a&s Middle East No.4

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Cultural Considerations and Local Commitment
Way www.asmideast.com July/August 2023 4 Interview Mark Williams, Director of Sales for EMEA & APAC at AMAG Technology Products & Sastems Why IoT Matters in Physical Security
BOSCH Thrives in Fire Safety Markets
is the
www.techman-solutions.com
OUTSIDE
BOX”
THINKING
“THE
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Why IoT Matters in Physical Security

In an interview with a&s Middle East, AMAG Technology’s Mark Williams explores tailored security solutions and innovations for the Middle East region, including the challenges of localization, unique machine learning technologies, and future trends revolving around frictionless access

COLUMN

14 H.E. Khalifa Ibrahim Al Saleis, CEO & Executive Director of SIRA

Insight into the Regulation of the Private Security Industry in Dubai

INTERVIEW

18 Onur Sönmez, Bosch’s Head of Sales and Marketing for Fire Systems in Türkiye, Middle East and Africa

30 Lario Lovric, CEO, Aldra Alameen Security Services

INTERVIEW

34 Mark Williams, Director of Sales for EMEA & APAC at AMAG Technology

We Secure the Middle East with Our Best-of-Breed and Arabic-Ready Solutions

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

28 New way of looking through things Smart glass: where aesthetics, discretion, and security converge

32 New Customer-Focused Strategies in the Middle East Seeing Is Believing: Dell’s Solution Centers Are Envoys of Its Vision for the META Region

38 FIFA Fan Festival in Doha Techman Solutions Successfully Delivers Cutting-Edge ICT Project

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

40 How do we revolutionize cybersecurity? Staying Safe from Cyberattacks

42 New Fire Safety Solutions Advanced Offers Middle East Versatile Scalable Solutions

EVENTS

44 Igniting Possibilities at Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023 Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023: A Fiery Fusion of Innovation and Opportunities in the Fire Safety Sector

46 ISNR 2024

At ISNR 2024, innovation is no longer a choice, but a necessity

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EDITOR‘S WORD

Professional media for complete security solutions

Management

Mahir Hodžić, General Manager mahir.hodzic@asmideast.com

Adis Hodžić, CEO adis.hodzic@asmideast.com

Editorial Staff

Mahir Hodžić, Editor-in-Chief mahir.hodzic@asmideast.com

Orhan Hadžagić, Associate Editor orhan.hadzagic@asmideast.com

Emily Lin, Contributing Editor Emily.Lin@taiwan.messefrankfurt.com

Mirza Bahić, Journalist editorial@asmideast.com

Nermin Kabahija, Journalist editorial@asmideast.com

Art Staff

Sanel Palislamović, Art&Design Editor sanel.palislamovic@asmideast.com

Nelmedin Kolubara, DTP&Art Design dino.kolubara@asmideast.com

Sales

Amar Pap, Business Development Manager amar.pap@asmideast.com

International Sales

Israel Gogol, International Sales Director Israel.Gogol@taiwan.messefrankfurt.com

International Associates

Qatar – Mirsad Selimović, mirsad@techman.qa

a&s Middle East offers the latest news and insights on video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, fire alarm, mechanical protection, man guarding, cyber security, artificial intelligence, IoT, big data, smart homes and buildings, industrial automation, information, communication technology to Middle East region professional channel players.

a&s Middle East is part of the media network of the Messe Frankfurt Ltd – Taiwan Branch, which offers several media platforms — asmag.com and a&s magazines, published in English, traditional Chinese, and three other languages, providing the most comprehensive industry trends, product, and supply chain information. The total annual circulation is approximately 515,000 copies around the globe.

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a&s ME: Your Passport to the Heart of Middle Eastern Security

Welcome to the fourth edition of a&s Middle East magazine, your trusted source for the latest developments in the dynamic world of security and technology across the Middle East region. With this issue under our belt, want our magazine to become an informative vessel to take you on a journey through the diverse landscapes of innovation, cultural nuances, and cutting-edge solutions that define the security industry in this region.

To that effect, this edition boasts exclusive interviews with industry leaders who are among those who can actually shape the future of security in the Middle East. We sit down with Onur Sonmez, Bosch’s Head of Sales and Marketing for Fire Systems in Türkiye, Middle East, and Africa, to explore how cultural considerations and local commitment are the driving forces behind Bosch’s success in diverse fire safety markets.

Our exploration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in physical security unveils the transformative power of technology, while our interview with Lario Lovric, CEO of Aldra Alameen Security Services, sheds light on the UAE’s groundbreaking approach to AI-powered security.

We invite you to dive into the pages of this magazine and browse them to find inspiration, knowledge, and insights that will help you navigate this dynamic landscape.

Thank you for choosing a&s Middle East magazine as your trusted source, and we look forward to accompanying you on this wild journey.

Mahir Hodžić, General Manager

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SHEIKH HAMDAN INAUGURATES THE NEXT STAGE OF DUBAI’S CYBER SECURITY STRATEGY

The Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, initiated the second cycle of the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy. Its objective is to organize a safe and secure cyberspace, as well as to enhance Dubai’s digital infrastructure, according to a Gulf News article. Al Maktoum stated in the article that, among other things, evolving challenges and risks are factors that motivate them to prioritize the development of cybersecurity. Remaining up to date with fast-paced changes and newer trends calls for flexibility, proactivity, and high digital awareness, as stated in the Gulf News article.

The innovative strategy is concerned with the cybersecurity specifications of the city (including government companies, businesses, residents, and infrastructure), and the article focuses on the Dubai Electronic Security Center’s goal to sustain integrity, privacy, and agreement in information processing systems. Further in the article, it is stated that the strategy establishes four pillars, along with their goals: a cybersecure society – to enhance cyber competence and access to cybersecurity; an incubator city for innovation – to encourage cybersecurity research and promote an innovation-friendly

environment; a resilient cyber city – to shape cyberspace governance, expand the cyber ecosystem, and provide effective cyber crisis and accident response protocols; and finally, active cyber collaboration: encouraging collaborations and giving rise to global cybersecurity efforts. n

DOHA: VIDEO SURVEILLANCE TO DETECTS MOBILE PHONE USE DURING DRIVE

According to the most recent information regarding the automated surveillance law for traffic violations, drivers who are caught using visual devices while driving can expect to be fined. Chief of Radar Operations at the General Traffic Department Major Hamad Ali Al Muhannadi said to Al Rayyan TV that it is illegal to use car dashboard screens along with mobile phones during driving. Both of these things can now be detected by the radar system.

Said radar system is a part of the new automated surveillance system designed to detect traffic violations. It aims to track failure to wear seatbelts as well as the use of mobile devices while driving.

According to Doha News, the traffic monitoring program is meant to start on the 3rd of September. Drivers have been informed that the violations will be detected, although some of them do have opposing opinions on the subject.

The initiative to start with the traffic monitoring program is designed with the objective to stamp out road injuries and deaths. n

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NEWS
Photo: QNA
3 – 5 October 2023 R i y adh, KS A Organised by Empowering a Safer World Saudi Arabia’s leading trade fair for Security, Safety and Fire Protection www.intersec-ksa.com/Register Register to visit

KUWAIT INTRODUCES ELECTRONIC TRAFFIC FINES

The Ministry of Interior of Kuwait revealed on Sunday that traffic fines in Kuwait will now be electronically issued. Through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, drivers were notified about this recent update. This step has been taken under the guidance of the Minister of Interior to increase transparency and control unruly driving behavior and violations.

It also aims to streamline traffic management effectively. Instances of violations and associated fines will be promptly conveyed to the offenders via the “Sahl” application.

This new procedure is set to be put into effect starting from September 1, 2023. n

AI AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY SERVE HAJJ PILGRIMS

The Transport General Authority is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative this Hajj season by introducing a trial of self-driving electric buses to cater to the needs of pilgrims. This endeavor aims to bring forth cutting-edge technology for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation.

The primary objective of this initiative is to offer pilgrims a range of transportation options, simplifying their journey to the holy sites.

These self-driving buses employ artificial intelligence, cameras, and surrounding sensors to navigate predefined routes autonomously, eliminating the need for human intervention.

By gathering and analyzing data during their operation, these buses make informed decisions, focusing on improving passenger experience and ensuring utmost safety. With seating capacity for 11 passengers, each bus can operate for 6 hours on a single charge and achieve speeds of up to 30 km/h.

This service aims to streamline the transportation of pilgrims while assessing the viability of implementing such technologies during the Hajj season. Additionally, it endeavors to establish the necessary requirements for future commercial operations.

The Transport General Authority recognizes its role in providing diverse transportation options and embracing modern technologies and smart mobility solutions. This initiative is a testament to their commitment to evaluating the suitability and impact of these advancements, with the ultimate goal of providing a distinctive transportation experience for Hajj pilgrims. The aim is to ensure seamless and comfortable journeys, enabling pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and tranquility. n

10 www.asmideast.com NEWS

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MASTERCARD: UAE’S FORWARD-THINKING APPROACH IN ACKNOWLEDGING SIGNIFICANCE OF AI

Ajay Bhalla, President of Cyber and Intelligence Solutions at Mastercard, predicts that the UAE is on the brink of leveraging the transformative capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) and positioning itself as a global frontrunner in this realm.

During his recent visit to the region, Bhalla commended the UAE’s forwardthinking approach in acknowledging the significance of AI. In an exclusive interview with Gulf News in Dubai, he highlighted the UAE’s potential to assume a central role in the realm of emerging technology and its regulatory framework.

On August 24, the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications Office formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mastercard, aiming to expedite the adoption of AI across vital sectors within the country. This collaboration also encompasses the establishment of a cutting-edge Global Center for Advanced AI and Cyber Technology located in Dubai. Notably, the UAE earned acclaim as the

first nation to establish an AI ministry in 2017 as part of its strategic blueprint to establish itself as a pioneer in technology and artificial intelligence sectors. Bhalla articulated his admiration for the UAE government’s vision, particularly their 2031 plan for AI development. He emphasized, “What captivated us was

UAE IMPLEMENTS SINGLE SIGN-ON FOR ONLINE ACCESS SERVICES

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented a single sign-on authentication service, known as the UAE Pass, across all its online services. Initially launched in February 2021, the UAE Pass has been extended to encompass 6,000 government and privatesector services, with the aim of allow-

ing users to create verified accounts in under five minutes. In East Africa, Kenya is also striving to enable access to approximately 5,000 government services through its program called “Gava Mkononi” or “government on touch,” with plans to issue digital IDs within the next three months.

the UAE government’s commitment to advancing AI within the nation and their visionary outlook for AI in 2031. I was truly impressed by their forward-thinking approach, leading us to conclude that this is the ideal place to collaborate with a government that embraces new technology and gazes into the future.” n

The UAE Pass operates as a mobile app that can be downloaded from Apple Store or Play Store and requires biometric verification through the scanning of the user’s face and physical Emirates ID card. This digital ID card can be used for various tasks, including opening bank accounts and obtaining mobile connections. It eliminates the need for users to enter usernames and passwords when accessing services. Furthermore, French medical data-analysis firm Visiomed is collaborating with the UAE government to collect biometric data for the Emirates ID physical card, facilitating medical fitness tests and quick ID biometric submissions through its subsidiary, Smart Salem. Smart Salem claims to provide the fastest delivery of results and biometrics in Dubai, typically within 30 minutes. Although Visiomed is collecting face templates, the specific purpose of this data collection with the Dubai International Finance Centre remains undisclosed. n

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NEWS

DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH IN THE PUBLIC SAFETY DRONE MARKET

The public safety drone market is valued by Marketsandmarkets at USD 1.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.0 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 13.0%, according to the research company’s latest findings. The public safety drone market has emerged as a dynamic and rapidly growing sector, revolutionising the way public safety agencies respond to emergencies and ensure the safety of communities.

With the increasing adoption of drones in various public safety applications, including disaster management, search, and rescue operations, surveillance, and incident response, the market has witnessed significant growth and technological advancements. By harnessing the power of drones, public safety organisations can revolutionise emergency response efforts, minimize risks, and better protect and serve the communities they serve. Based on the platform, the public safety drone market has been classified into fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid-wing.

The rotary wing segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This is due to rotary-wing drones being extremely manoeuvrable, with the ability to hover, rise, descend, and fly in any direction. Because of their

agility, they can negotiate complicated environments such as metropolitan areas, heavily populated regions, or limited spaces, making them ideal for search and rescue missions, law enforcement operations, and disaster relief efforts. n

SURGING GROWTH: VIDEO SURVEILLANCE MARKET TO REACH

USD

83.3

BILLION BY 2028

The global video surveillance market is set to reach remarkable heights, with an anticipated valuation of USD 53.7 billion in 2023, projected to soar to USD 83.3 billion by 2028, as indicated by the latest research from Marketsandmarkets. This growth is underpinned by a robust compound annual growth

rate (CAGR) of 9.2% expected from 2023 to 2028. The surge is attributed to a convergence of factors, including heightened security concerns, the widespread adoption of smart city initiatives, a burgeoning demand for analytics, and the continuous advancements in AI-driven video analysis technology.

The research analysts specifically highlight the software segment within the video surveillance market as a star performer, poised to exhibit the highest CAGR. This accolade can be attributed to several compelling factors. Firstly, the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has ushered in a new era of sophisticated video analytics software, significantly elevating the capabilities of surveillance systems. Secondly, the growing integration of video surveillance with other cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and access control necessitates robust and adaptable software solutions. Furthermore, the escalating need for real-time monitoring, data analysis, and remote access drives the widespread adoption of software platforms. The advent of innovative cloud-based solutions further augments the growth prospects of the software segment in the video surveillance market. n

13 www.asmideast.com NEWS

INSIGHT INTO THE REGULATION OF THE PRIVATE SECURITY INDUSTRY IN DUBAI

The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) is a Dubai government organization responsible for the regulation and supervision of the private security industry in Dubai. Its main aim is the continued protection of the public and private sectors, property, and assets through the implementation of laws, standards, and international best practices.

To achieve this and to ensure Dubai maintains the title of one of the safest cities in the world, we initially created Law 132005 under the umbrella of the Department of Protective Systems (DPS). This was followed by Law 13 which has been updated to Law 24-2008 to accommodate new changes in crime trends as more protective methods and tools were required at the time.

In 2016, due to the fast-moving technical landscape and the need to cope with other developing crime trends, DPS has been abolished and we have seen the birth of SIRA and the new security Law 12-2016. This allowed us to adapt and modify quickly, making these regulations some of the most comprehensive and up-to-date ones in the world since they encompass electronic, cyber, as well as physical security and manpower.

At Intersec 2022, SIRA made a number of announcements, including changes to Law 12-2016 of February 2022. After numerous consultations with industry experts and key government stakeholders with regard to the effectiveness of new security technology, it was necessary to implement these changes to simplify the Law and ultimately save end users money

without compromising or having a negative impact on the security of Dubai. SIRA prides itself on learning and adopting new technology within the regulations and Intersec was a great opportunity to see new and innovative security products that will have a positive impact on Dubai’s future security landscape.

The new technology that is most commonly talked about and could be the future of security systems and management is Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI). If used correctly, this technology will ultimately help the security teams and SIRA, making the systems more intelligent at identifying people, objects, and anomalies that require the security officer’s attention.

Our engineering and compliance department will be reviewing the technology, performance, benefits, return on investment, and the impact of the wider security landscape to meet the exacting standards of quality, efficiency, and transparency required in Dubai.

Our vision is to reduce external and internal security risks while preparing future security landscapes. At the same time, we will develop strategic and institutional plans and programs for industrial and investment projects.

The execution of our mission will be carried out within a leading-edge framework by the government and the framework itself will be professionally managed and audited. In this way, we will not only reduce current external and internal risks but will prepare the security community to deal with future threats and challenges.

Finally, our aim is that SIRA will develop further as a local agency with global capabilities, energy, and influence. Backed by our Government, Dubai society and business have the ability to use their knowledge and creative power to lead the world by example in security practices. Over the next few articles, we will explain in depth the changes and how these affect the integration companies as well as end users. n

14 www.asmideast.com COLUMN
H.E. Khalifa Ibrahim Al Saleis, CEO & Executive Director of SIRA, describes the laws and the security landscape of Dubai that are both moving forward at great speed
The new technology that is most commonly talked about is automation and AI which will ultimately make the systems more intelligent at identifying people, objects, and anomalies that require the security officer’s attention
Current Trends
n By: Khalifa Ibrahim Al Saleis

SECURITY INDUSTRY REGULATORY AGENCY

Improve security standards through the implementation of laws, standards and international best practices in security systems as well as security management and guarding services.

KEY VALUES

INSTITUTIONAL REPUTATION COMPLIANCE

CUSTOMER HAPPINESS

LEADERSHIP

SUSTAINABILITY

SIRA now has more than 60,000 members working within the Dubai security industry, with the agency’s laws and guidelines helping to ensure that standards are continuously kept high

For more information, visit: www.sira.gov.ae

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Onur Sönmez, Bosch’s Head of Sales and Marketing for Fire Systems in Türkiye, Middle East and Africa

CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS AND LOCAL COMMITMENT IS THE WAY BOSCH THRIVES IN DIVERSE FIRE SAFETY MARKETS

In an exclusive interview with a&s Middle East Bosch’s Onur Sönmez discusses the dynamic fire safety landscape across Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa, shedding light on the company’s thriving strategy anchored in responding to localized insights and market sensibilities

INTERVIEW
18 www.asmideast.com

a&s Middle East: Can you provide an overview of the current market landscape for fire systems in Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa?

Sönmez: The fire systems market in Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa has been experiencing growth due to factors of urbanization, industrialization, and increased construction activities. Also, what we can see in the market is the growing awareness of fire safety regulations that have contributed to the demand for fire protection systems across residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.

Fire safety regulations and standards vary across different countries and regions within Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa. Businesses and construction projects are required to comply with local and international fire safety standards, which has led to a consistent demand for reliable and effective fire protection systems.

The market serves a diverse range of verticals, including commercial and residential real estate, oil and gas, hospitality, manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. Each of these sectors requires tailored fire protection solutions to meet their specific needs and comply with regulations. As construction projects continue to rise, the need for advanced fire systems that integrate with building automation and monitoring systems has also grown.

While the market presents growth opportunities, it also comes with challenges such as navigating diverse regulatory frameworks, addressing local market preferences and cultural factors, and ensuring reliable after-sales service and maintenance.

INTERVIEW
19 www.asmideast.com

As a global fire alarm system manufacturer, we are focusing on building relationships with key stakeholders, including architects, consultants, contractors, and facility managers. Offering comprehensive solutions that not only meet regulations but also enhance overall safety and operational efficiency will be a key differentiator.

a&s Middle East: What are the key factors driving the demand for fire systems in these regions?

Sönmez: We believe that rapid urbanization and infrastructure development have been major drivers for the demand for fire systems. As cities expanded and new buildings were constructed, there was an increased need to implement effective fire

Rising Flames, Rising Regulatory Needs

The growth of the commercial and residential sectors has led to an increased need for fire protection systems. High-rise buildings, shopping malls, hotels, and residential complexes require comprehensive fire detection systems. Next to it, the expansion of industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and petrochemicals in the Middle East has created a demand for specialized fire protection solutions. These industries deal with potentially hazardous materials and processes, making fire safety a critical concern.

alarm systems to ensure the safety of people and valuable assets.

Additionally, the implementation of fire safety regulations and building codes in many countries across the region has significantly contributed to the demand for fire systems. Also, trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions focused on fire safety have contributed to raising awareness about the latest technologies and solutions available in the market. These events have encouraged industry stakeholders to explore and adopt advanced fire systems.

a&s Middle East: Which local markets are showing growth potential in the Middle East region? If you can single out some of these, what distinguishes them from the rest of the bunch?

Sönmez: All Middle Eastern countries have their own dynamic and potential compared to each other. So, we are aiming to be localized in all major countries.

The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has been a hub for real estate development and tourism. The construction of iconic skyscrapers, luxury hotels, shopping malls, and other commercial complexes has driven the demand for advanced fire systems. The UAE’s commitment to hosting international events and ensuring top-tier infrastructure has created a strong emphasis on fire safety regulations, making it a prominent market for fire protection solutions.

Saudi Arabia has been investing heavily in various sectors, including hospitality,

INTERVIEW
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Fire safety regulations and standards vary across different countries and regions within Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa

Our Solutions Defy the Language Barrier

We are investing time in building relationships through networking events, trade shows, and business meetings to adapt our communication style and marketing materials to resonate with the local culture. We are also providing our product datasheets, installation manuals, and operation manuals in various languages. Additionally, providing marketing materials and customer support in a local language is helping us to overcome the language barrier.

infrastructure, and industrial projects. The Vision 2030 initiative aims to diversify the economy and promote tourism, leading to significant construction activities. The industrial sector also demands robust fire alarm systems due to the presence of oil and gas facilities and petrochemical plants.

Kuwait’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and diversifying its economy has led to growth in the construction sector. The demand for fire systems is particularly notable in commercial, residential, and industrial projects and Infrastructure development plans. Also, efforts to diversify the

economy include the emphasis on fire safety in construction projects which are key growth factors for the country.

It’s important to recognize that each of these markets has its own unique growth drivers, regulatory environments, and industry focuses.

a&s Middle East: You are in charge of a huge and diverse market. How does your sales and marketing strategy cater specifically to the unique needs and preferences of each local market?

Sönmez: As we discussed in the previous questions, every country has its

own regulations and dynamics in the region. For penetration into the market, we strongly believe in localization. For this purpose, we establish local system integrators in the local market that can cover the local market requirements. Together with my team, we are supporting our local SIs to be agile in the local market. We are also conducting commercial training and organizing local events to spread Bosch Fire alarm USPs in the market.

a&s Middle East: What are the major challenges you face in promoting and selling fire systems in this region and how do you overcome them?

Sönmez: Promoting and selling fire systems in the Turkey, Middle East, and Africa region can be both rewarding and challenging due to the diverse nature of the markets, regulatory variations, and cultural differences. These challenges include diverse regulatory environments, cultural considerations, price sensitivity, competition from local players, economic and political instability,

21 www.asmideast.com
INTERVIEW

language and communication barriers, and reliability and after-sales support. To overcome these challenges, we are collaborating closely with local partners, consultants, and experts who have a deep understanding of the local regulatory landscape.

We strongly believe in the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and potential losses due to inadequate fire alarm systems. We are highlighting the advantages of our products,

INTERVIEW
22 www.asmideast.com
The construction of iconic skyscrapers, luxury hotels, shopping malls, and other commercial complexes has driven the demand for advanced fire systems in the UAE

such as advanced technology, global standards compliance, and extensive support networks. We offer training and after-sales services to showcase our commitment to customer satisfaction to overcome competition against local players.

a&s Middle East: Have you had any recent successful sales and marketing campaigns or initiatives that have helped expand your market presence? How do you plan on securing an even

greater share of the market pie?

Sönmez: We implement a large number of sales and marketing campaigns locally and globally. These, among others, include product info webinars, webinars for fire alarm system solutions for key verticals, online commercial and technical training, and sales campaigns for specific product groups. Also, we are participating in the local key events and exhibitions to show our key products to the market as well as come together with the stakeholders and decision-makers in the projects. n

INTERVIEW
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We are collaborating closely with local partners, consultants, and experts who have a deep understanding of the local regulatory landscape

WHY IoT MATTERS IN PHYSICAL SECURITY

What is IoT and why does it matter? Getting a right answer to this question means understanding how cloud, cybersecurity, unification, and AI can impact the success of your IoT journey

n Source: Genetec editorial@asmiddeast.com

Did you know that there will be a projected 30 billion Internet of Things (IoT) devices in use by 2030? That’s nearly a threefold increase from the IoT installed in 2020 - and that’s a conservative estimate according to others in the industry who believe it could happen sooner.

When it comes to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Precedence Research says the global market will reach a value of $1.74 trillion USD by 2030. That’s a compound annual growth rate of 20.47% from 2022 to 2030.

Connecting sensors and systems from all areas of business, whether physical security, operations, or building infrastructure, has become the catalyst for big efficiency gains and new business insights. Because of this, implementing IIoT

devices has not only become a critical business strategy, but a launchpad into a digital transformation journey. In this article, you’ll discover the top trends that are making it easier and safer to bring all your data together and generate meaningful outcomes. And you’ll learn some real-life examples of how organizations today use their connected Industrial Internet of Things sensors to get more from their investments.

What is IoT?

The Internet of Things, or IoT for short, represents the convergence of various sensors, devices, software, applications, and other technologies that connect and exchange data with each other over the internet or other networks. IoT is a networked ecosystem of physical objects that are embedded with capabilities to

communicate, sense, and interact with other connected technologies in the environment.

What’s the difference between IoT and IIoT?

While IoT generally relates to consumerbased connected devices, Industrial IoT (IIoT) is focused on device connectivity across a business to gain efficiencies and support operations. In this article, we’ll be focusing the discussion on IIoT and how connected systems and devices are benefitting businesses.

Today, many organizations are implementing IIoT strategies to achieve specific business outcomes. For example, some businesses are merging video surveillance and access control systems with lighting and HVAC solutions to enhance automation, reduce energy consumption,

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BEST
PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
PRACTICES

and meet sustainability mandates. They’re looking closely at building management systems and building automation.

What is Industry 4.0?

Smart manufacturing and IIoT are also paving a strong path forward for what’s now termed the Internet of Things Industry 4.0. It’s a concept that marries production and operations with intelligence devices, big data, and artificial intelligence models to create a more holistic view of the business and drive smarter decisions.

Other organizations are also unifying various systems to gain more insights into their security, services, and daily operations. With that information, they’re finding new ways to become more resilient, improve processes, and enhance their customers’ experience. While these IIoT initiatives seem more prevalent today, forward-thinking organizations have long understood the value of bringing their systems and IIoT devices together.

How the cloud and other key trends move IIot forward

Though IIoT has always been steadily growing, the recent health crisis accelerated digital transformation on a global scale. As more people began working from home, businesses needed to en-

able greater connectivity to applications and secure access to information from any device or location. They needed to pivot fast and implement new connected technologies to keep business moving forward.

At the same time, the launch of 5G and the growth of cloud infrastructure set the stage for more widespread IIoT initiatives. Where 5G delivers a faster, more efficient transfer of data, cloud applications offer powerful computing, data processing, and storage from the get-go. This provides an easier and more affordable pathway to expanding existing systems, launching new applications, and sharing data across departments and sites.

Even today, the cloud continues to broaden opportunities for businesses that want greater connectivity across their Internet of Things devices. And there’s so much more flexibility in deploying new solutions while bringing all their existing investments into the IIoT environment.

For example, new cloud-connected infrastructure appliances are streamlining the transition to a hybrid-cloud architecture. This allows IT and physical security professionals to upgrade their security infrastructure and expand connectivity to various devices, data, and locations, all while keeping legacy sensors. So where legacy equipment may have held organizations back from launching new IIoT strategies, these plug-and-play

cloud appliances are bridging the gap and helping them modernize their installations. Today, cloud solutions are making it simpler, more affordable, and even more secure to bring systems and data together, and make all of it accessible from any location.

Is cloud the best way to reinforce IIoT cybersecurity?

One of the biggest concerns for organizations is IIoT cybersecurity. Why is strong cybersecurity essential for IIoT? Because as the number of connected devices increases, so do the risks for cyberattacks and data breaches. There’s no question that an organization’s main goal is to extract as much value from all the connected sensors. But the most successful outcomes also depend on how well they can build and maintain strong cybersecurity and data privacy.

Though the cloud is a main catalyst in IIoT, the long-held belief that the cloud isn’t secure simply isn’t true. In today’s world, keeping systems safe from threats is costly and complex. Usually, it requires dedicated resources, large budgets, and relentless diligence. With the right cloud solution, organizations can get many built-in cybersecurity features and tools that help automate processes and stay on top of threats.

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Choosing solutions built on tier-one cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure can enhance cyber resilience. These cloud service providers invest significant amounts of time and resources in cybersecurity, upholding various standards and certifications around the world. Dedicated teams also monitor the latest threats and initiate regular third-party penetration testing and auditing. This means organizations can get a more cyber-resilient foundation across their IIoT applications.

With cloud-connected solutions, IT and security professionals get immediate access to the latest version updates and fixes. You’ll also get many built-in cybersecurity features such as encryption, authentication, privacy controls, and various system health monitoring tools. All of this helps to quickly address issues and strengthen the organization’s cyber posture.

Migrating to cloud platforms also helps IT and physical security professionals streamline maintenance. For instance, your team no longer needs to travel to various locations to manage infrastructure, handle updates, or check system health. Using the cloud, you can centralize connectivity to all your devices, systems, and sites. This allows you to monitor IIoT cybersecurity and ensure everything is hardened and running at peak performance.

How unification and advances in analytics help businesses make sense of the data

Connecting hundreds or even thousands of sensors in your environment can only benefit your team if they have the tools to make sense of the data coming in. This is why investing in an open architecture platform is critical. With an open and unified platform, you can bring data from various types of sensors and systems into one single solution. This creates a solid foundation on which you can keep expanding your IIoT initiatives.

For instance, you might start by combining your video, access control, and intrusion systems into one platform. Doing this will provide your security personnel with a clearer picture of events and enable them to quickly respond to threats and incidents within the environment. From there, you might bring in other business systems such as intercom, building management, point-of-sale, or automatic license plate recognition. Having all these sensors drive data into one single platform gives your team a better under-

standing of what’s happening across your business. You’ll also be able to achieve higher levels of automation by setting up event-to-actions, scheduling weekly and daily reports, or using built-in APIs to build custom applications.

Built-in analytics and artificial intelligence methods such as machine learning and deep learning are also shaping new possibilities in IIoT. Choosing a unified platform that includes AI-powered analytics can open the door to endless business opportunities. From motion detection and directional flow analytics to people counting and crowd estimation tools, there are countless ways these AI tools can help you gather more insights about your security and business processes. More than that, these new AI methods can go beyond alerting your team to crowds gathering in a specific location so they can take action. They help qualify all the data coming in and weed out probable false alarms so your team stays focused on the most pressing situations. And depending on what’s unfolding, an AI-powered platform can also guide them through response to resolution, ensuring they can confidently handle any situation. Think this sounds too good to be true? Now, let’s look at five examples of how real businesses are making use of their connected IIoT environment to enhance their security and operations

Automating HVAC airflow in airports based on crowd levels

Airports welcome millions of passengers through their facilities every day. And depending on daily flight schedules, crowds can form quickly in certain areas. Ensur-

ing proper airflow throughout the airport is critical, especially when lots of people are condensed in security lines, at gates, or in specific terminal wings. The challenge is that running HVAC systems at full throttle all the time isn’t cost or energy efficient.

At an airport in Canada, the operations team was able to leverage video surveillance and crowd estimation analytics to better control airflow in various areas throughout the airport. For example, if their unified security platform detected a crowd forming in a specific area, the system would trigger the HVAC airflow in that zone to increase. When the crowd would subside, so would the airflow. This has not only helped to reduce energy costs and keep sustainability practices in check, but they’re also ensuring better quality air for their passengers during busier travel times.

Using sound detection in restrooms to monitor safety and operations

Video surveillance is very helpful to detect threats across university campuses, schools, or offices. But for obvious reasons, cameras cannot be installed in sensitive areas such as bathrooms. Some schools have found that implementing sound detection in bathrooms solves that problem.

For example, sound detection IoT devices can detect certain keywords such as ‘help’. Within the unified platform, this would alert operators to a possible incident. They could then dispatch security personnel to check in on the situation. Janitors completing cleaning rounds in bathrooms can also say ‘cleaning done’.

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

The unified platform would then log the completion of cleaning, digitizing janitorial processes.

Detecting illegal dumping across a city

Cities often have trouble managing illegal dumping activities. It’s difficult to detect the actual dumping incident and even harder to deter or identify suspects. Recently, the City of New Orleans (NOLA) took an innovative approach to address illegal dumping. NOLA’s Sanitation Department and Real-Time Crime Center worked in partnership to install cameras at known dumping sites, but the cameras alone weren’t enough.

The team also set up an event-to-action rule in the Security Center platform which processes motion detection in a defined zone of the camera’s field of view, and then immediately takes a snapshot of the video and emails it to specific people. Within two days of setting this event-toaction up, NOLA was able to identify and arrest a repeat offender.

Identifying temperatures in server rooms or hospital medicine rooms

Many organizations are managing large server rooms which house critical systems and data. Keeping these server rooms cool ensures investments are protected and business runs as usual. Hospi-

tals face similar requirements in keeping certain medication rooms cool to ensure critical drugs don’t spoil.

One way to track temperatures for these specific applications is by installing air temperature sensors in these rooms. So if a cooling system fails and temperatures begin rising or even reach a specific threshold, your team will be immediately alerted.

In some cases, this might have nothing to do with an HVAC failure but because someone accidentally left a door propped open. This is where having all data unified within one platform comes into play. The system would be able to quickly detect, both the door ajar for too long and a rise in room temperature, and quickly identify that it’s likely an urgent situation and push all that information to an operator. They can then investigate and remediate the situation. They can also quickly identify who was last in the room based on cardholder information, and follow up with additional protocols.

Automating building controls to enhance sustainability efforts

Building management systems and building automation are important components in IIoT. According to new sustainability research in physical security, 42% of organizations have their access control system linked to their building management system. Another 35% use the data

from their access control system to drive greener operations.

For instance, customers can use standard protocols in Security Center to automatically activate heating, cooling, lighting, and other building functions at the tap of an access control card to a reader. So when the first employee enters the building or office using their mobile credentials or access card, the unified platform would trigger the heating or cooling to reach the desired temperature and the main lights to automatically turn on.

An automatic license plate recognition system can also be set up in the same way. So when the first vehicle is detected entering a parking lot, the building functions are activated.

Start bringing all your IIoT sensors together

Organizations have so many IIoT devices in their environment, so it only makes sense that many are exploring new ways to leverage the data. But with cybersecurity top of mind and endless possibilities to offer, it’s not always easy to find the best path forward.

Working with a vendor that you can trust is critical. Not only will they offer your organization the tools to keep your data private and protected; but they can also help you assess your current environment, build a phased roadmap, and guide you through the process of achieving your IoT objectives. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

NEW WAY OF LOOKING THROUGH THINGS

SMART GLASS: WHERE AESTHETICS, DISCRETION, AND SECURITY CONVERGE

Although the first experimental implementations of smart glass date back to the 1960s, its mass commercial use began a few decades later. Due to its multiple applications in different verticals, this technology is attracting more attention today

Smart glass is also known as intelligent or electrochromic glass. It is a special type of glass that can change its transparency, i.e. its appearance, when combined with electricity. It consists of layers of special materials and conductive coatings between two layers of glass or plastic material. When brought into contact with an electric current, the materials react and change their structure, which leads to a change in the levels of transparency of the glass. This means that it can switch between transparent and opaque states as needed, making it highly appropriate for many industries.

Modest beginnings

Early installations of smart glass were mostly limited to individual windows or smaller areas, rather than facades or large glass surfaces. The first mass installation in buildings began in the mid-2000s, although smart glass technology was developed much earlier, dating back to 1960. However, its application in real-life projects was limited due to high production costs and numerous technical challenges. Technological progress, reduction of production costs, and increasing awareness of energy efficiency have encouraged the wider application of smart glass in buildings. This included installation in

office buildings, hotels, shopping malls, and some luxury residential buildings. Later, the technology spread to different types of facilities, including residential buildings, hospitals, schools, museums, and sports halls.

How does it work?

Active smart glass is based on several similar technologies: PDLC, SPD, and electrochromic technology. Polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) are used to control light transmission through

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Combined with video surveillance, smart glass can ensure discretion and privacy by being transparent to security personnel or surveillance cameras, allowing them to monitor the situation, while appearing opaque to passers-by or visitors

transparent materials such as glass or polycarbonates. Glass consists of layers of liquid crystals between two layers of transparent electrodes. The liquid crystals in the PDLC material are normally found in a state of disorder, which allows light to pass freely through the material. When an electric field is applied across the electrodes, the liquid crystals are reoriented and re-arranged, leading to the diffraction of light and the ensuing opacity of the material. By turning off the voltage, the liquid crystals return to their disordered state and the material becomes transparent. PDLC is one of the most widely used technologies. Although this type of film is generally used for indoor uses, it can be optimized to maintain its properties in outdoor areas and is available in all colors and patterns. When opaque, PDLC is ideal for privacy protection, projections, and whiteboard use. Given that it blocks visible light, glass with PDLC foil reflects both solar radiation and infrared light, thus cooling the interior.

Microscopic particles

SPD (Suspended Particle Device) materials use particle suspension technology that responds to electrical voltage to control the transparency of the material. The technology consists of two layers of transparent electrodes, between which there is a suspension of microscopic particles that retain their natural color and can be polarized under the influence of an electric field. When the electrical voltage is turned on, the particles align in straight lines and thus contribute to the diffraction of light, and the material becomes opaque. This process of changing light transmittance unfolds quickly and without visible transition states, which is one of the advantages of SPD over other types of technologies. SPD materials are often used in windows and other surfaces to regulate the amount of light and heat that passes through the material.

Applications

Smart glass offers several advantages: energy efficiency, privacy protection, lighting regulation, and aesthetics. The application of smart glass is diverse. First, it can be used in building windows to control the amount of sunlight and heat entering the room. It is also used in glass partitions, on shower cabin doors, mirrors, and other surfaces which

Manufacturers

There are multiple manufacturers of smart glass around the world. The French company Saint-Gobain is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of building materials, including smart glass. Their smart glass product line is called SageGlass and offers different variants of smart glass for controlling light and heat in buildings. The next manufacturer is Samsung Electro-Mechanics as the largest Asian manufacturer, while Research Frontiers and View have a strong presence in the Northern American Market. Chinese companies such as Beijing All Brilliant Technology and Smart Glass International are also actively involved in the production of smart glass.

you want to control privacy or reduce lighting with. In the construction industry, it is used in windows, facades, and building partitions to control the flow of light and heat, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing cooling and heating costs. In the automotive industry, it is used to make electrochromic mirrors or sunroofs, while in the medical sector, smart glass is applied to operating room windows to provide privacy and reduce noise. It is also used in imaging devices such as X-rays or ultrasounds, where the passage of light can be controlled or visibility changed. Recently, it has been increasingly used in electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets to create additional screens that can be folded or become transparent when inactive.

Security industry and smart glass

Smart glass provides several benefits in the security industry as well. It can be used as a security layer on windows or glass doors to increase resistance to burglary. When the glass is in an opaque state, it prevents visibility of the interior

of the room, making it difficult for potential burglars to plan their actions. It can also be integrated into access control systems. By combining smart glass with biometric sensors or other identification systems, ensuring selective access to the premises is made easier. The glass can become transparent only to authorized persons while keeping others out of sight. Combined with video surveillance, it can ensure discretion and privacy by being transparent to security personnel or surveillance cameras, allowing them to monitor the situation, while appearing opaque to passers-by or visitors.

Smart glass can be used in emergencies such as earthquakes or terrorist attacks. When an appropriate alarm system is activated, smart glass can become opaque to protect people from harmful effects, providing cover and reducing visibility for potential intruders. On top of all that, smart glass can also communicate various messages within the alarm system. In general, smart glass in the security industry allows for adaptability, discretion, and an additional level of protection, contributing to the overall feeling of security and improving measures aimed at achieving it. n

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Lario Lovric, CEO, Aldra

Alameen Security Services

UAE’S CUTTING-EDGE APPROACH EXTENDS TO AI-POWERED SECURITY

Lario Lovric is a security expert, advisor, analyst, and holds a Master’s Degree in Military and Security Science. Despite his ongoing commitments, he has already amassed extensive international experience and an extensive advisory portfolio for various governments in the Middle East and Africa.

Currently, he serves as the CEO of Aldra Alameen Security Services L.L.C., a company offering a significant range of security, advisory services, and government-oriented training. He is also a board member of the Multinational BEL TREND, UAE & EGYPT, a lecturer at security conferences and universities, and an advisor to several multinational companies and governments on homeland security issues.

a&s Middle East: An inevitable question - how do you view the country as a cosmopolitan?

Lovric: The United Arab Emirates is a place characterized by various approaches, frames of reference, and differing value systems. I strive to share my fascination. I’ve been based here for two years now, having moved my business from Europe due to my strategic understanding of the UAE’s future. Beyond economic and demographic factors, its foreign policy and security aspects are truly admirable. Just like any nation, the UAE possesses vast opportunities and potential advantages, which in turn could lead to security challenges.

a&s Middle East: How do you perceive security in the United Arab Emirates?

Lovric: Security in the UAE is well-structured, organized, and even futuristic in its approach. Crime rates are notably low,

and instances of muggings and robberies are deplorable.

a&s Middle East: What are your thoughts on private security in the UAE?

Lovric: I can confidently affirm that SIRA, the Dubai-based agency I am personally

familiar with, maintains exceptionally high standards. Its operational efficacy is nearly on par with that of European countries.

a&s Middle East: Do you concur with the notion that the UAE is the leader in security in the region?

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Security in the UAE is well-structured, organized, and even futuristic in its approach
Lario Lovric, CEO of Aldra Alameen Security Services L.L.C., talks to a&s Middle East to uncover how the UAE’s advanced security landscape harmonizes with evolving geopolitical dynamics

Lovric: The UAE is undoubtedly a substantial investor in security. One only needs to observe the multitude of security conferences held throughout the year, as well as various military and security expos - some of which rank among the most frequented globally.

a&s Middle East: What does futuristic security entail, and what is your perspective on AI?

Lovric: The UAE stands out as a significant spender on artificial intelligence (AI) globally. Recent market studies reveal that governments of prosperous Gulf oilproducing countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, allocate substantial funds - equivalent to, if not more than, certain European nations - for the advancement of AI-related technologies. This unequivocally underscores AI’s role in shaping futuristic security. Furthermore, the UAE was the first nation in the region to adopt a National AI Foundation strategy in 2017, and it holds the distinction of being the world’s inaugural Ministry for Artificial Intelligence.

a&s Middle East: Can the use of AI infringe upon basic human rights, such as surveillance or manipulation?

Lovric: The utilization of AI-based systems does indeed carry the risk of exacerbating existing injustices, especially in countries lacking robust human rights protection and rule of law frameworks. These countries now channel vast resources into AI development, raising concerns about potential misuse. Preventing malicious actors from exploiting AI for nefarious purposes remains a challenge. AI, in my perspective, encompasses a broad array of digital technologies, ranging from accelerated data processing for analysis to what is referred to as ‘Artificial Generative Intelligence.’

a&s Middle East: How do you collaborate with local security professionals?

Lovric: My interactions have primarily been with government professionals. I’ve encountered many officers who display exceptional competence, fortified by solid and advanced backgrounds. Many of them actively participate in international missions

alongside American and European officers. The election of UAE’s Maj. Gen. Ahmed Naser al-Raisi as INTERPOL President in 2021 attests to international recognition.

a&s Middle East: Addressing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, what does war signify to you?

Lovric: As someone who has participated in two wars, I must emphasize that war stands as humanity’s greatest catastrophe. In this war, diplomacy and the sanctity of life have failed. I would like to highlight two factors: firstly, this conflict isn’t limited to the Russians and Ukrainians; and secondly, it could potentially open the door to another ‘inevitable’ war between China and Taiwan in the near future.

a&s Middle East: What’s your perspective on UAE’s role in this situation?

Lovric: The UAE is displaying astute diplomatic acumen on the international stage. Mediating in the Ukrainian conflict represents an ideal way to bolster diplomacy, transforming the UAE into a global influencer. Notably, one of the earliest significant prisoner exchanges occurred under UAE’s initiative. Additionally, the UAE boasts one of the strongest economies in the Middle East. It’s vital to monitor relationships between neighboring countries and their impact on the broader region. The Russian-Ukrainian conflict, in a paradoxical manner, positively affects the market while activating the named axis’s prosperity.

a&s Middle East: Earlier, you mentioned the China-Taiwan conflict. What’s your take on this?

Lovric: Delving into this matter requires political consideration. Both nations hold global significance in manufacturing, particularly in electronics and recent essential components like chips. Taiwan holds economic and symbolic importance for China. Despite claims that Beijing has no intention of militarily taking over Taiwan, China’s foreign policy encompasses defensive, assertive (through economy), and symbolic dimensions. The UAE, along with international diplomacy, plays a critical role in maintaining peace and preserving the security industry’s integrity.

a&s Middle East: What advice would you offer young students?

Lovric: Embrace advice from mentors, colleagues, and those with greater knowledge and experience in your desired profession. Continuously work on self-improvement through consistent education. n

INTERVIEW
The UAE is undoubtedly a substantial investor in security. One only needs to observe the multitude of security conferences held throughout the year, as well as various military and security expos - some of which rank among the most frequented globally
31 www.asmideast.com
The UAE plays a critical role in maintaining peace and preserving the security industry’s integrity

NEW CUSTOMER-FOCUSED STRATEGIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST

SEEING IS BELIEVING: DELL’S SOLUTION CENTERS ARE ENVOYS OF ITS VISION FOR THE META REGION

Firas Shmait, Regional Manager for Safety and Security for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) at Dell Technologies, sheds light on the company’s commitment to delivering validated and guaranteed solutions in the META region

Dell Technologies is a household name in the world of tech. In its ever-evolving landscape, staying relevant and ahead of the curve remains paramount in the META region in particular. This is why Dell came up with the concept of the cutting-edge solutions centers as the ambassadors for its dedication to innovation, and customer-centricity, as explained by Mr. Shmait.

Deliver with Confidence to Ask For It in Return

He highlights the critical role played by Dell Technologies’ dedicated team in providing value-added safety and security solutions to customers. Central to their approach is a rigorous validation process, which spans design, optimization, validation, piloting, and deployment. The company’s labs test solutions in both stress and fail environments, ensuring that customers receive only the highest quality and performance. Shmait emphasizes that this is the way that Dell Technologies can stand behind its products with the

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utmost confidence which it, then, asks of its customers in relation to its brand.

Collaboration and Partnerships Simplify the Increasingly Complex Industry

Acknowledging the complexity of modern technology ecosystems, Shmait underscores Dell Technologies’ collaborative efforts. This is why the company embarked on a strategy of working closely with numerous alliances and ecosystem partners to deliver the best possible combination of hardware and software solutions.

This collaborative approach allows Dell Technologies to tailor its offerings to meet the unique requirements of its customers. Additionally, by focusing on excellence in the OEM segment, Dell Technologies approaches the design and customization of its products so as to make them fit specific customer needs in the META region, going beyond mere reliance on standard solutions.

Dubai Solution Center: A Hub of Innovation

To put all of this to practice, Shmait points to Dell Technologies’ Dubai

Solution Center, a pivotal hub for the META region. As one of 12 similar Solution Centers worldwide, the Dubai facility welcomes customers from the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, and Central and Eastern Europe. At the center, customers can witness the company’s commitment to the principle of “seeing is believing.” Through comprehensive infrastructure demonstrations and immersive experiences, Dell Technologies wants to provide a firsthand understanding of their products’ capabilities, claims Shmait. The center boasts a dedicated security lab, ensuring that customers can also test and refine their own security procedures in a controlled environment.

Bridging the Gap between Technology and Customer Needs

Under the guidance of Firas Shmait, Dell Technologies is transforming the safety and security landscape in the META region. With a focus on validated solutions, collaboration, and the Dubai Solution Center, the company wants to empower customers to embrace the future with confidence. By bridging the gap between technology and customer needs, Dell Technologies hopes to set new standards and redefine the possibilities of what it means to fully embrace the digital age across the META region. n

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Dell Technologies is embarked on a strategy of working closely with numerous alliances and ecosystem partners to deliver the best possible combination of hardware and software solutions

We Secure the Middle East with Our Best-of-Breed and Arabic-Ready Solutions

INTERVIEW
34 www.asmideast.com

a&s Middle East: Can you provide an overview of AMAG Technology’s presence and operations in the Middle Eastern region? How long has the company been active in this market?

Williams: AMAG has been operating in the Middle East region for more than 20 years and has local integrators in Abu Dhabi to service the GCC.

a&s Middle East: What specific challenges and opportunities do you see in the Middle Eastern market for physical access control, identity management, and integrated security solutions?

Williams: Localization can be a challenge for some, but AMAG’s Symmetry solutions are designed to operate in Arabic with a right-to-left orientation of the screens to ensure wider adoption.

a&s Middle East: How does AMAG Technology tailor its solutions to meet the unique security needs and cultural considerations of Middle Eastern clients, particularly in line with your “empowering customers to succeed” concept?

Williams: Apart from the native language operation of our Symmetry Security Management System, we are also aware of cultural sensitivities around who has access to personal images and can hide that in organizations that use our identity management systems. Our goal is to empower security managers and decisionmakers to make the choices they need to effectively secure their people, property, and assets, and feel confident in their choice.

a&s Middle East: Could you share some success stories or notable projects in the Middle East where AMAG’s solutions have made a significant impact on enhancing security and access control?

Williams: AMAG has been very successful in both the commercial and central banking verticals in the Middle East.

Customers have made use of our BLEenabled multi-technology card readers to help them transition to more secure encrypted card technology whilst also benefiting from automated on-boarding, off-boarding, and recertification of employees using our web-based Symmetry CONNECT identity management solution which has helped them reduce adminis-

a&s Middle East: Given the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, are there any regulatory or compliance factors in the Middle East that AMAG takes into account when providing security solutions to clients, such as those relating to data privacy or cybersecurity?

tration costs and mitigating risk with policy-based automation of access privileges. As highly regulated industries, they have also seen a huge reduction in time and effort to produce their quarterly audit data with real-time management dashboards available.

Williams: This question is very on point. With the seemingly endless fascination with cloud-based solutions seen in other parts of the world, the Middle East takes a more nationalistic view to the hosting of data and therefore many of AMAG’s SaaS solutions have been deployed “on-prem” i.e. hosted in the client’s own IT infrastructure to avoid external foreign hosting of their data. At the time of writing, however, we have just set up our first visitor and identity management solution for a customer in the Middle East using our UShosted Microsoft Azure environment. So perhaps this will see the start of a new trend towards externally hosted solutions.

a&s Middle East: Can you discuss the role of technology partnerships in the Middle East? How does collaborating with local partners contribute to delivering more comprehensive security solutions?

35 www.asmideast.com INTERVIEW
Localization can be a challenge for some, but AMAG’s Symmetry solutions are designed to operate in Arabic with a right-to-left orientation of the screens to ensure wider adoption
In an interview with a&s Middle East, AMAG Technology’s Mark Williams explores tailored security solutions and innovations for the Middle East region, including the challenges of localization, unique machine learning technologies, and future trends revolving around frictionless access

Williams: AMAG systems are open and therefore we quite often have requests for our systems to integrate with local providers of time and attendance solutions, for example. Given that time and attendance solutions are often highly localized, this allows our customers to benefit from “best of breed” products that have been specifically designed to cater to the Middle East market.

a&s Middle East: The Middle East is a fast-growing market with evolving security needs. How does AMAG Technology stay up-to-date with rapid technology advancement and the ever-changing demands of its customers in the Middle East?

Williams: AMAG is a huge proponent of the “voice of the customer” and uses major trade shows like Intersec to listen to the needs of our Middle East customers and make sure that wherever possible those needs are reflected

Leveraging Machine Learning to Mitigate Internal Threats

One other trend we see throughout the region is the need to deal with the internal threat i.e. from someone we have already provided with the means to enter our protected properties legitimately. AMAG has pioneered the application of machine learning algorithms to the big data that access control and security management systems possess. AMAG’s Symmetry Analytics system learns a person’s normal behavior after a short period and therefore, by extension, can determine what the person’s abnormal behavior is. This allows Symmetry to provide reports to our customers warning of potentially nefarious activity. The data allow them to be proactive, rather than reactive.

in our product road maps. It also helps that AMAG commits significant R&D resources in both the UK and the US to make sure its hardware and software products remain at the forefront of the market.

a&s Middle East: What do you foresee as the future trends in the Middle Eastern

security market, and how is AMAG positioned to adapt and lead in those areas?

Williams: We have seen a huge trend toward “frictionless” access control postCOVID. This has extended beyond longrange BLE-enabled readers and smartphones to frictionless biometrics that uses photo images that have either been imported from HR systems or created as “selfies” using mobile credential management solutions. Such technologies may mean the end of the traditional “pass office” or could well see the end of traditional access control cards in favor of smartphones with free mobile credentials or indeed simply presenting one’s face or finger to a device that does not need to be “touched” in any way. n

36 www.asmideast.com INTERVIEW
We have seen a huge trend toward ‘frictionless’ access control post-COVID. Such technologies may mean the end of the traditional ‘pass office’ or could well see the end of traditional access control cards in favor of smartphones with free mobile credentials
37 www.asmideast.com E-mail: info@connect2bnet.com Web: www.connect2bnet.com B2B Platform: https://pro.connect2bnet.com ü PARTICIPANTS PROFILES ü MARKETPLACE ü EFFECTIVE MACHMAKING ü VIDEO CALL & MESSAGING ü VIRTUAL EVENT MANAGEMENT Maximized matchmaking connectivity in Security, Automation, IoT, ICT, Mobility, and Smart Solutions industry

TECHMAN SOLUTIONS SUCCESSFULLY DELIVERS CUTTING-EDGE ICT PROJECT

Techman Solutions, a leader in innovative ICT solutions, is thrilled to announce the successful completion of a groundbreaking ICT project at the FIFA Fan Festival in Doha, Qatar. Valued at 4.1 million dollars, this project encompassed design and delivery, and it marks a significant milestone in enhancing the fan experience during the FIFA World Cup.

n Source: Techman Solutions

editorial@asmideast.com

The FIFA Fan Festival, known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, is crucial in uniting football enthusiasts worldwide. To ensure a seamless and memorable experience for attendees, Techman Solutions was entrusted with providing cutting-edge information and communication technology services.

Key Scopes of the Project:

1. **IT Scope with Public WIFI**: Techman Solutions delivered a state-ofthe-art public Wi-Fi network that meets FIFA’s stringent requirements. This ensures that fans at the festival enjoy uninterrupted connectivity for sharing their excitement live updates and engaging with the event digitally.

2. **CCTV and Public Announcement**:

The project included installing a comprehensive CCTV system and enhancing security and surveillance throughout the festival area. A robust public announcement system was implemented to keep fans informed and engaged during various activities and events.

3. **Voice Alarm**: Safety is a top priority. Techman Solutions integrated a cutting-edge voice alarm system to

38 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
FIFA FAN FESTIVAL IN DOHA

quick and organized response to any situation.

Enhancing Fan Experience

One of the most remarkable aspects of this project was the time constraint. Techman Solutions had a mere 45 days to design, deploy, and deliver these critical ICT services for the FIFA Fan

“We are immensely proud of our team’s dedication and expertise in completing this complex ICT project within a tight timeframe,” said Mirsad Selimovic, CEO of Techman Solutions. “Our goal was to enhance the fan experience at the FIFA Fan Festival by providing seamless connectivity, robust security, and effective communication systems. We are confi -

ball fans from across the globe.”

Techman Solutions’ successful completion of this high-profile project reaffirms its commitment to delivering cuttingedge ICT solutions globally. Their ability to meet stringent FIFA requirements and deliver under tight deadlines sets them apart as a trusted partner for large-scale events. n

39 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
G1 G1 E1 E2 G2 G2 Public Entrance مﺎﻋ ﻞﺧﺪﻣ G1 Public Entrance مﺎﻋ ﻞﺧﺪﻣ G1 Media Entrance ﲔﻴﻣﻼﻋﻹا ﻞﺧﺪﻣ Corniche Metro ﺶﻴﻧرﻮﻜﻟا وﱰﻣ ﺔﻄﺤﻣ Toilets هﺎﻴ ا تارود FIFA Store FIFA ﺮﺠﺘﻣ Information Point تﺎﻣﻼﻌﺘﺳﻻا ﺔﻄﻘﻧ FIFA Museum Prayer Room ﲆﺼﻣ FIFA ﻒﺤﺘﻣ Live ﺚﺒﻟا Playground ﺐﻌﻠﻟا ﺔﺣﺎﺳ Smoking Area ﲔﺧﺪﺘﻟا ﺔﻘﻄﻨﻣ Food & Soul مﺎﻌﻄﻟا ﺔﻘﻄﻨﻣ Hospitality ﺔﻓﺎﻴﻀﻟا Children Registration Area لﺎﻔﻃﻷا ﻞﻴﺠﺴﺗ ﺔﻘﻄﻨﻣ E1 جﺮﺨﻣ Exit E2 جﺮﺨﻣ Exit Food & Beverage تﺎﺑوﴩ او ﺔﻤﻌﻃﻷا Medical Clinic ةدﺎﻴﻋ Presented by Hyundai
ﻦﻴﻌﺠﺸﻤﻠﻟ FIFA نﺎﺟﺮﻬﻣ ﻊﻗﻮﻤﻟا ﺔﻄﻳﺮﺧ 1. Venue Operation Centre Security monitoring room, Video wall, secured LAN/WAN & Wireless network Fully operational for 29 days with no downtime. 2. Security Control Room Fully operational security control room with video wall & secured network. 3. Security Solution · CCTV System – installed approx. 860 cameras accross venue · Visitor Management Solutions · Vehicle Management Solutions 6. Public Announcement System Ensuring the security of fans and employees. Installation & integration of PA systems across venue – 450 speakers for announcements 4. Public Wireless Solution · Highly secured wireless network as per FIFA standards. · Wi-Fi 6 solution – 140 wireless access points across the venue · Guaranteed internet speed 5. Commercial Affiliates Network Secured internet bandwidth for worldwide knows clients such as Visa, Match Hospitality, Marriot Hospitality, Qatar Airways, FIFA Museum. Client Contractor ICT Solutions Value Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Fischer Appelt for Marketing and Events (FA) Techman Solutions QAR 15,000,000 $4,110,000
FIFA Fan Festival Venue Map

HOW DO WE REVOLUTIONIZE CYBERSECURITY?

STAYING SAFE FROM CYBERATTACKS

Cyberattacks are increasingly common and costly, and all organizations are vulnerable. Last year, Statista reported that over 493.33 million ransomware attacks were detected by organizations worldwide, and Tekspace reported that global cyberattacks increased by 38% in 2022. IBM estimated that the global average data breach in 2022 cost $4.35 million

each new tool requires a new software license and more training

Market Challenges

Cyberattack protection tools are constantly evolving to address new threats, but traditionally, each tool has its own security console, which often makes it impossible to detect cyberattacks that work through a combination of entry points (or attack vectors). Also, many tools produce thousands of alerts that overload analysts and make it difficult to identify the few that require urgent action. Finally,

Stellar Cyber’s XDR Solution

One new technology, eXtended Detection and Response (XDR), helps address these issues. XDR unifies cybersecurity tools under one license and one console, so it’s much easier for analysts to correlate alerts across tools and act more quickly to respond to threats. In a large American City, the IT department adopted Stellar Cyber’s Open XDR Platform to unify its detection and response capabilities and dramatically improve analyst productivity.

“XDR seemed like a good approach for us,” said the city’s Deputy CIO. “Unifying all data in one console and doing threathunting and remediation from there was a lot better than having specific analysts assigned to specific parts of the network. When you have several different security tools you assign one analyst to learn and operate one set of tools, another to operate another set of tools, and so on. So, it’s hard to get a good overall view of your security with a model like that because nobody sees the whole picture.”

The Deputy CIO invited his security analysts to a demo of the Stellar Cyber Open XDR platform. “After the demo, it was just

40 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
n Source: Stellar Cyber editorial@asmideast.com

one unanimous decision,” he said. “Stellar Cyber was the destination we were trying to get to when it comes to monitoring and visibility into our environment.”

Enhanced Visibility and Efficiency

Stellar Cyber combines NG-SIEM, NDR, IDS, UEBA, and SOAR functions and also includes malware/phishing detection and several other key security tools. In addition, the platform integrates data from the City’s existing security tools and data from its proprietary sensors to deliver a comprehensive picture of the entire environment.

“The visibility we get into our environment is outstanding, whether it’s east/west traffic or north/south traffic, and we can triage from a generated incident to the source of what caused that incident,” said the Deputy CIO. “It makes it much easier to do a lot of investigation and response because it cuts down the manual intervention of the analysts. With our lean security team, the product helps skills of any level be more productive.”

Stellar Cyber simplifies detection and response by leveraging AI and machine

learning. The platform automatically evaluates and groups related alerts in a prioritized list of contextual incidents on its intuitive dashboard.

“The AI features of the platform reduce the number of staff we have to assign to doing manual tasks,” the Deputy CIO said. “That automation saves us a lot of time, and our analysts are far more productive and can quickly detect and respond to threats.”

“If we didn’t have this platform, I would

have needed to hire more analysts because of the labor involved in the investigation aspect alone,” said the Deputy CIO. “Now, one analyst can investigate and resolve an incident within five to ten minutes instead of taking days or weeks. It has been a game-changer for us and has allowed me to keep my budget under control.”

If you want real solutions to today’s cybersecurity challenges, learn more about Stellar Cyber’s Open XDR Platform at https://stellarcyber.ai. n

41 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

NEW FIRE SAFETY SOLUTIONS

ADVANCED OFFERS MIDDLE

EAST VERSATILE SCALABLE SOLUTIONS

With customers in the Middle East using both EN and UL fire safety solutions, Advanced provides great flexibility by offering both. Options range from complex networked fire systems to simpler solutions for smaller sites, including wired, wireless, and hybrid applications.

Hossam Badwy, Business Development Manager, Middle East, and Africa, at Advanced, explains more about the importance of versatility.

n Source: Advanced hbadwy@advancedco.com

The Middle East is an exciting unique market where both EN and UL fire safety solutions are used. Not all companies can fulfill both requirements but at Advanced we can help customers to meet either standard in our Axis EN and Axis AX product ranges respectively.

For customers that have large complex applications, like the Wafi Hotel and Mall in Dubai, our Axis EN system is ideal for providing powerful networking capacity. A network of 19 EN54-approved Axis EN fire panels, including an integrated fire

telephone system and 7,500 devices, has been installed across the US$ 750 million Wafi Hotel and Mall development project.

Installed at the hotel, which boasts 501 luxury guestrooms and 86 suites, a ball-

room, numerous conference and hospitality facilities as well as a temperaturecontrolled pool deck, are 14 4-loop, 2-loop, and 1-loop Axis EN fire panels and 5,500 devices. Meanwhile, included in the active fire protection measures for

42 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Hossam Badwy, Business Development Manager, Middle East, and Africa, Advanced

the Wafi Mall, cinema, and car park are a further five Axis EN fire panels of 4-loop and 2-loop variants, alongside an additional 2,000 devices.

Solutions For Complex Projects

Axis EN is ideal for complex, large-scale installations as it can be used to create robust networks of up to 200 panels per network, or further expanded by combining networks. Whether networking highrisk sites with complicated cause and effect, remotely monitoring networked sites, or integrating with building management systems (BMS), intuitive software and panel navigation make setup straightforward. Axis EN is also effective in minimizing unwanted alarms thanks to its built-in AlarmCalm false alarm management and reduction software. Meanwhile, the UL 864-approved Axis AX fire system is not only robust and versatile but also easy to use – from installation and commissioning to servicing, maintenance, and day-to-day operation. This is particularly useful in complex applications such as airports that rely on several specialized systems to facilitate specific processes, such as aeronautical navigation and surveillance, ground handling, and the processing of passengers and baggage. Here the systems integrated may include a PA system, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), elevator control, the airport information system, and other security systems such as access control and video surveillance.

For example, Abu Dhabi International Airport is the second largest airport in the UAE, serving over 12 million passengers each year. Here the fire system protecting its fuel depot comprises a faulttolerant network of five Axis AX panels, BACnet BMS integration, and over 300 individual components and devices.

The UL 864-approved Axis AX fire system makes light work of integrating smoke control and audio or voice options too which are frequently required for fire systems in the Middle East. The flexible

Axis AX offers integrated audio for automatic (and manual) fire alarm signaling and live voice paging during emergencies. The system also provides access to DynamixSmoke, a revolutionary approach to smoke control that radically reduces the time and associated costs of configuring fans and dampers.

Voice Evacuation Made Simple

One of the current trends in the Middle East is that most high-rise buildings require the addition of voice evacuation, but issues can arise if the audio doesn’t sync, and people can hear multiple messages at once. To solve this our Axis AX range features PerfectSync which ensures audio synchronization across the entire network to avoid the confusion of mixed messages. This includes large networks where we can deliver the message from the first panel to the 200th with highly synchronized fast messaging to help people evacuate more effectively in case of fire.

At Advanced we not only offer fire systems for complex buildings, but also solutions for small applications such as retail and the housing sectors. For example, our new-generation AxisGo single-loop fire panel can be used in applications such as villas and smaller commercial sites. This versatile panel is packed with premium features, offering a powerful option for protecting smaller sites. It provides cost-effective access to Axis EN range performance, quality, and ease of use, in a simpler, non-networkable format. AxisGo is available as a wired, wireless, or hybrid system, bringing additional versatility. So, no matter how complex or straightforward the project, at Advanced we have the flexibility to offer our customers the right solution – approved to the right standard – for complete fire protection peace of mind.

For further information on Advanced and its products, send an email to hbadwy@advancedco.com or visit: www.advancedco.com

43 www.asmideast.com PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
n
Axis AX fire alarm system

IGNITING POSSIBILITIES AT INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA 2023

INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA 2023: A FIERY FUSION OF INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE FIRE SAFETY SECTOR

Riyadh Gears Up to Host the 5th Edition of the Premier Trade Fair for Fire protection, safety and security

n Source: Intersec Saudi Arabia editorial@asmideast.com

The countdown has begun for the muchanticipated Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023, the Kingdom’s flagship trade fair that unites the worlds of fire protection, safety and security under one roof. The event will feature top-tier exhibitors presenting the latest in cutting-edge technologies and solutions at the Riyadh International

Convention and Exhibition Center. (RICEC) from 3rd – 5th October, 2023.

Intersec Saudi Arabia, now in its 5th edition, has evolved into a powerhouse exhibition that unites the Kingdom’s commitment to safety, emergency services, fire protection, policing, and cybersecurity. This year’s event is poised to be the biggest yet, with an incredible 100% increase in exhibition space, spanning an impressive 16,000 gross square me-

ters. The event is divided into four distinct halls, with two halls dedicated to the Fire, Health, and Safety sectors and two focusing on Commercial, Perimeter, Homeland, and Cybersecurity. A new addition awaits visitors this year – the outdoor exhibition area, which serves as a vibrant new area. This innovative space offers an immersive experience that extends the reach of the event beyond the confines of traditional exhibition halls. As

44 www.asmideast.com
EVENTS

attendees explore this open-air arena, they will encounter an array of cuttingedge solutions, enhancing the overall interactive experience.

Notable country pavilions

Reflecting the immense growth and recognition Intersec Saudi Arabia has garnered over the years, the 2023 event is witnessing a phenomenal 70% increase in exhibitor participation compared to the previous year, boasting a total of over 220 exhibitors. With representation from more than 25 countries, including France, Germany, and Egypt, the international flavor of the event is undeniable. Notable country pavilions, including the UK and China, will further enhance the global dimension of the exhibition. Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023 is held in association with the Saudi Ministry of Interior and Civil Defense, the Kingdom’s leading authorities in the safety and security sectors, underscoring the exhibition’s value and significance to the region. Fire Founding Partner NAFFCO, Fire Strategic Partner Saudi Sicli, alongside Platinum Sponsors Dahua Technology and

HIKVISION, are solidifying their positions as industry leaders and pioneers in the advancement of security, fire safety and protection.

Alex Nicholl, Show Director, emphasized the growing potential of the Saudi market, stating, “Saudi Arabia is undeniably a booming market for the security, fire, rescue, and safety sectors. The recent surge in remarkable projects underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and infrastructure. Initiatives such as the implementation of advanced fire prevention systems in iconic structures and the integration of state-of-the-art emergency response solutions in key metropolitan areas exemplify Saudi Arabia’s determination to create a safer and more secure environment.”

As the Kingdom propels forward with its ambitious Giga projects, the fire safety sector is primed for exceptional growth. Projections from 6W Research indicate a 5.5% CAGR by 2025, culminating in a cumulative value of USD 402 million. The global fire protection systems market is also on an upward trajectory, expected to reach a remarkable USD 84.6 billion by 2026, registering a CAGR of 6.4%. Inter-

sec Saudi Arabia 2023 thus emerges as a strategic platform for industry players to capitalize on the expanding opportunities and forge valuable partnerships.

Trailblazing Exhibitors and Partners

Among the impressive lineup of exhibitors in the Fire & Rescue sectors are names such as Saudi Sicli (Fire Strategic Partner), NAFFCO (Fire Founding Partner), Eaton, Saudi Factory for Fire Equipment Co. (SFFECO), LIFECO, Arif Al Nahdi, Al Kurdi, Weflo, and Viking plus many others. Their participation highlights the event’s significance as a convergence point for innovation and expertise in the fire safety arena.

As Intersec Saudi Arabia 2023 approaches, anticipation is soaring for an event that promises to transcend boundaries, spark innovation, and redefine the trajectory of the fire protection, safety and security sectors. With a robust agenda of seminars, workshops, interactive sessions, and live demonstrations, the event is set to foster a dynamic environment that ignites ideas and propels the industry toward a future defined by enhanced safety and security.

Intersec Saudi Arabia is organized by 1st Arabia Tradeshows & Conferences and is licensed by Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH. n

45 www.asmideast.com
45 www.asmideast.com
As the Kingdom propels forward with its ambitious Giga projects, the fire safety sector is primed for exceptional growth

AT ISNR 2024, INNOVATION IS NO LONGER A CHOICE, BUT A NECESSITY

In the ever-evolving landscape of security, reinventing your game all the time means staying ahead of the curve. At the International Security, National Resilience (ISNR) Exhibition 2024, security, fire safety, and cyber defense promise to converge in a groundbreaking event that offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of the industry

ISNR 2024 is scheduled for May 21 to 23 2024 under the motto that the embrace of innovation is no longer an option, but rather an imperative. With this ethos at its core, the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR) 2024 wants to once again take center stage on the regional and global map of the trade shows that, in essence, shape the industry. Under the stewardship of Ali Ayoub, the Exhibition Manager, ISNR 2024 extends an invitation to all security, fire safety, and cyber professionals who are interested in learning how all stakeholders can push the envelope in the face of growing security challenges.

An Exhibition Turned Platform

ISNR 2024 is not merely an exhibition. Over the years, it turned into a dynamic

platform propelling innovation, nurturing partnerships, and propelling progress. All participants, visitors, and experts converge are integral to initiating a broader dialogue shaping the future of security and resilience.

Thus, ISNR 2024 comes with an invitation to join hands on an international platform, fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and advancing technological frontiers.

One of the hallmarks of ISNR 2024 is the participation of the Cyber Security Council and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense. Both entities make their debut at this event, expanding their scope and underscoring a holistic approach to modern security challenges.

The Cyber Security Council’s involvement introduces a digital dimension to the event, addressing the pressing concerns of cyber threats transcending borders. As digital landscapes grow increasingly

complex, their presence underscores the importance of unified efforts in safeguarding the virtual realm.

Conversely, the inclusion of Abu Dhabi Civil Defense introduces a vital safety component to the ISNR Exhibition. Their expertise in fire safety and civil defense strategies enriches the event with insights into disaster management, amplifying its significance in the field.

Fusing Tech and Security

The exhibition floor promises to come alive with cutting-edge technologies, groundbreaking solutions, and forwardthinking concepts. From state-of-the-art surveillance systems to AI-driven threat detection, from disaster recovery solutions to the latest advancements in cyber defense, ISNR 2024 stands as a testament to the fusion of technology and security.

46 www.asmideast.com
EVENTS ISNR 2024

To those in the fields of security, fire safety, and cyber defense, and to all curious minds eager to explore the frontiers of security innovation, the organizers extend an invitation to mark their calendars for an event that aims to become transformative by serving as a place where ideas are exchanged, collaborations are fostered, and the blueprint for a safer future is drafted.

In a world where national and cyber security have become global priorities, ISNR Abu Dhabi aims to stand as the trusted platform in the Middle East, bringing together business, leadership, and innovation to build secure and resilient nations. It serves as a high-impact platform providing direct access to regional government specialists and buyers.

At the event, numerous initiatives aligned with the event will be launched to facilitate public-private cooperation, advance best practices, and accelerate the adoption of innovation in resilience, prevention, and response. Ultimately, the goal is to empower the national, regional, and global communities to effectively mitigate the ever-growing threats they face on a planetary scale.

Distinguished Speakers

ISNR 2024 is honored to host a roster of distinguished speakers, each bringing a wealth of expertise and insights to the event.

HE Dr. Nasser Humaid Al Nuaimi, serving as the Deputy Director General at the Emergencies, Crises & Disasters

Management Center in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Al Nuaimi is a key figure in managing crises and disasters, ensuring the safety and resilience of the region. Eng. Arif Mohammad Al Janahi holds the position of Director of the Security Engineering Department at the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). His expertise in security engineering is invaluable in shaping industry regulations and standards.

Brigadier Mariam Ahmed AlQahtani, who serves as the Deputy Director of the Criminal Evidence Department at Abu Dhabi Police. Brigadier AlQahtani plays a vital role in crime detection and law enforcement, contributing to the security of the community. Lt. Colonel Eng. Salem Hashem Alhebshi, Deputy Director of Public Safety Administration at Emergency and Public Safety Sector, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, brings extensive knowledge in public safety and civil defense strategies. Lt. Colonel Dr. Ibrahim Almarzouqi, Head of Strategic Planning and Institutional Development at Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, offers insights into strategic planning and institutional development within the realm of civil defense.

Notable Partners

ISNR 2024 is proud to collaborate with a range of esteemed partners. Abu Dhabi Police stands as a crucial strategic partner, offering steadfast support to ensure the event’s success. Huawei, a global technology leader, joins as the Technology Partner, providing cutting-edge solu-

tions and expertise. Safe City Group, the Innovation Partner, plays a vital role in fostering innovation within the realm of security and resilience. Additionally, ISNR 2024 appreciates the valuable contributions of other supporting partners, all of whom contribute to the event’s overall achievement.

Mission 2024: Beyond Resting on Laurels

ISNR 2022 achieved notable success, recording significant figures that highlighted its global importance. With 19,493 attendees, ISNR 2022 attracted a diverse audience of security professionals, experts, and enthusiasts from various corners of the world. The participation of 184 exhibitors and 118 delegations added to the event’s significance by transforming the exhibition floor into a hub of innovation and knowledge exchange. ISNR’s international reach was evident with representation from 33 countries, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and insights among security professionals with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Building on the remarkable success of ISNR 2022, ISNR 2024 aims to surpass previous achievements, setting new records and milestones. This event is expected to attract an even larger and more diverse community of security professionals, experts, and enthusiasts. Everyone is invited to take part in this journey as the event continues to shape the future of global security and resilience. n

47 www.asmideast.com
EVENTS 47 www.asmideast.com

Key Security Events in 2023/2024

Key Security Events in 2023

Firecon Conference

7 September 2023 Dubai, UAE

https://cogentsolutions.ae/events/ upcoming-physical-events/firecon/

OCT

Intersec Saudi Arabia

3 - 5 October 2023 at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

https://intersec-ksa.ae.messefrankfurt.com/ ksa/en.html

OCT

Adria Security Summit Powered by Intersec

25-26 October 2023, Ljubljana, Slovenia

https://www.adriasecuritysummit.com

ISAF Fuari

14-17 September 2023, Istanbul, Türkiye

https://www.isaffuari.com/en/isaf-security/

OCT

OFSEC, Oman Fire, Safety and Security Event

9-10 October 2023, Oman

https://www.ofsecevent.com/

NOV

SICUREZZA, International Security & Fire Exhibition

15-17 november 2023, Rho Fiera Milano, Italy

https://www.sicurezza.it

MAY

INTERSEC DUBAI

16-18 January 2024 Dubai, UAE

https://intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com/ dubai/en.html

International Exhibition for National Security & Resilience

21-23 May 2024, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE

https://isnrabudhabi.com

48 www.asmideast.com
SEP
SEP
JAN

We are Open XDR

Making Security Operations Simpler

It’s your security stack. Our job is to make it work better to deliver the security outcomes you need.

49 www.asmideast.com
stellarcyber.ai

Market & Contacts

Bosch empowers you to build a safer, more secure and enjoyable world

Robert Bosch Middle East FZE

Address: DAFZA, Block A701, West wing 5, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

TECHNICAL PROTECTION

Vendor-neutral Physical Security Information Management (PSIM)

Advancis Middle East

P.O. Box 73309

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Tel. +971 2 444 2503

Email: info@advancis.ae

Web: https://advancis.net

The global leader in door opening solutions

United Arab Emirates Qatar Egypt Saudi Arabia

info.me.open@assaabloy.com www.assaabloy.com/ae

Tel.: +971 4 212 3300 www.boschsecurity.com

CCTV Products

Honeywell Commercial Security offers integrated security solutions within:

* Video Surveillance

* Access Control

* Intruder Detection both as standard and cloud based systems.

Contact: Dubai: +971 4 4505 800 Abu Dhabi: +971 2 2349 101 https://www.honeywell.com/ae

Dahua Technology Co., Ltd.

IP Solutions

1187 Bin’an Rd., Binjiang, Huangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China

Tel: (86-571)8768 8883, 2893 9666 | Fax: (86-571)8768 8815

Email: overseas@dahuatech.com | www.dahuatech.com

Video surveillance products and solutions

A global player in sensing technologies

Indoor intrusion sensors

Outdoor beam sensors

Outdoor intrusion sensors

Vehicle detector for gate and parking systems

People counting www.optex-fa.com

ELECTRONIC LOCKING SOLUTIONS FOR HOSPITALITY

Tel.: +34 943 344 550 Email: hospitality@saltosystems.com www.saltohospitality.com

www.hikvision.com

Magazine Topics

Man Guarding

Technical protection

• Video surveillance

• Access control

• Intrusion detection

• Item theft protection

• IP and network solutions

• Perimeter protection

• Fire detection

• Gas detection

Mechanical protection

Cash/valuables-in-transit

Cyber security

Digital forensics

Software solutions

Smart home

Internet of things

Security management Investigations

Building management

Market research

Legislation and standards

The world leader in access control, time & attendance and biometric solutions

m.shenawy@supremainc.com)

Tel: +971 4 2357 996 www.supremainc.com

Public safety, public communication and public space design

TOA Electronics Europe GmbH www.toa.eu marketing@toa-eu.com +49 (0)40

MA9322 EHTVL

For enquiry, please contact: Hasan Kiran hasan.kiran@vivotek.com

50 www.asmideast.com
19 0 Public
public TOA Electronics marketing@toa-eu.com 1
25 17
communication
52 www.asmideast.com Index of Advertisers PAGE ADVERTISER COUNTRY E-MAIL WEBSITE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES 54 ADVANCED GREAT BRITAIN enquiries@advancedco.com www.advancedco.com 7 ARIGAMIX SLOVENIA info@arigamix.com www.arigamix.com 3 ASSA ABLOY SWEDEN info@assaabloy.com www.assaabloy.com 15 SIRA UAE info@sira.gov.ae www.sira.gov.ae 51 STELLAR CYBER USA info@stellarcyber.ai https://stellarcyber.ai 2 TECHMAN SOLUTIONS QATAR info@techman-solutions.com www.techman-solutions.com 5 VIVOTEK TAIWAN info@inteleye.sa www.inteleye.sa OTHER 49 ASMAG TAIWAN info@taiwan.messefrankfurt.com www.asmag.com 37 CONNECT2B BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA info@connect2bnet.com https://pro.connect2bnet.com 16 ADRIA SECURITY SUMMIT BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA summit@asadria.com www.adriasecuritysummit.com 9 INTERSEC SAUDI ARABIA SAUDI ARABIA info@1starabia.com www.intersec-ksa.com 53 ISAF TÜRKIYE marmara@marmarafuar.com.tr www.isaffuari.com 56 ISNR UAE info@idexuae.ae https://isnrabudhabi.com 11 OFSEC OMAN nk@muscat-expo.com www.ofsecevent.com 55 SICUREZZA ITALY paolo.pizzocaro@fieramilano.it www.sicurezza.it Man Guarding Technical protection • Video surveillance • Access control • Intrusion detection • Item theft protection • IP and network solutions • Perimeter protection • Fire detection • Gas detection Mechanical protection Cash/valuables-in-transit Cyber security Digital forensics Software solutions Smart home Internet of things Security management Investigations Building management Market research Legislation and standards Magazine Topics
54 www.asmideast.com Designed to be fast to fit, quick to configure and easy to use, AxisGo saves install time whilst bringing you complete peace of mind that your singlepanel site has the highest levels of fire protection. Offering cost-effective access to popular premium features from our Axis EN range in a simpler, nonnetworkable format, AxisGo provides powerful protection for a wide range of smaller sites. Packed with future-proof technology and flexible features – including false alarm management, built-in zonal LEDs and a handy service tool –AxisGo’s ready to become your Go-to! Advanced – made in the UK. Trusted around the world. Discover more: advancedco.com | enquiries@advancedco.com | +44 (0)345 894 7000 The powerful, flexible, single-loop fire panel
a safer future Discover why AxisGo is ideal for protecting smaller sites
Creating
IN A WORD, MANY SOLUTIONS. www.sicurezza.it fireshow.com.br www.exposec.com.br ONE PLACE. FOUR EXHIBITIONS INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
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