Intersec Dubai 2026 to spotlight critical gaps in fire protection
Iain Hoey
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Fire & Rescue Conference returns at Intersec Dubai 2026
Messe Frankfurt Middle East has confirmed that the Fire and Rescue Conference will return as part of Intersec Dubai 2026 from 12 to 14 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The organiser said the programme will examine artificial intelligence applications for fire prediction, building life safety system performance, and how psychological factors influence emergency decision-making.
The conference forms one of the technical components of Intersec, which is recognised as a major global exhibition for fire, safety and security industries.
The organiser added that the agenda will also review passive fire protection developments, regional regulatory changes, and how climate trends are affecting fire behaviour across different environments.
The content will be supported by international case studies focused on operational lessons and risk reduction.
The event continues to operate under the patronage of H H Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Advisory Committee announced
Messe Frankfurt Middle East has established an Advisory Committee to shape the technical direction of the Fire and Rescue Conference.
The committee includes Lt Col Dr Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa of Dubai Civil Defence, Abdullah Faza of AESG, Abhishek Chhabra of the Firestop Contractors International Association, Dana Kamal of the NFPA, Ghaith Bakir of UL Solutions, Mohammed Saeefan of Saudi Aramco, Dana Nassif of AECOM, Eng Salma Humaid Saeed of Dubai Civil Defence, Sawsan Dahham of Siena, and Steve Apter QFSM of Apter Consulting.
The organiser said the committee will assess sector risks, evaluate emerging technologies, and ensure the programme remains aligned with operational priorities across the region.
Speaker line up confirmed
The organiser has released the first group of confirmed speakers for 2026.
The list includes contributors from civil defence authorities, engineering bodies, fire laboratories, and international associations.
Confirmed speakers include Major Eng Ali Hassan Al Madfai of Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Dr Aissam Bouadjel of Fujairah Oil Industrial Zone, Andrew Taylor of the ASFP, David Campbell of Emirates Safety Laboratory, Francis Owiti of the Kenya Airports Authority, Jim Pauley of the NFPA, Khalid Al Mandil of Red Sea Global, Nick Searle QFSM of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Olga Caledonia of the NFPA, Steve Hamm of the IFE, and Stephan Wevers of the Federation of European Fire Officers.
The organiser said further speakers will be announced as the conference approaches.
Intersec Dubai context
Intersec Dubai is expected to host more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries across its fire, security, and safety sectors.
The organiser said the exhibition attracts tens of thousands of trade visitors, providing a cross-industry platform that broadens the reach of the Fire and Rescue Conference.
Dubai Civil Defence continues to support the event as a key strategic partner.
Call for contributions
The organiser has invited fire engineering specialists, emergency responders, and regulatory professionals to submit speaking proposals.
The team said submissions should focus on operational lessons, technical case studies, or research that can support knowledge development across the sector.
CPD certification
All Fire and Rescue Conference sessions will be CPD certified.
