News
Intersec will highlight innovations in IP Surveillance
Growing demand for streamlined and IP network video surveillance will double the value of the Middle East’s commercial security market over the next four years, with hospitality likely to witness the highest growth of all end-user segments, according to new research.
Driven by increased investments and stringent regulatory policies, the commercial security market has witnessed an upswing throughout the region creating opportunities for suppliers of IP-based video surveillance, access control and intrusion detection.
Analysts Frost & Sullivan (F&S) estimate the market will be worth US$4.8 Billion by 2021, growing at a 17 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from its US$2.2 billion value in 2016. Video surveillance accounts for a 75 percent of total market share, followed by access control at 15 percent, and intrusion detection at 10 percent.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE together comprise more than half of the entire regional market according to F&S, while among the end-user sectors, hospitality will see the highest growth at a CAGR of 25 percent, followed by commercial buildings at a CAGR of 22 percent.
The latest in sophisticated technologies and innovation in a regional and global market that is undergoing dynamic changes will be a key focal point at Intersec 2018, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection.
Taking place from 21-23 January 2018 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Intersec will mark its 20th anniversary edition, featuring more than 1,300 exhibitors from 58 countries.
With 580-plus exhibitors, Commercial Security is the largest of seven sections, with more than two-thirds of the world’s top 50 security solutions players on board, including Hikvision, Bosch, Dahua, Assa Abloy, Tyco, FLIR, Hanwha Techwin, Axis Communications, Avigilon, Panasonic, Infinova, IDIS, and Milestone Systems.
“Safety and security is the pre-eminent priority for businesses and civic authorities not just in the region but across the globe, especially in today’s scenario where a small security vulnerability can lead to major losses,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Intersec’s organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East.
“Intersec’s Commercial Security section reflects the increasing demand that exists in the region for cutting-edge IP-based network video surveillance, access control and monitoring systems. With a majority of the leading brands present, the exhibition presents a comprehensive line-up of the best in the industry to regional trade visitors, systems integrators, end-users and professionals.”
In its 20th anniversary edition, Intersec returns with 13 exhibitors that participated in the very first exhibition in 1999, including the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), which works with the UK Government to support British security companies trade internationally.
The BSIA and supporting government partner the UK Department for International Trade (DIT), Defence and Security Organisation, will bring more than 150 UK companies to Intersec 2018, compared to the less than 10 that exhibited in the inaugural edition 20 years ago.
Simon Everest, Director for Operations and Security at the UK DIT, Defence and Security Organisation, said: “UK companies at Intersec grow every year and that’s testament to what they get out of participating at the show in their ability to meet people, both with older acquaintances and to meet new contacts.
“The UK has a long history in securing major events, most recently the London Olympics so we’re excited about the opportunities that will arise as a result of the Expo 2020 in Dubai. That will be a fantastic event and a really good opportunity to showcase the number of innovative products and technologies from UK providers.”
Added Everest: “There’s an increasing interest from UK companies in the Middle East and that comes back to Intersec where the fact that we have more than 150 companies, shows that they all think there’s significant business to be done here in terms of forming new partnerships and building on existing relationships.”
Danish company Milestone Systems, a global leader in open platform video management software (VMS) for IP network-based video surveillance, is another long-time exhibitor looking forward to its 10th participation at Intersec in January 2018.
Milestone will showcase the latest version of its video management software XProtect, which covers the security needs of organisations of all shapes and sizes. Christian Ringler, Milestone Director DACH, Middle East and Africa, said: “The XProtect platform delivers powerful surveillance that is easy to manage, reliable and proven in thousands of customer installations around the world.
“Visitors will see new features, discuss the benefits of a Milestone VMS solution and understand how to engage the Milestone Community to gain maximum value from their Milestone solutions.
“Intersec is one of the most important security events for Milestone in EMEA. Milestone has participated at Intersec since 2008 and our team is looking forward to celebrate this Intersec anniversary alongside a number of key partners in the region,” added Ringler.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to present our latest releases and showcase new and existing cutting-edge partner solutions that integrate with Milestone XProtect VMS. This is truly one of the major shows on a global scale and we are bringing our biggest stand ever.”
Elsewhere, Panasonic, an industry leader in video imaging expertise and innovative technology, will showcase a comprehensive line-up of intelligent analog, hybrid, and IP video surveillance solutions at Intersec’s Commercial Security section in 2018.
Okawa Tetsuo, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager for Panasonic’s System Solutions Department, said: “The Middle East and Africa is a key market for us, and there’s growing demand for surveillance technology as local governments are strongly committed to providing residents and industries with security and protection at all times.
“The region is boasting some of the fastest growing economies, and is viewed as a vitally important part of the world by the global safety, security and fire protection industries.
“This emphasis on greater security is felt in many ways including growing expenditure on security infrastructure, equipment and personnel by regional authorities as well as an increasing awareness in society about the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment.”
“At Intersec 2018, we’ll demonstrate cost-effective security solutions for a wide range of verticals including public premises, retail and mall facilities, banks, airport, buildings, transportation industry, energy and education sectors,” added Tetsuo.
Intersec 2018 will occupy 60,000sqm across 13 halls at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the show’s other six sections covering Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Homeland Security & Policing, Perimeter & Physical Security, Cyber Security, and Smart Home & Building Automation.
New developments next year include a Drones Pavilion, an indoor Drone Zone, and a Wearable Security Pavilion, while returning features include the Safety Design in Buildings Pavilion in the Fire & Rescue section, as well as an Outdoor Demonstration Zone of the latest fire rescue applications in action.
A comprehensive three-day conference programme will be spearheaded by Dubai’s Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) Forum, while other topics will cover cyber security, drones, commercial security, and fire protection.
Intersec 2018 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and supported by the Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, the Dubai Police Academy, and the Dubai Municipality.
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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