a&s Middle East No.19

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Security 50: Industry Shows Resilience

United by Safety:

January/February 2026

UAE Growth Model: Security and Safety as a Structural Pillar

Three Brands, One Mission

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Security and Safety as a Structural Pillar of the UAE Growth Model

Issue

The UAE security and safety market represents a mature, strategically vital ecosystem, with integrated systems and long-term investments supporting national growth. The country has deeply incorporated security into governance, urban planning, and national development frameworks INTERVIEW

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

16 Sargunan Sellamuthu, Business Development Manager for the Middle East, Advanced Reliability, Compliance and Partnership Are the Foundation of Our Success

56 PSIM Centralized Control for Complex Operations

76 Shaped by Market Demand Connected Security Ecosystems Redefining Residential Environments

58 Celebrating Success in 2025 Gallagher Security’s Journey in the Middle East

IN FOCUS

60 Meeting Market Requirements Smarter, More Efficient Wide-Area Coverage With the Latest PTZ Cameras

78 An Answer to the Complex Security Landscape Aligntech Powering Security Ecosystems Across Critical Markets

32 Security 50 Industry Shows Resilience Amid Strong Economic Headwinds 36 Security 50 Industry Insights From Top 10 Security Companies 40 Security 50 Navigating Innovation, Intelligence, and Governance 42 Security 50 The Seven Key Trends of the Video Surveillance Market 44 Security 50 Video Surveillance: Today and Tomorrow FEATURE STORY

62 Garrett Metal Detectors A Tale of Two Entrances: Rethinking Entrance Security in a Changing World 64 M2M Services Where Smart Security Meets Everyday Life

66 Cloud Security Platform VIVOTEK’s VORTEX Offers Hybrid Cloud Solutions

EVENTS

68 Security and Flexibility by Design Unified PIAM, Access Control, and Visitor Management

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

72 Expanding the Portfolio New Compact and Stylish XPRO Series QR Code Readers

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CASE STUDIES 84 Reconeyez Gas Giant Secures Remote Sites with Reconeyez’ Autonomous Technology

70 Interview: Nikola Stanišić, Head of Sales, Mercury.AI Mercury.AI Builds the Future of Video Surveillance

54 B aggage Scanner X-ray Solutions How to Protect Crowds at Scale

82 From Technology to Trust The Role of Distribution in Mission-Critical Security

65 Motorola Solutions at Intersec Dubai 2026 Power of Human and AI Collaboration

46 Fire Safety United by Safety: Three Brands, One Mission at Intersec 2026

52 UPS Systems Navigating Power Challenges in the Data Centre Era

80 Unlocking the Full Security Potential Security and Interoperability: The Cornerstones of Access Control

74 Fighting a Constant Threat Multimodal Biometric Security in the Age of Deepfakes

86 Letter from Show Director Intersec 2026 to Set the Stage for a Transformative Year 88 ISE 2026 Innovation, Security, and Resilience in the Spotlight 90 World Police Summit A Unique Opportunity to Showcase Successful Global Policing Models 92 Future of Security in Milan SICUREZZA 2025 Closes With Strong Growth

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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

Security Where It Matters Most Welcome to the latest edition of a&s Middle East. As an official media partner of Intersec, a&s Middle East remains closely connected to the conversations, technologies, and market realities that define the region’s security and fire

Editorial Staff Damir Muharemović, Editor-in-Chief mahir.hodzic@asmideast.com

ates, a market where security and safety have become integral to how cities

Mirza Bahić, Associate Editor mirza.bahic@asmideast.com

are built, infrastructure is operated, and economic growth is sustained.

Dženana Bulbul, Assistant Editor editorial@asmideast.com

From large scale construction projects to complex transport hubs and mixed

Orhan Hadžagić, Journalist orhan.hadzagic@asmideast.com Fatima Al Husseiny, Journalist fatima.alhusseiny@asmideast.com Roman Ivanković, Journalist roman.ivankovic@asmideast.com

safety landscape. In this issue, we turn our attention to the United Arab Emir-

use developments, the UAE continues to set a high bar for performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance in security systems. Our cover story examines how this mature environment is shaping demand for integrated fire safety solutions that combine detection, alarm, and evacuation into unified systems.

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

With Intersec 2026 approaching, the exhibition once again provides a timely

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

ers are responding to increasingly complex operational and compliance re-

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

backdrop for understanding how global manufacturers and regional stakeholdquirements. Intersec remains not only a showcase for new technology, but also a reflection of how the Middle East security market is evolving in practice.

Through our coverage, a&s Middle East continues to follow these develop-

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

ments closely, providing context beyond the exhibition floor.

Internatonal Sales Qatar: Mirsad Selimović, mirsad@techman.qa Southeast Asia: as-pr@taiwan.messefrankfurt.com

50 research, offering a snapshot of the world’s leading publicly listed physical

a&s Middle East offers the latest news and insights on video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, fire alarm, perimeter protection, PA/VA, man guarding, cyber security, smart homes and buildings, industrial automation, information, communication technology, automation, and ICT to the 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 120,000 copies around the globe. a&s Middle East is published 6 times a year, Jan/Feb, March/ April, May/June, July/August, Sept/Oct, and Nov/Dec. Payment Instructions Annual subscriptions are payable in USD, EUR, or AED. Subscription inquiries per your request.

EUR: AE340400000653005131002 Account No. 0653005131002 USD: AE070400000653005131003 Account No. 0653005131003 AED: AE610400000653005131001 Account No. 0653005131001 Copyright Statement © Copyright by Privus Agency Ltd. All rights reserved. Any republication, copying, redistribution, or reproduction of the magazine in any form, including electronic, without the prior written consent of the publisher, is prohibited. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of advertising material. The publisher bears no responsibility regarding possible legal, patent, content, or brand disputes of the advertiser.

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Beyond the UAE market focus, this edition also features our annual Security security companies. The findings point to a sector that continues to adapt, with integration, software, and analytics playing an ever greater role in long term growth and resilience.

Taken together, the stories in this issue highlight a simple reality. As security challenges grow more sophisticated, success depends less on individual products and more on systems, partnerships, and operational intelligence. We hope this edition provides useful insight as the industry prepares for another pivotal year ahead.

Damir Muharemović, Editor-in-Chief

WANT TO RECEIVE THE MAGAZINE AT YOUR DOORSTEP? Please visit our official website www.asmideast.com and select ‘Subscribe Now’ option under THE MAGAZINE menu.

Subscription includes all six editions.

Digital edition is FREE and readily available at the official website.

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NEWS

QATAR PARTNERS WITH PWC AND OPENAI TO BUILD NATIONAL AI ECOSYSTEM Doha signs landmark agreement to accelerate digital transformation through advanced AI infrastructure, testbeds, and innovation projects.

Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has signed a cooperation agreement with PwC Middle East and OpenAI to advance the country’s national AI ecosystem. The partnership focuses on three pillars: establishing an AI testbed for government entities and startups, boosting public-sector productivity with tools such as ChatGPT, and designing innovative AI-driven projects in key national sectors.

MCIT’s Director of Digital Innovation, Eman Al Kuwari, emphasized that the initiative aims to create a world-class AI framework grounded in governance and trusted innovation. PwC will provide advisory expertise, while OpenAI will contribute technical support and access to advanced AI models. Together, the collaboration seeks to accelerate Qatar’s digital transformation, enhance public services, and support the nation’s transition to a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.

The agreement is also seen as a strategic move to nurture national talent capable of leading AI deployment at scale, ensuring that innovation is both safe and impactful.

By combining policy leadership, consulting

expertise, and cutting-edge technology, Qatar aims to move beyond experimentation toward measurable results, improving citizen experiences and unlocking growth across priority sectors. n

DIGITAL IDENTITY SOLUTIONS MARKET TO REACH $132BN BY 2031 The global digital identity solutions market is projected to grow from $44.2 billion in 2025 to $132.14 billion by 2031, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%, according to a new forecast by MarketsandMarkets.

The report attributes this rapid expansion to the accelerating pace of digital transformation and the continued rise of remote work and digital services,

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which are increasing demand for secure identity verification, seamless onboarding, and controlled access across cloud and hybrid IT environments.

As organisations digitise critical processes, identity management is becoming a core component of cybersecurity and regulatory compliance strategies.

Another key growth driver is the proliferation of digital ID wallets. Govern-

ments and private-sector organisations are enabling citizens and customers to store and use verified digital credentials via mobile applications, simplifying transactions and identity checks in both public and commercial use cases.

This trend is creating new opportunities for vendors and integrators offering end-to-end identity lifecycle management and credential issuance platforms.

Among solution types, single sign-on (SSO) is the fastest-growing segment.

Organisations are increasingly adopting SSO to reduce password fatigue, streamline access management, and mitigate credential theft risks.

The expansion of cloud-based applications and zero-trust security frameworks is further boosting demand, particularly across sectors such as banking, healthcare, and education, where usability, security, and compliance must be balanced. n

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NEWS

SAUDI NCA LAUNCHES TAHQAQ SERVICE TO VERIFY SUSPICIOUS LINKS Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) has launched Tahqaq, a new digital service designed to help users verify suspicious internet links and protect themselves against phishing and online fraud.

The service allows individuals to check the safety of URLs before opening them, reducing the risk of malware infections, data theft, and unauthorized access to personal information. Alongside link verification, Tahqaq also provides basic cybersecurity awareness guidance to support safer online behaviour.

Tahqaq is available through the National Portal for Cybersecurity Services, Haseen, and was developed in cooperation with the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE), the NCA’s technical arm.

The launch reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued focus on strengthening national

cybersecurity resilience and empowering citizens and residents to protect them-

selves better as digital communication and online services continue to expand. n

AI APPETITE MORE THAN DOUBLES IN PHYSICAL SECURITY SECTOR, GENETEC REPORT SHOWS Interest in artificial intelligence across the physical security industry has more than doubled over the past year, according to the latest State of the Physical Security Industry report published by Genetec. Based on insights from thousands of security professionals worldwide, the study highlights a clear shift in how organisations view physical security — no longer as a standalone function, but as a strategic capability that supports wider business and operational objectives.

AI has rapidly moved from experimentation to priority status, with organisations increasingly adopting it alongside core technologies such as video surveillance and access control. Respondents pointed to AI’s ability to automate event detection, reduce false alarms, speed up investigations, and improve situational awareness, helping security teams operate more efficiently and proactively.

At the same time, the report notes a cautious approach to AI deployment. Many end users remain concerned about data governance, transparency, and long-term reliability, underlining the importance of trusted vendors and clear implementation frameworks. As a result, organisations are placing greater emphasis on platform openness, cybersecurity resilience, and vendor stability when making investment decisions.

The findings also reflect continued momentum toward unified security platforms and cloud or hybrid deployments, driven by the need for scalability, easier system management, and continuous updates. Overall, the report suggests the physical security market is entering a more mature

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phase, where AI, integration, and cyber awareness are becoming essential foundations for long-term resilience and operational value. n

NEWS

BRIVO AND EAGLE EYE NETWORKS MERGE CREATING THE LARGEST AI CLOUD-NATIVE PHYSICAL SECURITY COMPANY Brivo and Eagle Eye Networks have announced a strategic merger that will form the world’s largest AI-driven, cloud-native physical security company. The combined organisation will operate under the Brivo name and deliver a fully integrated cloud platform covering access control, video surveillance, and AI-powered security intelligence.

The merger brings together two established leaders in cloud security. Brivo is widely known for its cloud-native access control and smart building technologies. At the same time, Eagle Eye Networks has built its reputation as a pioneer of cloud-based video surveillance enhanced by artificial intelligence. Together, the companies aim to simplify physical security by offering customers a single, unified cloud solution rather than multiple disconnected systems.

According to the announcement, the combined platform will be delivered as the Brivo Security Suite, integrating access management, AI-enabled video analytics, visitor management, and broader security operations into one scalable, cloud-native ecosystem. Customers will benefit from a single technology stack, one commercial relationship, and unified support, reducing complexity and accelerating deployment.

Leadership of the merged company will be assumed by Dean Drako, Chairman of Brivo and Founder of Eagle Eye Networks,

who will serve as Chief Executive Officer. Steve Van Till will take on the role of President, overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic execution.

With this move, Brivo positions itself at the forefront of the rapidly evolving physical security market, where cloud platforms, artificial intelligence, and unified security management are increasingly becoming the industry standard. n

RISING THREATS DRIVE GLOBAL GROWTH IN THE PERIMETER SECURITY MARKET Rising concerns over terrorism and cross-border intrusions are accelerating global demand for advanced perimeter security solutions, driving the market into a phase of strong, sustained growth. As geopolitical tensions intensify and threat

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vectors become more complex, governments and infrastructure operators are investing heavily in technologies designed to protect borders, critical assets, and public spaces.

According to The Business Research

Company’s report Perimeter Security Global Market Report 2025, the global perimeter security market is expected to grow rapidly over the next several years, expanding from approximately USD 78 billion in 2025 to more than USD 118 billion by 2029. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate of nearly 11 percent, driven by the need for more resilient and intelligent security architectures.

One of the key drivers behind this expansion is the increasing frequency of crossborder incidents and terrorist threats, which have exposed the limitations of traditional, static perimeter defenses.

Modern security strategies now require multi-layered systems capable of detecting, verifying, and responding to threats in real time, across land, air, and maritime domains.

Overall, the perimeter security market is being reshaped by a convergence of geopolitical instability, technological innovation, and urban development. As threats continue to evolve, investment in intelligent, integrated perimeter protection is

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NEWS

SMITHS GROUP AGREES £2BN SALE OF SMITHS DETECTION TO CVC Smiths Group plc has agreed the proposed sale of Smiths Detection to funds advised by CVC Capital Partners, in a transaction valuing the business at an enterprise value of £2.0 billion.

The proposed transaction represents a valuation of 16.3 times operating profit of £122 million and 12.5 times EBITDA of £160 million for the financial year ending 31 July 2025.

After customary adjustments, Smiths expects to receive net cash proceeds of approximately £1.85 billion.

Together with the recently announced sale of Smiths Interconnect, the deal marks further progress in the strategic actions unveiled by the group in January 2025. The divestments reposition Smiths as a more focused, high-performance industrial engineering company, concentrating on flow management and thermal solutions while unlocking significant value for shareholders.

Completion of the transaction remains subject to information and consultation processes with the works council of Smiths Detection France SAS, as well as customary regulatory approvals. Subject to these conditions, completion is expected in the second half of 2026.

Commenting on the announcement, Roland Carter, chief executive of Smiths, said the agreement represents another major milestone for the group and demonstrates strong execution of its value-creation strategy. He added that the transaction positions Smiths to deliver enhanced growth and returns, and thanked Smiths Detection employees for their contributions to the business and for their role in reaching this stage. n

MILESTONE SYSTEMS ANNOUNCES CEO TRANSITION AS THOMAS JENSEN STEPS DOWN Milestone Systems has announced a change in its executive leadership, with Thomas Jensen stepping down as chief executive officer. The decision marks the start of a transition phase

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as the company initiates a search for a new permanent CEO. The board of directors has appointed Jeppe Frandsen, vice-chairman of the board, as acting CEO. Frandsen will

lead the company during the interim period to ensure continuity of operations and strategy, while not being considered for the permanent position.

As part of the board update, Seymour Liebman, executive vice president at Canon, has been appointed vice-chairman of Milestone Systems’ board, reinforcing Canon’s long-term commitment to the business.

Commenting on the announcement, Lau Normann Jørgensen, chairman of the board, thanked Jensen for his leadership and contributions, highlighting progress made in areas such as responsible technology, artificial intelligence and data sovereignty.

Milestone Systems stated that the leadership changes are intended to strengthen organisational alignment while maintaining momentum on its strategic priorities during the transition period. n

Discover more at INTERSEC 2026 Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE | Hall 4, Booth B30 www.paso.it www.asmideast.com

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INTERVIEW

Sargunan Sellamuthu, Business Development Manager for the Middle East, Advanced

RELIABILITY, COMPLIANCE AND PARTNERSHIP ARE THE FOUNDATION OF OUR SUCCESS 16

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INTERVIEW

Advanced’s systems are proven to perform in harsh regional conditions, high temperatures, dust, and humidity, ensuring long-term dependability. We meet EN and UL standards while satisfying local civil defense requirements, giving consultants and end users confidence in compliance. Strong relationships with local distributors and integrators mean projects benefit from fast support and deep market knowledge n By: Damir Muharemović damir.muharemovic@asmideast.com

a&s Middle East: Could you briefly introduce yourself and your professional background, and explain your role at Advanced?

Sellamuthu: I’m Sargunan Sellamuthu, Business Development Manager for the Middle East at Advanced. My background is in fire and life-safety solutions across the GCC, where I work closely with consultants, contractors, and end users to identify opportunities and deliver reliable, compliant systems that meet regional authority requirements.

At Advanced, I manage regional sales activities, drive business growth, and develop strategic partnerships, while supporting projects from specification through to implementation so that designs translate smoothly into approved, high‑performing installations. That end‑to‑end involvement, pairing local market knowledge with our engineering strengths, helps ensure our solutions are robust, maintainable, and aligned to customer needs throughout the life of the building. a&s Middle East: Advanced has a strong and growing presence in the Middle East. In which countries within the region are you currently active, and what specific challenges do you face across these markets?

Sellamuthu: Advanced is active across the Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Each country presents unique challenges, from navigating different regulatory frameworks to adapting to varied climate and infrastructure demands. For example, Saudi Arabia’s giga projects and high-rise developments require robust, scalable fire safety solutions, while the UAE’s luxury towers and heritage sites often call for flexible, hybrid systems that can be retrofitted with minimal disruption.

In Oman, projects such as the Bidbid Tunnel have tested our systems’ resilience in challenging environments, integrating fire detection, suppression, and smoke con-

trol to ensure safe evacuation. Across the region, we work closely with local partners to navigate approval processes and adapt our solutions to meet both global standards and local requirements, ensuring that people and property are protected no matter the complexity of the environment. a&s Middle East: Your fire alarm panels and life-safety solutions are trusted in more than 80 countries globally. What would you highlight as the key reasons for Advanced’s success in the Middle East region in particular?

Sellamuthu: Advanced’s success in the Middle East comes down to reliability, compliance, and partnership. Our systems are proven to perform in harsh

regional conditions, high temperatures, dust, and humidity, ensuring long-term dependability. We meet EN and UL standards while satisfying local civil defense requirements, giving consultants and end users confidence in compliance. Strong relationships with local distributors and integrators mean projects benefit from fast support and deep market knowledge.

We’ve also built a strong position in small, medium, and large-scale projects, offering the right balance of performance and cost. Installer-friendly panels simplify commissioning and maintenance, reducing total ownership costs. Combined with hands-on technical training and our UK engineering heritage, these factors create trust and long-term value for customers across the region.

We have built a strong position in small, medium, and large-scale projects, offering the right balance of performance and cost. Installer-friendly panels simplify commissioning and maintenance, reducing total ownership costs www.asmideast.com

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a&s Middle East: Could you give us an overview of Advanced’s key product groups and technologies, and how they respond to the needs of installers, integrators, and end users in the Middle East?

Sellamuthu: Advanced’s product portfolio is designed to meet the varied demands of the Middle East’s fire safety market. Our Axis AX system, approved to UL 864 10th edition, is known for its reliability and flexibility, making it suitable for everything from residential to commercial malls to power, oil, and gas. Axis EN, our next-generation EN-standard system, offers faster response times, enhanced configuration, and both wired and wireless options, ideal for retrofits and complex sites.

We also provide MxPro 5, a versatile addressable panel with powerful networking and false alarm management, and AxisGo, which brings EN-standard protection to smaller sites with quick installation and intuitive setup. For conventional needs, QuickZone delivers straightforward performance across up to 32 zones.

Our solutions, like DynamixSmoke and ExGo, address specific challenges, such as smoke control and extinguishing in high-risk areas, while AlarmCalm helps reduce unwanted alarms. Across the range, we focus on ease of installation, integration, and ongoing support, ensur-

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Highly Adaptable Panels and Software a&s Middle East: Regulatory frameworks vary across the GCC. How does Advanced adapt its solutions to comply with differing standards and approval processes in countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman?

Sellamuthu: Advanced adapts to the GCC’s varied regulatory frameworks by combining flexible technology with local expertise. Our systems are designed to be configurable, meeting the specific civil defense requirements of countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman while maintaining global standards like EN and UL. We work closely with local authorities during design and approval stages and rely on experienced regional partners to navigate country-specific documentation and certification processes. Advanced panels and software are highly adaptable, allowing the same solution to comply with different regulations without major redesigns.

In addition, we provide training and technical support to consultants, engineers, and installers, ensuring every project achieves full compliance from design through commissioning, delivering safe, reliable fire safety solutions across the region.

ing our systems are adaptable, reliable, and future-ready for installers, integrators, and end users alike. a&s Middle East: It is often said that selling a system is just the beginning of the relationship between a provider and a user.

What is the central concept behind Advanced’s customer service and technical support model in the Middle East region?

Sellamuthu: At Advanced, customer service in the Middle East is built on a partnership that lasts well beyond the ini-

tial sale. We support the entire system life cycle, from design and installation through commissioning, maintenance, and future upgrades, so customers have confidence at every stage. Local expertise is central to our model and experienced regional partners work hand-in-hand with our UK technical team to provide fast, accountable support.

We take a proactive approach, offering design guidance and training to help projects get it right the first time, and we share knowledge through regular CPD

INTERVIEW

ness among citizens and organizations regarding battery-related fire risks?

Sellamuthu: Advanced is actively raising awareness of battery-related fire risks through educational initiatives, partnerships, and the development of specialized fire safety solutions. Our press releases and thought leadership articles highlight the unique hazards associated with battery energy storage systems (BESS), such as thermal runaway, toxic gas release, and fire propagation.

We emphasize the importance of robust fire detection and suppression systems, and work with industry partners to share best practices and lessons learned from incidents worldwide. By providing clear information and guidance, we help operators, installers, and end users understand the risks and implement effective safety measures, supporting the safe adoption of renewable energy technologies.

The future of fire detection and alarm systems in the Middle East will be shaped by intelligent, connected, and predictive technologies. We expect greater integration with building management systems, IoT devices, and cloud platforms sessions so operators can manage systems effectively. The principle is simple: once a system is installed, our commitment continues for the life of the building. a&s Middle East: Advanced recently announced a remarkable achievement: a Silver Medal in the EcoVadis sustainability assessment. What changed between last year’s rating and this year’s success?

Sellamuthu: We’re proud to have achieved a Silver Medal in our latest EcoVadis sustainability assessment, placing Advanced in the top 15% of companies assessed globally. This success reflects our ongoing commitment to responsible business practices and continuous improvement. One standout area is Sustainable Procurement, where focused efforts over the past year led to a 133% improvement in our rating.

EcoVadis evaluates companies on key criteria, including Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Procurement, and our enhanced performance demonstrates the dedication of our teams across the business. We’ve strengthened our sustainability practices, engaged with suppliers to promote ethical sourcing, and invested in initiatives that support a more sustainable future. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of everyone at Advanced, and we remain committed to building on this progress in the years ahead. a&s Middle East: Energy stored in batteries is becoming a universal reality.

From homes and businesses to mobility and industrial environments. Many people remain unaware of the hazards. How is Advanced contributing to raising aware-

a&s Middle East: Outdoor and indoor parking areas across the region increasingly host electric vehicles and associated charging infrastructure. What types of solutions is Advanced developing to address these emerging risks, and how do you see cooperation from local authorities, companies, and residents?

Sellamuthu: Advanced is responding to these new fire safety challenges with solutions that combine enhanced detection, false alarm management, and CO monitoring to ensure accurate response in complex environments.

Our system architecture also supports integration of specialized sensors, such as hydrogen (H2) gas detectors, via input modules, offering adaptability as EV technology evolves. DynamixSmoke simplifies smoke control configuration for large or multi-level parking layouts, while ExGo provides dependable control for gas suppression systems where required. Collaboration with local authorities, companies, and residents remains key, and by working together, we can ensure safe, compliant parking facilities as electric mobility adoption accelerates. a&s Middle East: Advanced has been involved in notable projects across the Middle East. Could you share a few recent references that best illustrate your regional footprint and capabilities?

Sellamuthu: Our regional footprint is best illustrated by projects such as Reel Cinemas in Bahrain’s largest mall, the Marassi Mall, where our Axis AX system

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INTERVIEW

manages fire safety across multiple screens, VIP lounges, kitchens, and common areas. The system’s advanced networking and integration capabilities allow seamless operation with third-party systems, including access control and gas suppression.

In Oman, the Bidbid Tunnel project showcases our ability to deliver resilient solutions in demanding environments, integrating fire detection, suppression, and jet fan control for smoke management.

In Dubai’s Sobha S Tower, our Axis EN system provides comprehensive protection for a landmark residential development, supporting voice evacuation, fire telephone, and smoke management across all areas. These projects highlight our commitment to delivering adaptable, scalable fire safety solutions that meet the diverse needs of the Middle East’s rapidly evolving built environment. a&s Middle East: Finally, what major technological trends do you expect to shape the future of fire detection and alarm systems in the Middle East region, and how is Advanced positioning itself for the next decade?

Sellamuthu: The future of fire detection and alarm systems in the Middle East will be shaped by intelligent, connected, and predictive technologies. We expect greater integration with building management systems, IoT devices, and cloud platforms, enabling real-time monitoring and faster decision-making.

Advanced sensors, AI, and analytics will support early and predictive detection,

Middle East as a Progressive Leader in Fire Safety Innovation a&s Middle East: Considering the unique climate, geography, and socio-political dynamics of the Middle East, do you feel the pace of adopting fire safety regulations is aligned with global trends?

Sellamuthu: The Middle East is broadly aligned with global fire safety standards and is increasingly embracing innovation without compromising safety. All GCC countries follow internationally recognized codes such as NFPA 72 and BS EN, ensuring consistency with global best practice. Leading markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, not only adopt these standards but also actively encourage proven new technologies. Rapid urban development, smart cities, high-rise towers, and large infrastructure projects continue to drive demand for advanced solutions that meet strict performance and reliability requirements. This commitment positions the region as a progressive adopter of fire safety innovation while maintaining rigorous compliance.

Authorities remain open to innovation provided products are tested, certified, and demonstrably improve safety. Far from lagging behind, the region is actively supporting future-ready fire-safety practices, combining global best standards with a progressive outlook to ensure reliability and resilience in some of the world’s most ambitious developments.

reducing false alarms and improving risk assessment. As connectivity grows, cybersecurity will become critical to protect life-safety networks. Sustainability is another key trend, with systems designed to minimize energy use and align with green building initiatives.

Enhanced user experience through mobile apps, remote diagnostics, and predictive maintenance will simplify operations and reduce downtime. Advanced is investing heavily in R&D for smart, flexible, and resilient systems, while strengthening local partnerships to ensure our solutions remain future-ready and meet the highest safety standards across the region.

To discover how we’re shaping the future of fire protection, visit Advanced at Intersec Dubai 2026, Stand F24, Hall 4. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our latest innovations. n

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Scan the QR code to download our leaflet.

Whatever your fire protection challenge, Advanced brings you unrivalled solutions Effectively protecting people and property from fire can be complex. Advanced simplifies the challenge without compromising on safety.

Whether you need powerful networking, smoke control and fire audio for large-scale UL projects; extinguishing control and fire system redundancy for critical sites; or fast, fuss-free EN solutions for smaller, wireless installations, Advanced brings you fire safety peace of mind.

Creating a safer future Visit us at Intersec Dubai on stand F24 in Hall 4 Advanced – made in the UK. Trusted around the world.

Contact Sasi Kumar, General Manager, to discuss your needs: skumar@advancedco.com | +44 (0)345 894 7000

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Setting the Standard

SECURITY AND SAFETY AS A STRUCTURAL PILLAR OF THE UAE GROWTH MODEL The UAE security and safety market represents a mature, strategically vital ecosystem, with integrated systems and long-term investments supporting national growth. The country has deeply incorporated security into governance, urban planning, and national development frameworks 22

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n By: Roman Ivankovic editorial@asmideast.com The security and safety market in the UAE has reached a level where its importance is integrated into every aspect of urban and economic planning. In a country known for ambitious infrastructure projects, security is not optional – it is a necessity for continuity and reputation.

We spoke with leading experts from Axis, Honeywell, ISS, Iris ID, IntelexVision, and Paso to gain insight into the practical application of technology and management models, the role of public investments in shaping project priorities and market opportunities, and the key security technology trends driving the market today.

Regulation Anchors UAE Security Performance What distinguishes the UAE is its regulatory framework, positioning security as a planning assumption

rather than an afterthought. Urban districts are designed with integrated surveillance, access control, and emergency response systems. Both Abu Dhabi (ranked 10th) and Dubai (12th) secured top positions in the IMD Smart City Index 2024, making them the only Middle Eastern cities in the global top 20.

“Several factors are driving the growth of the UAE’s security and safety market: Safe City and Smart City initiatives that leverage real-time data, AI-powered analytics, and integrated communication networks to enhance public safety and operational efficiency,” said Osama Al Zarba, Deputy Managing Director Middle East at ISS. “Another key factor is strong government commitment. Regulations and public funding continue to drive the adoption of advanced security technologies across municipalities and federal agencies.

And finally, technology adoption, with cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, ma-

chine learning, and big data analytics, is increasingly integrated into public safety, surveillance, and threat detection systems,” he concluded.

The UAE’s regulatory system functions not only as a compliance mechanism but as a market-shaping force. It drives the economy toward integrated and operational lifecycle solutions. The country’s regulatory demands treat safety and security as necessary components of urban and economic activity. Compliance systems push constant improvements and upgrades.

High-level standards create a need for a continuous modernization cycle across the sector.

Quality Over Speed and Price The security and safety market in the United Arab Emirates is best described as mature and structurally resilient. The country has long passed the foundational phase.

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Today’s demand is driven by expansion, innovation, and modernization rather than by first-time adoption of basic security infrastructure. This is a market where quality and compliance are valued more highly than unit price or rollout speed.

The size of the market has been consistently on the rise. Year-on-year growth is steady across electronic security, fire and life safety, and security services.

Dubai has approved a 20% increase in infrastructure spending as part of its record USD 27.1 billion budget for 2026, adopted within the UAE’s largest-ever three-year budget cycle covering 2026– 2028. Due to continuous infrastructure development, capital expenditure on new hardware remains significant.

However, the composition of spending is an even more important indicator. Maintenance contracts, managed services, and software upgrades have been growing at an even faster rate. The size of operational expenditure is a strong indicator of market maturity. This means that service providers and system integrators increasingly outpace product vendors.

Hasna Nahdi, International Markets Manager at Paso, an Italian industrial engineering and manufacturing company known for its compact all-in-one voice alarm solutions, notes that the security and safety market in the country is driven by several key factors: “Digitalization and technological transformation lead to increased demand for cybersecurity solutions, identity and access management, endpoint protection, and network security infrastructure. As digital infrastructures expand, exposure to cyber threats also increases, prompting businesses and government entities to invest in more robust defense systems. The growth of smart cities in the UAE has driven demand for integrated electronic security solutions that combine surveillance technologies with data management.”

Core Growth Drivers Behind Sustained Demand The country’s strategic goal is to transition from an oil-dependent economy to a diversified global hub for trade, tourism, finance, and innovation. National strategies around resilience, digital government, and smart infrastructure reinforce long-term demand. Such an ambitious model requires a highly sophisticated environment where people, assets, and capital can meet and thrive. This

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Security Spending That Does Not Bend With the Economic Cycle The UAE treats spending on security as a top priority, meaning it is not easily disrupted during economic slowdowns. On the contrary, security is tied to regulatory compliance and reputational risk management. The state’s strategic assets, such as airports and naval ports, are expected to maintain long-term stability and are therefore obliged to keep their security systems upgraded at all times.

Another characteristic of a high-quality market is reflected in the complexity of the projects implemented. Integrated security deployments often span entire districts, transport networks, or infrastructure portfolios rather than individual facilities. This approach creates opportunities for experienced players who can provide support over long operational lifecycles.

Mohammed Hoteit, Regional Sales Manager – Eastern Gulf at Axis, said that data centers are gaining a lot of traction in the UAE, adding that demand for video surveillance cameras is also on the rise, with analysts predicting the market size to reach USD 4.6 billion by 2034. “Integrated security and safety solutions continue to be non-negotiable for new construction or infrastructure projects, whether retail locations, oil refineries, or transport hubs. Thanks to the quality, durability, and versatility of our products, Axis is able to meet this demand. We are also proud to be celebrating the 20-year anniversary of Axis in the UAE in 2026, which demonstrates the commitment and confidence we have in the country’s future,” he said.

The market increasingly shifts from capital expenditure toward operational spending, with maintenance, managed services, analytics, and compliance driving investment. The UAE security market functions as a sophisticated, predictable ecosystem where security operates as long-term institutional infrastructure.

is possible only under the condition that security and safety are not perceived as optional safeguards but as core operational necessities. Failures are not measured in financial terms alone but also in reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and country-wide disruption of economic flows.

Mohammed Murad, Chief Revenue Officer at Iris ID, underlines that the UAE is among the fastest-growing markets for biometric and digital identity security. “Growth is fueled by key verticals including government identity and smart border management, transportation and critical infrastructure, enterprise and

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Ports and logistics represent another major investment cluster. As a global shipping hub, the country depends on uninterrupted logistics flows. Unlike the passenger-focused airport environment, this setting is driven more by asset protection, access management, cargo integrity, and perimeter security.

Investments are primarily directed toward surveillance, analytics, and system integration.

Osama Al Zarba, Deputy Managing Director, Middle East, Intelligent Security Systems - ISS

Rafik Lamri, Regional Director for META, IntelexVision

corporate security, and AI-driven data centers. Major investments have been directed toward airports, smart borders, national ID programs, smart cities, and large-scale AI and data center infrastructure, where secure, high-assurance access control is critical.”

Another major driver of this process is urbanization and infrastructure development.

Cities in the Emirates are designed around dense urban developments that combine residential, commercial, hospitality, and public institutions within a single district.

Such spatial concentration increases complexity and risk management requirements, unlike low-density environments where security can be decentralized. This urbanization model demands centralized real-time oversight and well-organized incident response capabilities, which naturally create demand for digital security systems and unified monitoring platforms.

Further drivers include the development of critical infrastructure. Energy facilities, airports, ports, logistics zones, and other high-level operational facilities operate with narrow margins for error. The consequences of potential security incidents are enormous, driving demand for toptier safety and security systems that can-

Mohammed Hoteit, Regional Sales Manager – Eastern Gulf, Axis Communications

not be reaction-based. Operations must instead be built on prevention, prediction, and coordination between different services and agencies.

Strategic Assets With Zero Tolerance for Disruption Investments in the security and safety industry in the UAE are concentrated in several high-impact verticals. Capital is focused on strategic assets of critical importance with low tolerance for disruption. These include sectors with high-risk exposure, such as airports, ports, logistics corridors, major urban districts, and energy facilities.

Transportation infrastructure, particularly aviation, absorbs the largest and most consistent share of security investment.

With huge passenger volumes, the UAE’s airports are among the busiest in the world. Spending in this sector includes perimeter protection, access control, movement monitoring, video surveillance, and integrated command-and-control systems. Investments are not limited to new capacity development and infrastructure expansion but also include continuous system and technology upgrades.

The security and safety market in the UAE is best described as mature and structurally resilient. Today’s demand is driven by expansion, innovation, and modernization rather than by first-time adoption of basic security infrastructure. This is a market where quality and compliance are valued more highly than unit price or rollout speed

ecurity Investment S Where Failure Is Not an Option

Owing to the importance of the sector, energy, utilities, and industrial zones are among the top investment verticals. Due to the potentially enormous impact of disruptions, these are among the most stringent safety and security environments in the country. Unlike previous examples driven mainly by technological innovation, energy facilities prioritize reliability and resilience, with little room for experimentation. Accordingly, investments focus on perimeter security, access control, monitoring, and increasingly, integration with operational technology systems.

Nabil Cheqroun, Vice President and General Manager, Honeywell Building Automation for the Middle East, Türkiye & Africa (META) region, said that his company has been a key enabler of digital transformation in the region. “Digitalization of buildings and infrastructure is accelerating demand for cybersecurity alongside physical security systems, particularly as IT and OT environments converge. Critical infrastructure, including airports, hospitals, utilities, industrial sites, and data centers, is prioritizing integrated command-and-control, resilience, and AI-enabled monitoring to improve situational awareness and response times,” he noted.

Real estate and urban developments form another significant investment area. Large mixed-use districts, highrise residential towers, luxury hotels, and large malls require comprehensive security and fire safety systems to meet regulatory requirements and insurance standards. In these projects, security is embedded into the construction phase, generating substantial upfront capital expenditure followed by long-term service

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Success Is Measured by Performance The success of the UAE market is driven not primarily by technological sophistication but by execution capability. Solutions that sell consistently align with regulatory frameworks, integrate cleanly into complex environments, and support long operational lifecycles. Hardware alone rarely wins projects. Instead, success is built around system architecture, service models, and the ability to assume responsibility across design, deployment, and ongoing operations.

Mohammed Murad from Iris ID points out that the company fits well into this needsdriven market for high-end smart products. “Our solutions are timely, meeting the industry where it stands today while decisively setting the stage for what comes next. We design our platforms with a clear philosophy: pairing the most accurate biometric, iris, with the most convenient, face, to deliver unmatched performance, usability, and long-term value. As the UAE and the broader Middle East accelerate their transition to an AI-powered, data-driven economy, Iris ID’s solutions provide the privacy protection, resilience, and scalability required to support next-generation identity ecosystems across government and enterprise sectors.”

and maintenance contracts once assets become operational.

What Is Really Selling What distinguishes the UAE from many other regional markets is the project-led nature of demand. Security investments primarily flow from large, structured programs linked to infrastructure development, urban expansion, and long-term critical asset management. These projects are typically multi-year, complianceintensive, and governed by public-sector or government-linked entities, creating procurement environments that favor predictability, integration, and institutional trust.

Against this backdrop, industry verticals

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have become more decisive than broad product classifications. Aviation, logistics, real estate, hospitality, energy, and public infrastructure each impose distinct operational logics on security systems. These realities shape not only what gets purchased but also how solutions are specified, integrated, and evaluated. As a result, the same technology can succeed in one vertical while failing to gain traction in another.

Nabil Cheqroun from Honeywell confirms that the company’s strongest-performing solutions address safety, resilience, and sustainability. “These include the ProWatch Integrated Security Suite for unified video and access control; Honeywell Connected Life Safety Services, which enable cloud-based fire safety monitoring and improved compliance; and Honeywell

Buildings Sustainability Manager, powered

by Honeywell Forge, which helps customers reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and support carbon-reduction goals. We are also seeing growing adoption of Honeywell Data Center Manager and Honeywell City Suite, as operators look for vendor-agnostic, AI-enabled platforms that integrate IT, OT, and public safety systems. Demand is driven by the UAE’s rapid digitalization, preference for integrated platforms over siloed systems, and increasing focus on efficiency, cybersecurity, and future readiness.”

Continuous Projects, Proven Technologies Over the past 12 months, the UAE security and safety market has been defined less by isolated flagship announcements and more by a dense pipeline of largescale, multi-year projects moving from design into execution. The dominant trend is one of ongoing delivery rather than sporadic buying cycles, spanning transport infrastructure, urban developments, logistics hubs, and industrial facilities. For security vendors, this has generated consistent workstreams instead of temporary demand surges, with projects often structured as phased programs combining initial deployment, gradual expansion,

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der Vehicle Surveillance System (UVSS) has also been noted as a significant differentiator over the past years, particularly in government, transport hubs, and critical checkpoints,” he pointed out.

From Video Surveillance to AIDriven Command Platforms Mohammed Murad, Chief Revenue Officer, Iris ID

Nabil Cheqroun, Vice President and General Manager, Honeywell Building Automation for the Middle East, Türkiye & Africa, Honeywell

and extended operational management.

UAE megaprojects, ranging from mixeduse business districts to smart city expansions, continue to embed security requirements deep into design and digital infrastructure. Major infrastructure pipelines now include explicit security and safety provisions as part of master planning. This shift mirrors national objectives for building resilient, data-enabled urban ecosystems. For example, recent UAE development of mega-infrastructure projects is set to transform the physical and economic landscape, which drives continuous demand for integrated safety systems.

Osama Al Zarba from ISS agrees that

Video surveillance remains the single most influential technology category in the UAE security market, but its role has changed fundamentally. Demand is no longer centered on camera density or image quality alone. Instead, the market has pivoted toward AI-enabled video analytics that transform video from a passive recording tool into an active operational intelligence layer. This shift is driven by the sheer scale of collected data. Large assets generate volumes of visual data that cannot be effectively monitored by human operators alone, making automation a functional necessity rather than a technological upgrade.

“In the UAE, we have seen strong demand for AI-enabled video analytics, high-performance network cameras for complex and harsh environments, cybersecurity-hardened devices, and open-platform solutions that integrate seamlessly with thirdparty systems. This demand speaks to businesses’ and industries’ need to maintain their security posture and invest in solutions that offer long-term value and a high degree of scalability. In other words, as organizations and their security needs grow, our solutions can grow with them,” noted Mohammed Hoteit from Axis.

The UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy explicitly promotes AI use in public services and safety, creating institutional legitimacy for analytics-driven surveillance when deployed within governance frameworks. As a result, procurement increasingly evaluates not only technical accuracy but also auditability, data management, and integration with broader security platforms.

Hasna Nahdi, Export Manager, Paso

the UAE market is characterized by very specific patterns in products and technologies, particularly where innovation intersects with safety, security, and digital transformation across both public and private sectors. “The best-selling products remain the SecurOS VMS, the flagship enterprise video management system with native analytics used as the backbone for surveillance and reporting across sectors. Other AI-driven analytics modules also include Automatic License Plate Recognition (ANPR), Facial Recognition, and Behavioral Analysis—all highly relevant in both smart city and facility security use cases. The ISS SecurOS Un-

The UAE treats spending on security as a top priority, meaning it is not easily disrupted during economic slowdowns. On the contrary, security is tied to regulatory compliance and reputational risk management

Analytics-Led Surveillance “The strongest demand in the UAE is for integrated, software-enabled security and safety platforms that unify video, access control, analytics, and situational

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Technology Adoption Driven by Operational Necessity, Not Trends In the UAE, technology adoption is neither experimental nor trend-driven. It is shaped by scale, regulation, and operational pressure in environments where failure is not tolerated. As a result, only a narrow set of technologies achieves sustained traction, and they do so because they resolve concrete operational constraints rather than because they represent the latest innovation cycle.

“End users in the UAE are prioritizing solutions that deliver integration, automation, and intelligence. In security and safety, this means systems that can communicate across platforms, reduce false alarms through AI, and centralize incident management for faster response,” noted Osama Al Zarba from ISS. A defining characteristic of the UAE market is that technology demand follows operational logic, not marketing narratives. End users do not adopt technology to showcase sophistication but to manage complexity. High event volumes, multi-agency coordination, and 24/7 operations create conditions where manual processes break down quickly. Technologies that succeed are those that compress response times, reduce staffing burdens, and provide decision-makers with usable intelligence instead of raw data. This explains why adoption has concentrated around analytics, platform-based architectures, and convergence-oriented systems rather than around isolated devices.

awareness, rather than standalone systems. Cloud-based fire and life safety services are also gaining momentum, as building owners seek better compliance, remote visibility, and more efficient portfolio-wide management,” said Honeywell’s Nabil Cheqroun.

Recent deployments across airports, transport corridors, ports, and large urban districts demonstrate how analytics-

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led surveillance is now expected to support real-time decision-making. Core use cases include object detection, intrusion and perimeter breach identification, crowd density analysis, irregular behavior detection, and automated incident alerts. In aviation and public-space environments, analytics are increasingly used to optimize passenger flow and detect anomalies ear-

ly, reducing response times while limiting the need for manual oversight.

“One of the biggest trends we are seeing is operators thinking beyond strict security use cases for advanced analytics. More and more customers are exploring the use of AI to maintain and enhance safety standards and to solve day-to-day operational challenges, and we only expect that to continue. For example, we’ve had many conversations about our ability to automatically detect and alert when employees working in high-risk environments are not wearing the required protective equipment,” said Rafik Lamri from IntelexVision.

Integrated Systems Lead the Way Another key factor shaping technology demand in the UAE is governance, which increasingly centers on integration and system coherence rather than standalone performance. Security solutions are expected not only to function reliably but to operate as part of a controlled, transparent, and supportable ecosystem over long operational lifecycles. This has shifted demand toward software-led, integrated platforms that can adapt through updates, align with regulatory and operational policies, and connect seamlessly with adjacent systems.

“Recently, the strongest demand has been for integrated safety solutions,

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particularly those combining fire alarms with voice communication systems, as end users prioritize efficiency and clarity during emergencies. Paso has taken significant steps in integrating fire detection with voice alarm systems, introducing the innovative solution known as PawSafe. This integration marks a notable advancement in enhancing safety protocols,” said Hasna Nahdi from Paso.

Access Control and Identity Evolution Access control in the UAE is undergoing a measured but decisive evolution, driven less by novelty and more by the need to manage identity reliably at scale across complex environments. Traditional cardbased systems remain widespread, but recent demand has shifted toward mobile credentials, federated identity management, and tightly integrated access platforms that can operate across large portfolios of assets while meeting regulatory and privacy requirements.

“Demand is concentrated in government security infrastructure, transportation, enterprise security, and AI-driven data centers, where identity assurance must support large populations, high throughput, and critical digital assets. Key technology trends shaping the Middle East market include the shift toward multimodal biometrics, touch-free authentication, and AI-enabled identity platforms, alongside a strong emphasis on privacycentric system design and regulatory compliance,” explained Mohammed Murad from Iris ID. Mobile credentials have also seen strong uptake. They are operationally efficient, cost-effective, and allow security teams to grant, revoke, or adjust access permissions remotely and in real time. In the UAE context, this flexibility is not just convenient; it is becoming essential. It is particularly valuable for assets with transient populations such as contractors, service staff, and event-driven visitors.

High smartphone usage and well-established digital identity systems have made

What distinguishes the UAE from many other regional markets is the project-led nature of demand. Security investments primarily flow from large, structured programs linked to infrastructure development, urban expansion, and long-term critical asset management

the transition smooth, turning mobile access into a logical evolution rather than a risky experiment.

Biometric access control, on the other hand, is a more complicated story. Despite the UAE’s reputation for embracing advanced technology, biometric access control remains highly selective in practice. Biometrics are widely implemented in controlled environments such as airports, border control, staff-only zones, and selected government facilities, where identity assurance and throughput justify the investment and governance overhead.

In commercial spaces and public-access areas, however, adoption is far more cautious. Privacy concerns, data protection regulations, and user comfort levels all play a role in determining where biometrics make sense and where they do not.

Market Evolution in the Year Ahead Looking ahead in the UAE security and safety market, the central question is no longer whether the market will grow, but how value will be created, captured, and sustained as security systems become more complex, more regulated, and more deeply embedded in national infrastructure. One defining feature is the reallocation of value away from physical expansion and toward operational intelligence. This reflects a broader shift in how asset owners think about risk.

Rather than focusing solely on prevention, they prioritize continuity, predictability, and institutional accountability. In this environment, the ability to operate, audit, and adapt security systems over time becomes more valuable than the ability to deploy them quickly.

“The UAE security and safety market is moving toward fully connected, intelligence-led environments, where security, safety, sustainability, and operations are managed together on common platforms. Growth will increasingly shift from hardware-focused deployments to software, analytics, and cloud-enabled services that help deliver real-time insight, automation, and long-term operational value. The greatest opportunities lie in integrated smart buildings and campuses, city-scale public safety platforms, datadriven fire and life safety services, and cybersecurity for connected buildings and critical infrastructure. This evolution strongly aligns with how Honeywell is deploying technology in the region, using

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AI- and IoT-enabled platforms, cloudbased life safety services, integrated security solutions, and cybersecurity-by-design to help customers unify operations, strengthen resilience, and optimize energy and building performance,” explained Honeywell’s Nabil Cheqroun.

Investment decisions are also shaped by long-term national priorities rather than short-term technology cycles. Strategies around digital government, AI adoption, critical infrastructure resilience, and sustainability all intersect with security requirements. As a result, the most attractive opportunities lie in domains that align with these priorities, including managed services, advanced analytics, cyberphysical protection, and governance tools that support responsible technology use.

Future Brings Many Opportunities…

Speaking about what could be expected in the year ahead, Iris ID’s Mohammed Murad stressed that the UAE is entering the next phase of its security and safety evolution.

“Biometrics are now embedded across government and enterprise environments, with a continued focus on ethically focused, regulated, and multimodal identity systems.

The greatest opportunities lie in high-assurance, contactless, and AI-enabled identity platforms, particularly for smart borders, frictionless travel, secure data centers, digital identity ecosystems, and workforce authentication,” he explained.

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On the other hand, Mohammed Hoteit from Axis believes there is great potential across many verticals, including urban management projects, critical resource plants such as oil and gas refineries, and transport, public, and retail environments that are subject to high traffic volumes.

“Safety and security, which manifest as entire ecosystems made up of different technologies and integrated solutions, have always been a priority for organizations and industries in the UAE. As the market evolves, so do those ecosystems.

We will also continue to see impressive advancements in network video technology, as well as the integration of AI capabilities into devices, leading to greater insights and more enterprises taking a proactive stance on security, perimeter protection, and incident response,” he concluded.

Hasna Nahdi, in her role as International Markets Manager at Paso, stressed the importance of the strong partnership her company has been building throughout the UAE, concluding that the security

and safety market in the UAE is indeed poised for significant evolution. “Areas such as smart building technologies, cyber-physical security, and sustainable safety solutions offer the greatest potential for investment and innovation. As the UAE embraces digital transformation, we see an increasing focus on integrated solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency,” she said.

…But There Are Also Some Constraints However, the future trajectory of the market will also be shaped by structural constraints. They will not undermine market stability, but they will influence the pace of adoption, the form innovation takes, and the types of players that ultimately succeed. Understanding these constraints is essential for realistic forecasting and strategic positioning.

The UAE’s regulatory framework has been highly effective in raising system quality and reliability, but it inevitably

“In the UAE, we have seen strong demand for AI-enabled video analytics, high-performance network cameras for complex and harsh environments, cybersecurity-hardened devices, and open-platform solutions that integrate seamlessly with third-party systems.”

Mohammed Hoteit, Axis Communications

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slows the adoption of novel technologies.

New solutions, particularly those involving AI, data analytics, or connected devices, must pass through multiple approval layers. This creates a lag between technical readiness and market deployment.

In practice, innovation tends to be incremental and modular, introduced as extensions to approved platforms rather than as disruptive replacements.

Investors must also be aware that although federal strategies provide overarching direction, implementation and approval processes remain largely emirate-specific. This limits standardization and increases complexity for suppliers operating nationwide. Solutions approved and deployed in one emirate may require adaptation or reapproval elsewhere, reducing economies of scale and reinforcing the advantage of large integrators with localized expertise and resources.

Turning Security Into an ROI-Generating Function Speaking about the year ahead, the evolution of the UAE security and safety market is best understood as a shift in the center of gravity rather than a change in direction. The market is not abandoning

physical security fundamentals. Instead, it is steadily reallocating value away from hardware-centric deployments toward intelligence, services, and governanceoriented models.

“Integration, integration, and more integration. While this trend isn’t brand new, it is accelerating as AI and other software and hardware innovations have such vast potential to unlock additional value. The IT department’s influence on physical security strategy will continue to climb. This speaks to the AI and integration growth trends, and buying organizations’ focus on turning security from a sunk cost to an ROI-generating function,” noted Rafik Lamri from IntelexVision.

Predictive Models Are the Future The UAE security market is becoming ever more interdisciplinary. Security is no longer owned exclusively by physical security departments. It is increasingly shaped by digital government initiatives, cybersecurity strategies, and operational resilience planning. As a result, future market growth is likely to favor providers that can position security as an integrated operational capability aligned with digi-

“Biometrics are now embedded across government and enterprise environments, with a continued focus on ethically focused, regulated, and multimodal identity systems.

The greatest opportunities lie in highassurance, contactless, and AI-enabled identity platforms.” Mohammed Murad, Iris ID

tal transformation and national resilience objectives rather than as a standalone protective function.

“Looking ahead, I see several key themes shaping the security and safety landscape: the integration of AI and machine learning into core security tools; the convergence of physical and cyber defenses into unified security operations; and the expansion of smart, predictive models that enhance situational awareness and decision-making. As the UAE continues to position itself as a technologically advanced, investor-friendly hub, opportunities for development in advanced security technologies—especially those that combine analytics, automation, and interoperability—are likely to increase significantly,” predicted Osama Al Zarba from ISS.

UAE Shaping Global Trends The United Arab Emirates has assumed a role that extends beyond that of a large or well-funded security buyer. It increasingly functions as a reference market whose practices, standards, and deployment models influence security strategies across the region. One reason the UAE serves as a reference point is the combination of scale and scrutiny under which security systems operate. Solutions that succeed in this environment gain credibility precisely because they have been proven under demanding conditions. For global vendors, a successful UAE deployment often becomes a benchmark cited in other regions.

Another defining factor is the UAE’s role as an early integrator rather than an early adopter. The market does not typically deploy unproven technologies at scale, but it excels at integrating mature innovations into coherent, governed systems.

This makes the UAE particularly influential in shaping how technologies such as AI analytics, platform-based security, and cyber-physical convergence are deployed.

Finally, the UAE’s emphasis on governance, resilience, and digital trust aligns closely with global debates around responsible security technology use. As cities worldwide grapple with AI governance, data protection, and critical infrastructure resilience, the UAE offers a practical example of how these concerns can be embedded into large-scale deployments without paralyzing innovation. In this sense, the UAE is not merely following global security trends. It is actively shaping how advanced security ecosystems are designed, governed, and sustained. n

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Security 50

INDUSTRY SHOWS RESILIENCE AMID STRONG ECONOMIC HEADWINDS As the Middle East undergoes rapid urban expansion, its security needs are evolving just as fast. Distributors are no longer simple intermediaries but strategic technology orchestrators shaping integrated, compliant, and resilient systems. Their role now spans design, enablement, and lifecycle support across diverse environments. This feature explores how industry leaders are redefining distribution to meet the region’s ambitious development vision

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Tommy Zhu, Principal Analyst for Physical Security, Omdia

Allen Tang, VP, Hikvision International Business Center

n By: William Pao editorial@asmideast.com Security 50 list features the Top 50 publicly traded companies in physical security based on their 2024 revenue from security product sales. The Top 10 companies this year are: Hikvision Digital Technology, Dahua Technology, ASSA ABLOY, Motorola Solutions, Axis Communications, Allegion, Tiandy, Hanwha Vision, Raythink, and TKH. Hikvision and Dahua remain the world’s No. 1 and No. 2 security companies, with 2024 revenues of USD 12.87 billion and USD 4.48 billion, respectively.

We also see some new entrants on this year’s list. They are Raythink, Alarm.com, Arlo, and Innodep. In particular, Raythink, based in China, specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of intelligent photoelectric sensing technology. Innodep, based in Korea, is a specialized company focused on AI-based data city platforms.

Top Growth Companies A majority of companies – 33 – registered growth in 2024 year-on-year. The Top 10 growth companies are: ITX, Sparsh CCTV, Dongguan Yutong Optical Technology, Tamron, Everfocus Electronics, Raythink, Milestone Systems, Dynacolor, Intelbras, and Hanwha Vision. It’s worth noting that the world’s two, Hikvision and Dahua, gave a more lackluster

Ramesh Songukrishnasamy, SVP and CTO, HID

performance in this regard. Hikvision registered year-on-year growth of 3.5 percent for 2024, much smaller than the 7.42 percent for 2023-2022. Dahua inked a decline of 0.1 percent.

Chinese Market Decline Chinese companies performed inadequately last year, and more or less dragged down the global market as a whole. A report by Novaira, for example, finds that the global video surveillance market experienced a decline of 0.3 percent in 2024, due largely to a China market decline of 7.8 percent, which offset a growth of 4.9 percent for the rest of the world. OMDIA also revealed in an interview with asmag. com that the Chinese market experienced its third consecutive year of contraction by 9.6 percent in 2024, while markets outside China expanded a healthy 7.5 percent to $16.8 billion.

“The persistent downturn stems from a combination of factors: a prolonged real estate sector correction, restricted public sector spending, and diminished business confidence, all of which have severely curtailed project investments across government, enterprise, and small-to-medium-sized business sectors, deepening the market’s multi-year contraction,” said Tommy Zhu, Principal Analyst for Physical Security at Omdia.

As for 2025 and 2026, OMDIA gave a more positive assessment for the

The Top 10 security companies are: Hikvision Digital Technology, Dahua Technology, ASSA ABLOY, Motorola Solutions, Axis Communications, Allegion, Tiandy, Hanwha Vision, Raythink, and TKH

Howard Lang, President, Gunnebo Entrance Control

Chinese market, forecasting a smaller decline in 2025 and a return to growth in 2026. “The growth drivers include increased issuance of government bonds centering on digitization, infrastructure, and high-tech manufacturing. Recently announced mega projects, such as a hydropower project in the Yarlung Zangbo River and Xinjiang-Tibet railway, will also boost the growth of the critical infrastructure sector,” Zhu said.

A Review of 2025 Needless to say, 2025 was an eventful year. The war between Russia and Ukraine dragged on. The conflict in the Middle East had continued until Israel and Hamas reached a truce, whose effectiveness remains to be seen. But the real transformative force that changed the global economic dynamics was the trade war launched by the U.S. against different nations. The trade war between the U.S. and China has been particularly intense, with the U.S. slapping triple-digit tariffs on China and banning sales of advanced US technologies, including advanced chips, to China. China has responded in kind by controlling rare earths exports to the U.S. and halting purchases of US soybeans. After a recent meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Korea, the two superpowers temporarily reached a truce that is expected to last a year.

The US export control on chips has limited effects on the Chinese security industry at present. US sanction on Chinese leading security vendors started before the pandemic and have been continuously intensified in recent years. During the past few years, these large Chinese vendors have been shifting to China-made alternatives to ensure supply chain safety,” Zhu said.

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Hikvision, meanwhile, offers a similar assessment and says prospects look good for 2025. “From Hikvision’s perspective, 2025 has shown stable growth across international markets. While certain regions face geopolitical and trade-related challenges, we’ve seen strong demand in emerging markets such as MEA, Latin America, and Pan-APAC,” said Allen Tang, VP of Hikvision International Business Center.

Other companies we spoke with also gave positive outlooks for 2025, despite the global challenges and uncertainties. “Geopolitical trade barriers present headwinds for industry, particularly around cross-border technology transfer and supply chain resilience. At HID, we navigated these by remaining laser-focused on meeting customer needs, investing in localized manufacturing where feasible, and diversifying sourcing partnerships. This has allowed us to remain resilient and continue delivering trusted identity solutions to customers worldwide,” said Ramesh Songukrishnasamy, SVP and CTO of HID.

AI: From Cost to Value As for what’s driving growth for this year, security players cite increased demand and adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, which they said has transformed security from a cost center to a value center. “AI integration continues to redefine the physical security industry, driving a shift from reactive protection towards more intelligent, adaptive systems. The most notable innovations are those enhancing situational awareness

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Restructuring as a Solution But as far as security is concerned, the U.S.’s punitive measures against China produced minimal impact on Chinese security players – at least for the larger ones.

“Leading companies like Hikvision and Dahua began restructuring their global supply chains as early as 2018, when U.S.-China trade tensions escalated. By establishing production bases in India, Vietnam, and Brazil, the two companies mitigated tariff impacts,” Zhu said. “Additionally, owing to ongoing US sanctions, Hikvision has gradually exited the US market, and Dahua has sold its North American operations. As a result, the latest tariffs have minimal impact on these industry leaders.

Other small players, who rely on the US market but do not have local manufacturing plants, may face increasing challenges from the US trade barriers.”

and enabling data-led decision making in real-time, helping security and building management systems to work together more seamlessly,” said Howard Lang, President, Gunnebo Entrance Control.

In particular, the so-called “large-scale AI models,” which are trained on large datasets and are seen to drastically improve detection accuracy and reduce false alarms, have gained widespread attention in security. “Large-scale AI is one of the most transformative innovations reshaping physical security today. From intelligent camera analytics to instant video search capabilities, the application of large-scale AI models delivers significant improvements in security protection, business intelligence, traffic management, and more. In line with this trend, Hikvision has launched our Guanlan large-scale models, leveraging these capabilities to deliver advanced intelligence across our new products and solutions. This strategic focus on large-scale AI integration positions us at

the forefront of the evolving security landscape,” Tang said.

Challenges Remain Despite the upbeat sentiment, various challenges still remain in security. One of them is cybersecurity, especially at a time when security devices are more connected than ever, and video can be faked or manipulated by AI. “One of the major challenges in 2025 has been the rise of sophisticated AIdriven attacks that blur the lines between physical and digital breaches.

HID’s State of Security and Identity 2025 report revealed that 62 percent of enterprises faced identity-related breaches in the past year, underscoring the scale of the challenge. At the same time, organizations are under pressure to modernize legacy infrastructure while ensuring compliance with evolving global and regional regulations. Organizations

cess, and biometrics adoption, as more governments roll out national identity modernization initiatives. In the enterprise space, demand for converged access solutions, where a single digital credential secures both cyber and physical access, is expected to expand rapidly,” Songukrishnasamy said. “Our 2025 research highlights that over 70 percent of organizations plan to increase investment in mobile identity and credential issuance in the next two years. This trend will exDanielle Mitchell, Training Andrew Elvish, VP of Marketing, Gerard Figols, Chief Operating tend into 2026, along with heightManager for APAC and IMEA, Genetec Officer, i-PRO Gallagher Security ened demand for zero-trust architectures that integrate identity deeply into security frameworks.” increasingly understand that effective “For us, addressing these people issues security cannot compromise convenihas meant leaning heavily into education, “Looking ahead to 2026, I’m optimistic,” ence, and this is where HID continues training, and partnership. We’ve focused said Andrew Elvish, VP of Marketing at to deliver differentiated value in areas of on providing resources that help fill capabilGenetec. “Investments remain strong, robust technologies and enhanced user and security professionals are approachity gaps, making expertise accessible, and experiences,” Songukrishnasamy said. ing technology with real curiosity and crebuilding long-term trust with customers Another key challenge has to do with laativity. As AI tools continue to accelerate and partners. By tackling the human side bor shortage and other related issues. investigations, and intelligent automation of the industry head-on, we’ve found we “Staffing shortages, high turnover, and helps security operators gain a unified can remove some of the friction that slows the cost and complexity of training have understanding of activity across systems, adoption and help ensure that technology become some of the biggest barriers for we expect growth to continue.” delivers the value it promises,” she added. organizations across the industry. Chan“For 2026, we expect continued momennel partners are especially feeling the tum, especially as AI becomes more conUpbeat for 2026 strain as they struggle to find and retain text-aware and further integrated across skilled technicians, often dealing with ermission-critical verticals such as venues As for 2026, security players also expressed rors and inefficiencies that flow directly and smart cities. The drive towards more upbeat sentiment, saying the momentum from inexperience. These challenges automated workflows will broaden AI’s role, gained around advanced technologies such aren’t just HR problems; they’re shaping extending it from traditional security applias AI and mobile access control will conhow quickly businesses can innovate and cations into areas like operations and busitinue. “We are optimistic about 2026, with how effectively they can operate,” said ness intelligence, where the camera acts expectations for continued growth across Danielle Mitchell, Training Manager for as a sensor generating data,” said Gerard our core markets. The momentum will be APAC and IMEA at Gallagher Security.

Figols, Chief Operating Officer at i-PRO. n driven by accelerated digital ID, mobile ac-

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Roundtable

INSIGHTS FROM SECURITY INDUSTRY LEADERS To provide insight into industry progress and market direction, senior executives from three top companies – Hikvision, Axis Communications, and Hanwha Vision – shared their views and insights with us n By: Editorial Dept., asmag.com editorial@asmideast.com a&s: How do you assess the overall condition of the security industry in 2025?

What are the main growth drivers, and do you also expect further growth in 2026?

Allen Tang, Hikvision: From Hikvision’s perspective, 2025 has shown stable growth across international markets.

While certain regions face geopolitical and trade-related challenges, we’ve seen strong demand in emerging markets such as MEA, Latin America, and Pan-APAC. Looking ahead to 2026, we remain optimistic. The rapid evolution of large-scale AI technologies is expected to be a key growth driver, enabling smarter and more efficient security solutions. We anticipate that physical security systems will become increasingly embedded in broader societal and industrial infrastructures, creating promising opportunities in the coming year.

Ray Mauritsson, Axis Communications: The security industry in 2025 is

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experiencing robust growth driven by the increasing global demand for safety and security, ongoing digital transformation, and the accelerated use of AI. The shift toward hybrid architecture, coupled with the need for top-level cybersecurity, is further driving the market.

Woojin Kim, Hanwha Vision: The security industry in 2025 has moved decisively into the era of “super-intelligent video surveillance,” driven by the ubiquitous integration of AI, transforming security from a reactive cost center into a strategic business enabler. The core growth drivers this year are the deployment of powerful edge AI technologies, notably our Wisenet 9 SoC, which places unprecedented processing power directly onto the camera, turning devices into autonomous, intelligent agents capable of realtime decision-making. We expect robust and accelerated growth in 2026 as these technologies mature and Generative AI integrates into edge devices for deeper contextual understanding. The APAC region, which is fueled by large-scale intelligent urban systems and ambitious digital

transformation initiatives, will serve as a key engine for this global expansion and demand high-performance solutions. a&s: As you have mentioned, we’ve seen a significant acceleration in AI integration.

What innovations are having the most transformative impact on physical security right now, and how have they influenced your business strategy/direction?

Allen Tang: Large-scale AI is one of the most transformative innovations reshaping physical security today. From intelligent camera analytics to instant video search capabilities, the application of large-scale AI models delivers significant improvements in security protection, business intelligence, traffic management, and more.

In line with this trend, Hikvision has launched our Guanlan large-scale AI models, leveraging these capabilities to deliver advanced intelligence across our new products and solutions. This strategic focus on large-scale AI integration positions us at the forefront of the evolving security landscape.

Allen Tang: Our core strategy is continuous innovation, driven by sustained R&D investment, especially in large-scale AI. The launch of our Guanlan largescale AI models exemplifies this approach, introducing new innovations for AI-powered IoT applications through enhanced computer vision, natural language processing, and multimodal fusion.

For example, our DeepinViewX cameras, powered by largeAllen Tang, VP, Hikvision Ray Mauritsson, CEO, Axis Woojin Kim, Head of the APAC International Business Center Communications Sales Department, Hanwha Vision scale AI, can reduce false alarms by up to 90% compared to conventional AI cameras, marking a significant leap forward in perimeter sedual NPU architecture. This design is Ray Mauritsson: AI integration is indeed curity. Meanwhile, our AcuSeek’s natural critical because one of the two NPUs having a transformative impact on physilanguage search redefines video retrieval, is fully dedicated to image processing, cal security, moving systems beyond basic allowing security teams to quickly locate enabling AI-based Noise Reduction (NR) monitoring to proactive capabilities. Edge critical footage using simple, intuitive to function far beyond existing methods.

AI is a game-changer, enabling real-time commands such as “find red vehicles in By creating incredibly clean, accurate analysis and predictive capabilities directparking lot B yesterday.” This dramatiimages at the source, we drastically ly at the device. Another game-changer is cally improves operational efficiency and improve bitrate and network efficiency the introduction of the AV1 video codec response times. by eliminating unnecessary data. This standard in the security industry. This not only maximizes the effectiveness of will deliver higher-quality video at a lower Ray Mauritsson: We maintain our marphysical security but also dramatically bandwidth, as well as lower storage costs ket leadership by continuously delivering increases the value of our video data and improved energy efficiency at a syshigh-quality, cutting-edge products and for Business Intelligence (BI), solidifying tem level. solutions. Our open platform and our our role as a key operational tool for our unique partner ecosystem give customcustomers.

Woojin Kim: I think the most transformers flexibility and innovation at scale, while ative shift is the fundamental improveour focus on cybersecurity, product quala&s: Amid fierce competition and adment in image quality and data integrity ity, and sustainability ensures long-term vances in technology, what strategy and driven by AI at the edge, which immedivalue. This combination keeps Axis a step action have you taken to beat the compeately elevates our cameras into reliable ahead as both a technology leader and a tition and achieve continued success in business data engines. This innovation trusted partner. the market? is powered by our Wisenet 9 SoC’s

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37

‘25

‘24

Company

Headquarters

Product Group

1

1

HIKVISION DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY (VIDEO SURVEILLANCE)

China

Multiple

2

2

DAHUA TECHNOLOGY

China

Multiple

3

3

ASSA ABLOY (ELECTROMECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC LOCKS)

Sweden

Entry System

4

4

MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS (VIDEO SECURITY AND ANALYTICS)

U.S.

Multiple

5

5

AXIS COMMUNICATIONS

Sweden

Multiple

6

6

ALLEGION (ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS AND ACCESS CONTROL)

U.S.

Entry System

7

7

TIANDY

China

Video Surveillance

8

8

HANWHA VISION

Korea

Video Surveillance

9

new

RAYTRON (RAYTHINK)

China

Video Surveillance

10

9

TKH (SMART VISION SYSTEMS)

Netherlands

Multiple

11

11

INTELBRAS

Brazil

Multiple

12

10

AIPHONE

Japan

Intercom

13

13

DONGGUAN YUTONG OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY

China

Video Surveillance (Lens)

14

12

CP PLUS

India

Video Surveillance

15

new

ALARM.COM

US

Intrusion detection

16

16

MILESTONE SYSTEMS

Denmark

Video Surveillance

17

15

ZKTECO

China

Entry System

18

new

ARLO

U.S.

Home Security & Automation

19

14

VIVOTEK

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

20

17

NEDAP

Netherlands

Multiple

21

19

TVT DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

China

Video Surveillance

22

20

IDIS

Korea

Video Surveillance

23

25

GALLAGHER

New Zealand

Entry System

24

22

OPTEX (SECURITY SENSORS)

Japan

Intrusion Detection

25

18

NAPCO SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES

U.S.

Multiple

26

23

INFINOVA

China

Video Surveillance

27

29

MEARI

China

Home Security & Automation

28

28

RAYSHARP

China

Video Surveillance

29

26

DNAKE

China

Intercom

30

27

COMMAX

Korea

Home Security & Automation

31

34

TAMRON (SURVEILLANCE & FA LENSES)

Japan

Video Surveillance (Lens)

32

30

KOCOM

Korea

Home Security & Automation

33

33

SUPREMA

Korea

Entry System

34

32

GWELLTIMES

China

Home Security & Automation

35

new

INNODEP

Korea

Multiple

36

38

DYNACOLOR

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

37

35

MOBOTIX

Germany

Video Surveillance

38

40

SYNECTICS (SYSTEM DIVISION)

U.K.

Video Surveillance

39

42

SPARSH CCTV

India

Video Surveillance

40

41

UNION BIOMETRICS (formerly UNIONCOMMUNITY)

Korea

Entry System

41

39

GEOVISION

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

42

43

SENSTAR TECHNOLOGIES

Canada

Multiple

43

44

HI SHARP ELECTRONICS

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

44

45

C-PRO ELECTRONICS

Korea

Video Surveillance

45

47

AVA GROUP

Australia

Multiple

46

49

ITX AI

Korea

Video Surveillance

47

48

EVERFOCUS ELECTRONICS

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

48

46

ACTI

Taiwan

Video Surveillance

49

50

THRUVISION

U.K.

People Screening

50

37

EVOLV TECHNOLOGY

U.S.

Screening Systems

38

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2024 Revenue (USD Million)

Revenue Growth (2024-2023)

12866.3

3.5%

4476.4

-0.1%

4259.1

6.7%

1920.0

11.2%

1766.9

7.4%

943.1

-7.7%

929.5

10.0%

890.8

16.1%

600.3

21.3%

529.9

-2.2%

470.6

17.0%

418.3

3.2%

381.6

27.9%

366.4

9.7%

308.6

-1.2%

290.5

18.7%

277.0

1.1%

267.9

-7.6%

228.2

-20.0%

163.9

-15.1%

161.6

7.0%

148.1

0.8%

123.1

5.6%

120.4

3.4%

113.1

2.7%

108.1

-8.4%

103.4

10.4%

94.1

0.1%

90.2

-17.7%

85.9

-0.7%

81.4

25.8%

77.0

4.5%

73.0

11.9%

58.4

-18.7%

56.8

-7.7%

56.1

17.6%

54.1

-20.8%

45.8

12.1%

41.9

28.9%

41.5

10.4%

37.3

-5.2%

35.8

9.0%

34.2

12.8%

27.1

8.8%

15.7

6.3%

15.5

58.8%

14.3

24.5%

12.6

-17.1%

7.0

-29.6%

6.5

-71.6%

Woojin Kim: Our strategy for maintaining market leadership rests on securing technological leadership while ensuring institutional trust. We beat the competition by embedding superior, demonstrable innovation into our products, like the Secure Element certified to FIPS 140-3 Level 3. This certification validates the integrity of the cryptographic modules in our Wisenet 9-powered cameras, instantly positioning us as the partner of choice for highly regulated government and enterprise customers. We then translate this technological trust into market success through customized market engagement, quickly developing and localizing AI solutions to meet the distinct operational and compliance needs of high-value vertical segments globally. a&s: What were the main market challenges and non-tech trends, and how did you address them?

Ray Mauritsson: Beyond technology, 2025 underscored the importance of ethics in AI. The rapid deployment of AI technologies raised significant ethical concerns regarding privacy and responsible use. Axis is committed to advancing responsible AI, ensuring that our technology augments human intelligence, respects human rights, and benefits society. Our approach embeds principles of fairness, transparency, and data privacy from the outset of product development, rather than as an afterthought.

Woojin Kim: The 2025 video surveillance market faced intensifying cyber risks and the complex demands of global privacy compliance. Hanwha Vision focused on verifying trust through rigorous global standards. We successfully acquired major certifications like ETSI EN 303 645 and ISA/IEC 62443-4-1 to validate our secure development lifecycle. This standards-based commitment is supported by integrating a Secure Element into our Wisenet 9-powered cameras for fundamental hardware security. Furthermore, we ensure transparency by publishing our SBOM (Software Bill of Materials). a&s: Beyond technology and growth, how do you see the role of the security industry as a partner for the business sector and other organizations evolving?

Allen Tang: The security industry is evolving beyond traditional protection to be-

come a more integrated part of AIoT ecosystems. As industries across the board accelerate their digital transformation, the security sector is uniquely positioned to provide smarter, more adaptive solutions that support this shift. Advancements in large-scale AI models and perception technologies will be pivotal in driving digitalization across diverse industries. From transportation and energy to healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and retail, these AIoT innovations are enabling organizations to automate processes, enhance decisionmaking, and achieve greater efficiency.

Aligned with the transformation, our business strategy focuses on leveraging AIoT technologies, products, and solutions to advance industry digitalization.

Ray Mauritsson: The security industry’s role is evolving to a more strategic partner that enables business growth and efficiency. This shift, driven by the convergence of physical security with IT and operational technologies, provides valuable business intelligence beyond traditional protection.

Our responsibility is to act as trusted advisors, delivering both security and business value, while ensuring technology is deployed adequately and responsibly.

Woojin Kim: The security industry’s role has fundamentally shifted, transcending simple loss prevention to become an essential strategic partner that facilitates business intelligence and manages complex enterprise risk in the digital domain.

Our value proposition is now centered on transforming security infrastructure from a historical cost center into a source of actionable business data, enabling customers to optimize operations, enhance resource utilization, and ensure regulatory adherence.

Crucially, we embrace the responsibility of acting as a partner in governance and ethical resilience, guiding organizations through converging cyber and physical threats while guaranteeing compliance with stringent data privacy regulations.

To solidify this expanded mandate, we prioritize the establishment of verifiable trust by obtaining rigorous certifications (such as ISA/IEC 62443 and ETSI EN 303 645) and fostering an open, collaborative ecosystem. This integrated approach ensures that security is strategically recognized not as a liability, but as a critical enabler of sustained business growth and operational integrity.n

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39

The AI Revolution in Physical Security

NAVIGATING INNOVATION, INTELLIGENCE, AND GOVERNANCE The physical security industry is experiencing a fundamental transformation as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and IoT technologies converge to create intelligent, interconnected networks n By: Tommy Zhu, Principal Analyst, Physical Security, Omdia editorial@asmideast.com According to Omdia’s 2025 Video Surveillance & Analytics Report, the global video surveillance market, valued at $25.9 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $37.1 billion by 2029 with a 7.5% CAGR, driven

by AI integration and intelligent analytics adoption. This evolution represents more than technological advancement—it signals a paradigm shift from traditional reactive monitoring to proactive, intelligent security operations.

Four interconnected forces are reshaping the security landscape: intelligent AI systems, edge computing proliferation, evolving governance frameworks, and cybersecurity imperatives. Each element builds upon the others, creating a comprehensive transformation that demands strategic coordination.

Generative and Agentic AI: The Intelligence Revolution The integration of generative AI and agentic AI systems is fundamentally reshaping video surveillance operations, enabling a shift from reactive response to proactive decision-making. Modern AI-powered systems leverage visionlanguage models (VLMs) trained on image/video-text pairs, creating sophisticated understanding capabilities that surpass traditional computer vision approaches. The large models used in the video surveillance systems offer several key advantages.

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Four factors are shaping the new security reality: advanced AI systems, edge proliferation, regulatory governance, and cybersecurity imperatives AI systems now distinguish between suspicious loitering and casual waiting, providing nuanced scene interpretation that reduces false alarms while improving threat detection accuracy. Foundation models enable rapid fine-tuning for scenario-specific applications, allowing organizations to quickly adapt security

systems to emerging threats and operational requirements. Modern systems can monitor passenger and vehicle flows in urban transport, detect rule violations automatically, and identify suspicious patterns through intelligent analytics, transforming security from passive recording to active threat prevention.

Edge AI Proliferation: Distributed Intelligence Architecture As these intelligent systems become more sophisticated and capable, they require substantial computational resources that traditional centralized architectures cannot support efficiently. The computational demands of advanced AI systems have catalyzed a fundamental shift toward edge processing, with 61% of all camera shipments expected to be AI cameras by 2029, according to Omdia’s research.

This proliferation is enabled by advanced computer vision models and compression technologies, including knowledge distillation, which allows large AI models to operate efficiently on resource-constrained edge devices. With the integration of multiple sensors and data sources, modern AI-enabled video cameras can create comprehensive situational awareness.

Edge AI deployment transforms security networks from centralized monitoring systems into intelligent, autonomous networks capable of independent decisionmaking and coordinated response.

Global AI Governance: Regulatory Framework Evolution As AI-powered security systems become more pervasive and autonomous, their potential impact on society grows exponentially. This expanding influence has prompted governments worldwide to develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible AI deployment while fostering continued innovation. The passage of the EU’s AI Act in August 2024 represents a watershed moment in AI governance, establishing comprehensive regulatory frameworks that influence global security industry practices. This legislation creates clear boundaries for acceptable AI applications while promoting responsible innovation, which directly addresses concerns raised by the proliferation of intelligent surveillance systems. The AI Act explicitly prohibits untargeted scraping of facial images from CCTV footage, emotion recognition in workplaces and schools, and predictive policing based solely on profiling—setting global precedents for ethical AI deployment. The regulatory frameworks provide structured guidance for ethical AI implementation while addressing cross-border

Orchestrating Transformation The convergence of AI intelligence, edge proliferation, regulatory governance, and cybersecurity imperatives is creating an interconnected ecosystem that promises unprecedented security capabilities while introducing complex management challenges. Success in today’s transformed landscape requires organizations to adopt a holistic orchestration approach that seamlessly integrates multiple elements. This includes advanced AI capabilities that enable proactive threat detection while adhering to regulatory requirements, distributed edge intelligence that processes data locally without compromising cybersecurity, comprehensive compliance frameworks to support ethical AI deployment across jurisdictions, and robust cybersecurity measures that safeguard AI models, edge devices, and sensitive data simultaneously. Organizations that successfully orchestrate this complex transformation will define the future of intelligent physical security and capture the significant growth opportunities in this rapidly evolving market.

data compliance challenges, creating both constraints and opportunities for innovation.

Cybersecurity and Privacy: The Security Paradox While regulatory frameworks establish the boundaries for responsible AI deployment, they also highlight a critical challenge: the expanded attack surfaces and cybersecurity risks created by intelligent, interconnected security systems. The same technologies that enable proactive threat detection can also create new vulnerabilities that must be systematically addressed. AI-enabled video surveillance

system backends host massive amounts of private and confidential metadata, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals while subjecting organizations to significant regulatory penalties—GDPR violations can result in fines up to 4% of annual global turnover or €20 million.

With growing concerns over cyberphysical security, new legislations are expected to commence and come into force in the next few years, such as the EU’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), which requires “secure by design” and “secure by default” implementations. Navigating the evolving regulatory and compliance landscape is becoming critical to the security industry. n

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41

Memoori Research Study

THE SEVEN KEY TRENDS OF THE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE MARKET Based on the latest findings from Memoori Research, top-line growth in the global video surveillance market has moderated from the high double-digit rates of the last decade. Yet the industry is still projected to grow from USD 33.8 billion in 2024 to a robust USD 47.9 billion by 2030 n By: Owen Kell, Senior Research Associate, Memoori Research editorial@asmideast.com

Ongoing market expansion masks a series of fundamental structural shifts, with the market moving from reactive security deployments toward strategic, intelligence-driven infrastructure investments, where value is increasingly driven by actionable data and operational outcomes. Based on our latest research into the global video surveillance business from 2025 to 2030, the following trends will define the competitive landscape and dictate success for manufacturers, integrators, and end-users alike.

Software and Analytics Will Be the Key Drivers for Growth For years, the lion’s share of industry value has been generated through hardware sales, but the center of gravity is now firmly shifting to software and analytics. While the overall market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of just under 6%, the video management software (VMS) and analytics segment is expanding at a much faster 8.6%.

This divergence reflects a fundamental change in customer priorities. Organizations are no longer just buying cameras to record video; they are investing in platforms that can transform that video into searchable, actionable intelligence.

As a result, software’s share of the total market value is set to rise from approxi-

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mately 17% in 2024 to nearly 20% by 2030. This trend is fueling the transition to recurring revenue models and forcing hardware-centric vendors to strengthen their software and ecosystem strategies to remain competitive.

AI Goes Mainstream Artificial intelligence has officially moved beyond pilot projects and is becoming a default feature in modern surveillance systems. The most telling indicator of this shift is the rapid adoption of AI-capable cameras at the edge. Our latest market analysis projects that cameras with ondevice deep learning capabilities will grow from just 23% of global shipments in 2024 to a remarkable 64% by 2030.

This migration is fueled by both supply-side advances in efficient edge AI silicon and demand-side pressures for faster, more reliable analytics. Many end-users report seeing tangible ROI from investments into these new cameras, with AI-based object detection reportedly reducing false positive alerts by more than 95% in remote monitoring applications. As the price delta between AI and non-AI cameras shrinks, embedded intelligence is becoming a standard expectation, not a premium add-on.

Geopolitics Shapes the Global Market Arguably, the most powerful force that has shaped the industry over the past 5 years is the ongoing geopolitical tension

between the U.S. and China. Regulations by the US government, such as NDAA Section 889 and the FCC’s Covered List, have effectively created parallel markets: one where Chinese manufacturers dominate through scale and aggressive pricing, and another (primarily in North America and parts of Europe) where compliance, supply chain transparency, and cybersecurity posture are the primary differentiators. Increasing market bifurcation is forcing every global player to maintain multi-origin supply chains and bifurcated product lines, adding permanent cost and complexity to the market.

Market Consolidation and the Rise of Platforms Much of the activity we’ve observed in the M&A landscape is driven by a race to build unified platforms. Rather than simply acquiring hardware companies, major players are now focused on integrating VMS, cloud services, and AI analytics into a single, cohesive ecosystem.

Transactions such as Milestone Systems’ merger with its cloud-native sister company Arcules, and private equity-led carve-outs like the sale of Bosch’s Building Technologies business, underscore this strategic imperative. Longstanding players like Motorola Solutions and Canon continue to build out their portfolios through acquisition, aiming to own more of the technology stack from capture to analysis. For customers, this promises more streamlined solutions but also brings the risk of tighter ecosystem lock-

in, making a vendor’s long-term strategy and commitment to openness more critical than ever.

Hybrid Cloud Becomes the Dominant Architecture While VSaaS continues its rapid expansion, the notion of a pure-cloud future is being replaced by the practical reality of the hybrid model. A recent industry survey found that 60% of organizations plan to adopt a hybrid-cloud architecture, blending the benefits of on-premises recording with the flexibility of cloud management and storage.

This approach strikes a crucial balance.

On-premises storage addresses bandwidth limitations, ensures operational resilience during network outages, and satisfies strict data residency requirements common in regulated sectors. The cloud, in turn, provides scalable long-term archiving, simplified multi-site management, and powerful centralized analytics.

Privacy and Compliance Pose New Challenges Navigating the increasingly complex web of privacy regulations is becoming a critical challenge across the industry. The EU’s GDPR and, more recently, its AI Act, are creating new, more stringent requirements for data protection, with significant consequences for surveillance. The AI Act, for instance, classifies remote biometric identification in public spaces as a prohibited practice outside

of narrow law enforcement exceptions.

This regulatory pressure is forcing vendors to embrace “privacy-by-design” principles. Features that were once considered niche, such as default facial masking, strict role-based access with full audit trails, and automated redaction tools, are becoming essential for winning business in regulated markets.

Cybersecurity Expectations Are Rising As surveillance systems become more connected and data-rich, they have also become a prime target for cyberattacks.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security now emphasizes that IP-based video surveillance should be treated as critical infrastructure, requiring security-by-design at every level. Yet, as of mid-2025, over 40,000 internet-facing surveillance devices remain publicly discoverable with weak or default credentials.

This gap between risk and reality is closing fast. End-users, particularly in enterprise and government sectors, are now demanding higher cybersecurity standards, including secure boot processes, signed firmware, and transparent vulnerability management policies.

As we move into 2026, these trends will redefine the strategic priorities for all players across the surveillance value chain. Success will depend not only on technical capabilities but also on the ability to navigate regulatory complexity, geopolitical risk, and the evolving expectations of enterprise buyers. n

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43

Novaira Insights Study

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE: TODAY AND TOMORROW Video surveillance continues to play a critical role in safeguarding people, assets, and infrastructure across the globe. In this interview, Josh Woodhouse, Lead Analyst and Founder of Novaira Insights, shares his insights on video surveillance market trends n By: Editorial Dept., asmag.com editorial@asmideast.com

cent in the Chinese market, while the rest of the world (excluding China) is forecast to grow by 6.1 percent.

The global video surveillance market is entering a phase of pronounced regional divergence, shaped by geopolitical factors, changing investment cycles, and accelerating technological innovation. To better understand how these forces are influencing market performance and regional growth patterns, we begin by looking at the overall state of the global market.

a&s: In which geographic regions was the growth in video surveillance more noticeable in 2025? Why?

a&s: Please give us an overview of the global video surveillance market in 2025.

How was the overall market sentiment?

Do you expect growth this year, and what were some of the growth drivers?

Woodhouse: The global video surveillance market is forecast to grow 1.7 percent in 2025. However, this growth will be characterized by a decline of 5.2 per-

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Woodhouse: High-growth markets are forecast to include countries in the Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia, and India. These are emerging markets where the installed base is less saturated than in North America, Western Europe, and China. Demand in these latter countries is often for replacements to existing equipment. In contrast, demand in emerging markets is often for both new installations and for replacements to existing equipment. This allows for a higher rate of growth than when demand is largely for replacement business alone.

Another factor driving growth in 2025 is that growth in 2024 had been held back

by elections and changes in government spending in a number of countries. 2025 has therefore seen pent-up demand being fulfilled in them. a&s: How did the Chinese video surveillance market perform this year, after seeing a 7.8 percent decline in 2024 according to Novaira Insights? Do you see the Chinese market growing this year? On what drivers?

Woodhouse: The Chinese market is forecast to continue declining in 2025. Novaira Insights does not expect the domestic market in China to return to as high growth as it has achieved at times in the past decade. a&s: Which video surveillance technologies were trending and gaining momentum in 2025? How did they address particular challenges or pain points faced by customers and users?

High-growth markets are forecast to include countries in the Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia, and India. These are emerging markets where the installed base is less saturated than in North America, Western Europe, and China Woodhouse: Demand for AI and cloud solutions has both continued to grow. AI has so far mainly been used to improve the accuracy of video analytics. We see system-wide intelligent automation available in some platforms, but adoption is still low. Cloud solutions are gaining momentum in the market; so far, they are more popular in North America than in other regions. a&s: What were some of the main challenges facing the global video surveillance market in 2025? Are they expected to continue? How have video surveillance companies done to overcome these challenges?

Woodhouse: Challenges include trade tariffs, the move to recurring revenues, compliance with regulations, cybersecurity, and recruiting problems. These are forecast to continue to be challenges in 2026.

imagers, future models are expected to combine visible light, radar, lidar, and uncooled thermal sensors, offering more comprehensive situational awareness.

We continue to see additional IoT sensors sold by camera vendors add inputs to security ecosystems.

We’ll continue to see improvements in truly wireless cameras powered by solar energy, batteries, video analytics, and 5G connectivity, which a&s: How about 2026? may become viable replaDo you expect further cements for traditional growth in the global vioutdoor cameras, includeo surveillance market ding those monitoring buin 2026 compared to ilding exteriors and parking 2025? What will be some lots. We see lots of activity of the growth drivers? in North America particuAnd what new innovations lar for temporary trailer do you expect will come cameras. We’ll see this into video surveillance next approach in more diverse year or in the near term? models with different and Josh Woodhouse, Lead Analyst smaller form factors.

Woodhouse: The global and Founder of Novaira Insights Generally, for surveillance market is forecast to grow systems, the ability to add 3.1 percent in 2026. more AI will continue with improvements Again, growth will be characterized by to system-wide intelligence, with greater a decline in China (by 4.5 percent) and AI functionality built into VMS and security growth in the rest of the world (by 7.4 platforms. This will include more features percent). marketed as agentic AI. We’ll also conOn the camera side, innovations will inclutinue to see the shrinking of AI models de greater performance of multi-sensor to offer more general inference on lowcameras with more diverse sensor confipowered edge devices. n gurations. Instead of multiple visible-light

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FEATURE STORY

Fire Safety

United by Safety:

Three Brands, One Mission at Intersec 2026 46

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FEATURE STORY

As the Middle East construction boom drives demand for advanced fire safety systems, three brands within the Bosch portfolio demonstrate how integrated detection, alarm, and evacuation technologies address the region’s unique challenges at Intersec 2026 n By: Mirza Bahić mirza.bahic@asmideast.com As the Middle East continues its rapid development across commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors, the region’s fire safety requirements have never been more complex or critical.

Against this backdrop, Intersec 2026, taking place from January 12-14 at Dubai World Trade Centre represents the world’s premier platform for safety, security, and fire protection. Among the more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries, three brands within Bosch’s fire protection portfolio will present their technologies: Bosch Building Technologies, 4EVAC, and Protec.

What distinguishes this trio is their complementary strengths across the fire safety spectrum. Bosch Building Technologies acquired Protec Fire and Security Group in late 2021, bringing approximately 1,100 employees and operations primarily in the UK and the Netherlands into the Bosch Building Technologies division. 4EVAC, with over 30 years of voice alarm manufacturing experience and operating as Hacousto Holland BV in the Netherlands, is now marketed as “4EVAC – A Bosch Company” and positioned as part of Bosch’s life safety portfolio. Each brand addresses distinct aspects of life safety systems, spanning detection, alarm, and evacuation technologies.

– from panels and detectors to software solutions – with full compatibility across the entire system to protect customer investment,” Kumar notes.

Solutions encompass automatic detector series, including multi-criteria and flushmount variants, user-friendly control panels such as the AVENAR panel series for coordinating fire alarms and eventrelated messages, manual call points, sounders, strobes, interface modules, special detectors, and video-based fire detection through AVIOTEC. Planning tools are also available, including an intuitive system planning tool with plausibility checks and tender templates.

Users can manage systems remotely, accessing onsite data before visiting the site, creating automated maintenance reports, or providing additional service to customers. “Predictive maintenance is key to preventing costly false alarms, while remote services enable technicians

to work more efficiently using remote diagnostics – saving costs, assets, and lives,” Kumar adds.

The company also tests all fire products at internal R&D laboratories, even beyond specifications, to offer reliable systems.

At Intersec 2026, Bosch will showcase several flagship technologies. The AVENAR 4000 detector series uses multi-sensor technology to reduce false alarms. These detectors incorporate multiple sensing capabilities that enable faster fire detection while minimizing false alarms compared to traditional smoke detectors. Smart interface modules enhance fire system efficiency and reliability, tailored for multiple applications. Complementing the hardware is NEXOSPACE Fire System Explorer, which transforms conventional fire detection systems into IoT-enabled platforms. This digitalization provides system integrators

How a Century of Fire Detection Experience Shapes Today’s Systems Yet, the story did not exactly start in 2026. “For more than a century, Bosch has been striving to meet one of humankind’s fundamental necessities – safety,” says Sathish Kumar, Sales & Business Development Manager for the Middle East in Bosch Building Technologies. The company’s journey began in 1920 with the establishment of an emergency call center in Hamburg, Germany.

“We offer a comprehensive portfolio of reliable and future-proof safety systems

Installers value ease of installation and reduced commissioning time enabled by single software platforms www.asmideast.com

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FEATURE STORY

Limitless Transparency with NEXOSPACE Fire System Explorer from Bosch

with remote insights and enables more efficient service management. A new feature to be demonstrated at Intersec is the Detector Self-Test capability, which allows automated testing through the NEXOSPACE FSE cockpit, reducing time spent on-site during maintenance.

AVIOTEC is Bosch’s video-based fire detection solution that detects flames and

The breadth of Bosch’s experience is reflected in its market reach. The company provides reliable and efficient fire safety solutions tailored to a wide range of industries, including commercial and residential real estate, oil and gas, hospitality, manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, hotels, energy and utility infrastructures, and transportation.

All three brands emphasize the critical importance of localization, while recognizing that varied regulations and market conditions across countries in the region require tailored approaches smoke directly at their source. This technology addresses scenarios where traditional point-type detectors face limitations: premises with high ceilings, dustladen environments, heavy fire loads, and outdoor applications. The trained algorithm can identify fire signatures faster than ceiling-mounted detectors, providing early warning in challenging environments.

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Systems provide tailored protection to suit customer requirements. In the Middle East specifically, the market serves these diverse verticals, each demanding customized fire protection solutions to address specific needs and comply with local regulations. Bosch has achieved successes across these sectors, with construction activity driving increased demand for fire systems that integrate

with building automation and monitoring technologies.

Architecting Voice Evacuation for Complex Environments While detection forms the first line of defense, effective evacuation is essential during fire incidents. This is where 4EVAC’s specialization becomes relevant. “Safety in every decibel – that’s the principle behind 4EVAC’s Voice Evacuation and Emergency Audio solutions. Our systems deliver clear, reliable, and secure communication during critical situations,” says Nianel Rodriguez, Product Manager - Business Line, Sales, at 4EVAC. 4EVAC’s product portfolio addresses installation and operational challenges.

The company offers three primary system architectures: COMPACT 500, a wall-mounted Voice Alarm Control and Indication Equipment (VACIE) solution for space-constrained applications; IMPACT SW, a rack-mounted modular Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) system designed for complex environments; and

FEATURE STORY

stallation and configuration via a single software platform, significantly reducing commissioning time, while acoustic tuning is managed through advanced DSP processing and flexible zoning,” Rodriguez explains.

A single software platform controls all systems, enabling shared zones and unified control across different installations, which reduces commissioning time. This approach, combined with networking Nianel Rodriguez, Product Kelvin Spencer, Export Sales Sathish Kumar, Sales & Business capabilities through L-Net, GManager - Business Line, Sales, Manager for South East Asia, the Development Manager, Middle Net, and MAZE IP protocols, 4EVAC Middle East & Africa, Protec East, Bosch creates a scalable architecture that adapts to projects of varying sizes and complexity while maintaining a low How Life Safety Systems Perform in Practice total cost of ownership.

The vertical markets that most freExamining these three brands reveals an approach to life safety that addresses the complete chain from detection through evacuation. Bosch’s advanced fire quently deploy 4EVAC systems reflect detection and 4EVAC’s voice evacuation systems are designed for life safety. the versatility of these solutions: retail When combined in a project, they create a comprehensive approach — ensurand supermarkets, educational instituing that when a fire is detected, clear evacuation instructions reach occupants tions, commercial complexes, healthimmediately. Protec’s detection technologies, including aspirating smoke deteccare facilities, hotels, government buildtion and cloud chamber systems, provide early warning, while the modularity of ings, large public spaces, medium-sized all three brands’ offerings allows for scalable solutions that grow with building sports venues like basketball arenas, requirements. and transportation hubs. In the Middle The operational experience across the Middle East has been positive, according East, 4EVAC has successfully delivered to feedback cited by all three brands. End users appreciate intuitive interfaces flagship projects across mixed-use comand reliability. Installers value ease of installation and reduced commissionmercial and residential complexes, preing time enabled by single software platforms. Facility managers benefit from mium hotels, educational institutions, monitoring, integrated battery management, and the ability to manage systems and high-rise buildings. remotely through tools like NEXOSPACE, which enables accessing on-site data before visiting locations, creating automated maintenance reports, and providEngineering Fire Detection ing additional services to clients. with In-House Control IMPACT MM, a rack-mounted multimedia voice alarm solution. All systems are fully EN54-compliant (covering EN544, EN54-16, EN54-17, EN54-18, and EN54-24), meeting European standards for voice alarm systems.

At Intersec 2026, 4EVAC will showcase IMPACT SW and LoopDrive technology. IMPACT SW is the rack-mounted PAVA solution for complex environments, featuring modular architecture, remote-controlled zone expanders, and

integrated battery management. “We pioneered LoopDrive technology for speaker line isolation, ensuring fault detection and recovery in less than three seconds,” Rodriguez notes.

This sets a benchmark for system reliability and compliance. This fault isolation ensures speaker line integrity, guaranteeing that evacuation messages reach building occupants even when line faults occur.

“Our approach emphasizes ease of in-

As fire safety requirements become more stringent, building designs become more complex, and the consequences of system failures become more severe, the capabilities of this portfolio represent a comprehensive approach towards protecting lives and assets

Another player in the deck marries experience with the demands of today.

Protec brings 56 years of expertise in fire detection and a strong UK manufacturing heritage to the Bosch portfolio. “Since our formation in 1968, Protec has built a reputation for delivering solid and reliable systems that meet the needs of a wide variety of applications,” says Kelvin Spencer, Export Sales Manager for South East Asia, the Middle East & Africa, at Protec.

The company’s portfolio spans from economical and addressable solutions to specialized detection technologies. The 6100 system provides an economical addressable solution for small applications, while the 6500 system offers a multi-loop, networkable addressable fire alarm system suitable for both small and large sites. The 6500 stands out for its modular design, offering full customization through graphics packages,

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FEATURE STORY

damper control modules, and expansion interfaces all of which are compatible with Protec’s 6000PLUS range, featuring a unique 9-in-1 detector with multiple sensing modes.

At Intersec 2026, Protec will showcase several technologies. The company will present the 6500 system with complete graphics integration for enhanced site visualization, and the 6500 system with Modular Expansion Interface (MEI) for scalable, customized installations.

Also on display will be the 6100 system, the economical addressable solution for smaller applications. The award-winning Cirrus HYBRID system uniquely integrates cloud chamber and optical smoke detection, combining two distinct sensing technologies in a single, advanced solution for comprehensive fire and smoke detection. For high-sensitivity environments, ProPoint delivers multi-channel optical aspirating smoke detection, sampling air from multiple locations to provide early warning of fire conditions.

What distinguishes Protec is its operational model. “As a UK manufacturer with full in-house design and production sup-

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ported by a dedicated R&D team, we deliver exceptional quality, innovation, and flexibility to meet international standards and diverse market needs,” Spencer explains. The company’s presence across almost every vertical (hospitals, airports, hotels, education, and industrial facilities worldwide) reflects this versatility.

Localization Through Partnership The success of the Bosch fire protection ecosystem in the Middle East reflects a sophisticated understanding of regional market dynamics. All three brands emphasize the critical importance of localization, while recognizing that varied regulations and market conditions across countries in the region require tailored approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

The go-to-market strategy centers on building and supporting partnerships with local stakeholders. Bosch Building Technologies maintains a local footprint with sales offices in the UAE and business development office in Saudi Arabia, collabo-

rating with system integrators for significant deployments while empowering local distributors to reach a broader base of smaller integrators. This multi-tiered approach provides coverage across all project scales and complexity levels.

4EVAC’s strategy similarly focuses on partnerships with dedicated distributors who have established regional presence.

4EVAC provides direct technical assistance for system design and configuration for distributors, while these distributors support installers on the ground.

The company invests in training programs for consultants and integrators, recognizing that proper deployment and long-term customer satisfaction depend on partner expertise.

“Our operational experience in the Middle East is built on long-term partnerships, design assistance, and commissioning support we offer, in addition to obtaining specific regional product certifications to support our partners,” Spencer from Protec notes. Notably, the company also assists partners by obtaining specific product certifications, including Middle Eastern approvals which

FEATURE STORY

Smarter, Smaller, and More Secure Systems Are the Future Looking ahead to the next three to five years, the strategic direction of this ecosystem reflects broader industry trends while addressing specific regional priorities.

Bosch, Protec, and 4EVAC all emphasize a product strategy centered on delivering reliable, efficient, and powerful solutions that are easy to install and maintain. This focus responds directly to installer needs for reduced complexity, while ensuring maximum reliability for end users.

A particular emphasis will be placed on secure networking and cyber-proof architectures. This is an important priority as building systems become increasingly connected and vulnerable to cyber threats. The integration of IoT capabilities, exemplified by platforms like NEXOSPACE, will continue to expand, enabling predictive maintenance that prevents costly false alarms through timely and dependable monitoring. Remote services will enable technicians to be more efficient and effective with service calls using remote diagnostics, saving costs, assets, and lives.

Development trajectories include continued enhancement of video-based detection systems like AVIOTEC, voice alarm technologies with improved networking and fault tolerance, and expansion of digital services that transform fire safety from reactive systems to proactive networks that anticipate and prevent incidents.

Protec envisions regional expansion driven by continued support for existing partners, combined with future product innovation and advanced system solutions.

The company intends to open new markets with new distributors while building on international trading strengths and market knowledge. Brand awareness through major exhibitions like Intersec and marketing presence through close collaboration with Bosch will maintain visibility and trust across the Middle East.

helps when specifying Protec solutions in regional projects.

All three brands provide training and support. Bosch offers commercial training and organizes events to promote its fire alarm systems’ features, implements sales and marketing campaigns both locally and globally, and conducts product information webinars, sessions tailored to key verticals, as well as online commercial and technical training. The company also conducts sales campaigns

targeting specific product groups. This educational investment extends to major local events and exhibitions where products are showcased to stakeholders and decision-makers.

Intersec 2026 as the Platform The Fire & Rescue sector at Intersec 2026 serves as an exhibition and conference platform bringing together global

manufacturers, regulators, engineers, civil defense authorities, and frontline responders. For the Bosch portfolio, this presents an opportunity to demonstrate how life safety solutions address the spectrum of detection, alarm, and evacuation requirements.

Visitors to the Bosch, 4EVAC, and Protec exhibition areas will encounter live demonstrations of technologies. From Bosch’s AVIOTEC cameras detecting flames in real-time to 4EVAC’s IMPACT SW systems showcasing LoopDrive fault recovery to Protec’s Cirrus HYBRID demonstrating dual-technology detection, the showcase will illustrate how complementary technologies create fire safety installations.

The timing is relevant given the UAE’s position in emergency preparedness, highlighted by initiatives such as Dubai Civil Defence’s “1 Billion Readiness Project” launched in 2025, which aims to educate one billion people about fire prevention. Regional investments in fire safety align with the capabilities these three brands bring to market.

Fire Safety as a System, Not Components Bosch Building Technologies provides the detection foundation and a century of safety experience. 4EVAC adds voice evacuation capabilities with fault tolerance. Protec contributes UK manufacturing, unique detection technologies, and vertical market experience.

For consultants, system integrators, and facility managers attending Intersec 2026, this presence offers the ability to specify and deploy fire safety solutions from companies with aligned quality standards, compatible technologies, and shared commitment to regional market support. As fire safety requirements become more stringent, building designs become more complex, and the consequences of system failures more severe, the capabilities of this portfolio represent a comprehensive approach towards lives and assets.

As the Middle East continues its development trajectory and fire safety standards evolve, partnerships between technology providers and regional stakeholders will be important. Bosch’s fire protection portfolio, with more than a century of combined experience and ongoing development, addresses these challenges through detection, alarm, and evacuation solutions. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS

NAVIGATING POWER CHALLENGES IN THE DATA CENTRE ERA Panduit’s UPS portfolio exemplifies the next generation of power protection, offering solutions tailored to diverse applications. From compact 1-3 kVA systems for edge computing to 20 kVA configurations for large-scale enterprises, these systems address a wide spectrum of operational needs n By: Michael Akinla, Business Manager Europe North, Panduit michael.akinla@panduit.com The rapid growth of data centres and IT-driven enterprises has created an escalating demand for resilient power infrastructures. This demand is intensified by the global transition to renewable energy sources, which are inherently intermittent. Against this backdrop, data centre operators face mounting pressure to deploy integrated Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems as a safeguard against power disruptions. A comprehensive approach to UPS implementation is no longer optional, it is critical for maintaining operational continuity, customer trust, and financial stability.

Reliable Power Solutions

Panduit’s range of Li-ion and VRLA UPS

Power outages are an enduring challenge for IT-dependent businesses. According to the Uptime Institute, a significant percentage of data centres have experienced outages in the past three years, underscoring the vulnerability of even advanced infrastructures. These disruptions can cause severe repercussions, ranging from data loss and extended downtime to reputational damage and financial penalties.

Li-ion batteries offer a variety of benefits, including smaller footprints, reduced weight, longer lifecycles, and enhanced energy density. These attributes make them ideal for edge computing and highdensity environments, where space and energy efficiency are paramount.

Moreover, modularity has emerged as a key innovation in UPS design. Modern systems feature hot-swappable compo-

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nents, enabling seamless maintenance and scalability without disrupting operations. Intelligent battery management systems further enhance reliability by continuously monitoring battery health and environmental conditions. These systems help optimize performance, extend battery life, and reduce the risk of unexpected failures.

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

Customizing UPS for Diverse Applications Selecting the right UPS system requires a nuanced understanding of the specific needs of the IT environment. Factors such as risk tolerance, the resilience of applications, and the availability of backup generators all influence the choice of UPS configurations. Hyperscale data centres, for example, typically require UPS support for one to two minutes to allow a smooth transition to generator power.

Colocation sites usually demand runtimes of approximately five minutes to accommodate the varied needs of their clients.

Financial institutions, on the other hand, require ten to fifteen minutes of runtime to safeguard mission-critical data and processes, as even brief downtimes can result in significant financial losses and reputational damage. These differing requirements can substantially change the power density required, especially with such different uptime requirements of the bridging power.

Over-provisioning UPS capacity can lead to unnecessary capital expenditures, while under-provisioning increases vulnerability to outages. A balanced approach must ensure that cost-efficiency and operational reliability are central to overall data centre power provision.

A Part of a Larger Ecosystem Today’s UPSs are not standalone systems, they are integral components of a larger ecosystem. Advanced UPS models integrate seamlessly with Data Centre Infrastructure Management (DCIM) platforms, providing real-time insights into power usage, environmental conditions, and potential vulnerabilities. Cloud-based monitoring further enhances visibility, en-

abling IT teams to manage power systems remotely and proactively address issues before they escalate.

and cloud monitoring readiness ensure that businesses are equipped to handle future challenges.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Conclusion

The relentless pace of technological innovation presents both challenges and opportunities for UPS implementation.

As IT equipment becomes denser and more power-intensive, the demand for robust and scalable UPS solutions will only grow. Operators must stay ahead of these trends by investing in systems that combine high efficiency, adaptability, and intelligent monitoring.

For example, Panduit’s UPS portfolio exemplifies the next generation of power protection, offering solutions tailored to diverse applications. From compact 1-3 kVA systems for edge computing to 20 kVA configurations for large-scale enterprises, these systems address a wide spectrum of operational needs.

Features like double conversion pure sinewave technology, unity power factor,

In an era where uninterrupted power is a non-negotiable requirement, integrated UPS solutions are indispensable for data centre operators. Beyond merely providing backup power, these systems are critical for maintaining business continuity, safeguarding data integrity, and ensuring customer satisfaction. By embracing innovations such as Li-ion batteries, modular designs, and cloud-based management, operators can build resilient and future-proof infrastructures.

The pressure to implement robust power management strategies will only intensify as global energy demands rise and the transition to renewables accelerates. For data centres, the integration of UPS into a holistic energy strategy is not just a technical requirement, it is a strategic imperative for longer-term success. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

BAGGAGE SCANNER X-RAY SOLUTIONS

HOW TO PROTECT CROWDS AT SCALE Social gatherings require rapid, precise, and dependable security operations. The correct technology in combination with the correct process and the correct people at the entry point will make the difference between smooth crowds and bottlenecks, as well as intercepted threats and unnoticed threats n By: Igor Bondarev, Director, LINEV Systems bondarev@linevsystems.com Linev Systems specializes in the provision of scalable and reliable infrastructure to large venues. The core of such an approach is high-tech screening devices, such as full-body scan devices and baggage inspection devices that can detect weapons, explosives, and contraband without disrupting the throughput. Baggage Scanner X Ray Solutions are necessary to establish safe, non-frictional guest experiences during events in public.

Why Public Events Face Unique Risks Large crowds, open fronts, and the presence of the VIP make the risk higher than what fixed facilities might often have. The security scenario may change minute by minute due to ingress rushes, weather interruptions, or schedule changes at the last moment. The most frequent risks are violence and disruptive behavior under the influence of alcohol or crowd density; a drug related incident, such as drug trafficking or drug related assault; a hidden weapon or improvised explosive de-

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vice (IED) that adds the possibility of mass causality; and the opportunistic attack as an event (such as a change in stage, an entrance to athletes, fireworks, or VIP movements). These facts precondition the necessity of systematic, non-invasive screening.

X-ray systems generate a low dose of ionizing radiation, which penetrates the materials displaying variations in density and effective atomic number, creating clear images. With the software tools, operators can query these images, such as contrast, zoom, and dual energy colorization, in a short period of time, whereas AI simultaneously highlights possible threats. X-ray screening is a part of the framework of prevention when it is combined with layered security (perimeter monitoring, bag policy, magnetometers).

Designing Checkpoints for Throughput and Safety The security executives of the public places are eventually evaluated based on two results: security and customer experience. Both can be reached with the help of a design-first approach. Layered screening involves a combination of walkthrough systems, handheld detectors, and X-ray baggage inspection on numer-

ous lanes at an entry point to provide redundancy and to facilitate the secondary inspection. Intelligent triage uses AIassisted technology to identify suspicious packages and send them to secondary checkpoints without halting the entire processing line to reduce the time users spend in queues.

The modular systems and mobile units of flexible deployment can fit various venue arrangements: permanent stadium gates, temporary festival gateways, or wings of a convention center. Operator enablement offers the SOPs, simulation/ TIP training, and one software interface to decrease the cognitive and human error as well as false alarm rates. A combination of these principles lowers wait times, increases the accuracy of detection, and maintains the predictability of ingress during peak surges.

Solutions for High Traffic Venues LINEV Systems’ product line integrates dual energy imaging, dual view options, AI threat detection, and operator-friendly software delivering fast, high-resolution screening with multiple color palettes and intuitive controls. The BV 5030 is a single-view X-ray baggage inspection

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

system designed for compact carry-ons, featuring a tunnel approximately 520 mm wide by 320 mm high. It is ideal for inspection points at sports arenas, event centers, hotels, educational institutions, and critical infrastructure. It includes a modular build for easier service, AI software that detects firearms, knives, and pyrotechnics, telemetry for remote health monitoring, automatic identification of suspicious objects such as explosives or drugs, and multiple color palettes for enhanced recognition. In event settings, BV 5030 excels in fast VIP lanes with smaller carry-ons, staff and contractor entrances, and satellite checkpoints near stages or premium suites.

The BV 6045 is also a single-view system with a larger tunnel, approximately 610 mm by 450 mm, suited to bulkier items and higher throughput, including backpacks, equipment cases, and merchandise boxes. It fits deployments across customs, border, law enforcement, event centers, and stadiums where reliability and performance are paramount. Notable features include bi-directional scanning, automatic diagnostics, and operator-selectable 3 color, 7 color, or infinite color palettes. Using Zeff and optical density-based selection

aids in identifying suspicious objects such as explosives, drugs, and impenetrable areas. Like the BV 5030, it offers a modular build, telemetry, and AI-driven threat recognition. In event operations, the BV 6045 anchors main public ingress lanes, production or back of house entries, press and broadcast equipment screening, and temporary high-capacity lines during marquee events.

Tailoring Solutions to Event Types No two events are alike, so deployments should reflect differing crowd behaviors, bag profiles, and venue layouts. Music festivals and concerts often involve backpacks, hydration packs, and creative concealment; clearly posted bag policies, hydration lane exceptions with strict size limits, BV 6045 lanes for larger items, and BV 5030 for compact VIP entries work well. Stadium sports present surgebased ingress just before kickoff or tipoff, with frequent VIP and press movements; time-based staffing ramps, dedicated press and equipment lanes with BV 6045, fast track VIP lanes with BV 5030, and telemetry dashboards help coordinate maintenance around halftime

surges. Conventions and trade fairs bring bulky display cases, electronics, tools, and frequent in-and-out exhibitor traffic; a mixed deployment with multiple BV 6045 units for high-volume equipment entries and BV 5030 for attendee bag checks is effective, supported by robust SOPs for toolkits and merchandise.

Public events demand security that is both rigorous and respectful of attendee experience. With modular hardware, AI augmented software, and telemetrybacked uptime, LINEV Systems helps venues move from isolated devices to an integrated checkpoint ecosystem, one that scales without sacrificing accuracy. That’s how one builds resilient operations ready for today’s threats and tomorrow’s challenges. And remember, when it comes to safeguarding large crowds efficiently, Baggage Scanner X-Ray Solutions are the backbone of modern, high-throughput public event security, delivering speed, precision, and peace of mind. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

PHYSICAL SECURITY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT

CENTRALIZED CONTROL FOR COMPLEX OPERATIONS To support the region’s growing need for integrated, scalable control rooms, TRASSIR developed a next-generation PSIM designed for environments where operations span multiple buildings, zones, or sites. The platform enhances multi-department coordination — an essential requirement in high-demand Middle Eastern operations n By: Irina Ivanova, Content Manager, TRASSIR welcome@trassir.com Across the Middle East, rapid development has transformed the landscape of security and operations.

New industrial zones, transport corridors, logistics hubs, energy facilities, and large mixed-use developments are expanding at a remarkable speed. With this growth comes a familiar challenge: every new building, system, or contractor adds another layer of complexity. Many organizations now operate with dozens of separate platforms for surveillance, access control, fire safety, building automation, perimeter protection, and communication — each with its own interface, rules, and alarm formats.

In busy environments such as logistics hubs, ports, airports, refineries, healthcare campuses, or large residential and commercial estates, this fragmentation often becomes the main barrier to efficiency. Operators must monitor several screens at once, collect information manually, and coordinate responses across departments with limited visibility.

Even when teams are experienced and well-trained, the sheer volume of data makes it difficult to maintain situational awareness around the clock. Small delays, inconsistent responses, and unclear responsibilities can quickly escalate into operational risks.

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These pressures are particularly relevant in the Middle East, where many facilities operate at high capacity, rely on large workforces, and frequently expand in phases. Integrating older systems with new infrastructure is not always straightforward, and replacing existing equipment is rarely practical or cost-effective.

As a result, organizations are searching for a way to bring their systems together without interrupting operations or starting from zero.

This is where Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) has gained

strong momentum. Rather than replacing systems, a PSIM platform unifies them — creating a single operational picture that allows teams to see, understand, and act with clarity.

Turning Fragmented Systems Into Unified Oversight A modern PSIM solution brings together all security and operational data into one interface: CCTV, access control, fire alarms, BMS, perimeter sensors,

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

facilities to expand in stages without disruption. As new cameras, sensors, or access points are added, they are incorporated directly into the unified interface.

The platform also enhances multi-department coordination — an essential requirement in high-demand Middle Eastern operations. Security, safety, maintenance, and management teams can all view the same up-to-date information, eliminating misunderstandings and reducing delays.

Automated documentation ensures every action is recorded, helping organizations meet regulatory, compliance, and auditing requirements.

intercoms, emergency communication, and even third-party business applications. Operators no longer need to switch between dashboards or interpret conflicting alerts. All information is centralized, correlated, and presented within a streamlined workflow that supports faster, more consistent decisionmaking.

The strength of PSIM lies not only in visualization but in intelligent coordination.

When an incident occurs — a forced door, a perimeter alarm, a smoke sensor alert, or a safety breach — the platform immediately brings the relevant video feeds to the screen, highlights the location on a map, and presents response steps predefined by the organization. This structured approach reduces reliance on individual experience and ensures that

even complex scenarios are handled in a clear and repeatable manner. For large teams working in shifts, it greatly improves consistency and reduces training time.

TRASSIR PSIM: Designed for Large, Evolving Environments To support the region’s growing need for integrated, scalable control rooms, TRASSIR developed a next-generation PSIM designed for environments where operations span multiple buildings, zones, or sites. Instead of forcing organizations to standardize all hardware, TRASSIR PSIM connects to existing systems through flexible integrations. This protects earlier investments and allows

Proven Impact in Real-World Operations The value of such unified oversight becomes evident in complex infrastructures, where multiple contractors, tenants, or operational units rely on shared services. TRASSIR PSIM enables operators to manage daily activity and emergency scenarios with equal confidence. Routine events such as equipment faults or access requests are handled smoothly, while critical incidents benefit from guided workflows that keep teams aligned, even in high-pressure situations.

In one recent deployment, a multi-building industrial facility faced significant challenges due to separate monitoring rooms and incompatible systems. Operators struggled to build a complete picture of events.

After implementing TRASSIR’s platform, the entire operation was centralized into one interface with unified alarm handling and automated procedures. The result was faster response, clearer communication, and a measurable reduction in operator workload.

As Middle Eastern industries continue to grow, the need for unified, intelligent oversight will only become more critical.

PSIM is emerging not just as a security tool but as an operational foundation — one that gives organizations the clarity, efficiency, and adaptability required for complex, fast-moving environments. n

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CELEBRATING SUCCESS IN 2025

GALLAGHER SECURITY’S JOURNEY IN THE MIDDLE EAST Our success is rooted in a simple truth: security technology is transformative when shaped around real needs. From our regional office in Dubai, we continue to invest in partnerships built on trust, performance, and shared ambition n By: Samar Fawaz, Marketing Manager, Gallagher Security Middle East samar.fawaz@gallagher-me.com As I look back on 2025, I am proud to reflect on Gallagher Security’s remarkable journey in the Middle East. Nearly two decades ago, we began our partnership with this region, and today, Gallagher stands as an established leader in integrated security technology across 14 countries. Our commitment to excellence has seen us secure more than 33,000 doors and protect over 100 kilometers of perimeter - a testament to the enduring relationships we have built with channel partners, technology partners, Integrators, government entities, and end users.

The Key Is Understanding Unique Requirements Gallagher’s flagship platform, Command Centre, remains at the heart of our offering. It is scalable, intelligent, and designed to deliver secure, seamless operations across diverse environments. Combined with our award-winning controllers and proven perimeter systems, our technology empowers customers to centralize security, simplify complexity, and gain insights that drive safer and smarter decisions. In the Middle East, understanding the region’s unique requirements - its pace of growth, operational expectations, and commitment to resilience has been key to our approach.

Our team brings deep expertise, diverse strengths, and a commitment to our mission: creating safer, more secure environments where people can live, work, and thrive.

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Security has always been the backbone of safe and efficient operations, but today it is also a strategic asset. Modern security systems enable operational efficiency, risk management, sustainability, and business intelligence. Gallagher’s integrated solutions help organizations streamline processes, reduce manual overhead, and surface actionable insights – from access events to incident trends and compliance reporting.

We serve both high-security sites and enterprise environments.

Designing Solutions That Fit Real-World Workflows Our success stories in 2025 reflect our commitment to designing solutions around real-world workflows. In Qatar, we partnered with a leading educational institution to secure a sensitive, hightraffic academic environment, deploying an integrated access control solution that enhanced safety without disruption.

In support of a regional prison expansion, we engineered a comprehensive perim-

eter system for precision, resilience, and continuous monitoring, strengthening site integrity and operational control.

Each success is the product of collaboration - with our channel partners, integrators, technology partners, and end users.

We take the time to understand goals, constraints, and measures of success, then design for fit, scale, and long-term value.

This partnership ethos is reflected in our recent Memorandums of Understanding with Convergint and the Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Company Limited, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and our shared commitment to resilient infrastructure, digital transformation, and sustainable growth.

As we continue to grow, with new appointments across technical, commercial, and customer success roles, our approach ensures that every interaction with Gallagher is not just about technology but about partnership. Looking ahead, Gallagher stands ready to help organizations strengthen resilience, unlock operational value, and build environments that foster innovation and growth across the Middle East. n

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MEETING MARKET REQUIREMENTS

SMARTER, MORE EFFICIENT WIDE-AREA COVERAGE WITH THE LATEST PTZ CAMERAS IDIS’s next-generation edge AI cameras feature an extended suite of powerful analytics to enhance security, safety, and drive operational efficiency, which meets the needs of a broader range of Middle East customers n By: Dennis Choi, General Manager, IDIS Middle East & North Africa sales_mena@idisglobal.com With the launch of IDIS’s new Edge AI Plus 8MP LightMaster IR PTZ camera (DC-S6883WRA) and Edge AI Plus 6MP LightMaster IR PTZ camera (DC-S6683WRA) – the latest additions to the Edge AI Plus range – IDIS is meeting the needs of a broader range of Middle East customers, and offering the ability to target the latest edge AI-powered automated object classification and detection capabilities across busy scenes and highsecurity applications, including large perimeters, public spaces, and wide indoor spaces.

These NDAA-compliant cameras deliver exceptional UHD scene coverage, AI auto-tracking, rapid and impressive 40x zoom capability, EIS image stabilization, and advanced automated AI functionality. They ensure outstanding image clarity

while leveraging highly accurate object detection and classification for enhanced real-time surveillance and investigations.

Powerful PTZ auto-tracking functionality, combined with IDIS’s A-Cut and AI metadata search technology, allows busy control room teams and security staff to efficiently and accurately track the movements of humans and vehicles across multiple cameras and from scene to scene. Advanced attribute recognition also enables rapid searches by gender and age, wearable accessories, vehicle type (cars, trucks, buses, bicycles, motorcycles, etc.), and color.

New Deep Learning Innovation Boosts Operational Efficiency Like other cameras in the Edge AI Plus range, the new PTZ cameras’ analytics are powered by the next generation of IDIS’s in-house-developed IDIS Deep Learning Engine, IDLA Pro. The

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PTZs provide four additional and advanced AI-powered analytics functions: crowd detection, abandoned and removed object detection, and fall detection.

The DC-S6883WRA and DC-S6683WRA are designed for exceptional ease of use, featuring IDIS’s patented Smart UX Controls that deliver a smooth user experience when tracking moving objects and panning, tilting, and zooming in different directions and speeds in real time, with unparalleled ease and high-performance accuracy. As a result, the new cameras are ideal for hardening perimeter security, enhancing public safety, increasing situational awareness, and achieving faster response times across wide-area and high-footfall applications, and significantly speeding up forensic search and export of evidential footage.

These AI-powered technologies reduce false alarms, eliminate the need for constant manual monitoring, and eliminate repetitive tasks, thereby boosting control room efficiency and allowing organizations to allocate security staff to more rewarding, customer- and staff-facing tasks and roles, with the opportunity to reduce operational costs.

Robust, High-Quality Performance Designed and made in South Korea, the cameras also feature a powerful 40x AF optical zoom lens and a built-in heater and IR illuminator, enabling exceptional night vision up to 400m. IK10 vandal-proof construction and IP66 and NEMA 4X environmental ratings against water, corrosion, dust, and ice, making them ideal for deployment in environments where security is missioncritical, including oil & gas, petrochemical, manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing, and where compliance with health and safety legislation and ensuring business continuity are also imperative. The cameras are equally an excellent fit for applications with busy scenes and high footfall, such as borders, traffic monitoring, schools, universities and other campuses, large retail stores, and shopping malls.

Increased Domain Awareness and Faster Investigations IDIS’s new A-Cut technology also transforms how surveillance operators monitor and review video footage. For every detected object in a video stream, a representative cropped image is automatically generated—making it easy to identify object types and characteristics at a glance. Clicking any image instantly takes operators to the precise moment a person or object appeared, giving them fast, intuitive access to key events that can be relayed to security officers in the field or on patrol via the IDIS mobile app to respond appropriately or escalated to security and operations managers to initiate standard operating procedures in the event of a significant threat or emergency.

The cropped images become even more powerful search tools when combined with IDIS’s AI metadata search functionality. Each piece of footage is assigned various attributes, which IDIS AI analyzes and classifies into three categories: human, vehicle, or face.

Combined, these technologies are ideal for safeguarding large areas and busy scenes, delivering unmatched speed, clarity, and control—helping security teams act quickly and confidently against security threats and safety risks.

Captured visual moments from incidents also eliminate the need to trawl through hours of footage, as each snapshot is indexed and searchable, significantly reducing review time and accelerating incident verification and investigations.

Outstanding UHD Surveillance, Threat Detection, and Value The new Edge AI Plus PTZs deliver advanced UHD surveillance and threat detection in varied or dappled lighting conditions, thanks to IR, true WDR, and large visual sensors. With plug-andplay installation, inherent cybersecurity utilizing patented protocols, zero license fees, a low maintenance burden, and extended warranties, these Edge AI Plus PTZs also deliver on IDIS’s promise of an industry-leading low total cost of ownership (TCO). n

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MIDDLE EAST

GARRETT METAL DETECTORS

A TALE OF TWO ENTRANCES: RETHINKING ENTRANCE Facilities that prioritize experience must remain accountable to measurable security outcomes, while highly secure environments must remain accountable to the people they serve. Bridging this gap requires adaptable technology, informed procedures, and experienced partners n By: Malek Elia, Regional Director, Garrett Middle East DMCC malek.elia@garrett-me.com For decades, entrance security was defined by a simple divide between those who invested in protection and those who relied on little more than a locked door. Today, that distinction has largely disappeared. Cameras, electronic locks, and access control systems are now commonplace across the globe, while advanced tools such as walkthrough metal detectors, handheld scanners, and bag inspection systems, long associated with high-risk facilities, are becoming standard in many environments. This shift reflects not just technological progress, but a bigger change in mindset, one long recognized by industry leaders such as Garrett Metal Detectors, where the focus has moved from “who has security” to “how security is applied.”

Patron-Optimization Modern entrance security is no longer defined solely by the presence of equipment, but by the philosophy guiding its use.

Consider two hypothetical entrances: a large sports stadium and a busy courthouse. Both face genuine risks, including

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weapons, prohibited items, and disruptive behavior. Both could, in theory, deploy similar detection technologies from experienced manufacturers like Garrett Metal Detectors. Yet in practice, their security postures differ significantly, not because

of the tools available, but because of how each facility balances risk, experience, and operational goals.

At the stadium entrance, security decisions are heavily influenced by what can be described as patron-optimization.

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MIDDLE EAST

tempo is steadier, and the consequences of a security failure are severe. This allows facility managers to implement stricter screening procedures with fewer competing concerns. In such contexts, high-performance detection solutions from Garrett Metal Detectors can be deployed with sensitivity settings and protocols optimized for maximum interdiction rather than throughput or aesthetics, aligning closely with the institution’s mission.

Yet even in threat-focused environments, ignoring the human experience can undermine security outcomes. Excessive friction, unclear signage, or poorly trained staff can increase stress and resistance among visitors and employees alike. Courthouse administrators increasingly recognize that effective entrance security supported by proven technologies such as Garrett Metal Detectors also requires continual testing, refinement, and attention to user experience to maintain cooperation and longterm effectiveness.

Competing incentives can create vulnerabilities if not carefully managed. When aesthetics, speed, and permissiveness outweigh defined detection goals, entrance security risks become symbolic rather than effective Stadiums are entertainment venues competing for attention, loyalty, and revenue.

Security measures must therefore be effective while remaining discreet, visually unobtrusive, and fast. Long queues, intrusive screening, or poorly calibrated detection can quickly damage the visitor experience. This reality does not mean stadium operators value security less; rather, it requires technologies, such as advanced Garrett Metal Detectors systems that can detect real threats while minimizing unnecessary alarms, delays, and friction for thousands of fans entering in a short time window.

These competing incentives, however, can create vulnerabilities if not carefully managed. When aesthetics, speed,

and permissiveness outweigh defined detection goals, entrance security risks become symbolic rather than effective.

Experienced providers like Garrett Metal Detectors emphasize the importance of clearly identifying “must-detect” and “must-prevent” items. Defining realistic threat objects, maintaining test pieces, and validating performance ensures that convenience does not silently erode safety, even in environments where patron comfort is critical to success.

Threat-Minimization By contrast, the courthouse entrance is shaped primarily by threat-minimization.

Attendance is mandatory, operational

40 Years of Experience Providing Entrance Security Ultimately, these two approaches, patron-optimization and threat-minimization, are not opposing ideals but complementary lessons. Facilities that prioritize experience must remain accountable to measurable security outcomes, while highly secure environments must remain accountable to the people they serve.

Bridging this gap requires adaptable technology, informed procedures, and experienced partners.

For organizations seeking entrance security that carefully balances patron-optimization and threat-minimization, Garrett Metal Detectors brings more than 40 years of experience providing entrance security to a diverse and global customer base. The company understands the fundamental need for security and the human factors that make it complex, and is prepared to support the next step in securing facilities in a way that aligns with operational requirements. n

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M2M SERVICES

WHERE SMART SECURITY MEETS EVERYDAY LIFE Smart security is no longer just about protection - it’s about confidence, simplicity, and staying connected in a fast-moving world. At M2M Services, this belief shapes everything the company creates – because it was founded with a clear vision: to make security smarter, more intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into everyday life n By: Daniel Toshev, Sales and Marketing Manager, M2M Services daniel.toshev@m2mservices.com Guided by the philosophy “Simplicity. Applied.”, M2M Services designs solutions that remove complexity while delivering dependable performance and long-term value. Every product reflects a commitment to clarity, ease of use, and reliability - qualities that matter equally to professional security providers and end users.

From its European roots in Bulgaria, M2M Services has grown into a global brand with offices in the United States and a strong international partner ecosystem. This global presence allows the company to combine local expertise with worldwide market insight, enabling innovation that feels both personal and universally relevant.

Integrated Ecosystem of Brands The expanding family of brands - Alula, Uplink, and SecureNet strengthens M2M’s ability to deliver complete, unified security experiences. Together, they form an integrated ecosystem that helps distributors, monitoring centers, and integrators offer seamless and scalable solutions, tailored to modern lifestyles and evolving expectations.

Today, M2M Services works with more than 7,000 professional security companies across over 40 countries, supporting more than 1.8 million active devices worldwide. Behind this reach stands a team of 400 specialists across manufacturing, engineering, software, cloud services, and technical support - people dedicated to building technology that simply works, every day.

Innovation has always been part of the company’s DNA. From the launch of its first communicator in 2012 to award-winning breakthroughs like the world’s smallest alarm communicator and next-generation LTE-M solutions, M2M Services has consistently challenged industry norms. Each milestone reflects a focus on practicality, elegant design, and real-world usability.

More recently, award-winning solutions such as M2M-AXS, a drop-in access control system, and Connect-FLX, an intelligent

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all-in-one smart security panel, highlight the company’s move toward fully connected, lifestyle-oriented security. These solutions blend alarms, access control, video, and automation into cohesive systems that adapt effortlessly to homes, businesses, and remote locations.

Elegant and Reliable Security Beyond devices, M2M Services delivers complete experiences cloud connectivity, mobile integration, and intuitive management tools that empower professionals while giving end users peace of mind. The result is security that feels less technical and more natural—quietly present, always reliable. By combining thoughtful design, global collaboration, and a deep understanding of realworld needs, the company continues to shape a smarter, safer, and more connected world.

This vision will be on display at Intersec Dubai, from January 12–14, where M2M Services will welcome visitors at Stand SAG44. The event offers an opportunity to experience firsthand how smart security can be powerful, elegant, and effortlessly integrated into modern life. n

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MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS AT INTERSEC DUBAI 2026

POWER OF HUMAN AND AI COLLABORATION Amplifying human capabilities with AI plays a crucial role in sectors vital to the Middle East’s regional economy, such as oil and gas and healthcare. At Intersec Dubai, Motorola Solutions will showcase how its latest AI innovations empower human decision-makers to move from reactive incident detection to proactive management and response n By: Pedro Simoes, Corporate Vice President, Video Security & Access Control, Motorola Solutions pedro.simoes@motorolasolutions.com Among the AI innovations Motorola Solutions will present is Avigilon Visual Alerts, a new on-premise generative AI solution that uses intuitive natural language processing to significantly expand the range of visual events detectable across large networks of cameras, doors, and sensors. By enabling security teams to create custom alerts such as “liquid spill in the warehouse” or “blocked fire exit,” the solution scans connected systems in real time to notify operational and security staff, allowing them to quickly triage and respond. With real-time, AI-powered detections, the solution enhances safety, security, and compliance by alerting workers to hazards, quickly identifying patient falls, and continuously monitoring restricted areas.

Avigilon Intercom Touch Also debuting at Intersec is the Avigilon Intercom Touch, a new touchscreen access control intercom that integrates with Avigilon Alta, leveraging AI to focus human attention when response

and action are needed. The solution allows users to write rules to detect key events, including person detection, line crossing, and face matching, and can provide generative AI alerts when it sees or hears suspicious activity.

“The power of generative AI isn’t just its ability to process data, but its capacity to give security teams more of their most precious resource – time,” said Jehan Wickramasuriya, Senior Vice President, Security & Resilience Software, Motorola Solutions. “We are moving beyond ‘smart’ cameras to ‘anticipatory’ systems. For a refinery or a high-traffic hospital, this means that systems don’t just record a crisis, they provide the natural language insights and communication tools needed to help prevent one.”

HALO Smart Sensor and Noggin’s Cloud-Based Software Other highlights from the Motorola Solutions stand at Intersec Dubai include the HALO Smart Sensor, an all-in-one intelligent device that combines vape detection, air quality monitoring, gunshot detection, abnormal noise and motion detection, as well as emergency keyword recognition, extending safety while preserving privacy. The showcase also features Noggin’s cloudbased software for business continuity planning, operational resilience, and critical event management, designed to help enterprises better anticipate, prepare for, and respond to incidents. In addition, Motorola Solutions will present new integrations across its safety and security ecosystem, including the connection between VehicleManager Enterprise and Avigilon Unity Video, which enables license plate reads to be displayed alongside live video feeds for improved incident awareness, site protection, and overall safety.

Attendees can experience these innovations and more from Motorola Solutions’ extended safety and security ecosystem, including on-premise and cloud-connected video and access control offerings at stand SA-C11 at Intersec Dubai. n

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CLOUD SECURITY PLATFORM

VIVOTEK’S VORTEX OFFERS HYBRID CLOUD SOLUTIONS VIVOTEK, the global leading security solution provider, through its AI-powered operations automation platform VORTEX, continues to expand its cloud technology efforts, achieving a high level of AIoT integration with hybrid cloud solutions that ensure data security and broad hardware integration capabilities n By: Joy Ann Pabico, Business Development Manager, Magnus Infotech joy.a@magnusgulf.com The cloud security market is expected to reach USD 3.13 billion in 2024 and grow to USD 7.76 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 19.91% from 2024 to 2029. In light of this trend, VORTEX – VIVOTEK’s cloud-based AI surveillance platform that enables real-time monitoring, centralized management, and smart analytics for scalable, multilocation security – is dedicated to offering flexible hybrid cloud solutions, including both VORTEX cameras that connect directly to the cloud and devices that connect through VIVOTEK’s Core+ AI NVR, maximizing cost-effectiveness and security performance.

Exponential Growth of CloudConnected Devices Earlier this year, VORTEX launched its VORTEX Connect feature, allowing users to remotely update firmware, monitor system health, and troubleshoot issues without the need to replace existing network cameras. This is done by connecting to VIVOTEK’s Core+ AI Network Video Recorder (NVR). This quick response to customer needs ensures uninterrupted security and, since its release, has been well-received, driving the number of cloudconnected devices for small and medium-

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sized businesses to grow exponentially every month.

To meet the diverse security needs of its users, VORTEX has enhanced its cloud management capabilities for existing cameras. From now on, users can benefit from unlimited device connections and user accounts with their subscription. The platform also supports thirdparty system integration. Additionally, VORTEX supports Single Sign-On (SSO) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), making it ideal for multinational corporations, chain stores, and large campuses, enabling them to access video footage anytime and anywhere, improving operational efficiency and ease of use while maintaining data security.

A Solution for Multi-Location Security Needs For users with large-scale remote security deployments, VORTEX offers account and camera management permissions, with cloud storage for video evidence, significantly enhancing overall security. Additionally, the VORTEX hybrid cloud solution supports integration with third-party systems, such as access control and identity verification, enabling users to monitor triggered events or login statuses simultaneously. This allows users to manage all information from a single platform, receive real-time alerts, and streamline cross-system operations and data com-

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parison, improving the efficiency of critical incident management and enhancing site security.

VORTEX also offers enterprise deployments of secure and compliant cloud surveillance by providing SSO, MFA, encrypted data, role-based access, and audit logs.

VORTEX Creates Hybrid Cloud Solutions VORTEX, in conjunction with VIVOTEK’s Core+ AI NVR and VORTEX cameras, creates a hybrid cloud solution. Through VIVOTEK’s Core+ AI NVR, including models ND9326P, ND9426P, ND9442P, and ND9542P, users can bridge more than 30,000 ONVIF Profile S network cameras available on the market. This allows users to integrate cloud management without replacing their cameras, while also providing remote video management. Users can also scale cloud cameras flexibly to meet their security deployment needs.

About Magnus Infotech Magnus is the authorized distributor of VIVOTEK products in the United Arab Emirates, expanding access to advanced security and surveillance solutions in the region and offering the full range of surveillance products and cloud solutions with local technical support. The portfolio includes technologies powered by VIVOTEK’s VORTEX platform, designed to deliver high performance and intelligent video security. As an IT distribution partner, Magnus focuses on providing products and solutions across several key domains, including networking and wireless infrastructure, security surveillance, unified communications, and server and storage systems.

The company supports businesses, system integrators, and enterprises with reliable infrastructure and advanced VIVOTEK surveillance technologies, ensuring high performance, scalability, and comprehensive security in modern environments.

Magnus & VIVOTEK at Intersec 2026 Magnus Infotech and VIVOTEK will present their latest innovations at Intersec 2026, the region’s leading security and surveillance exhibition, taking place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Cen-

tre. As the authorized distributor of VIVOTEK in the UAE, Magnus Infotech will showcase the brand’s newest AIpowered cameras and advanced cloud solutions, inviting partners, system integrators, and security professionals to visit Booth SA-A41 and experience the next generation of VIVOTEK technologies firsthand. n

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SECURITY AND FLEXIBILITY BY DESIGN

UNIFIED PIAM AND VISITOR MANAGEMENT Isolated access control systems are no longer sufficient to address today’s operational complexity, regulatory pressure, and risk landscape. Instead, organizations are increasingly turning to unified Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) platforms that combine access control and visitor management into a single, coherent system n By: Thomas Deville, General Manager, Middle East & Africa, IDtech tdeville@idtech.eu The value of unification lies in consistency and flexibility. When identity lifecycle management, credential issuance, access rights, and visitor workflows are managed within one platform, security teams eliminate data silos, manual processes, and configuration errors. Visitor management, often a weak point in security strategies, becomes fully controlled and auditable, with temporary access automatically issued and revoked according to defined rules.

Significantly Lower TCO Equally important is the ability of modern platforms to integrate seamlessly with third-party hardware. Most organizations operate multiple systems simultaneously, including legacy readers, biometric de-

vices, turnstiles, and perimeter systems, often from different manufacturers.

Open, hardware-agnostic architectures allow organizations to keep their existing equipment while easily adding new technologies as needs evolve. For end users, this translates into immediate operational benefits: simpler administration, faster onboarding and offboarding, smoother user experience, and reduced security gaps. Over the long term, scalable and modular systems significantly lower the total cost of ownership by avoiding vendor lock-in, minimizing system replacements, and supporting gradual expansion from single sites to multi-site or multi-country deployments.

IDtech has developed an advanced, future-ready software suite offering enhanced security and exceptional flexibility. Built around unified PIAM principles, modular architecture, and open integration protocols, its platform is designed to meet the real operational requirements

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of government and enterprise environments. Over the past six months, several high-profile ministries in the region have chosen to trust IDtech to secure their facilities, reflecting a growing demand for scalable, adaptable, and longterm security solutions.

Success in the UAE IDtech’s most recent success in Sharjah illustrates this approach in practice.

From perimeter protection to office-level access, the system was fully tailored to the institution’s unique operational flow, ensuring that only authorized personnel could access specific zones at specific times. Rather than applying a rigid, onesize-fits-all model, access policies were designed to support day-to-day operations while maintaining strict security controls.

The project also included seamless integration between IDtech’s enterprise access control platform and STid’s robust biometric system, combining badgebased access with fingerprint verification for sensitive areas. Designed to grow, the system can scale from a single facility to an entire network, with new sites, technologies, or policy changes easily integrated over time. Backed by an annual maintenance contract and full system warranty, the institution benefits from long-term reliability, support, and peace of mind — demonstrating how futureready access control delivers value well beyond initial deployment. n

Leader in Access Control and Visitor Management Solutions

IDtech Headquarters | Rue Saucin 62, 5032 Isnes, Belgium IDtech Middle East Office | Meydan Hotel, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, UAE www.asmideast.com

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INTERVIEW: NIKOLA STANIŠIĆ, HEAD OF SALES, MERCURY.AI

MERCURY.AI BUILDS THE FUTURE OF VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

New camera factory will create more than 700 new jobs for engineers, technicians, and highly qualified workers.

In doing so, the company is positioning Southeast Europe as a serious player in the global video surveillance and security technology market n By: Damir Muharemovic editorial@asmideast.com

a&s Middle East: Mercury.AI has announced the construction of a new camera manufacturing facility in Serbia. Why is this project so important for the company and for the region?

Stanišić: This factory represents a major strategic milestone, not only for Mercury.

AI but for the entire regional technology ecosystem. For years, Serbia has been recognized primarily as a source of toptier software engineering talent. With the Mercury.AI Factory, we are demonstrating that the same level of excellence can be achieved in advanced hardware production. The project will create more than 700 new jobs for engineers, technicians, and highly qualified workers, contributing directly to knowledge retention and workforce development in the region. In doing so, we are positioning Serbia and Southeast Europe as a serious player in the global video surveillance and security technology market.

Stanišić: Our software platforms already transform standard cameras into intelligent sensors. By producing our own cameras, we can optimize the entire pipeline, from optics and sensors to analytics and decision-making. This ensures higher reliability, better performance in challenging environments, and faster deployment for customers. Hardware and software are no longer separate domains; they are parts of a single, unified security ecosystem. a&s Middle East: What sets Mercury.AI apart, and how does it redefine the video surveillance industry?

Stanišić: Mercury.AI is a true one-stop shop for security systems. We deliver everything in one place: our own cameras, a robust Video Management System

a&s Middle East: Mercury.AI is also known for its software solutions. How does hardware manufacturing complement your existing portfolio?

Mercury.AI New Factory

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(VMS), and AI-powered detectors — fully integrated into a single platform. This allin-one approach gives customers maximum flexibility and seamless scalability, from small installations to large enterprises and city-wide deployments. With Mercury.AI, there is no need to integrate multiple vendors or systems; one partner and one platform cover the entire security workflow, from video capture to intelligent analysis and real-time action. a&s Middle East: With new risks like drones, hybrid threats, and climate disasters, why are traditional security systems failing, and how does Mercury.AI tackle them?

Stanišić: Traditional systems are not designed for the new age of threats.

Our technology solutions are a direct

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response to the emerging need for advanced hardware, intelligent VMS, and insightful analytics. By producing our own cameras, Mercury.AI ensures higher reliability, better performance in complex environments, and faster, more effective responses. a&s Middle East: Beyond classic security use cases, where do you see the biggest impact of your technology?

Stanišić: One of the most significant impacts is in Smart City initiatives. Our video intelligence solutions help cities move from passive monitoring to proactive urban management. By analyzing pedestrian flow, traffic patterns, crowd formation, environmental risks, and public safety indicators, cities gain actionable insights rather than just video footage. a&s Middle East: Smart City is a broad term. How do Mercury.AI solutions fit into official frameworks and standards?

Stanišić: Smart City development today is guided by measurable KPIs (ISO 37122 and U4SSC) defined by organizations such as the UN. Our solutions directly support these frameworks, especially indicators related to urban safety, mobility efficiency, emergency response time, and infrastructure resilience. This alignment is critical for municipalities, particularly those working with public funding or international development programs. a&s Middle East: Public safety has become a major focus in the security industry, especially in urban environments.

Can you give us examples of how your software contributes to improving public safety?

Stanišić: Certainly. Beyond general urban monitoring, our AI solutions play a critical role in enhancing school safety.

The system can detect unauthorized individuals entering school grounds, identify potential threats such as weapons, and recognize violent behavior in real time.

By combining advanced AI software with highperformance hardware, we enable safer cities, more efficient operations, and faster decision-making. Building a new factory shows our clear intent to shape the future of smart video intelligence worldwide

It also alerts authorities to unattended objects that could pose a risk, like suspicious bags or packages. By leveraging existing cameras, we help schools create a safer environment for students, staff, and visitors, while providing authorities with actionable insights for proactive prevention. a&s Middle East: Privacy is also a critical topic in video surveillance. How does Mercury.AI address this concern?

Stanišić: Privacy is foundational to our design philosophy. Our systems comply fully with GDPR requirements. For example, facial recognition operates exclusively on anonymized vector data, not stored images. This ensures individuals cannot be reconstructed or identified outside authorized use cases. Advanced security must never come at the expense of civil liberties. a&s Middle East: Finally, how do you see Mercury.AI’s role evolving in the global security and surveillance market?

Stanišić: Our vision is to deliver fully integrated, intelligent security systems that go beyond surveillance. By combining advanced AI software with high-performance hardware, we enable safer cities, more efficient operations, and faster decisionmaking. Building a new factory shows our clear intent to shape the future of video intelligence worldwide. n

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EXPANDING THE PORTFOLIO

NEW COMPACT AND STYLISH XPRO SERIES QR CODE READERS XPR announced the launch of its new range of QR code readers, which completes the range dedicated to access control systems. This latest solution combines RFID, keypad, mobile ID, and QR code technologies, while maintaining a consistent and elegant design n By: Amélie Dierckx, Marketing Director, XPR Group marketing@xprgroup.com Already renowned for its robust and secure RFID readers and keypads, which are compatible with most access controllers on the market, the XPRO range now features QR code reading capabilities. This development responds to new applications relating to temporary access, mobile IDs, and visitor management, while ensuring continuity with existing installations.

Two Versions to Suit Every Application This RFID version is ideal for environments where simplicity and aesthetics are essential. It supports RFID credentials (13.56 MHz and 125 kHz for site migration), as well as mobile IDs and QR codes displayed on smartphones or in printed form. The RFID + Keypad version enables PIN code or two-factor authentication, meeting the requirements of highsecurity applications. Both readers support Wiegand, OSDP, SSCP, and RS-485 protocols, and they can be easily configured via the integrated USB-C port using the Product Manager software.

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Uncompromising Design and Performance New readers feature an integrated QR code module and retain the sleek, modern design that characterizes the XPRO range. Their discreet, high-quality polymer housing and carefully integrated LED status displays allow them to blend seamlessly into contemporary architectural environments. The QR code reader provides reliable performance and a wide decoding range in all lighting conditions, thanks to its integrated illumination field and aiming point, which facilitate quick and intuitive use. The IP65-certified readers are suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations.

In addition to the readers, the XPR range includes REX push buttons that are designed to match the same aesthetic.

XPR therefore provides a comprehensive

access control solution for single doors, offering a professional and uniform finish from entry to exit.

Security at the Heart of Design As with all XPRO products, security is a priority. The readers support secure RFID technologies, such as MIFARE DESFire EV3 and XPR’s Xsecure solution, delivering encrypted communication and enhanced protection against ID cloning.

These secure technologies can be used alongside QR codes, offering great flexibility without compromising security.

With the launch of its QR code readers, XPR has also confirmed its commitment to providing scalable, future-proof access control solutions. By combining RFID, keypad, mobile, and QR code technology in an elegant, unified range, The XPRO range now offers one of the most comprehensive and adaptable portfolios of readers on the market. n

Xpro PRECISION IN EVERY SCAN Sleek design

Multi-technology

IP 65

Mifare Desfire EV3

QR code scanner

Xsecure®, Encrypted Mifare Desfire EV3, Custom Encryption, Mobile ID

XP-QR RFID and QR Code Reader Ultra-fast reader with elegant, compact, and robust design.

Delivers flawless performance even in bright or low light.

Discover more about it on www.xpr-readers.com www.asmideast.com

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FIGHTING A CONSTANT THREAT

MULTIMODAL BIOMETRIC SECURITY IN THE AGE OF DEEPFAKES

As deepfake technology accelerates and identity fraud becomes increasingly sophisticated, traditional single-mode authentication methods are not sufficient. This article explores how multimodal biometric security, specifically the fusion of facial and iris recognition supported by Presentation Attack Detection (PAD), provides a robust defense against AIdriven spoofing attacks n By: Mohammed Murad, Chief Revenue Officer, Iris ID mohammed.murad@irisid.com By combining the most convenient biometric, facial recognition, with the most accurate biometric, iris recognition, organizations can ensure one trusted identity and achieve high confidence in identity verification without sacrificing privacy, scalability, or user convenience.

In a world where both digital and physical identities are under constant threat, fused multimodal biometrics are emerging as a critical foundation for trusted, future-ready identity systems.

Why Identity Must Be Verified, Not Assumed Deepfake technology has moved rapidly from novelty to a normalized threat.

What once required advanced expertise is easily executed using commonly available tech and a small number of images compiled from social media. As a result, identity fraud is accelerating across both digital and physical infrastructure, targeting financial services, access control systems, border security, data centers, and enterprise environments.

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The implication is clear: identity can no longer be assumed from appearance or credentials alone. It must be one trusted identity that has been verified and secured and is using protections specifically designed for an AI-driven threat landscape.

At the core of this shift is multimodal biometric security, the use of two or more biometric traits, most commonly iris and face, enabled by PAD. This approach aligns with guidance from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which emphasizes liveness detection and multi-factor strategies to avoid biometric presentation attacks and identity spoofing.

Trust Compromised: Deepfakes at the Center Deepfakes enable presentation attacks that exploit a fundamental weakness of single-mode biometric systems. Facial recognition alone, particularly when operating in visible light, can be vulnerable to high-quality images, replayed videos, or AI-generated likenesses. This compromise of trust is not limited to digital onboarding or remote identity verification. Physical access points, such as doors, gates, kiosks, and checkpoints, are all equally exposed.

When identity is reduced to a card, a PIN, or a single biometric factor, attackers need only defeat one control to succeed.

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Privacy, Transparency, and Compliance

Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) Must Be Mandatory PAD can no longer be treated as an optional enhancement; it must be a prerequisite for any modern biometric security system. NIST SP 800-63 and ISO/IEC 30107 define PAD as the automated process of determining whether a biometric sample is from a live, legitimate subject or a presentation attack. In practice, PAD acts as the first line of defense against spoofing attempts, detecting artifacts that reveal non-live samples such as printed images, replayed videos, synthetic masks, or AI-generated faces.

In high security environments, the consequences of failure are severe. A single false acceptance in a secure data center can result in operational disruption, financial loss, and regulatory scrutiny. PAD mitigates these outcomes by stopping attacks before matching occurs, preserving system integrity, public trust, and maintaining one trusted identity.

Iris Recognition Takes PAD Head-On Among biometric modalities, iris recognition offers inherent resistance to deepfake attacks. Captured using near infrared (NIR) illumination, iris systems analyze highly detailed internal patterns

that cannot be reproduced by printed images or standard digital displays.

This technical advantage is well documented in biometric performance evaluations conducted under ISO/IEC standards. These characteristics explain why iris recognition has been adopted in demanding use cases such as border control and secure data center environments, where proving identity outweighs convenience alone.

Why Multimodal Biometrics Are the Key The most effective response to deepfakes is not choosing between facial or iris recognition but fusing both. Multimodal fusion systems require attackers to defeat two fundamentally different biometric technologies simultaneously, one operating in visible light and the other in near infrared (NIR). While a deepfake may be capable of deceiving a conventional camera, replicating the live physical characteristics of the iris under NIR illumination presents a far more difficult challenge.

This fusion approach delivers more than enhanced security. Facial recognition provides speed, familiarity, and ease of use, while iris recognition contributes exceptional accuracy and strong resistance to spoofing. By combining the most convenient biometric with the most accurate biometric, multimodal systems create a balanced authentication experience.

As biometric adoption grows, so do concerns around privacy, security, and data protection. Effective multimodal systems are designed with privacy by default, incorporating encrypted biometric templates, secure storage architectures, and clear separation between identity data and personally identifiable information. These practices align with GDPR principles and ISO information security frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001.

Independent third-party testing also plays a critical role in establishing trust. iBeta Quality Assurance, an accredited biometric testing laboratory, evaluates biometric systems against ISO PAD standards, providing objective validation that systems perform as claimed under real-world attack scenarios.

Equally important is transparency. Users are more likely to trust biometric systems when they understand how data is collected, used, and protected, and when enrollment is based on informed consent.

Security that ignores privacy ultimately undermines itself.

Fused Biometrics Deepfakes are not a passing trend; they represent a persistent and escalating security threat. As AI continues to advance, identity systems must operate under the assumption that images, videos, and credentials can be forged.

Fused multimodal biometrics, reinforced

by PAD and validated against NIST, ISO, and iBeta standards, provide a strategic and resilient response that verifies the person, not the artifact.

The next generation of biometric security will be driven by intelligent systems that integrate multiple modalities, continuously verify liveness, and uphold privacy while delivering uncompromising protection. Organizations that act now will not only reduce risk, but they will help restore trust in identity itself, across both physical and digital applications, while driving home the importance of one trusted identity. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

SHAPED BY MARKET DEMAND

CONNECTED SECURITY ECOSYSTEMS REDEFINING RESIDENTIAL ENVIRONMENTS

The global access control and residential security market, projected to exceed USD 25 billion by the mid-2030s, is driven by rapid urbanization, smart city initiatives, and rising expectations for connected living. As residential developments grow in scale and complexity, security is no longer viewed as a collection of independent systems.

Integration, automation, and intelligence have become foundational requirements n By: Mohamed Zakky, Sales Director, ScreenCheck mohamed.zakky@centena.com Modern residential environments now function as interconnected communities, comprising multiple towers, shared amenities, parking infrastructure, visitor flows, service access, and increasingly mobile residents. Within these environments, security extends well beyond door control. It encompasses access control, intercom communication, video surveillance, fire alarm systems, public address and emergency alerting, vehicle access, and digital visitor workflows. Effectiveness is no longer measured by how many entry points are secured, but by how seamlessly these systems operate together, supporting safety and daily life without disruption.

The Operational Advantages of Interconnected Residential Security Traditional residential security deployments evolved incrementally. Intercoms, access readers, CCTV systems, fire alarms, and parking controls were often implemented at different times, by different vendors, and across separate platforms. While functional, these siloed

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systems introduce operational friction, inconsistent user experiences, and increased management overhead.

Industry research referenced by analysts such as Grand View Research and Precedence Research shows that fragmented security environments increase administrative workload and slow response times. In contrast, residential operators adopting integrated security platforms consistently report faster incident re-

sponse, reduced manual intervention, and lower operational costs related to access provisioning, visitor processing, and compliance reporting. In an interconnected residential ecosystem, identity management, access control, intercom communication, video verification, fire detection, public address, and automation operate as a single workflow.

Resident onboarding becomes digital and immediate. Mobile credentials replace

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

By orchestrating different technologies into a cohesive architecture, ScreenCheck helps residential communities move beyond traditional security toward connected living environments where safety, communication, and daily operations work together seamlessly physical cards, allowing seamless movement across entrances, parking areas, gyms, pools, and shared amenities. Visitors receive temporary access before arrival, validated in real time through integrated intercom and video systems.

Check-in times are reduced, staff workloads decrease, and full audit trails are generated automatically.

Unified dashboards combining access, video, alarms, and audio communication have been shown to reduce incident resolution times by up to 40–50 per cent, particularly in high-density residential environments where response speed and coordination are critical.

The ScreenCheck Perspective on Residential Security Integration Rather than approaching residential security as a collection of individual products, ScreenCheck’s philosophy centers on how technologies function together within real, high-density living environments. The focus is on integration, operational continuity, and long-term adaptability, ensuring that security supports daily life without adding friction.

This ecosystem-driven approach recognizes that modern residential communities require consistent policies, centralized visibility, and coordinated response across towers, amenities, and shared infrastructure.

Security is treated not as a standalone layer, but as an operational foundation that quietly enables movement, communication, and safety across the community.

Strengthening the Ecosystem Through Strategic Partnerships As residential security ecosystems mature, communication and alerting play an increasingly critical role alongside access and surveillance. ScreenCheck’s strategic partnership with BAS-IP significantly expands the depth and capability of its residential security architecture.

BAS-IP, a European leader in IP video intercom and access intercom solutions, extends access control into the resident experience itself. Integrated intercom platforms allow residents to see, communicate with, and authorize visitors remotely through mobile devices, while maintaining consistent access policies across multiple buildings and entry points. BAS-IP’s link platform al-

lows seamless integration of intercoms with other systems like building management, video surveillance, home automation, etc.

Together with access control, video surveillance, vehicle entry systems, and fire alarm integration, these technologies form a unified residential security ecosystem. Fire alarms, intercoms, public address, video, and access control no longer operate in isolation, but as coordinated components within a single operational framework.

This level of integration enables residential operators to manage thousands of users across multi-tower environments from a central platform, reduce manual intervention, and maintain consistent security and communication standards at scale. Importantly, modernization can occur progressively, retaining existing infrastructure while introducing mobile credentials, unified platforms, and integrated communication layers over time.

By orchestrating these technologies into a cohesive architecture, ScreenCheck helps residential communities move beyond traditional security toward connected living environments where safety, communication, and daily operations work together seamlessly. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

AN ANSWER TO THE COMPLEX SECURITY LANDSCAPE

ALIGNTECH POWERING SECURITY ECOSYSTEMS ACROSS CRITICAL MARKETS Aligntech delivers integrated security and ELV ecosystems designed for long-term performance and scalability. Through technology expertise and strategic support, the company helps partners meet the evolving demands of critical markets n By: Rawad Aboulhosn, Marketing Officer, Aligntech International marketing@aligntechme.com In an increasingly complex security landscape, organizations no longer seek isolated technologies. They require integrated, resilient ecosystems that are intelligently designed, expertly supported, and built to scale over time.

Aligntech operates at the core of this transformation, enabling enterprises, system integrators, and consultants to design and deploy advanced security infrastructures with confidence, efficiency, and long-term value.

As a value-added distributor, Aligntech bridges the gap between leading global technology providers and the realities of regional markets. The company combines a carefully curated portfolio of advanced security and ELV solutions with deep technical expertise, operational support, and strategic services that extend well beyond traditional distribution.

A Comprehensive Security and ELV Portfolio Aligntech delivers a broad and cohesive range of security and extra low voltage solutions designed to function as unified systems rather than standalone components. The portfolio includes in-

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As a value added distributor, Aligntech bridges the gap between leading global technology providers and the realities of regional markets. The company combines advanced security and ELV solutions with operational support and strategic services that extend well beyond traditional distribution telligent video surveillance, AI powered video analytics, face recognition and biometric technologies, access control

and mobile identity solutions, visitor management platforms, IP intercoms and communication systems, vehicle

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

This service supports healthier cash flow management, reduces financial pressure on integrators and end users, and enables organizations to proceed with advanced solutions without compromising scope, quality, or performance.

Supply Chain Expertise and Customs Facilitation Efficient logistics and regulatory navigation are essential for delivering complex security systems on time. Aligntech leverages extensive regional experience in supply chain coordination and customs facilitation across the UAE and KSA. Through proactive planning, regulatory familiarity, and close coordination with partners, Aligntech helps minimize delays, ensure compliance, and maintain predictable delivery schedules even for multi-vendor and large-scale deployments.

Technical Assistance Services (TAS) That Reduce Risk and Drive Performance

ments without reengineering their entire infrastructure.

Aligntech operates across vertical markets where security, operational continuity, and reliability are non-negotiable.

These include airports and aviation infrastructure, oil and gas facilities, data centers, ports and logistics hubs, commercial developments, residential communities, governmental and public sector environments, and city-wide surveillance and smart infrastructure projects.

By aligning technology, expertise, and services within each vertical’s specific operational context, Aligntech enables stakeholders to build secure, efficient, and future-ready environments.

Financial Facilitation for Large-Scale Deployments

A Strategic Partner in Security Enablement

Aligntech recognizes that financial structure can be a determining factor in the success of large or mission-critical security projects. Through collaboration with specialized financial support partners experienced in infrastructure and security domains, Aligntech enables flexible financial facilitation for qualified projects.

More than a distributor, Aligntech is a strategic enabler of integrated security ecosystems. Through technology leadership, technical depth, operational support, and market understanding, Aligntech empowers its partners and clients to move from complexity to clarity and from implementation to long-term success. n

A defining pillar of Aligntech’s value proposition is its Technical Assistance Services framework. TAS is designed to actively support partners and clients throughout the full project lifecycle. From early-stage consultation and system design validation to solution architecture, proof of concept development, commissioning support, and post deployment optimization, Aligntech’s technical teams remain closely involved at every critical stage.

This hands-on engagement reduces implementation risk, accelerates deployment timelines, and ensures that systems perform as intended in real-world conditions.

TAS also empowers system integrators and consultants with the technical confidence needed to deliver complex, multi-vendor projects successfully.

and pedestrian gate barriers, parking and traffic management solutions, license plate recognition, centralized command and control platforms, cybersecurity ready infrastructure, servers, storage, and fully integrated control room environments.

Each solution is positioned within a system-level architecture, ensuring interoperability, scalability, and long-term adaptability. This ecosystem-driven approach allows organizations to respond to evolving operational requirements, regulatory demands, and technological advance-

Serving Critical Market Verticals

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SECURITY AND INTEROPERABILITY

THE CORNERSTONES OF ACCESS CONTROL Two principles have become paramount for any successful deployment: robust security and seamless interoperability. A system that excels in one area but fails in the other is incomplete. True value is realized when a solution offers strong security while integrating effortlessly with other building management technologies n By: Gaurav Mahajan, Regional Sales Director, Middle East & Africa, ICT gmahajan@ict.co To avoid any vulnerabilities in the access control system, it is crucial to look at the security of the credentials, the communication protocol between readers and controllers, and the cybersecurity of the entire system.

Secure Credentials The first line of defense in access control is the credential itself. Legacy technologies, such as 125kHz proximity cards, are notoriously easy to clone, leaving facilities exposed to unauthorized entry.

Transitioning to advanced credential technologies is essential. High-security smart cards using Desfire EV3 and mobile credentials utilizing AES 256 encryption offer superior protection. These technologies create a secure, encrypted link between the credential and the reader, making duplication practically impossible and providing a reliable foundation for the security infrastructure.

Secure Communication Protocols The integrity of communication between readers and controllers is just as critical as the credentials. Unsecured protocols are susceptible to interception and ma-

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nipulation. Implementing RS-485 or the Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) provides encrypted, bi-directional communication, ensuring that data transmitted between system components is protected from eavesdropping and tampering.

RS-485 is proprietary, while OSDP is an open industry standard. This secure protocol verifies that commands are authentic and have not been altered, adding a vital layer of protection essential for highsecurity environments.

Cyber Security Measures Cybersecurity is a constant, evolving threat. Mitigating the risk starts with deploying access control systems that are secure by design from reputable security manufacturers who comply with ISO 27001:2022, such as ICT. However, technology and compliance alone are not sufficient. Installation companies and customers must also implement proactive cybersecurity measures, including

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

A unified access control system does not operate in a silo. Its ability to integrate with other platforms and systems is what unlocks its full potential, transforming it from a security tool into a comprehensive building management solution regular, mandatory training on best practices, phishing awareness, and more. By fostering a culture of security awareness, both security installers and end-users empower their teams to become an active part of the defense strategy, ensuring the system’s integrity against sophisticated attacks.

access level and disable them, reducing the risk of errors. It also enables dynamic scenarios such as automatically arming an area if all employees have exited it or automatically disarming it when a person with the right access level swipes their credential in. It increases security as well as efficiency.

The Power of Interoperability and Unification

Open Platform

A unified access control system does not operate in a silo. Its ability to integrate with other platforms and systems is what unlocks its full potential, transforming it from a security tool into a comprehensive building management solution.

Unifying access control and intrusion detection is the foundation of interoperability, as both are intrinsically linked to building access management. It allows you to manage a single database of users, making it easy to enroll them with the right

An open API (Application Programming Interface) system lays out the groundwork for endless possibilities. By integrating the access control system with other systems and platforms, it creates a more cohesive operational environment and improves overall efficiency. Whether it’s synced with HR software, visitor management systems, room booking systems, or IoT devices, integration empowers the access control system to deliver smarter, more innovative solutions tailored to customers’ needs.

The Value of Native Integrations Native integrations elevate system performance by enabling access control platforms to communicate directly with building systems such as lifts, intercoms, and visitor management solutions. This direct compatibility removes the need for complex custom development, reduces integration risks, and ensures system reliability. For property managers and onsite teams, native integration delivers a unified interface, faster deployment, and seamless scalability, driving operational efficiency while consistently meeting both security and business objectives.

ICT sees how the robust security and the openness of their access control platform have been the foundation to provide their customers with a tailored solution. Unifying access control and intrusion detection and supporting it with secure credentials and a suite of readers and controllers brings enhanced security and better user database management. ICT’s open API and DataSync software simplify database synchronisation and offer easy integration with third-party systems, equipping security and facility managers as well as installation companies with an adaptable and reliable solution. n

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PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

FROM TECHNOLOGY TO TRUST

THE ROLE OF DISTRIBUTION IN MISSION-CRITICAL SECURITY The demand for resilient, integrated security ecosystems will continue to grow.

Organizations will increasingly seek partners who can provide continuity, insight, and confidence. Distributors who understand systems, maintain readiness, and invest in partner autonomy will play a defining role in shaping the future of mission-critical operations across the region n By: Loubna Tabbara | Marketing and Sales Director, Tabbara Electronics loubna@tabbara-electronics.com In regions where security, public safety, and critical infrastructure operations are constantly evolving, technology alone is never enough. What ultimately determines success is how reliably that technology can be delivered, supported, and sustained over time. In mission-critical environments, trust is built not only on performance, but on readiness, continuity, and deep operational understanding.

Across the Middle East, organizations operate in a landscape shaped by rapid growth, geopolitical volatility, and complex logistical challenges. Supply chains are under pressure, deployment timelines are compressed, and expectations for uptime are uncompromising. In this context, the role of the distributor extends far beyond product availability. It becomes a strategic function that connects global innovation with real-world operational needs.

Availability as a Strategic Responsibility At Tabbara Electronics, distribution is approached as an enabler of resil-

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Tabbara Electronics invests in building deep technical understanding with its partners. By working closely with system integrators over time, sharing knowledge, and supporting real deployments, partners gain the confidence and competence needed to operate autonomously ience. Maintaining local stock across core technology portfolios is a deliberate strategy designed to mitigate sup-

ply chain disruptions, transportation delays, and market uncertainty. Immediate availability allows partners and end us-

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ers to respond quickly when operational demands arise, whether during planned expansions or unexpected situations. In mission-critical operations, the ability to deliver without delay is not a convenience. It is a responsibility.

From Understanding Systems to Enabling Autonomy Availability alone does not create value.

True impact comes from understanding how systems are designed, deployed, and operated in the field. Missioncritical communications and intelligent surveillance ecosystems are complex by nature, involving multiple technologies, environments, and stakeholders.

Successful outcomes depend on how well these elements are integrated and how confidently they are managed over their lifecycle.

This is where long-term partner enablement becomes essential. Rather than focusing on transactional engagements, Tabbara Electronics invests in building deep technical understanding with its partners. By working closely with system integrators over time, sharing knowledge, and supporting real deployments, partners gain the confidence and competence needed to operate autonomously.

This approach creates stronger ecosystems where expertise is distributed, not centralized, and where partners are empowered to deliver sustainable solutions independently.

Orchestrating an Ecosystem, Not Just Supplying Technology The distributor’s role, therefore, becomes one of orchestration. It involves aligning global technology leaders with regional expertise, ensuring that solutions are not only technically sound but operationally viable. Secure communications, intelligent surveillance, and unified data flows must work together seamlessly, delivering clarity, speed, and reliability in environments where failure is not an option.

Availability alone does not create value. True impact comes from understanding how systems are designed, deployed, and operated in the field Partnerships Built for the Long Term Strong partnerships are the foundation of this model. Long-term collaboration with global technology providers ensures access to proven, evolving platforms. At the same time, close relationships with regional integrators ensure that solutions are adapted to local realities, regulatory frameworks, and operational practices.

This balance between global scale and regional depth is what allows mission-critical ecosystems to perform consistently under pressure.

Leadership in this space requires a clear philosophy. As Mohamad Tabbara, CEO of Tabbara Electronics, notes, “Operational clarity starts with trusted technology. It is sustained through strong partnerships.” This principle guides how

solutions are selected, how partners are supported, and how long-term value is created for end users.

Looking ahead, the demand for resilient, integrated security ecosystems will continue to grow. Organizations will increasingly seek partners who can provide not only technology, but continuity, insight, and confidence. Distributors who understand systems, maintain readiness, and invest in partner autonomy will play a defining role in shaping the future of mission-critical operations across the region.

Tabbara Electronics continues to welcome collaboration with partners who share this long-term vision. Integrators and solution providers seeking a distribution partner committed to availability, knowledge, and sustained enablement are invited to connect and explore opportunities for collaboration. n

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CASE STUDIES

AI-POWERED, CLOUD-ENABLED SYSTEM

GAS GIANT SECURES REMOTE SITES WITH RECONEYEZ’ AUTONOMOUS TECHNOLOGY Security has become a top agenda item in boardrooms across the Middle East. As the region undergoes rapid digital transformation, the once-clear boundaries between cyber and physical threats are dissolving, creating a complex and evolving risk landscape. The integration of physical access control systems with broader cybersecurity strategies is no longer a luxury; it is a strategic imperative n By: Andy Keeley, Marketing Director, Reconeyez andy.keeley@reconeyez.com Following its acquisition of a key competitor earlier this year, Italgas has become Europe’s largest gas distributor, with a network spanning more than 150,000 kilometres and over 12.9 million customers across Italy and Greece.

The company’s expansion brought with it a pressing need to strengthen the protection of remote assets, many located in challenging environments without access to connectivity or the power grid.

For Elisa Riservato, Security Manager at Italgas, the answer was Reconeyez’s AI-powered, cloud-enabled, fully autonomous security system. “We have over a thousand assets that need protection, which range from remote gas distribution stations and water distribution facilities to offices not yet operational,” says Riservato.

Meeting Security Needs at Scale Italgas manages not only gas distribution but also water services and energy

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Reconeyez’s wireless, battery-powered systems do not rely on local Internet or electricity, making them suitable for remote sites efficiency solutions, serving 6.3 million people. Protecting these assets is a priority. “We work with resources that are precious, like energy and water, so the security of these assets is very critical,” she adds. The majority of sites under

Italgas’ management lacked the infrastructure for conventional security installations. The challenge was to secure them quickly and effectively, while basic utilities such as electricity were still being established.

CASE STUDIES

A Mobile, Autonomous Solution Reconeyez’s wireless, battery-powered systems provided the flexibility required for such a large-scale operation. Designed for rapid deployment, the units do not rely on local internet or electricity, making them suitable for remote sites.

“We haven’t found anything that could easily and seamlessly replace Reconeyez,” says Riservato. “We use Reconeyez as a dynamic solution—we move it from site to site, to secure our assets while we prepare for a more traditional cabled security solution. We use multiple different set-up options: security towers powered by Reconeyez system and Reconeyez detectors mounted discreetly in bushes, etc.”

From Sardinia to the Mainland The system was first tested at a gas distribution plant in Sardinia, a remote location that urgently needed protection.

“We specifically requested the Reconeyez solution, and our security contractor was able to go to the site with a couple of towers and a few devices.

In less than two hours, we were already receiving alarms at our remote monitoring centre,” recalls Riservato.

Each device offers a detection range of up to 35 metres, reducing hardware requirements. With batteries lasting up to 400 days and optional solar power, the units can operate autonomously for extended periods.

Multi-network SIM cards ensure stable connectivity, even in areas with patchy coverage.

“We have over a thousand assets that need protection, which range from remote gas distribution stations and water distribution facilities to offices not yet operational.” Elisa Riservato, Security Manager, Italgas Cloud Oversight and AI Precision For Italgas, cloud integration has been a key benefit. Reconeyez’s cloud-based nature makes everything more convenient. It is also great that the guys in the control room receive alarms without a problem,

and at the same time, we can also check that everything is okay from our mobile phones with our peers,” explains Riservato.

The platform integrates with Italgas’ monitoring software for centralised oversight, while also enabling collaboration between teams in the field. At the core of the system is AI-based object detection. “We work extensively with AI at Italgas, and the Reconeyez AI object detection is excellent. With other kinds of technologies, the rate of false alarms is still drastically high—with Reconeyez, it is almost zero,” Riservato highlights.

Reconeyez reports that its AI reduces false alarms by 95%. The system also provides HD images alongside alerts, allowing incidents to be verified before teams are dispatched.

Cost-Effective Resilience Managing thousands of dispersed sites requires not only resilience but also cost efficiency. According to Riservato, Reconeyez provides both.

“Reconeyez is the only solution we use for rapidly securing our sites that don’t have the infrastructure for traditional security monitoring. I haven’t found anything that can do what Reconeyez does. We are very quick with setting up this solution, and the price point really suits our budgets. We have used it since 2022 in many different applications across Italy, and so far, we have not had any problems with it.”

For Italgas, Reconeyez has become a cornerstone technology in securing critical assets in remote and highrisk environments, offering speed, flexibility, and reliability at scale. n

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EVENTS

LETTER FROM SHOW DIRECTOR

INTERSEC 2026 TO SET THE STAGE FOR A TRANSFORMATIVE YEAR Intersec 2026 will cover 67,000 square metres and will welcome over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 60 countries. The scale indicates the level of demand; it also conveys a clear message: throughout our sectors, the demand for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and preparedness has reached unprecedented levels n By: Dishan Isaac, Show Director, Intersec editorial@asmideast.com

As the 27th edition of Intersec approaches this January, attention is increasingly drawn to the significant shifts occurring across the global security, safety, and fire protection sectors. The rapid pace of geopolitical, technological, and environmental changes has intensified, emphasising the industry’s need for clarity, shared purpose, and a renewed commitment to resilience.

Intersec has always been shaped by the people who participate in it. The strategic thinkers, operational experts, innovators, responders, regulators, and industry leaders whose collective expertise defines the trajectory of our fields. This year, however, holds particular significance. The operational environment has undergone substantial changes, and the challenges and opportunities facing us are now more complex, interconnected, and consequential than ever before.

Unifying an Entire Ecosystem At the core of Intersec is the ability to unify an entire ecosystem. The industries we serve, including commercial security, fire and rescue, emergency response, cybersecurity, health and safety, homeland security, and policing, once operated within clearer boundaries. Today, those boundaries have blurred. No organisa-

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We protect what matters most: people, communities, critical infrastructure, and the trust that underpins our societies. Intersec exists to support that mission tion can think in silos, and neither can an event like ours. This reality has shaped the 2026 programme from the ground up, ensuring every feature reflects the interconnected world in which we operate.

The International Security Leaders’ Summit exemplifies one of the most significant platforms within Intersec. It has evolved into a forum where senior leaders address the realities of modern risk, drawing on practical experience rather than

theoretical constructs. Discussions on crisis leadership are particularly relevant because they directly address the human aspect of the industry.

This year, we will hear from professionals like David Warham from Dubai Airports, who will bring this into sharp focus. His reflections on preparation, trust, and multi-agency collaboration offer lessons that extend far beyond aviation. The same applies to the voices joining us from

EVENTS

national infrastructure, government ministries, global corporations, and academic institutions. These leaders are facing the same pressures many of our visitors encounter: talent shortages, digital convergence, aligning with national strategies, managing cultural complexity, and navigating the realities of AI and quantum technologies.

Strong Growth of the UAE’s Cybersecurity Market In recent years, cybersecurity has evolved from a specialised discipline to the thread connecting every operational environment. At Intersec, this evolution is captured in the InCyber Briefing, which brings together global and regional specialists to tackle the next wave of digital risk. With the UAE’s cybersecurity market set to grow significantly by 2030, the conversations around supply-chain resilience, AI-powered threats, regulatory complexity, and board-level reporting are not abstract; they are urgent.

Fire and rescue professionals will also find a dedicated space to examine the challenges shaping their sector. Urban density, climate change, new materials, and rising expectations for building safety have all shifted the demands placed on fire services and life-safety specialists.

The Fire & Rescue Conference explores AI-enabled fire prediction, evolving fire dynamics, human behaviour under stress, and global case studies that offer invaluable insights into preparedness.

Another defining feature this year is the emphasis on developing the control room of the future. The new Control Room Innovation Theatre demonstrates how AI, cognitive design, and humancentred environments can enhance operator performance and decision-making under pressure.

Of course, Intersec is also a marketplace, one of the largest and most diverse in the world for security, safety, and fire

The Largest Footprint Yet We operate in a world where complexity is no longer rare; it has become the norm.

The rapid pace of technological change, global uncertainty, climate volatility, and converging physical–digital threats are pushing organisations to rethink their approaches to preparation, response, and innovation. In this context, Intersec 2026 has expanded not only in size but also in responsibility. This edition will cover 67,000 square metres, marking our largest footprint yet, and will welcome over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 60 countries. The scale indicates the level of demand; it also conveys a clear message: throughout our sectors, the demand for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and preparedness has reached unprecedented levels.

protection solutions. With over 1,400 exhibitors and a strong presence of international pavilions, the show floor is where global innovation becomes accessible.

Whether it’s next-generation surveillance, advanced access control, cyber-physical convergence tools, fire-engineering technologies, PPE advancements, or emergency response equipment, the exhibition floor brings together practical solutions with future-focused thinking.

17 Categories of Intersec Awards Celebrating the people behind these innovations is equally important. The Intersec Awards return this year with 17 categories, our most comprehensive line-up yet,

a sign that companies and individuals are eager to showcase their contributions to global best practice.

The aim for visitors at Intersec 2026 extends beyond technology and conference sessions. It is to foster clarity amidst prevailing uncertainty. Attendees are encouraged to establish connections with partners they can depend on in the long term. Ultimately, the goal is to leave with reinforced confidence, grounded in understanding and preparedness, and with a shared sense of purpose.

Our industries carry an extraordinary responsibility. We protect what matters most: people, communities, critical infrastructure, national capability, and the trust that underpins our societies. Intersec exists to support that mission.

The Intersec Awards return this year with 17 categories, recognising excellence across fire protection, safety, homeland security, commercial security, cybersecurity, consultancy, leadership, and Emirati talent recognising excellence across fire protection, safety, homeland security, commercial security, cybersecurity, consultancy, leadership, and Emirati talent. We have seen an encouraging rise in submissions,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to Dubai World Trade Centre from 12–14 January 2026, and I look forward to shaping the next chapter of global security, safety, and fire protection together. n

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EVENTS

ISE 2026

INNOVATION, SECURITY, AND RESILIENCE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026, the world’s leading exhibition for AV and systems integration, returns to Barcelona from 3-6 February with a bold new theme: “Push Beyond.” This year’s event is more than a trade show - it’s a unique opportunity to engage with the technologies, strategies, and thought leaders shaping the future of security operations n By: Charlotte Theobald-Park, PR Coordinator, Integrated Systems Events ctheobaldpark@iseurope.org One of ISE’s defining megatrends for 2026 is Cybersecurity. These are environments where safeguarding critical infrastructure and public services against cyber threats has become paramount. At ISE 2026, you’ll discover how the cybersecurity ecosystem is pushing beyond boundaries to deliver intelligent, resilient, and secure systems that are equipped to protect public sector operations and ensure ongoing well-being amidst evolving digital threats.

The CyberSecurity Summit: Confronting Urgent Threats New for 2026, the CyberSecurity Summit on 5 February is a must-attend for anyone responsible for securing public sector systems. As AV and IT infrastructures become more interconnected, the risks of ransomware, data breaches, and denial-of-service attacks grow. The Summit brings together leading voices from across Europe and beyond, including regulatory authorities, technical experts, and industry innovators, to share strategies for compliance, resilience, and proactive defense.

The program will feature key sessions that address navigating emerging regulations such as NIS2 and ISO 270001, alongside strategies for building cyber

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resilience across smart buildings, transport systems, and public venues. Attendees will gain insight from real-world case studies focused on protecting critical infrastructure, and participate in roundtables dedicated to compliance, governance, and best practices. The expertise of professionals from the Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia, TÜV SÜD, and Veolia España will enrich these discussions.

For government technology leaders, this is a rare chance to benchmark strategies, network with peers, and leave with a roadmap for adapting to the evolving threat landscape.

Control Rooms Summit: Resilient, Human-Centric Operations On 4 February, the Control Rooms Summit explores how mission-critical environments – from emergency response centers to city transport networks – are being transformed by advanced AV/IT integration, AI-driven analytics, and ergonomic design. The focus is on resilience: ensuring uptime, empowering operators, and building trust in the systems that underpin public safety and service delivery.

The sessions will emphasize the integration of AV/IT systems to provide actionable insights and facilitate rapid response in mission-critical environments. They will explore how artificial intelligence and automation can be leveraged to enable proactive, human-centered decisionmaking, ensuring that operators are equipped with the tools needed to anticipate and address evolving challenges.

Additionally, there will be a strong focus on designing control rooms that prioritize operator well-being, foster collaboration, and support continuous improvement. To enrich these discussions, case studies and expert panels featuring industry leaders from the International Critical Control Rooms Alliance will be presented, offering real-world perspectives and practical solutions.

Smart Buildings and Secure Infrastructure ISE 2026 also features the Smart Building Summit, addressing the cybersecurity challenges of modern facilities management. As government buildings become smarter and more connected, the risks and opportunities multiply. Sessions will cover securing IoT devices, implementing

layered security, and managing the dualedged nature of AI in building operations.

Unparalleled Networking and Innovation With over 1,600 exhibitors and a global audience representing more than 160 countries, ISE 2026 offers an unrivalled opportunity to explore the latest advancements in AV, IT, and integrated systems. Government professionals will have the chance to engage directly with technology providers and innovators, experiencing hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge products and solutions firsthand. Attendees can also participate

in carefully curated tours, interactive workshops, and a variety of networking events designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, exclusive content will be available, covering key megatrends such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainability, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of government technology.

As the digital and physical worlds converge, the imperative for government leaders is clear: to Push Beyond traditional boundaries, embrace innovation, and build the secure, resilient systems that underpin public trust and national wellbeing. n

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EVENTS

WORLD POLICE SUMMIT

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE SUCCESSFUL GLOBAL POLICING MODELS

The fifth edition of the World Police Summit, organized by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB LIVE, will take place from 23 to 25 June 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai n By: Rida Rawas, General Department of Community Happiness, Dubai Police r.rawas@dubaipolice.gov.ae

World Police Summit has become a global platform for strengthening international cooperation and exchanging knowledge and expertise among police forces and law enforcement agencies worldwide. It serves as a forum to explore the future of global security and review the best practices and innovative solutions that address the rapidly evolving challenges of transnational crime. This year, the Summit will welcome highlevel international participation from global experts, law enforcement agencies, and leading international organizations, including INTERPOL, Europol, and the United Nations.

Top Experts and Decision-Makers in One Place “The fifth edition will explore new themes and topics that reflect Dubai Police’s pioneering and proactive role in leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence systems to enhance security.

It will also address the latest trends in combating digital crime, crisis management, and community protection. The Summit and its accompanying exhibition will offer a comprehensive platform bringing together top experts, decision-makers, and leading international companies to showcase their latest policing innovations—further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global center for police knowledge and security development,” said Colonel Dr. Rashid Hamdan Al Ghafri, Secretary-General of the World Police Summit.

Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, emphasized: “The organization of the World Police Summit underscores the UAE’s distinguished standing as a premier international destination for hosting major global events. We take great pride in our strategic partnership with Dubai Police in presenting this global platform with the highest levels of professionalism and operational excellence. Our commitment lies in providing an

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Colonel Dr. Rashid Hamdan Al Ghafri, Secretary-General of the World Police Summit

Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE

integrated, world-class event experience that aligns with the significance of this Summit.”

A Landmark Edition The fourth edition of the Summit, organized by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre, recorded unprecedented participation, hosting 922 prominent police leaders, specialists, diplomats, and international organizations. It welcomed 53,922 participants from more than 110 countries, marking a growth of over 300% compared to the previous edition. Attendees included six Ministers of Interior, four Deputy Ministers, 45 Police Chiefs, 41 Deputy Police Chiefs, and 692 ambassadors, consuls, and high-level diplomats.

The landmark global policing event featured 140 specialized panel sessions, with 302 international speakers. The Summit also witnessed the signing of 38 Memoranda of Understanding between security agencies, technology providers, and academic institutions, aimed at strengthening security collaboration and integration. In addition, 900 participants competed across the Summit’s awards program, with 12 winners recognized across 12 categories. n

Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah

Hosted By

RAK Expo & RAK Chamber

Positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a Premier Investment Destination The RAK Investment & Business Summit 2025 successfully brought together government leaders, investors, developers, and industry stakeholders to explore strategic opportunities across real estate, manufacturing, tourism, and innovation. The summit reinforced Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to economic diversification, investment facilitation, and sustainable development.

Graced By

Event Highlights

2,700+ Attendees

Government officials, investors, developers, and business leaders

Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah

45 Exhibitors

Showcasing cross-sector investment opportunities

18 Sponsors

Regional and international partners

52 Expert Speakers

Insights on policy, investment frameworks

5 Strategic MoUs Signed Driving collaboration across priority sectors

Key Sectors Represented

Media & Marketing Impact

1. Real Estate & Infrastructure

1.2M+

850K+

30+

International

2. Manufacturing & Industrial Development 3. Tourism & Hospitality 4. Innovation & Emerging Technologies

Digital Impressions Across Online Platforms

Media Outlets & Journalists Participated On-Ground

Video Views During the Campaign Period

Media Coverage Across Leading Publications

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FUTURE OF SECURITY IN MILAN

SICUREZZA 2025 CLOSES WITH STRONG GROWTH The show, together with the other fairs part of MIBA, attracted 85,000 visitors.

SICUREZZA showcased a strong offering with 470 exhibitors from 34 countries, with 36% international participation n By: Editorial team, a&s Middle East editorial@asmideast.com SICUREZZA 2025, Fiera Milano’s trade fair dedicated to security & fire, closed on 21 November, confirming its role as one of Europe’s key platforms for the sector. This edition strengthened its position not only through the growth in exhibitors – 470 brands from 34 countries, +35% compared to the previous edition – but also through the quality of its audience. Installers, system integrators, security managers, and strategic top buyers attended the show, attracted by the quality of technological solutions and the extensive training program.

Moreover, beyond the trade visitors, thanks to the support of ITA – Italian Trade Agency, more than 115 top hosted buyers from 31 countries visited the show, including strong delegations from the Middle East and North Africa, particularly Egypt, Tunisia, the UAE, and Qatar.

These buyers held more than 1,300 oneto-one meetings with exhibitors, generating high-value business opportunities.

The Strength of MIBA SICUREZZA took place within MIBA – Milan International Building Alliance, the platform combining four complementary trade fairs: MADE expo (construction), SMART BUILDING EXPO (technological integration), GEE – Global Elevator Exhibition (internal mobility), and SICUREZZA itself. Visitors with a ticket to one fair could access all four, creating highly qualified, targeted traffic and fostering new business and networking opportunities.

MIBA 2025 brought together 1,369 exhibitors and 85,000 visitors from 112 countries, a 5% increase compared to

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2023. The four events offered professionals a comprehensive overview of technologies, materials, solutions, and regulations shaping the evolution of buildings and cities.

Three themes guided discussions among companies, professionals, institutions, and the research community: sustainability, energy and digital transition, and training. These priorities not only define

EVENTS

the sector’s current focus but also outline the roadmap for transforming cities and designing spaces for the future. Sustainability was a cross-cutting topic across all four fairs, with particular attention to tools supporting the European Green Buildings Directive.

Trends and Innovation SICUREZZA 2025 showcased innovation across all segments of security and fire protection. A central theme was integrated digitalization, where artificial intelligence combined with the Internet of Things transforms security systems into intelligent ecosystems capable of learning from their environment, responding in real time, and anticipating potential risks.

Video surveillance and access control technologies played a leading role, increasingly integrated with edge-cloud platforms to enable accurate, predictive, and continuous monitoring. Integration across technologies proved essential, allowing the management of complex networks while wireless connectivity extends to all devices, including fire safety systems, simplifying installation, operation, and maintenance.

Drones, now versatile operational tools, were highlighted for their ability to collect and analyze real-time data across multiple contexts. Another trend observed was the rise of modular and customizable solutions, with companies assuming consultancy-driven roles and offering tailor-made technologies and services built around clients’ needs and operational contexts.

Training and Education: a Key Feature of the Edition More than just an exhibition space, SICUREZZA 2025 was a laboratory of ideas and innovation, designed to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving sector.

To provide increasingly effective tools to the industry and its key players, the event introduced this year a renewed training program, available in both Italian and English, structured over three thematic days to enhance content and learning.

The first day, Cyber Day, focused on the convergence of physical and cyber threats, highlighting resilience strategies, supply chain protection, and evolving governance models. Security Day, the second day, showcased critical sectors – transport, banking, retail, large events, and cultural heritage – alongside technologies and professional expertise

More than 115 top hosted buyers from 31 countries visited the show, including strong delegations from the Middle East and North Africa, particularly Egypt, Tunisia, the UAE, and Qatar tailored to each context. The third day, Job in Security Day, connected schools, technical institutes, and sector companies to demonstrate career opportunities to young professionals. More than 500 students met exhibitors to explore potential careers and understand the market’s prospects.

Each day featured conferences, workshops, and short talks involving experts, stakeholders, associations, and institutions, addressing the sector’s most pressing issues. The program combined

updates, dialogue, and growth opportunities across European regulations, integrated solutions, and professional training – from the impact of new European directives (NIS2, CER, CRA) to the evolution of solutions in large application contexts, all the way to preparing the next generation of security professionals.

SICUREZZA will return in 2027, again within MIBA, from 17 to 19 November at Fiera Milano, continuing to provide a highlevel platform for innovation and business development. n

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Key Security Events in 2026 Key Security Events in 2023

JAN Intersec Dubai 12-14 Jan 2026, Dubai, UAE Dubai World Trade Centre https://intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com/dubai

JAN UMEX 20-22 Jan 2026 Abu Dhabi, UAE ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi https://www.umexabudhabi.ae/en

MAR

FEB light+building Integrated Systems Europe 3-6 Feb 2026 Barcelona, Spain Fira de Barcelona, Gran Via https://www.iseurope.org

8-13 Mar 2026, Frankfurt am Main, Germany Messe Frankfurt https://light-building.messefrankfurt.com

MAR SECON 2025 8-20 March 2026, Goyang-si, South Korea KINTEX www.seconexpo.com

APR Secutech 22-24 April, 2026 Taipei, Taiwan Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center https://secutech.tw.messefrankfurt.com/ taipei/en.html

APR The Security Event 28-30 Apr, 2026, Birmingham, UK NEC https://www.thesecurityevent.co.uk

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MAY ISNR Abu Dhabi 19-21 May 2026 Abu Dhabi, UAE ADNEC Centre https://www.isnrabudhabi.com

ISE 2026

Fira de Barcelona I Gran Via I 3 - 6 February 2026

H E AD

+

H E ART Where endless potential begins.

The space to enjoy time to think. A perfect blend of feel-good and good-to-know. Our first-class content programme puts you first and upgrades what matters most: you.

That way, we’ll grow beyond all expectation, together. Because if not now, then when? Deeper Knowledge is where endless potential begins.

GET YOUR FREE TICKET

Register with code: asmiddleeast at iseurope.org

A joint venture partnership of

www.asmideast.com

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Market & Contacts Video surveillance products and solutions

The world leader in network video Axis Communications FZE Onyx tower 2, P2 The greens, Dubai United Arab Emirates Tel: +97146091873 www.axis.com

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

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 Tel.: +971 4 212 3300

www.boschsecurity.com

www.hikvision.com

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

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

1 m.shenawy@supremainc.com) Tel: +971 4 2357 996 www.supremainc.com

www.assaabloy.com/ae/en patricia.lomboy@assaabloy.com

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

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

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IP Solutions

CCTV Products

Dahua Technology Co., Ltd.

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

Public safety, public communication and public space design

Publi comm publi

TOA Electronics Europe GmbH www.toa.eu marketing@toa-eu.com +49 (0)40 25 17 19 0

TOA E m

The Only Asian Integrated Security Exhibition Beyond Korea Asia’s leading event for exploring the latest advancements in both physical and cybersecurity.

This exhibition offers a valuable opportunity to connect with industry experts from more than 35 countries and regions. In particular, the hosted buyer match-making programme will help you network with partners who can meet your specific security needs.

Join us to discover tailored solutions and build strong, lasting partnerships!

18 (WED) ~ 20 (FRI), March 2026

KINTEX, SEOUL, Korea

Scale (Expected)

Exhibition Space

30,000+m

2

Fair Manager SECON & eGISEC Organising Committee Informa Markets BN Co Ltd

www.seconexpo.com | www.egisec.org

Exhibitors

400+

Visitors

30,000+

Index of Advertisers PAGE ADVERTISER

COUNTRY

E-MAIL

WEBSITE

21

ADVANCED

UK

SEIhag@advancedco.com

www.advancedco.com

13

ALIGNTECH

UAE

info@aligntech.me

www.aligntech.me

59

GALLAGHER SECURITY

NEW ZEALAND admin@gallagher-me.com

https://security.gallagher.com/en

9

GARRETT

AUSTRALIA

sales@garrett-me.com

https://garrett-me.com

2

IDIS

KOREA

sales_mena@idisglobal.com

www.idisglobal.com

69

ID TECH

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

BELGIUM

info@idtech.eu

www.idtech.be

100 IRIS ID

USA

sales@irisid.com

www.irisid.com

11

JAVELIN TACTIX

USA

office@javelintactix.com

www.javelintactix.com

15

PASO

ITALY

info@paso.it

www.paso.it

5

RECONEYEZ

ESTONIA

info@reconeyez.com

www.reconeyez.com

3

TABBARA ELECTRONICS

UAE

helpdesk@tabbara-electronics.com

www.tabbara-electronics.com

73

XPR GROUP

LUXEMBOURG

marketing@xprgroup.com

www.xprgroup.com

7

ZENITEL

NORWAY

info.MEA@zenitel.com

www.zenitel.com

OTHER 95

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS EUROPE

SPAIN

ISEPress@iseurope.org

www.iseurope.org

99

INTERSEC DUBAI

UAE

intersec@uae.messefrankfurt.com

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

91

RAKIS

UAE

faheem@valiantbmedia.com

www.rakisummit.com

97

SECON

KOREA

global@seconexpo.com

www.seconexpo.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 98

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Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council

12 – 14 January 2026 Dubai World Trade Centre

The world’s premier event for Security, Safety and Fire Protection.

50,000+

140+

Visitors

Visiting Countries

1,400+

60+

Exhibitors

Exhibiting Countries

SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET YOUR COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR PASS intersec.ae.messefrankfurt.com

intersec@uae.messefrankfurt.com www.asmideast.com

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