Intersec 2026, the world leading exhibition for security, safety and fire protection, has recorded its largest and most internationally diverse edition to date.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, the three day event welcomed 44,764 trade visitors from 151 countries. Organisers reported a 60 40 split between domestic and international attendees, reinforcing Intersec’s position as a global meeting point for government authorities, regulators, industry leaders and solution providers.
The 27th edition covered more than 65,000 sqm of gross exhibition space and featured 1,180 exhibitors from 56 countries. Ten international country pavilions and a programme of 14 conferences and specialist features reflected what organisers described as the growing convergence of physical, digital and human safety.
International Participation
International exhibitors accounted for 82% of total participation, underlining the event’s global reach. Representation included the United States and China, high growth economies such as India and South Korea, and established European markets including France, Germany, Italy, Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
The United Arab Emirates remained the largest domestic exhibiting market, reflecting the country’s expanding role in security, safety and fire protection. Organisers cited national initiatives aimed at strengthening regulatory frameworks, accelerating advanced technology adoption and embedding resilience and innovation across the sector.
Technology and Solutions
Across five core sectors, Homeland Security and Policing, Cybersecurity, Commercial and Perimeter Security, Fire and Rescue, and Health and Safety, exhibitors presented integrated systems and operational solutions aligned with national and international priorities.
Showcased technologies addressed infrastructure protection, emergency response, cyber resilience, workforce safety and crisis preparedness, highlighting the increasing interconnection between safety, security and resilience strategies.
Intersec Global Launch
Intersec 2026 also marked the launch of a new Intersec Global identity, unveiled during a press conference attended by strategic partners and industry leaders.
Organisers said the evolution reflects a macro to micro approach, moving from national level security and resilience to individual wellbeing within a unified international framework. At the national level, this includes support for ministries, police and border authorities, alongside cybersecurity for digital governance and critical infrastructure protection.
This extends to surveillance and physical security in built environments and smart cities, fire, rescue and emergency response for civil defence and climate related preparedness, and culminates in safety and wellbeing, aligned with ESG priorities and workforce protection.
Dishan Isaac, Show Director of Intersec at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “This edition represents a pivotal moment for the platform, highlighting its expanded scale and the increased engagement from the global safety and security community. The launch of the Intersec Global identity reflects the on-the-ground reality, emphasising an international ecosystem rooted in Dubai, with increasing involvement from both established markets and high-growth regions.
“With a significant increase in international exhibitors and visitors, the quality of dialogue has been excellent. From strategic policy discussions to frontline operational challenges, the focus has been firmly on real-world resilience, readiness and collaboration. The breadth of engagement from government authorities, critical infrastructure operators, emergency services and the private sector reinforces Intersec Global’s role as an international platform where meaningful partnerships are formed, knowledge is shared, and industry progress is accelerated.”
Intersec Awards
The Intersec Awards 2026, now in their fifth edition, recognised excellence across 17 categories during a gala dinner in Dubai.
Khalid Mubarak of Dubai Municipality received the H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Emirati Rising Star Award, while Albadr Jannah of Saudi Aramco was named Industry Leader of the Year for contributions to advancing security and resilience at regional and global levels.
The Women Trailblazers in Security, Fire Safety and HSE award was presented to Jazyah Aldossary of Saudi Aramco for leadership in professional excellence, inclusion and safety culture.
“Now in their fifth edition, the Intersec Awards highlight the individuals and organisations setting the pace for leadership, innovation and impact across security, safety and fire protection. This year’s winners reflect the depth of talent shaping the industry, from rising Emirati professionals and women leaders to global figures whose work continues to strengthen resilience and best practice worldwide,” concluded Isaac.
Government Partnership
Intersec benefits from strategic support from UAE authorities including the General Command of Dubai Civil Defense and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency, underlining alignment with national resilience and safety priorities.
The exhibition will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 12 to 14 January 2027.
