IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference 2025: Everything you need to know
Iain Hoey
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The IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference, the premier forum for senior fire and safety professionals, returns to Dubai on 8th May 2025
Welcome to International Fire and Safety Journal’s official preview of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference 2025, held in partnership with Britannia Fire.
On Thursday 8 May 2025, the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference returns to Dubai, convening more than 120 senior fire and safety professionals from across the Middle East and Africa for a focused day of knowledge sharing, strategic discussion, and meaningful networking.
Now in its third year, the event is set to take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai Marina – a venue that reflects the calibre of the attendees and the ambition of the programme.
The conference will provide a platform for the region’s most respected fire and safety decision-makers to meet face-to-face, share perspectives, and engage with practical solutions to today’s industry challenges.
Supported by regional authorities, associations, and global solution providers, the conference format combines expert-led panel discussions, keynote addresses, and dedicated networking opportunities in a theatre-style setting.
From crisis readiness systems to sustainable suppression methods and lithium-ion battery risk, the 2025 agenda is built to address the operational and regulatory shifts shaping the future of fire safety.
Delegates will also benefit from a dedicated networking zone just outside the conference hall.
This curated space enables meaningful dialogue with leading suppliers, including platinum partner Britannia Fire, alongside ATEÏS, MSA, RelyOn, FireDos, Fire Lion Global, PAC, and others.
Duncan J. White, IFSJ Managing Editor and returning moderator, comments: “The Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference continues to offer a unique setting for high-level conversations that directly influence fire safety standards and strategic approaches in the region.
“We are proud to provide a space that encourages thoughtful dialogue and practical action among the sector’s top minds.”
Attendees can expect an agenda shaped by a respected advisory panel including fire chiefs, senior engineers, regulatory experts and solution leaders.
Together, they ensure the event maintains relevance, depth, and real-world applicability as it helps define the direction of fire safety in the region.
The Leaders Conference…
Attendees of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference 2025 will hear from a distinguished line-up of experts shaping fire and safety strategies across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
Following opening remarks from Conference Chair Terry Johnson, the event will begin with a keynote address delivered by Dubai Civil Defense, setting the stage for a day of high-level discussion on regional strategy, preparedness, and leadership in fire and emergency response.
Panel sessions throughout the day will tackle a range of timely and technical topics.
These include lithium-ion battery risks, sustainable suppression technologies, AI-driven readiness systems, critical infrastructure protection, firefighter wellbeing, crisis communication, and the UAE’s 2025 Year of Community with a focus on People of Determination.
The conference is proud to welcome support from intellectual partners Dubai Civil Defense, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) and the NFPA.
From a technology and solution standpoint, the 2025 edition is supported by leading organisations including Britannia Fire, ATEÏS, VELOX, MSA Safety, RelyOn Nutec, FireDos, Fire Lion Global, Paradigm, Apollo Fire Detectors, VdS Schadenverhütung, and Performance Advantage Company.
Britannia Fire, this year’s Platinum Partner, will lead the platinum presentation.
Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire, commented: “After attending the event for the first time last year and witnessing the quality of seminars and the calibre of leaders in the room, I instantly knew we had to become more involved.
“The opportunity to lead as the Platinum sponsor was an easy decision to make.”
With a format designed to encourage open discussion, practical insight, and cross-sector dialogue, the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference continues to serve as the premier gathering point for the region’s top fire and safety professionals.
A word from the Conference Chair
The IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference will once again be chaired by Terry Johnson, Director of Emergency Services at Jasara NEOM The Line and President of the Institution of Fire Engineers, UAE GCC Branch.
Looking ahead to the 2025 edition, Johnson shared: “Each year, this conference becomes more focused, more practical, and more influential.
“It’s a rare opportunity to bring together decision-makers, regulators and solution providers under one roof for constructive, forward-looking discussions.
“I’m proud to return as Chair and help guide a programme that’s built around real progress and shared purpose.”
Why Dubai
Dubai continues to reinforce its reputation as a regional hub for excellence in fire and life safety.
A strong regulatory framework, championed by the leadership of Dubai Civil Defense, underpins a safety-first approach across both the public and private sectors.
The city’s investment in emerging technologies—from AI-enabled detection systems and firefighting drones to digital command platforms—reflects a commitment to enhancing readiness and response capabilities in line with global best practice.
At the heart of this development is the Dubai Civil Defense Academy, which plays a central role in building the next generation of fire safety professionals.
Its curriculum and facilities are designed to equip teams with advanced skills in prevention, response, and recovery.
Dubai’s strategic partnerships with international bodies and commitment to hosting sector-leading events like IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety ensure it remains not only a centre for innovation, but a model for others in the region and beyond.
About Dubai Civil Defense (DCD)
Established in 1976, Dubai Civil Defense (DCD) serves as the emirate’s primary authority for fire protection, emergency response, and public safety.
Operating under the UAE Ministry of Interior, DCD is committed to safeguarding lives, property, and the environment through proactive, innovative, and sustainable services.
Its mission is to enhance the quality of life in Dubai by delivering effective safety measures and fostering a culture of prevention.
DCD is recognised for integrating advanced technologies, such as AI-driven systems and firefighting drones, to improve emergency response capabilities.
The organisation also emphasises community engagement and education to promote awareness and preparedness among residents and businesses.
About the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE)
Founded in 1918, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is an international professional body dedicated to promoting excellence in fire engineering.
With over 10,000 members worldwide, the IFE supports fire professionals through a range of services, including professional recognition, qualifications, and continuous professional development.
The organisation works to advance the science and practice of fire engineering, contributing to the development of safer communities globally.
Through its network of branches and special interest groups, the IFE facilitates knowledge sharing and collaboration among fire safety experts.
About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Established in 1896, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organisation dedicated to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards.
Headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts, NFPA develops and publishes more than 300 consensus codes and standards intended to minimise the possibility and effects of fire and other risks.
The organisation also offers extensive research, training, and education programs to support fire safety professionals and the public.
Through its commitment to advocacy and innovation, NFPA plays a crucial role in enhancing safety worldwide.
Presentations
The 2025 IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference will feature a series of expert-led presentations addressing pressing topics in fire safety.
The Platinum Presentation will be delivered by Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire.
This session will spotlight the latest advancements in PFAS-free fire suppression technologies, emphasising sustainable solutions that meet evolving regulatory standards. A representative from Dubai Civil Defense will present the opening keynote address, outlining the strategies for fire and safety in Dubai for 2025 and beyond.
Another presentation will explore strategies to enhance resilience against fire-related incidents, examining community preparedness, infrastructure design, and policy frameworks that support robust fire safety systems. A session will address the unique fire safety needs of individuals with disabilities, focusing on inclusive design and emergency response strategies that ensure safety for all.
Mike Brunzell, Vice President Global Business Development at NFPA, will also deliver a keynote address focusing on global fire safety standards and the importance of international collaboration in enhancing fire protection measures.
The final presentation will highlight best practices for maintaining public trust and delivering timely information during crisis situations, emphasising the importance of effective communication during emergencies.
Panel Discussions
Interactive panel discussions will provide a platform for in-depth exploration of key issues in fire safety. One panel will discuss the increasing incidence of fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, exploring prevention strategies and regulatory measures to mitigate risks.
Another discussion will focus on integrating fire safety considerations into circular economy models, emphasising the importance of chemical transparency and sustainable material choices. A panel will explore strategies to enhance resilience against fire-related incidents, discussing community preparedness, infrastructure design, and policy frameworks that support robust fire safety systems.
Another discussion will examine the role of facilities management throughout a building’s lifecycle, highlighting best practices for maintaining fire safety from initial design through to demolition. Finally, a panel will address the unique fire safety needs of individuals with disabilities, focusing on inclusive design and emergency response strategies that ensure safety for all.
Networking Opportunities
The conference is structured to facilitate meaningful connections among attendees. A morning coffee break will provide an opportunity to engage with peers and discuss insights from the opening sessions.
The lunch interval offers a relaxed setting to network with industry leaders, speakers, and fellow professionals. Following the closing remarks, an extended networking session will provide additional time for attendees to connect and explore potential partnerships.
These networking events are designed to foster professional relationships and encourage the exchange of ideas in a conducive environment.
Speakers
The conference will feature a diverse lineup of industry experts sharing their knowledge and experiences:
- Terry Johnson, President, Institution of Fire Engineers, UAE GCC Branch
- Ghaith Bakir, Senior Regulatory Engineer, UL Solutions
- Eman Mattie-Suleiman, Technical Director, VdS Loss Prevention
- Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Humaid Al Ali, Deputy Director of Fire Affairs, UAE General Command of Civil Defense, Ministry of Interior
- Chris Chennell, Head of Fire and Life Safety – Technical Director, WSP
- Ihab Al Bairam, Assistant Vice President – HSE & Quality, LOAMS
- Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director, Britannia Fire
- Aman Sharma MBE, CEO, Totus Digital
- Ryan Dhindsa, CEO, Tuffking
- Kyle Barrie, Manager – Economics, WSP
- Bob Rea, Director & Lead Facilitator, BR Training Solutions Ltd
- Duncan J. White, Managing Editor, International Fire and Safety Journal
- Tarek Al Assil, Executive Director, iFM Facilities Management
- Haitham Alqassab, Senior Consultant – Fire and Life Safety, WSP
- Phil Witts, COO, ATEIS Middle East
- Eitan Charnoff, Secretariat, UAE Ministry of Interior Secure Communities Forum
- Mike Brunzell, Vice President Global Business Development, NFPA
- Steve Apter, Retired Chief Fire Officer & former Deputy Commissioner, London Fire Brigade
- Sawsan Dahham, CEO, SIENA
- Steve Hamm, CEO, The Institution of Fire Engineers
*Please note that the information provided is accurate at the time of writing but is subject to change at the discretion of the organisers.
