Intersec 2025: Network, learn and be inspired

In this ISJ Exclusive, we hear from Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director, Messe Frankfurt Middle East previewing Intersec 2025.

What are the main themes being explored throughout the conference theatres at this year’s event?  

The Intersec Conferences have become a key feature of the exhibition, providing an essential platform for industry professionals.

This year, the knowledge program is bigger than ever, featuring more sessions, a broader range of expert speakers and expanded opportunities for knowledge sharing.

Intersec 2025 will feature a selection of specialised conference streams, centred around key themes including cybersecurity resilience, physical security innovations, fire safety advancements, sustainability in safety practices and the evolution of new-age policing. 

Each agenda has been specifically developed to deliver actionable insights tailored to the unique challenges of the Middle East and global security landscape, featuring expert-led panels, case studies and thought leadership sessions.

Intersec 2025 line up

Intersec 2025’s conference agenda is packed with innovative content, industry-leading speakers, with the lineup including: 

Security Leaders’ Summit

• With more than 60 speakers across over 30 sessions and 86% new speakers for 2025, the two-day Security Leaders’ Summit is a premier platform for high-level plenaries and keynotes featuring experts from MOI, Interpol, Neom, Aramco, Amazon and more
• Attendees can explore topics like cyber-resilience, AI-driven security and critical infrastructure protection, offering unparalleled insights into the future of security

Safety & Health Conference

• This year introduces IOSH Day on day one in addition to the return of NEBOSH Day on day two
• In total, the conference will feature over 30 speakers, 91% new participants covering future safety tech, ESG integration and OSH innovations
• Featuring insights from ADNOC, DP World, Saudi Aramco and ILO, the conference highlights sustainable, innovative approaches to safety

Fire & Rescue Conference

• Running across all three days, this program brings together 45 speakers, with countries like the USA and Malaysia represented for the first time
• It also features NFPA Day, focusing on global fire safety advancements
• Attendees can engage in CPD-certified workshops like the FCIA Workshop and ESL Learn sessions, driving innovation and collaboration in fire safety

Intersec Policing Conference

• A brand-new addition for 2025, this conference will host over 50 speakers from around 25 law enforcement agencies, including the San Francisco Police Department, Interpol and Ajman Police
• With sessions exploring topics like proactive policing, deepfakes and quantum-led crimes, it provides a forward-looking perspective on tech-driven innovation

CISO Business Briefing

• The inaugural CISO Business Briefing features 18+ speakers from major sectors such as retail, finance, energy and tech, including leaders from Majid Al Futtaim, NEOM and Mastercard
• Attendees will explore themes like AI-era cybersecurity, cloud security and crisis management, offering actionable insights from the region’s top cybersecurity leaders

SIRA Forum

• The SIRA Forum taking place within Intersec 2025 reaffirms its commitment to elevating safety and security standards in Dubai and beyond, showcasing international best practices in smart security systems, services and personnel
• This interactive forum offers the global commercial security community a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing practical implementations and engaging in dynamic Q&A sessions
• Designed to foster collaboration, the SIRA forum is essential for industry stakeholders dedicated to building a safer, smarter and more sustainable future

Thought Leadership Pavilion

• Hosted by the Access Control Executive Brief, the Thought Leadership Pavilion is a premier feature of Intersec 2025, offering transformative sessions led by industry thinkers
• Covering an array of topics within the access control and smart lock sectors, this pavilion provides attendees with insights into the latest advancements and trends shaping the industry
• Open to all with an interest in these fields, it promises to be an inspiring hub for knowledge exchange

This year’s conferences at Intersec 2025 offer a comprehensive and dynamic experience, fostering collaboration, education and innovation across safety, security and fire protection industries. 

How has the event evolved to address the changing security, fire and safety needs of the Middle East and global markets?  

Now in its 26^th year, Intersec has continuously evolved to address dynamic security, fire and safety challenges faced by the Middle East and global markets.

The event now places a stronger emphasis on emerging technologies such as AI, IoT and data-driven solutions, while also integrating critical discussions around hybrid threats, climate resilience and sustainable safety practices. 

Recognising the region’s unique security landscape, Intersec has introduced specialised sessions tailored to areas like smart cities, critical infrastructure protection and new-age policing, ensuring alignment with local and global priorities.

The event has also enhanced its focus on IT-OT convergence. Intersec places a premium on collaboration and inclusivity, bringing together policymakers, leaders and innovators to foster solutions that meet the rapidly changing demands of the industry.

The addition of dedicated forums, live demonstrations and cross-sector dialogues ensures that stakeholders are equipped to tackle evolving risks with practical, innovative strategies. 

What new features or initiatives can attendees expect at this year’s event?  

Intersec 2025 brings an exciting array of new features and initiatives designed to enhance the experience for attendees and provide deeper insights into the evolving safety, security and fire protection sectors.

Among the highlights is the Intersec Policing Conference, taking place for the first time, which will delve into the latest advancements in global policing strategies and technologies.

It will bring together over 50 global thought leaders to explore how advanced technology and data are revolutionising law enforcement and public safety.  

With key speakers such as H.E. Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei and experts from INTERPOL and the Singapore Police Force, the conference will address critical topics like digital-age policing, automation, road safety and quantum-enabled crime.

This event offers a vital platform for innovation and collaboration, equipping attendees with cutting-edge strategies to tackle challenges like cybercrime and financial fraud while enhancing public safety. 

Additionally, Intersec has partnered with Ignyte, a Dubai International Financial Centre initiative under the Dubai Digital Economy Strategy, to present the Intersec Startup Arena – a transformative platform for startups to showcase groundbreaking solutions in safety, security and fire protection.  

Powered by Ignyte, the arena provides startups with an opportunity to demonstrate their disruptive innovations on the Innovation Stage, directly engaging with industry leaders, government officials and top-tier investors.

Additionally, this partnership amplifies opportunities for startups through exclusive networking sessions with major brands, government bodies and organisations seeking cutting-edge solutions, making the arena a pivotal driver of innovation and global expansion. 

For cybersecurity professionals, the CISO Business Briefing offers a focused session on addressing evolving cyber-threats and securing digital infrastructure.

On the conference front, Intersec 2025 offers enriched programming with IOSH Day at the Safety & Health Conference, emphasising workplace safety and wellbeing.

Moreover, the NFPA will host a full day of discussions at the Fire & Rescue Stage, bringing global expertise and invaluable insights into fire prevention and protection. 

In addition, the outdoor display area has been enhanced and refreshed for Intersec 2025 and will feature displays including Bronto, Skylift, SANY’s Water Tower Fire Truck, aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles from NAFFCO and the ExtremV multi-purpose all-terrain vehicle from Stengg. 

What networking opportunities are available for attendees to build meaningful connections? 

Intersec 2025 is first and foremost a platform for business connections, so naturally the exhibition includes networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and collaboration across industries.

The Premium Club provides an exclusive networking program for top-level executives and decision-makers, granting access to curated events, private meeting spaces and personalised introductions to key industry players.

This program ensures that attendees can engage with the right people in a focused and effective way. 

Always a highlight of the annual calendar, the Intersec Awards further enhance networking opportunities.

The awards ceremony doubles as a lively and celebratory environment where attendees can connect with peers, industry leaders and award-winning companies.  

To ensure seamless networking, the Intersec App also allows attendees to connect with one another, schedule meetings and navigate the event efficiently.

This digital tool can be downloaded from the website and helps maximise the value of every interaction, making Intersec 2025 an unmissable platform for building relationships and fostering business growth. 

What excites you most about this year’s event?  

There is so much to be excited about. The number of exhibitors has grown 30% since 2024 and boasts an array of new exhibitors from diverse sectors, further enriching the experience for attendees.

The influx of new names demonstrates Intersec’s continuous growth and global appeal.  

Noteworthy additions include Dormakaba and Transguard from the security sector, DJI Drones and Holowits showcasing cutting-edge surveillance technologies, as well as Victaulic and Chubb Fire & Safety bringing innovative fire protection solutions to the forefront.

These names, along with many others, ensure a dynamic showcase across all facets of safety, security and fire protection. 

The debut of Intersec Policing Conference

This conference is a first for the event and will bring together top international policing professionals to discuss pressing challenges and innovative solutions in modern law enforcement.

Attendees can look forward to sessions exploring digital, data and technology from AI to automation to data-led collaboration to cyber-crime, scams and police innovation, among other critical topics. 

We’re also thrilled that all Intersec conference sessions are now CPD-certified, ensuring that professionals gain valuable, accredited insights to further their careers.

This development underscores our commitment to providing educational content that enhances knowledge and expertise across industries. 

Finally, the combination of a stellar lineup of exhibitors and speakers ensures an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

With thought leaders, innovators and trailblazers sharing their expertise, Intersec 2025 promises to be the ultimate destination for industry professionals looking to network, learn and be inspired by the very best in safety, security and fire protection.