Keynote speeches set tone for Intersec Saudi Arabia 2024

Intersec Saudi Arabia, the country’s leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, was officially opened by H.E. Aali M. Al Zahrani, Governor of the Higher Commission for Industrial Security, and Major General Dr. Hamoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj, General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense.

The event, which runs from 1 to 3 October 2024 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC), features 310 exhibitors, a 25% increase from last year, spread across five halls and outdoor areas covering 23,000 sqm.

Major General Dr. Hamoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj opened the Fire Protection and Technology Summit with a keynote address on preventive awareness strategies and technologies to ensure national safety.

Other sessions on the opening day included presentations on fire safety awareness, fire detection technologies, and the Saudi Fire Protection Code.

Future Security and Safety Summit tackles career development and industry trends

The Future Security and Safety Summit, held alongside the exhibition, was inaugurated with a keynote address by H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdulqader Al Abu Issa, Assistant Governor of the Higher Commission for Industrial Security (HCIS) for Engineering Affairs and Licensing.

He emphasised the importance of such exhibitions in advancing security and safety in Saudi Arabia.

Meshal Al Johani, a security operations specialist at Saudi Aramco, delivered a session on building a successful career in security, outlining the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving sector.

He highlighted the increasing demand for professionals in security, driven by new technologies and threats: “For young professionals, this sector offers numerous opportunities for career advancement.”

Fire Protection and Technology Summit explores advancements in fire safety

Running parallel to the security summit, the Fire Protection and Technology Summit delved into current and emerging fire safety practices.

The summit, opened by Major General Dr. Hamoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj, focused on the latest fire detection technologies and their effectiveness in preventing incidents.

Experts presented on topics such as the integration of IoT in early fire detection and fire safety measures in health facilities.

Tomorrow’s sessions will feature discussions on topics like AI’s impact on the security and safety sectors and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), as well as addressing fire detection technologies and inclusive security workforce strategies.

Industry leaders highlight growing opportunities in the Middle East security sector

During the Future Security and Safety Summit, industry leaders shared insights into the growing career opportunities within the security sector in the Middle East.

Riham Sedik, Show Manager of Intersec Saudi Arabia, noted: “The security industry in the Middle East is evolving rapidly, presenting tremendous career progression opportunities for professionals at all levels.”

The summit also discussed integrating security strategies for mega events in Saudi Arabia, with contributions from Helmut Spahn, FIFA’s Director of Safety, Security & Access, and Ammar Almubayedh of NEOM Security.

The rapid development in areas such as cybersecurity and fire protection, combined with substantial investments, provides a promising outlook for professionals aiming to advance in these fields.

Saudi Arabia’s Intersec 2024 highlights fire protection, security, and safety advancements: Summary

The 2024 edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia officially commenced at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The event, spanning from 1 to 3 October, showcases an increase in exhibitors and floor space.

The Fire Protection and Technology Summit was launched with a keynote by Major General Dr.

Hamoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj, discussing national safety strategies through technological advancements.

The Future Security and Safety Summit highlighted industry opportunities, with Meshal Al Johani addressing the growing demand for professionals in the region.

The event runs alongside discussions on the integration of new fire safety technologies, cybersecurity advancements, and strategic approaches for mega event security.