Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Sustainability and artificial intelligence (AI) dominated discussions at the Fire Protection and Technology Summit, held as part of Intersec Saudi Arabia 2024. The summit opened on a high note, gathering leading fire safety and environmental experts from major giga projects and industries across the Kingdom.
Green Fire Safety: A Giga Project Priority:
During the panel session titled “Green Technologies for Fire Prevention and Control”, experts from Saudi Aramco, Al Madinah Holding, International Maritime Industries, and Red Sea Global shared insights into how sustainable practices are being integrated into large-scale developments.
Speakers included:
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Mohammed Al Saeefan, Fire Protection Engineering Specialist, Saudi Aramco
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Abdulaziz Alkhuder, Senior Project Manager, Rua Al Madinah Holding
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Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, VP of Health, Safety and Environment, International Maritime Industries
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Khalid Al Mandil, Deputy Fire Commissioner, Red Sea Global
Moderated by Hani Adnan Abdel Razeq, Director of Sustainability at AESG, the discussion emphasized non-combustible materials, energy-efficient designs, and sustainable fire suppression systems as key pillars in giga project safety planning.
AI and Fire Safety: A Powerful Combination:
Abdulaziz Alkhuder stressed AI’s growing role in building safety systems. “AI is enabling earlier detection of fire risks and improving life safety systems,” he explained. “When combined with sustainable practices, it enhances safety while aligning with environmental and economic goals.”
Dr. Ahmed Al-Ghamdi added, “AI will play a crucial role, especially in identifying system risks. Yet, human expertise must be integrated seamlessly for best results.”
From a design perspective, Khalid Al Mandil emphasized that iconic architecture should not compromise sustainability. “Sustainability must be embedded from the design phase. It’s essential in delivering world-class, responsible development.”
Mohammed Al Saeefan of Aramco agreed, highlighting the company’s digital transformation efforts. “AI is trending for good reasons. However, how we train these systems matters. A strategic approach will align all safety systems effectively.”
What’s Next: Future Readiness and Security Innovations:
Looking ahead, the summit will continue with the Future Readiness Program on Thursday, October 3. Sessions will explore evolving security threats and how public and private sectors can respond.
Key topics will include:
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The Evolution of Security Threats, led by Rudolph Lohmeyer, Senior Partner, Kearney
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Skill development for the security workforce
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The maturity and enablement of future security technologies
These sessions aim to address critical security needs, protect sensitive infrastructure, and support innovation in safety technology.
Industry Optimism and Record Attendance:
Riham Sedik, Show Manager for Intersec Saudi Arabia at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, expressed optimism about the event’s success. “The first day exceeded expectations. We anticipate even more insightful discussions and major deals over the next two days.”
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, added, “Thousands of visitors have already attended. This sold-out show is a testament to the growing demand for expert-led fire and safety solutions.”
About the Event:
Intersec Saudi Arabia 2024 is being held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center and continues until October 3. The event is organized by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt. It serves as a premier platform for exploring innovation in fire protection, safety, and security.
