection and emergency response, with contributions from global fire authorities, engineers and frontline responders. Meanwhile, the Health & Safety Conference will focus on workforce protection, behavioural safety, wellbeing and the evolving responsibilities facing organisations in high-risk environments.
Cyber resilience will take centre stage at the InCyber Briefing, where CISOs and digital risk leaders will explore AI, post-quantum readiness, data sovereignty, and cyber crisis simulation, while specialist theatres, including the Access Control Theatre, Control Room Innovation Theatre, and the SIRA Forum, will deliver targeted technical insight and regulatory perspectives.
The IFPO Certified Security Supervision and Management (CSSMP) Workshop and Challenge Exam is an interactive session designed for security professionals looking to advance their supervisory and management skills and includes scenario-based exercises to prepare participants for the final exam and real-world application.
The Passive Fire Day and the FCIA–NFCA PFPCON ’26 Dubai, a co-located event that connects global experts, innovators, and practitioners to advance standards, competency, and collaboration across the passive fire sector, round out the features.
Intersec 2026 will also launch a series of exclusive, invitation-only Executive Roundtables led by PwC and Kearney that bring together senior leaders from government, industry, and technology for focused, high-level dialogue on the most pressing challenges facing the security, safety, and fire protection sectors.
In addition to conferences and workshops, visitors can experience live features and immersive demonstrations, including real-world response scenarios and innovation showcases that bridge strategy and on-the-ground execution. The Intersec Awards 2026, recognising excellence across security, fire safety, cybersecurity and HSE, will also take place during the week, celebrating the leaders and organisations shaping the future of the industry.
Intersec 2026 continues to benefit from the strategic support of key UAE authorities, including the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), underlining its alignment with national resilience and safety priorities. Intersec 2026 opens its doors on Monday, 12 January, and will run until Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
For more information and to register for the event, please click here.
MIBA–Milan International Building Alliance, the event held at Fiera Milano from 19 to 22 November, concluded an edition marked by rising figures and strong content dynamism: 1,369 exhibitors and 85,000 visitors from 112 countries, a 5% increase compared to 2023, confirm the progressive consolidation of the format as a European benchmark platform for professionals in the built environment.
By: Mariagrazia Scoppio, Media Relations, Communication Department, Fiera Milano; E-mail: mariagrazia.scoppio@fieramilano.it
Four events together – MADE expo, SMART BUILDING EXPO, SICUREZZA and GEE – Global Elevator Exhibition – offered an opportunity for updates on technologies, materials, solutions, and regulations for professionals involved in various ways in the evolution of buildings and cities: from the world of construction and architecture to systems engineering and technologies that ensure services, accessibility, and security.
Three themes guided the dialogue among companies, professionals, institutions, and the research community: sustainability, energy and digital transition, and training. These themes not only define the sector’s priorities, but also outline the roadmap for the transformation awaiting our cities and the very way we live in and design spaces.
The debate on sustainability ran across all four events, with particular focus on the tools that can provide tangible support in achieving the European goals set by the green buildings directive.
“The path pursued by MIBA fully embraces the spirit of the New European Bauhaus, the European Commission initiative that calls for rethinking the built environment by combining sustainability, aesthetic quality, and inclusion.” – states Niccolò Aste, Professor of Architecture and Construction Engineering and Built Environment at the Politecnico di Milano – “With the Made Sustainable Prize (SusPrize), we wanted to translate this approach into a concrete experience capable of highlighting projects that demonstrate how innovation can be simultaneously beautiful, responsible, and deeply rooted in the needs of communities. In this context, the awarded excellences clearly show us that today’s trend is towards a conscious aesthetics that sacrifices neither material quality nor social quality. Regenerated living spaces, sustainable materials, architectures with strong community value: all of this is not ‘niche’ but represents a development model that can become mainstream. SusPrize aims to be a beacon: an invitation to anyone with a vision – artisans, start-ups, architects, companies – to dare, experiment, and reimagine the everyday. I believe this is the right direction to build a future in which excellence is not a privilege, but a common good”.
At the same time, the energy and digital transition emerged as a strategic lever for renewing the sector. From integrated design to intelligent energy systems, from digital platforms to new monitoring and management models, MIBA provided a forum for discussion on the solutions reshaping the entire life cycle of the built environment.
“Efficiency, electrification, and digitalization of the building stock are crucial challenges for the country and require addressing issues that have so far been underestimated, such as the inadequacy of electrical systems. In this scenario, MIBA has proven to be not only an exhibition showcase but also a laboratory of ideas capable of fostering innovation, safety, and sustainability. The hope is that the dialogue initiated here becomes the starting point for strengthening what is fundamental for Prosiel: establishing a more robust dialogue among supply chain stakeholders to build a system, sharing a common strategic vision, initiating constructive engagement with institutions, and promoting communication capable of making even non-experts understand the strategic value of this transformation. We must accelerate: safe, digital, and sustainable buildings are not only an environmental choice, but also an economic and social one” – states Roberto Martino, President of Prosiel.
This evolution concerns not only tools but also the design and operational culture of companies and their professionals. For this reason, with a global offering of more than 100 conferences and seminars, MIBA placed great emphasis on professional training, which is considered essential for supporting the sector’s transformation. The ongoing evolution of technologies serving buildings – especially in sensitive sectors such as security – now requires increasingly specialized professional profiles capable of assessing the most suitable technological solutions for each application context.
“To provide an adequate level of security in cultural venues, it is essential to invest in training and foster constant dialogue between security professionals and cultural heritage operators.” – states Carlo Hruby, Vice President of the Enzo Hruby Foundation – “At SICUREZZA, we wanted to reaffirm the value of academic education by presenting the Advanced Training Course in Cultural Security Management, developed with the University of Pavia. This program represents a real breakthrough, establishing for the first time in Italy the formal role of the Cultural Security Manager: a professional trained in the use of the most advanced technologies and their integration, capable of achieving a high level of protection while optimizing the management and enhancement of cultural sites and the assets they house.”
MIBA looks forward to welcoming everyone to the next edition, from 17 to 19 November 2027 at Fiera Milano.
“When an entire category is in decline, most teams play defence. ISE did the opposite—they turned ‘Push Beyond’ into a rallying cry that united their internal teams and challenged an entire industry to think bigger. That kind of bold, two-word clarity is exactly what creative excellence looks like,” said Russ Fordyce, Chief Recognition Officer at the Business Intelligence Group.
