News
IN THE LIMELIGHT

By Editor

INTERSEC 2014 was bigger and better, as the largest surveillance solutions providers brought to the region some of the most innovative technology in IP surveillance for a growing MEA security market. Among the exhibitors were Axis Communications, Sony Professional Solutions, Canon and Panasonic.
Axis Communications
Axis Communications brought its co-founder, and the man credited with inventing the first IP network camera, Martin Gren to INTERSEC.
At INTERSEC, Axis showcased its Lightfinder technology that enables extreme light sensitivity for cameras. The result is more life-like colours in low-light conditions for cameras with Lightfinder technology.
In addition, Axis showcased its diverse selection of network cameras including fixed network, fixed dome network, PTZ, covert, thermal, panoramic, HD among others. There were also solutions for key industries such as oil & gas, education, city surveillance, banking etc.
Among the cameras on show included the Q87-E network camera offering thermal, PTZ and HDTV all in one, ideal for customers that encounter mission-critical surveillance scenarios that demand 24-hour monitoring of restricted areas. The new top of the line Q60 range on the other hand is ideal for harsh environments of the Middle East region and capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 75 degrees Celsius.
The bullet-style outdoor ready network camera, Q1765LE Network Camera offers full HD, 18x optical zoom and built-in IR illumination while the P5414 PTZ network camera comes with an intelligent direct drive pan/tilt system with 18x optical zoom for outdoor wall-mounted surveillance sites. Also at hand were the Q1614 and 1614-E high frame network cameras designed to capture quick movements in HD in demanding lighting conditions.
Marwan Khoury, Marketing Manager, Axis Communications for Middle East and Africa said: “INTERSEC is the largest and most influential trade event for Axis in the region. This year we have magnified our presence to reflect the ever increasing importance of this region for the company. Going forward, we expect to see strong growth across the UAE and the GCC as a whole with some exciting announcements anticipated throughout 2014 and of course the recent announcement of the Dubai Expo 2020 bid elevates Dubai to a whole new level.”
Canon
Canon unveiled its new “S” series of IP cameras to the region’s security and surveillance channel including resellers and system integrators for the first time at INTERSEC.
The new ultra-compact ‘S’ series has been designed for indoor environments which require sensitive monitoring of specific areas or items, such as the retail, education, commercial and hospitality sectors.
The full HD IP cameras including its inbuilt analytics were showcased with a live demonstration giving attendees a first look and feel to the products. Key features included True Wide Angle coverage which minimizes cameras’ quantity requirements, low light capability which enhances video quality in difficult lighting conditions and the Smart Shade Control feature which makes the video footage more effective when excessive light falls from behind the object.
“There has been great market demand for innovative and cost-effective security solutions for corporate environments in the region. Our partners, system integrators and resellers attended the show to witness the latest Canon security solutions and have clearly identified the significant business opportunities that lie ahead with the new range,” said Hendrik Verbrugghe, Marketing Director, Canon Middle East.
Sony
Sony Professional Solutions MEA showcased its range of surveillance cameras suited for a multitude of applications. These include Government, SMB offerings, city surveillance, airports, educational institutions & universities, as well as on-board surveillance in transportation vehicles including buses, metros and railways.
On show were the W-Series cameras included the outdoor 360° PTZ rapid dome cameras in the, featuring 30x optical zoom, fast pan speeds of 700 degrees per second, high frame rate of 60fps and 130dB of wide dynamic range, which delivers clear picture quality even in strong backlit environments. The New X Series on the other hand are designed for vehicle and railway offering ruggedized IP camera solutions for use on board transportation vehicles such as buses and trains.
In addition, Sony showcased C-series IP cameras, a range of Compact High Definition security cameras. These are high definition (HD) security cameras deliver wide viewing angles and 720p image quality. These reasonably priced, fully-featured digital imaging products are easy to deploy and ideal for private enterprises, as well as shops, offices and storage facilities, thanks to LED illumination.
All these cameras come with Sony’s original IPELA ENGINE EX integrated signal processing system.
“Sony security cameras have been recognized for being best in class across the world, and INTERSEC 2014 is the perfect platform for us to showcase the benefits of our IPELA ENGINE products for users across the region, catering to the most demanding businesses and environments,” said Hidenori Taguchi, Head of Marketing, B2B Products, Sony Professional Solutions, comments.
Panasonic
Panasonic brought solutions covering the Criminal justice, finance, and transportation industries with IP video surveillance solutions at INTERSEC.
Law enforcement officials can use Panasonic’s new 6 Series i-PRO camera line, which feature 60 frames per second performance and improved compression efficiency via UniPhier’s new Shadow Compression Engine.
The new platform features Enhanced Super Dynamic technology enabling a 130db video dynamic range delivering performance even in challenging lighting conditions. Panasonic also offers the WV-SW115 Camera for surveillance at ATMs. The compact camera is vandal-proof and weather-resistant, and records in wide angle High Definition with face detection.
“As the region hosts an increasing number of mega-events and increases its transportation infrastructure, government agencies need ways to take action in emergencies and to monitor high-risk infrastructure. Law enforcement officials can use Panasonic Security products to gather trusted digital video evidence for the courtroom, protect officer safety, and build community relationships,” said Y Yamasaki, General Manager, Systems Solutions Department, Panasonic Marketing Middle East & Africa.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.
From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.
“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.
“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”
Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.
Mission in a bottle
With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”
Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.
Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.
A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.
“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.
The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.
Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.
More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.
Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.
Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.
With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.
Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.
Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”
To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.
“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”
Home Integrator
MERED Unveils Strategic Vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025

MERED outlined its long-term investment plans and strategic vision for Saudi Arabia at Saudi Giga Projects 2025 in Riyadh. The event, a key platform aligned with Vision 2030, brought together government bodies, giga project leaders, and private sector executives to discuss development, contracting, and talent-building opportunities within the Kingdom’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. As part of MERED’s participation, CEO Michael Belton joined a fireside chat where he shared insights into the company’s market entry approach and growth plans for the Saudi market.
“The Kingdom’s rapid urban and infrastructure growth is reshaping residential demand and creating new opportunities for long-term development,” said Michael Belton, CEO of MERED. “Vision 2030 and ongoing economic diversification are driving strong demand across residential, retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, supported by investor-friendly reforms. In major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re seeing increased interest in premium and luxury living, as well as growing demand for Class A office spaces that reflect the ambitions of a modern business environment. MERED is well-positioned to meet these changing market needs through high-quality, innovative developments that offer lasting value.”
Yazan Al-Khalidi, Chief Commercial Director at MERED, joined a panel alongside leading developers, consultants, and contractors to discuss workforce capabilities and the skills required to deliver Saudi Arabia’s giga projects efficiently and at scale. The Kingdom’s real estate sector is projected to contribute 10% to GDP by 2030, while non-oil economic activity now accounts for over 50% of national GDP. Knight Frank’s Saudi Report 2025 reveals that 93% of high-income Saudi nationals are actively seeking to buy property, reinforcing the country’s ambition to build a competitive luxury real estate market.
Alongside its growth plans in Saudi Arabia, MERED is supporting the development of future architectural talent in line with the region’s broader goal of equipping young people with in-demand skills. As part of this effort, the company is sponsoring a select group of students to attend the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School in Turin this July, through its partnership with the prestigious Pininfarina Academy, founded by the renowned Italian design house. The program offers hands-on training and exposure to international design practices, giving participants valuable experience they can apply to architectural projects across the region.
MERED’s participation underscores its broader commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s real estate ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and knowledge transfer. With a pipeline of projects already launched in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including the 290-meter ICONIC Residences designed by Pininfarina, the brand is well-positioned to introduce high-end, future-ready developments to the Saudi market.
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