Five Questions with Intersec Saudi Arabia Exhibition Director Riham Sedik
Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 is set to reaffirm its position as the Kingdom‘s premier security, safety, and fire protection event, reflecting the rapid growth and strategic priorities of the region under Vision 2030. Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director, shares insights on the event’s evolution, highlights of the upcoming edition, and its role in connecting global innovators with national security goals.
GIT SECURITY International: Since its launch, how has ISSA evolved; what milestones stand out most to you?
Riham Sedik: Intersec Saudi Arabia has become established as the Kingdom’s leading platform for security, safety, and fire protection. Now in its seventh edition, the event has expanded significantly in scale and influence, reflecting both the growth of the sector in the region and the Kingdom’s evolving priorities under Vision 2030.
Our 2024 edition was record-breaking, and in 2025, we look forward to welcoming more than 370 exhibitors from over 35 countries. Over 1,000 brands will be showcased across seven halls, with attendance expected to exceed 27,000 visitors. To accommodate this demand, the exhibition space has increased by 25%.
Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 is held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and in association with the General Directorate of Civil Defense. The event brings together government authorities, industry leaders, and international solution providers to safeguard the Kingdom’s infrastructure and communities.
With giga-projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Development – as well as major global events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 on the horizon - Saudi Arabia is rapidly reshaping its security landscape. Intersec Saudi Arabia plays a vital role in connecting decision-makers with global innovators to ensure these projects are secure, resilient, and future-ready.
Equally important has been the growth of our conference programme, which includes the Future Security Summit, Powered by ASIS International Dhahran Chapter, and the Fire Protection and Technology Summit. These forums continue to attract the most respected voices in the industry, providing invaluable insights and setting the agenda for the sector’s future.
What trends and topics shape the event program?
Riham Sedik: This year, Intersec Saudi Arabia will focus on the theme ‘Accelerating Security, Safety, and Fire Protection in Saudi Arabia’. Our conferences will delve into a wide range of topics and will discuss the latest technologies, research and solutions in fire prevention, protection and emergency response.
The Future Security Summit is a pioneering platform uniting thought leadership, breakthrough innovation and international expertise in security. The summit will feature the latest thinking and insightful discussions on emerging global threats, risk and resilience, responsible AI innovation, critical infrastructure protection, and diversity in security among other vital topics.
Meanwhile, the Fire Protection and Technology Summit will include bold conversations from industry leaders and experts that are at the forefront of fire safety. The summit will equip professionals with the knowledge and expertise to address the unique challenges of Saudi Arabia, with topics discussed including high-rise fire rescue, HAZMAT response and regional disaster collaboration.
What are the major highlights introduced in this year’s edition of the show?
Riham Sedik: This year, we have partnered with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) which brings unparalleled global expertise in fire protection to the event. As part of this collaboration, NFPA will host a dedicated event program on 30 September, focusing on how the adoption of global standards supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy.
Topics that will be discussed during the NFPA day include ’Protecting GIGA developments and large-scale events in the Kingdom’, ‘Building human capital in fire protection’, and ‘Navigating new fire safety regulations and compliance.’ The initiative creates a powerful platform for exchanging knowledge, building local expertise and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry leaders, government authorities and safety professionals.
We are also proud to announce that all conferences at Intersec Saudi Arabia are now CPD certified, underscoring our commitment to providing high-quality, valuable educational experiences that contribute to the professional growth and development of our attendees.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore dedicated country pavilions for China, Italy, the UK and Czech Republic and gain valuable insights from speakers from the United Nations, FIFA, the Saudi Ports Authority, Red Sea Global and NEOM through our conference programme.
In addition, the Premium Club returns to Intersec Saudi Arabia, offering key buyers and decision makers exclusive benefits during their visit to the exhibition as well as the Majlis, the exclusive invitation-only space for senior government officials and stakeholders to engage in strategic dialogues.
How can first-time visitors have the best experience at ISSA 2025?
Riham Sedik: Intersec Saudi Arabia unites professionals in security, emergency response and safety from all corners of the world, making it an unmissable platform for first-time visitors who want to experience the full scope of the industry in one place.
To make the most of their experience, visitors should explore our five main product categories which include Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security & Policing, Cybersecurity, Fire & Rescue and Safety & Health. Each of these product sections showcase the latest technologies and live demonstrations from local and international brands.
Beyond the exhibition floor, our CPD-certified conference programme provides an invaluable opportunity to learn from global experts and gain insight into new regulations, best practices and emerging trends. Ultimately, the best way for first-time visitors to experience Intersec Saudi Arabia is to plan their visit in advance, prioritise both the exhibition and the conference elements and leverage networking opportunities.
In the years to come, what role do you envision Intersec Saudi Arabia playing on the global security and safety landscape?
Riham Sedik: In the years ahead, Intersec Saudi Arabia will serve as a crucial link between national priorities and global security innovation. With the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 driving significant investments in smart cities and infrastructure, the event will continue to increase in importance, connecting international expertise with local needs and promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange, shaping the future of security and fire safety.
