Achieving security harmony requires a comprehensive framework that balances people, processes, and technology to address the complexities of modern organisational security. In the Middle East, where regulatory landscapes, cultural nuances, and geopolitical risks create unique challenges, this approach has proven essential for safeguarding assets and ensuring operational resilience.

At the upcoming Security Leaders’ Summit at Intersec 2025, which will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 14-16 January, Christina Alexander Alexandropoulou, Cluster Manager, Southeast Europe for Security & Market Safety for Philip Morris International and Security Magazine’s “Top Woman in Security 2024” will share insights into her real-world application of these principles.

Alexandropoulou said: “By fostering a culture of collaboration and unity, streamlining protocols, and integrating advanced cybersecurity measures, organisations can effectively mitigate risks. Tailored incident response plans, informed by local contexts, further enhance readiness and ensures the safety and security of personnel and assets in diverse environments. This holistic strategy fortifies security measures and promotes shared goals and trust across teams.”

In today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world, aligning technological advancements with organisational strategies is vital. By ensuring that technology adoption is in sync with overall security strategies, all companies must ensure that robust cybersecurity measures are implemented.

“Digital transformation has reshaped security strategies by introducing new challenges and opportunities. Balancing traditional security concerns with technological advancements involves integrating robust cybersecurity measures, promoting a culture of cyber resilience, and staying agile to address evolving threats effectively,” she added.

Next week’s Security Leaders’ Summit will feature top industry leaders addressing critical security challenges, including Dr. Bushra Al Blooshi, Director of Governance & Risk Management at Dubai Electronic Security Centre, whowill explore global collaboration in security standards, Carlo Loveri, Head of Risk & Business Continuity at Abu Dhabi Airports, who will discuss combating deepfake and misinformation risks, and Mohamed AlMaleki, Head of Information Security Office at the Federal Tax Authority, who will share insights on predictive analytics for proactive security.

Now in its 26th edition, Intersec remains the global hub for safety, security, and fire protection. This year, the event is set to host its biggest edition ever, spanning 31,000 net sqm – a 20% increase in net space compared to 2024. Over 52,000 visitors are expected, marking a 10% growth from the previous year. Featuring more than 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries, 75% of whom are international, the event also boasts its highest-ever percentage of new exhibitors, with more than 250 making their debut. The Fire and Safety sector alone has seen a 25% increase in exhibitors, reflecting growing demand in this critical area.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec 2025 will feature a comprehensive conference programme including topics such as fire and rescue, safety and health, access control and the smart lock industry, smart security systems, services, and guards, and policing. Attendees can enjoy interactive workshops and forums, including the SIRA Forum, CISO Business Breifing driven by inCyber, FCIA Workshop, ESL Learn, the Thought Leadership Pavilion, as well as features such as the Safety Walk and the Ignyte Startup Arena, while the Intersec Awards will celebrate industry achievements.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “At Intersec 2025, we are bringing together the best minds in the industry to collaborate, ideate, and benchmark against the latest innovations. Our 26th edition will inspire new solutions and foster meaningful conversations to shape the future of safety, security, and fire protection globally.”

Intersec 2025 is supported by Security Industry Regulation Agency (SIRA), Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, Dubai Civil Defence, Dubai Municipality, Cyber Security Council, and Dubai Electronic Security Centre.

Intersec has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse, renowned for its unparalleled success in bringing together world-class speakers, a cutting-edge conference program, prestigious awards, an innovation zone, and an array of live demonstrations. Since its humble beginnings in 1999, with just 61 exhibitors from 13 countries, Intersec has evolved into the premier international platform for security, safety, and fire protection.

This year, Integrator Media is proud to serve as the official regional media partner for the expo. We’ll be on the ground from Day 1, engaging with suppliers, thought leaders, innovators, manufacturers, and buyers. Through our camera lens and dedicated coverage on our LinkedIn and website pages, we’ll spotlight the latest technologies, products, and solutions driving transformation across various industries.

As the world stands at the forefront of technological innovation, the critical importance of security in our lives cannot be overstated. Addressing complex challenges requires a global collaboration between security experts, policymakers, and standardization communities. Intersec rises to this occasion with over 25 dynamic sessions, including panels, leadership talks, and fireside chats, featuring renowned speakers and thought leaders from across the globe.

Notable speakers include Brett Taylor, Safety & Security Director at Diriyah; Fawaz AlSumaim, Head of Cyber Crime Division at Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior; Stuart Frost, Head of Enterprise Security & Risk Management for the UK Government; and Mohamed AlMaleki, Head of Information Security Office at the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority. These leaders will tackle pressing challenges in their respective fields, sharing insights, best practices, and transformative strategies.

This year’s event will also feature experts from global powerhouses such as Mastercard, Mubadala, Schneider Electric, MBC Group, and more. High-level plenaries and keynotes will showcase security strategists, policymakers, and innovators from organizations like Interpol, Neom, Aramco, Amazon, and Google, offering an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the future of security and safety.

The Middle East homeland security market, which includes monitoring and surveillance systems, restricted entry mechanisms, and perimeter security solutions, is projected to reach $23.4 billion by 2028. Additionally, the region’s cybersecurity market is being propelled by rapid digital transformation and increased adoption of cloud technologies. Regulatory efforts aimed at countering evolving threats further amplify the importance of cybersecurity in driving growth.

Intersec’s 26th edition promises to be a transformative event, uniting global visionaries and innovators to shape the future of security, safety, and fire protection. It stands as a testament to Dubai’s pivotal role in fostering collaboration and innovation on the global stage.

Sustainable security design is becoming an integral aspect of urban planning in the UAE. The ability to combine advanced technology, environmental stewardship, and aesthetic harmony to meet the country’s ambitious urban expansion and sustainability goals will be a key focus for delegates at the Security Leader’s Summit at Intersec 2025 which will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 14-16 January.

The Security Leaders’ Summit is a platform for global experts to exchange ideas, share innovations, and shape the future of security. This two-day summit features world-class speakers and sessions, driving bold strategies and redefining security norms for a safer world.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Simon Whitehouse, Director of Security Consultancy at SGW – Powered by AESG, said: “Sustainable security design goes beyond asset protection. It integrates security measures with the architectural and environmental elements of a project, creating spaces that are secure yet aligned with sustainability objectives.”

The UAE, guided by standards such as the Security Industry Regulations Agency (SIRA) and MCC regulations, has been a leader in implementing functional and visually unobtrusive security solutions. These include energy-efficient technologies, like IP cameras with Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and smart energy systems, which reduce the environmental footprint while maintaining optimal security.

“A notable case is the integration of smart security systems in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi. Here, sustainability is at the core of urban design, where the security systems are designed to blend seamlessly into the environment without compromising on efficiency. The use of solar-powered CCTV cameras and smart access control systems contributes to both security and the overall sustainability goals of the development,” Whitehouse added.

Another critical topic to be explored at the summit is the evolving nature of global security threats. As the Strategic Intelligence Partner for Intersec 2025, Kearney will provide invaluable insights through a keynote session titled ‘The Evolution of Security Threats’. Delivered by Rudolph Lohmeyer, Senior Partner at Kearney, the session will examine the history and future of security challenges.

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “Our goal with the Security Leaders’ Summit at Intersec 2025 is to foster meaningful discussions that redefine industry standards and inspire new strategies. By bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and experts, we are creating a dynamic platform for collaboration and showcasing the latest solutions shaping the future of sustainable urban security.”

Running alongside the conferences, the Commercial & Perimeter Security section at Intersec 2025 will highlight transformative technologies that enhance safety and protection for businesses and properties, including Johnson Controls and PwC showcasing AI innovations for smart cities, Dell and Intel driving advancements in green security technologies, and Bosch and Hikvision leading in data-driven security solutions.

This sector will also feature cutting-edge IP-based surveillance systems from Avigilon and Uniview, Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) cameras from Hanwha Vision and Axis, and smart access control systems by HID, Salto, and Honeywell.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the 26th edition of Intersec will host 1,200 exhibitors from more than 60 nations and expects more than 42,000 trade visitors from around the world.