Security Meets Convenience: The Rise of Mobile Identity

Answers attributed to Gustavo Gassmann, Vice President and Head of Emerging Markets at HID

Gustavo Gassmann, Vice President and Head of Emerging Markets at HID, shares his perspective on how rapid digital transformation is redefining access control and identity solutions across the Middle East.

Q: What is driving the shift towards mobile access infrastructure in the region?
A: Digital transformation is happening globally, but in the Middle East it has been adopted at a very advanced pace. Mobile access supports this shift by combining convenience with strong security. People here already use apps and digital wallets for payments, public transport, and daily activities. Introducing mobile access into physical security is a natural extension of that behavior. It delivers convenience while maintaining security through a device people already carry with them.

Q: Do you always prioritize the customer perspective, especially end users?
A: Absolutely. While our partners play a critical role, the solutions we create are ultimately for individuals. Our focus is on ensuring people feel confident, supported, and secure as technology and infrastructure continue to evolve.

Q: How does integration with Apple Wallet and Google Wallet add value?
A: We are leveraging a device that people already depend on for photography, communication, banking, and payments. Using that same familiar device to securely access offices or restricted areas removes friction. There is no need to learn a new system or carry additional credentials. The experience is intuitive, familiar, and secure, which significantly increases adoption and usability.

Q: Why is multi-technology support essential for scalability?
A: Many of our customers have been with us for decades, and technology naturally evolves over time. Physical access control includes doors, gates, and complex infrastructure, which cannot be replaced overnight. Large organizations may manage multiple buildings and tens of thousands of employees, so upgrades often take place gradually over months or years. Multi-technology support allows new solutions to be deployed while existing systems continue to operate. It also addresses different needs across locations. In some environments, carrying credentials may not be ideal, and facial recognition becomes a better option. Since everyone already has their face with them, it offers a highly convenient and seamless access experience.

Q: Which industries are leading the adoption of advanced identity solutions in the Middle East?

A: The financial sector is at the forefront, including banks and insurance companies, where security is the highest priority. Concerns around cybersecurity are driving strong interest in advanced technologies, making this a key vertical for us.
Corporate real estate is another major driver, especially given the rapid development of new buildings across the region. We also see significant demand from manufacturing, oil and gas, airports, and any environment with complex and high-security requirements. These are areas where our solutions deliver the greatest value.

Q: How is HID supporting smart cities across the region?

A: Our focus is on building a strong ecosystem. We provide technologies that support universities, hospitals, metros, airports, and government entities. While each sector has its own requirements, they are all connected through the same underlying technology. The real value comes not just from individual solutions, but from an integrated ecosystem of technologies and partners working together.

Q: What message would HID like to share with Intersec 2026 attendees?
A: First, Intersec is a vital platform for connecting with end users, technology partners, and even competitors, which is extremely valuable for the industry.

Second, technology continues to evolve, and we encourage engagement with companies that have innovation and forward-thinking embedded in their DNA.
Finally, we would like to thank the Intersec organizers and the market itself. The region has contributed significantly to our growth, and we are proud to be deeply involved here. We remain committed to supporting the market and are confident that this strong growth trajectory will continue.