Intersec Saudi Arabia 2024: Fire Safety in Focus

Intersec Saudi Arabia, the nation’s premier trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, is set to underscore the critical importance of fire safety strategies within the built environment. A key highlight will be a panel discussion led by Neil Odin, Chief Fire Officer of the UK National Fire Chiefs Council, who brings over 30 years of fire service expertise to the event.

Odin will share his insights during the panel discussion titled “Crisis to Recovery: Strategies for Effective Fire Post-Incident Management,” scheduled for the opening day as part of the Fire Protection & Technology Summit. His discussion will address the unique fire safety challenges faced by the Middle East, particularly in light of Saudi Arabia’s expansive construction landscape, which includes over 5,200 ongoing projects valued at more than USD 819 billion, according to Mordor Intelligence.

“A response strategy cannot stand alone; it must be intricately linked with fire-safe building designs and comprehensive prevention strategies. Understanding the root causes of fire disasters and sharing this knowledge is key to innovating effective solutions,” Odin emphasized.

Joining Odin on the panel will be Jamal Al Ghamdi, Corporate Process Safety Director at Sadara Chemical Company. The session will delve into post-incident recovery strategies, focusing on best practices and innovative approaches to restoring normalcy for affected communities, buildings, and first responders.

The Summit’s agenda for the opening day also includes sessions on fire safety awareness, hazards associated with electric vehicles, and lessons learned from past disasters. On the second day, discussions will extend to integrating IoT and AI in fire safety systems, the deployment of robotics in firefighting, safeguarding fire safety infrastructure, and addressing fire challenges exacerbated by climate change.

Riham Sedik, Show Manager of Intersec Saudi Arabia, highlighted the event’s significance: “Intersec Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in bringing together global experts to discuss fire safety challenges, opportunities, and innovations. Our packed agenda ensures it remains a key event for industry professionals.”

Running concurrently with the Fire Protection and Technology Summit is the Future Security and Safety Summit, which focuses on the convergence of security thought leadership and innovation. Both summits are part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s high-level conference program, all of which are CPD certified.

This year’s exhibition will feature five product categories, including Commercial & Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health. Due to unprecedented demand, the exhibition has expanded by 34% from 2023, covering 23,000 sqm across five halls and an outdoor space.

Organized by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, Intersec Saudi Arabia will be held from 1-3 October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC). Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m delighted to see such a high caliber of experts who will share their insights, solidifying our position as a must-attend exhibition.”