The focus of the global security and safety industry is firmly on Dubai this week as the 17th edition of Intersec, the world’s largest trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection got underway today (Sunday 18th January).

Taking place over three days at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Intersec 2015 was opened by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Larger and more representative than ever before, the three-day event features 1,237 exhibitors from 54 countries, showcasing more than 2,000 brands across 48,000sqm of exhibition space – a 10 per cent increase over the previous edition.

With 300 debut exhibitors and the world’s top ten commercial security companies taking part, Intersec 2015 will be the global launch-pad of new products and services across the show’s five core sections of Commercial Security, Fire & Rescue, Homeland Security & Policing, Safety & Health, and Information Security.

The 27 per cent year-on-year increase of UAE exhibitors means that 227 locally-based companies are also out to gain further traction in a global security equipment market that is estimated to be worth US$116 billion by 2016.

“With Intersec now among the most influential trade gatherings for the global security community, we are glad to see a sustained increase in interest in reaching the substantial Middle East market,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Intersec’s organiser, Messe Frankfurt Middle East.

“Intersec is not only an interactive networking and knowledge-sharing platform, but it also facilitates some of the game-changing partnerships that make an impact on the regional security scene.”

US-based FLIR Systems are among the world’s top ten commercial security companies launching innovative systems at Intersec, with live demonstrations of its K55 thermal imaging camera that helps firefighters see while working through smoky and hazy environments.

Bosch Security Systems, the world’s second largest commercial security provider, is also presenting its latest video surveillance, fire detection, and intrusion detection systems.

“Our focus this year is on solutions we carry in our portfolio of four key verticals, namely, airports, stadiums, hotels, and energy and utilities under the theme ‘Maximise Connected Security’”, said Baraa Dahkel, Regional Manager of Business Development at Bosch Security Systems Middle East.

“This is the slogan we have adapted at Intersec 2015 reflecting our focus on connectivity. In 2015, 75 percent of the 7 billion people in the world will have internet connection, while some 6.6 billion devices will be connected.  We live in a connected world, and Bosch Security Systems wants to be at the forefront of this development.”

While the global security market continues to grow by 5.5 per cent annually, demand in the Middle East is estimated to double that, as regional governments spend heavily on surveillance systems to protect against threats of crime, smuggling and illegal immigration.

This is expected to push up the sales of network surveillance systems by 89 per cent by 2016 according to global analysts Frost & Sullivan.

Eyeing this lucrative market, international players including Panasonic, Dahua, Sony, Grundig Security, and Samsung Techwin, are among those presenting video surveillance systems with a focus on 4K imaging technology – ultra-high definition video with over eight million pixels, or four times the resolution of high definition video.

Shinichi Wakita, Managing Director of Panasonic Middle East and Africa, said: “There is growth in demand for surveillance technology in the region as local governments are strongly committed to providing residents and industries with security and protection at all times.

“In line with this robust demand, at Intersec 2015, we are showcasing our 360 degree integrated solutions that effectively cater to all indoor or outdoor facilities.”

CP PLUS, a world leader in high performance security surveillance products and solutions, is also introducing i-Wizard, an intelligent video surveillance IP solution including Cameras and NVRs.

The strong international flavour at Intersec 2015 is reinforced by the largest ever presence of German exhibitors taking part, including 71 pavilion exhibitors and 16 standalone exhibitors – 37 per cent more than in 2014.

Other country pavilions include those from the UK, USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Korea, Pakistan, Singapore, Taiwan, and the UAE.

Featuring for the first time at Intersec is the General Police Equipment Exhibition & Conference (GPEC) Pavilion adding weight to the Homeland Security & Policing section, while returning is the Dubai SME Pavilion, putting the spotlight on locally-owned and operated small businesses.

The Techtextil Pavilion is also back with a range of the latest in non-woven safety wear and protective clothing, while more than 35 speakers make up a varied conference programme that spans 40 power packed sessions covering Fire Safety, Commercial Security, Occupational Safety, and Safety in Design Buildings.

Intersec 2015 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and supported by the Dubai Police, the Dubai Civil Defence, and the Dubai Police Academy.

Dubai’s flagship security event is the largest of 13 Messe Frankfurt safety & security events held worldwide, which include Secutech India, Secutech Taiwan, Secutech Thailand, Intersec Buenos Aires, Secutech Vietnam, Seguriexpo Buenos Aires, TB Forum powered by Intersec in Moscow, and SecProtec EastAfrica powered by Intersec in Nairobi.