As fire safety challenges continue to evolve worldwide, the UAE is increasing its focus on innovation, investment, and international cooperation ahead of Intersec 2026. The approach is aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness, improving response capabilities, and accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies across the fire and rescue sector.

Against this backdrop, the Fire & Rescue sector is set to return to Intersec 2026 as a major exhibition and conference platform. The event will bring together global manufacturers, regulators, engineers, civil defence authorities, and frontline responders, organisers announced.

Intersec 2026 will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. It is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council. Fire and rescue remains one of the five core sectors at the event and will feature new technologies and operational insights, according to organisers.

Earlier in 2025, Dubai Civil Defence announced the “1 Billion Readiness Project,” a global initiative aimed at educating one billion people on fire prevention and supporting the establishment of fire stations worldwide. The initiative was reported to focus on improving community safety and preparedness. Shortly after its launch, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) joined the project as a supporter, reinforcing international collaboration in firefighting and rescue strategies.

Eng. Dana Kamal, NFPA Regional Director for MENA and a member of the Fire & Rescue Conference advisory committee, said the NFPA Day 2 educational programme will highlight collaboration, innovation, and the role of codes and standards in safety frameworks.

Meanwhile, national reforms and investments in the UAE continue to shape the sector. In Abu Dhabi, civil defence authorities have partnered with the Advanced Technology Research Council to integrate artificial intelligence into emergency operations and training. In Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, reviewed autonomous firefighting robots equipped with 3D mapping technology for use in hazardous environments. These developments align with Dubai Civil Defence’s target to reduce carbon emissions from fire incidents by 80% by 2050.

The Fire & Rescue exhibition at Intersec 2026 will showcase advancements in suppression systems, fire detection, passive fire protection, and integrated life safety technologies. Returning exhibitors include NAFFCO, Hochiki, UL, Bristol Fire Engineering, FM Approvals, and ATEIS. The exhibition will span ten halls, reflecting rising global demand for advanced emergency response solutions.

Running alongside the exhibition, the Fire & Rescue conference will feature a programme shaped by regulatory, engineering, and operational experts. Topics will include the use of AI in early fire prediction, integration of building life safety systems, decision-making under crisis conditions, human behaviour during emergencies, and the impact of climate change on fire dynamics.

Additional sessions will examine passive fire protection practices, fire door development, and emerging international regulatory frameworks. The 2026 conference is sponsored by Naffco, Saudi Sicli, NFPA, Fike, FM Approvals, and Aman Engineering.

The conference will also introduce a dedicated Passive Fire Day in collaboration with the Association for Passive Fire Protection. This initiative will focus on early design engagement, competency development, and updated performance standards.

Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said the platform enables collaboration between manufacturers, civil defence teams, consultants, and regulators, while supporting the exchange of knowledge and innovation across the fire safety sector.

Organisers reported that the 27th edition of Intersec is expected to host more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 60 countries and attract more than 50,000 trade visitors. To meet growing international demand, the exhibition space will expand by nearly 12,000 square metres, bringing the total area to 67,000 square metres.

Key highlights of Intersec 2026 include:

• Integration of AI and robotics in fire and rescue operations
• Expanded exhibition space across ten halls
• Dedicated focus on passive fire protection and life safety systems

Intersec 2026 continues to receive support from the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency, organisers confirmed.

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