Our reporter
Dubai, UAE – The growing intersection of technology and urban infrastructure is set to dominate discussions at this year’s Smart Building Summit, a key feature of Light + Intelligent Building Middle East, taking place from 14–16 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Regional leaders in cybersecurity and smart building innovation will convene to explore how cutting-edge solutions can safeguard the future of connected living.
Bringing together experts from institutions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Al Serkal Group, and AtkinsRéalis, the summit will delve into critical topics including “emerging threats in the cyber-physical realm” and strategies for “navigating the evolving cybersecurity landscape in smart buildings and homes.”
The three-day event highlights the urgent need for robust security measures as the Middle East accelerates its adoption of smart city technologies.
A standout panel discussion on the summit’s opening day will examine how a “security-by-design” approach can mitigate risks in integrating smart systems into buildings. Moderated by Dr Hossam Elshenraki of the Dubai Police Academy, the session features insights from industry experts including Kenneth Okai, Head of Building IT Infrastructure at Louvre Abu Dhabi; Maher Al Kaabi, Independent Board Member of Al Serkal Group; and Mohannad Salam, Regional Lead for Smart Cities Advisory Middle East at AtkinsRéalis.
“Smart cities are powered by vast amounts of data, and with that comes vulnerability,” said Al Kaabi. “Attacks on cloud-based systems highlight the importance of embedding security considerations from the design phase.”
On the final day, Dr Nader Ghazal, Chairman of the African-Asian Council for AI & Cybersecurity, will address the session “Navigating the evolving cybersecurity landscape in smart buildings and homes.” His presentation will explore the risks associated with IoT and automation in intelligent environments and outline countermeasures such as advanced encryption, network segmentation, and user education.
“As reliance on connected systems increases, so does exposure to cyber threats,” Dr Ghazal remarked. “Fortunately, advancements in AI and digital technology are making significant strides in combating these vulnerabilities.”
The event will also feature the THINKLIGHT Conference, showcasing global innovations in lighting design and technology, alongside InSpotLight, which highlights industry breakthroughs in lighting solutions.
Celebrating its 18th edition, Light + Intelligent Building Middle East is widely regarded as the region’s premier platform for building and lighting technology. Co-located with Intersec, it forms part of MENA’s largest trade fair for the building services sector, hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre’s Za’abeel Halls 1–4.
With cybersecurity and technological innovation at its core, this year’s event is set to shape the future of smart cities across the region and beyond.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
