Middle East to Lead in Smart City Development Over Next Decade

In the coming decade, the Middle East is poised to become a hub for cutting-edge smart cities, driven by visionary leadership and a commitment to sustainable urban development, according to industry experts.

Eng. Thamer Anwar Noori, Director of Industrial Safety & Security at the Royal Commission of Jubail & Yanbu, shared these insights ahead of his participation at Intersec Saudi Arabia. At the event, Noori will be part of the panel discussion, “Paving the Way Towards Smart, Safe, Sustainable Cities,” where he will explore innovative security strategies for creating future-ready, sustainable urban environments.

“Smart city initiatives are increasingly integral to long-term urban planning worldwide,” Noori stated. “With a global emphasis on environmental sustainability, smart cities are essential in optimizing urban functionality and enhancing energy efficiency, contributing to more sustainable and livable environments.”

Noori highlighted the Middle East’s significant investments in green energy, noting pioneering projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project, which are setting new benchmarks for sustainable urban living with their near-zero waste goals.

Intersec Saudi Arabia, taking place from October 1-3 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC), will feature a diverse range of sessions on the opening day, including discussions on international security collaborations, coastal tourism security, and cybersecurity in the age of AI.

Day two will include expert presentations on topics such as future-proofing security, developing business continuity plans in the digital era, and the impact of AI on the security industry. The final day will focus on the Future Readiness Program, addressing the evolution of security threats and emerging risks.

Riham Sedik, Show Manager for Intersec Saudi Arabia, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “Our conference will bring together global security thought leaders and cutting-edge innovations, offering invaluable insights into critical topics like emerging threats, crisis response, and responsible AI innovation.”

The show floor will expand significantly this year, covering 23,000 sqm across five halls and dedicated outdoor space, a 34% increase from 2023. The exhibition will cover five key product categories: Commercial and Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security and Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health.

Organized by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, Intersec Saudi Arabia is held in association with the High Commission for Industrial Security and The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense. The event is set to return for its sixth edition from October 1-3 at RICEC.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, praised the event’s comprehensive conference program, affirming its status as the leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection in the region.