Advancing innovation and collaboration in fire safety: What to look out for at Intersec 2025
Iain Hoey
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From live demonstrations to cutting-edge conferences, Intersec 2025 brings the fire and rescue sector together to advance safety standards
As Intersec marks its 26th edition, the exhibition is set to return to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 14-16 January 2025, under the theme “The world’s premier event mapping the future in safety, security, and fire protection.”
Building on its legacy of excellence, Intersec 2025 promises to be a pivotal event for fire safety professionals, showcasing cutting-edge technologies, live demonstrations and dynamic networking opportunities tailored to the fire and rescue community.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec 2025 will bring together over 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries, including a dedicated Fire & Rescue segment spanning seven halls.
This year, the event will highlight advanced fire protection, prevention and response solutions, further cementing its reputation as the premier platform for innovation in the fire industry.
Following a highly successful 2024 edition, the 2025 exhibition will occupy 14 halls to accommodate increasing exhibitor numbers, with significant representation across five key sectors, new features and an expanded floor plan will enhance the experience for buyers, sellers and decision-makers within the fire protection, safety and security industries, providing a dynamic platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
With its vast exhibitor base and growing international attendance, Intersec 2025 remains an essential platform for networking, collaboration and pioneering innovations that drive the future of security and safety worldwide.
Expanding Horizons in Fire & Rescue
The Fire & Rescue sector remains one of Intersec’s fastest-growing pillars, offering a comprehensive hub for the latest products, services and innovations shaping the industry.
With over 400 exhibitors dedicated to fire safety, this segment will showcase advanced fire detection systems, firefighting equipment, innovative rescue technologies and emergency response solutions designed to mitigate risks, enhance capabilities and safeguard critical infrastructure.
Leading companies in the sector include NAFFCO, a founding partner of Intersec renowned for its wide-ranging firefighting and fire protection systems, as well as global brands such as Baldwin Boxall from the UK, HD Fire from India, Corodex from the UAE, Inim from Italy and Pentair from the UAE.
Chubb Fire & Security from UK, Grand Pumps from USA, Victoria Fire from Romania, Milwaukee tool from USA and Portwest from Ireland add fresh perspectives with their cutting-edge technologies, including intelligent fire detection systems, smoke management solutions, fire alarm panels, sprinklers and flame detection technologies.
Together, these exhibitors will present a diverse display of innovations driving growth in the fire and rescue market, making Intersec 2025 the ideal platform to explore advancements that redefine safety standards and address the evolving demands of the Middle East and global markets.
Global Representation and Networking
Intersec 2025 offers a unique platform for connecting with global leaders, innovators and decision-makers in the fire safety sector, creating the ultimate destination for discovering the latest trends and fostering partnerships.
Exhibitors will showcase transformative technologies such as advanced fire suppression systems, smart sensors for early detection and environmentally sustainable firefighting solutions.
These offerings reflect the industry’s commitment to innovation, efficiency and sustainability, aligning with the event’s focus on shaping the future of fire safety.
Live Demonstrations and Engaging Activations
Intersec 2025’s bustling exhibition floor will feature live demonstrations that immerse attendees in the practical applications of cutting-edge fire technologies.
Among the standout events is The Safety Walk, a unique fusion of functionality and fashion aimed at spotlighting personal protective equipment (PPE).
Combining a traditional safety walk with elements of a fashion show, models will showcase a variety of PPE, from safety itsuits and helmets to gloves and high-visibility vests, demonstrating their practicality and stylish design.
Attendees can also participate in interactive sessions to try on gear, ask questions and learn about proper usage, fostering a safety-conscious culture across industries.
For startups, the Intersec Startup Arena powered by Ignyte offers an invaluable platform to introduce disruptive solutions to top-level investors and business leaders.
With 20-minute presentations on the Innovation Stage, startups will outline their novel approaches to security challenges and generate interest in their ventures.
Backed by the Dubai Digital Economy Strategy through the Ignyte platform, this initiative connects startups with angel investors, mentors and government partners, empowering them to scale rapidly and reshape the safety and security industries.
Intersec 2025 will also feature a dedicated outdoor display area, with displays including Bronto Skylift, SANY’s Water Tower Fire Truck, aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles from NAFFCO and the ExtremV multi-purpose all terrain vehicle from Stengg.
Fire & Rescue Conference: A Knowledge-Sharing Platform
The Conferences and Workshops at Intersec have long been a cornerstone of the exhibition and for 2025 attendees can expect an expanded program with even more sessions, expert speakers and interactive workshops, all CPD-certified to support continuing professional development.
These events provide a vital platform for industry professionals to deepen their knowledge, earn CPD points, engage in thought-provoking discussions and collaborate on the latest trends and innovations in safety and security.
With a diverse range of topics and interactive formats, the CPD-certified knowledge sharing conferences at Intersec 2025 will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.
The Fire & Rescue Conference, hosted by Dubai Civil Defence, will run from 14 to 16 January during Intersec, bringing together global leaders in fire safety and emergency services.
This year’s theme, “Innovating for Resilience in Fire Safety,” underscores the importance of integrating technology, collaboration and policy to address evolving fire safety challenges.
Tailored to reflect the UAE’s unique market dynamics, the conference offers participants an opportunity to explore key trends, regulations and innovations that are shaping the fire protection and safety landscape worldwide.
Over three days, attendees will benefit from a robust program featuring over 45 distinguished speakers, 82% of whom are new to the stage.
Key speakers include Lt. Col. Dr. Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa, Chief AI Officer at Dubai Civil Defence; Captain Matthew Quinn and Lt.
John Cassidy from the New York City Fire Department; Datu Khirudin Drahman, Deputy Fire Commissioner of Malaysia; and Susan Lamont, Fire Group Leader for the Middle East at Arup.
Their expertise will provide invaluable insights on topics such as AI-driven fire prediction, the fire hazards of lithium-ion battery fires in smart cities and the impacts of climate change on fire behaviour.
The Fire & Rescue Conference is more than just a gathering; it is a catalyst for advancing the global fire safety sector.
With representation from new countries like the USA and Malaysia and strong participation from UAE civil defence authorities, the conference will foster cross-border collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
By offering CPD-certified sessions and workshops, it empowers professionals to stay ahead of industry developments and contribute meaningfully to creating safer, smarter and more resilient communities worldwide.
In addition to the Fire & Rescue Conference, Intersec 2025 offers a robust lineup of specialised conferences and workshops.
The Intersec Policing Conference (15-16 January) will explore global policing advancements, focusing on intelligent systems, strategic insights and community safety in urban settings.
The Security Leaders’ Summit (14-15 January) gathers thought leaders to discuss innovative strategies shaping global security, while the Safety & Health Conference, supported by IOSH and NEBOSH, delves into workplace safety trends and well-being initiatives.
On 16 January, the SIRA Forum provides a platform for commercial security experts to share insights on smart solutions and sustainability.
The Thought Leadership Pavilion will run across three days, offering insights into access control and smart lock innovations.
Meanwhile, the CISO Business Briefing (14 January) will focus on actionable strategies to tackle evolving cybersecurity threats.
Together, these events highlight Intersec’s commitment to advancing expertise across security and safety sectors.
Celebrating Excellence at the Intersec Awards
The Intersec Awards Gala Dinner, taking place on 15 January 2025, at the Ritz Carlton DIFC Hotel, will celebrate outstanding achievements across the fire, safety and security industries.
The Intersec Awards will feature 15 diverse categories, offering unparalleled opportunities to showcase achievements across fire safety, security and cybersecurity.
New for 2025 are categories such as Consulting Leadership in Fire Safety, Security, or Cybersecurity, CISO of the Year and Excellence in Testing, Evaluation and Certification, which reflect the evolving needs and innovations shaping the industry.
The fire sector remains strongly represented with awards such as the Excellence in Fire Safety Award, recognising exceptional products or services that significantly enhance fire prevention, detection, suppression, or mitigation efforts.
The Outstanding Safety Solutions Award will honour innovations that prioritise individual safety, promoting well-being and minimising risks across various environments.
Additionally, the Fire Safety Excellence Project – Middle East & Africa will celebrate transformative projects within the region that demonstrate significant innovation in planning, implementing and enhancing fire safety measures, positively impacting communities.
The Excellence in Testing, Evaluation and Certification Award will highlight organizations whose rigorous testing, safety evaluations, compliance inspections and certifications contribute to advancing fire safety and security standards globally.
The Intersec Awards attracted a total of 1,412 entries across all 15 categories, from regional and international companies.
The finalists in each category have been announced and can be seen on the Intersec website.
Shaping the Future of Fire Safety
Intersec 2025 is more than an exhibition—it is a movement driving progress and innovation across the fire safety sector.
With its blend of world-class exhibitors, live activations and thought-provoking conferences, the event will continue to shape the industry’s trajectory, reinforcing its importance as a cornerstone of safety and security in the Middle East and beyond.
For more information about Intersec 2025, please visit https://intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com/dubai/en.html
IFSJ: your strategic partner at Intersec 2025
As the Official Strategic Media Partner for Intersec 2025, International Fire and Safety Journal (IFSJ) is proud to support this premier event and connect fire and safety professionals worldwide.
This edition of IFSJ has been specially crafted for Intersec and will be distributed on-site to ensure maximum reach and engagement with attendees and exhibitors.
Whether you’re showcasing your latest innovations or exploring the event as a visitor, IFSJ offers unparalleled opportunities to elevate your brand.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch during the show to discuss how IFSJ can help maximise your visibility, from exclusive editorial coverage to targeted digital campaigns.
