As Saudi Arabia undergoes a massive construction surge, with over 5,200 ongoing projects valued at more than USD 819 billion, the need for robust fire safety measures in the built environment has never been more critical.
This pressing issue will take center stage at the sixth edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia, the nation’s premier trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, which will be held from October 1-3 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC).
Leading the conversation on fire safety will be Neil Odin, Chief Fire Officer from the UK National Fire Chiefs Council, who will share his extensive experience during a panel discussion titled: “Crisis to Recovery: Strategies for Effective Fire Post-Incident Management”.

This session, part of the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, will focus on the critical phases following a fire, including best practices and innovative approaches to recovery efforts.
“Fire safety isn’t just about response; it’s about prevention and design. In a region experiencing rapid growth, particularly in Saudi Arabia, there’s a unique opportunity to integrate fire-safe design into new developments, reducing risks from the outset,” said Odin. He emphasized that understanding the root causes of fire disasters and sharing this knowledge is essential for developing effective solutions.
Joining Odin on the panel will be Jamal Al Ghamdi, Corporate Process Safety Director at Sadara Chemical Company. The discussion will be a key highlight of the event’s opening day, which will also feature sessions on fire safety awareness, hazards associated with electric vehicles, and lessons learned from past disasters.
On the second day, the Summit will dive into advanced topics such as integrating IoT and AI in fire safety systems, the role of robotics in firefighting, and safeguarding fire safety infrastructure against emerging threats like climate change. Experts from various fields will provide insights into these challenges, reflecting the Summit’s comprehensive approach to fire safety.
Riham Sedik, Show Manager for Intersec Saudi Arabia at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, underscored the event’s significance: “Intersec Saudi Arabia is
a crucial platform for the exchange of knowledge and expertise among some of the world’s leading fire safety professionals. Our agenda is packed with sessions that address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the industry, ensuring that this event remains a must-attend for everyone involved in fire safety.”
The Fire Protection & Technology Summit is just one part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s extensive content and conference program, which also includes the Future Security and Safety Summit. This parallel event will explore the latest in security innovation and global best practices, further solidifying Intersec Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a comprehensive gathering for safety and security professionals.
The exhibition itself has seen unprecedented demand, with the show expanding by 34% compared to last year to cover 23,000 square meters across five halls and an outdoor space. The event is already sold out, highlighting the growing importance of fire safety and security in the region.
Organized by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, Intersec Saudi Arabia is held in association with The High Commission for Industrial Security and The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense. The exhibition’s growth and the caliber of its speakers underscore its critical role in shaping the future of fire safety in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving built environment.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s edition, stating, “We are thrilled to host such a high level of expertise at Intersec Saudi Arabia. The insights shared will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the industry, reinforcing our event as an essential platform for advancing fire safety in the region.”