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.