Middle East fire risks and climate challenges addressed at Intersec 2025

Rising fire risks due to climate change in the Middle East

Climate change is exacerbating fire risks in the Middle East, increasing challenges for urban and industrial safety.

As noted by Messe Frankfurt Group, organiser of Intersec, rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and water scarcity are intensifying fire hazards across the region.

By 2050, the UAE is expected to experience 133 to 144 extreme heat days annually, while Saudi Arabia is projected to face 108 to 124 days under leading climate scenarios.

Dana Nassif, Senior Consultant – Fire & Life Safety, WSP Middle East, highlighted these issues: “Rising temperatures and droughts are increasing fire risks across the Middle East.

“Water scarcity poses a significant challenge for firefighting systems, particularly as urban areas expand.”

Technology and innovation for firefighting challenges

The Fire & Rescue Conference at Intersec 2025 will focus on using technology to tackle these issues.

Sessions will explore AI-driven fire prediction, water scarcity solutions for firefighting, and automated emergency response systems.

Other topics include adapting fire codes for existing buildings in Abu Dhabi and the use of advanced fire technologies.

Paul Jennings, Assistant Fire Commissioner at Red Sea Global, stressed safety measures: “We have implemented comprehensive in-house emergency response protocols to address potential situations swiftly and effectively.”

Regional resilience and proactive initiatives

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are implementing strategies to enhance climate resilience.

Saudi Arabia has invested $6 billion in 200 water projects to mitigate drought, while the UAE’s Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to address water scarcity.

These initiatives align with efforts to adapt firefighting strategies to new environmental challenges.

Intersec 2025 to showcase global fire safety solutions

Intersec 2025 will host 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries, highlighting advancements across fire safety and related sectors.

The Fire & Rescue sector will feature companies like NAFFCO, Bristol Fire Engineering, and Wagner, presenting technologies tailored to the industry’s needs.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Intersec 2025 will provide a platform for fire safety experts, technology innovators, and decision-makers to address the growing fire risks in the Middle East.”

Middle East fire risks and climate challenges addressed at Intersec 2025: Summary

The Fire & Rescue Conference at Intersec 2025 will address increasing fire risks in the Middle East, focusing on climate-induced challenges such as rising temperatures, water scarcity, and extreme weather.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia are implementing measures, including Saudi Arabia’s $6 billion water projects and the UAE’s Water Security Strategy 2036.

Intersec 2025, held from 14-16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will showcase AI-driven technologies and solutions from over 1,200 exhibitors, fostering collaboration to advance regional resilience and safety.