What Intersec 2025 reveals about fire protection in Saudi hospitality projects
Iain Hoey
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Hospitality security focus at Future Security Summit
Intersec Saudi Arabia has reported that hospitality security and fire protection will be among the central themes at the 2025 edition of the event.
The exhibition will return to the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center from 29 September to 1 October.
Tawfeeq Alsadoon, Group Head of Security at Red Sea Global, will deliver a keynote presentation titled ‘Securing the Tourism Renaissance: Integrated Physical Security Solutions for the Hospitality Sector’.
Alsadoon said Saudi Arabia’s record of 116 million visitors in 2024, as reported by the Ministry of Tourism, highlights opportunities for using advanced security technology and challenges in balancing safety with guest experience.
He added that mega projects such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, Amaala, AlUla and Diriyah are driving the need for integrated physical security systems.
Technology as a core security enabler
According to Alsadoon, technology has become a critical enabler of proactive and intelligent hospitality security in the Kingdom.
He said: “In KSA’s rapidly expanding hospitality sector, particularly within Vision 2030 mega-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, Amaala, AlUla, and Diriyah, technology is not just a supporting tool but a critical enabler of proactive and intelligent security.
“These large, high-profile developments demand a smarter, more integrated approach to physical security, and technologies such as AI, drones, biometrics, and advanced surveillance are central to this transformation.”
He explained that hospitality security requires an ecosystem approach combining physical protection, digital safeguards and proactive crisis management.
Alsadoon added that tools such as AI-powered analytics, drones and biometric systems help anticipate risks, reduce response time and limit reliance on manpower.
Balancing technology with human-centred security
Alsadoon also noted that security must remain human-centred despite technological advances.
He said: “Technology alone cannot protect guests.
“The true measure of security in hospitality is its invisibility, ensuring that people feel comfortable, welcomed, and safe without ever sensing they are under surveillance.
“That requires highly trained teams who understand cultural sensitivities, can de-escalate discreetly, and act with empathy while remaining vigilant.”
He stated that highly trained security teams are essential for balancing protection with cultural understanding and guest comfort.
Broader themes at the Future Security Summit
The Future Security Summit programme will also examine aviation and entertainment sector security.
According to Intersec Saudi Arabia, the aviation session will be titled ‘Elevating National Airspace Security: Strengthening Aviation Resilience Across an Expanding Network’.
The entertainment industry will be addressed during ‘Designing for Experience and Safety: Embedding Security into the DNA of Modern Entertainment Venues’.
On the second day, Andrey Reis, Director of Security Operations for FIFA, will deliver a keynote on security and risk management.
These sessions aim to provide insights into sector-specific security challenges within the Kingdom.
Fire protection summit alongside Intersec Saudi Arabia
Running in parallel with the Future Security Summit, the Fire Protection Summit will take place across two days.
Intersec Saudi Arabia has reported that this programme will welcome regulatory bodies, industry leaders and international experts to discuss the Middle East’s fire safety developments.
The exhibition itself will cover Commercial and Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security and Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health.
Organisers expect more than 27,000 participants across 30,000 sqm of floor space.
The event is licensed by Messe Frankfurt and organised by 1st Arabia.
Organisers highlight transformation and participation
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia is where global expertise meets local ambition.
“This year’s Future Security Summit will showcase the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation, resilience, and human-centric security models that underpin its transformation into a world-leading tourism and business destination.”
Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director – Intersec Saudi Arabia at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Each edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia reflects the rapid pace of transformation in the country and the wider region, offering unmatched opportunities for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and business growth.
“We are delighted to welcome once again leading voices from across the security and fire safety spectrum, safeguarding the Kingdom’s future.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 is directly relevant to fire and safety professionals as it combines the Future Security Summit and Fire Protection Summit.
The event provides a platform for international experts, policymakers and industry leaders to discuss fire safety frameworks and evolving practices.
It highlights the integration of fire protection into wider safety and security agendas within major projects in the Kingdom.
The exhibition and summits will offer opportunities for knowledge exchange and discussion of sector-specific operational and regulatory developments.
Fire protection and security at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025: Summary
Intersec Saudi Arabia has reported that hospitality security will be a central theme at the 2025 event.
The exhibition will run from 29 September to 1 October in Riyadh.
Red Sea Global’s Group Head of Security, Tawfeeq Alsadoon, will outline the role of AI, drones and biometrics in tourism projects.
Alsadoon said security must combine technology with human-centred approaches.
The Future Security Summit will also address aviation and entertainment sector security.
A Fire Protection Summit will run alongside the event.
Bilal Al Barmawi of 1st Arabia said the Summit reflects Saudi Arabia’s global ambition.
Riham Sedik of Messe Frankfurt said the exhibition showcases regional transformation.
The 2025 edition is expected to attract over 27,000 participants.
The exhibition will span 30,000 sqm of floor space.
Organisers confirmed the programme covers five product categories.