IDtech Shaping the Future of Security: Insights from Thomas Deville on Emerging Trends in MENA
In this exclusive interview with a&s Middle East, Thomas Deville, General Manager of IDtech Middle East and Africa, delves into the transformative trends shaping the security industry in the Middle East, the challenges of setting standards, and how IDtech is driving innovation to meet evolving client needs while preparing for a promising year ahead.
a&s Middle East: What are your insights into the future of the security industry in the Middle East? Which emerging trends will drive market growth in the coming years?
Deville: Today, the primary challenge is the absence of clear regulations and standards and the lack of proper verification to ensure their effective implementation.
Deville: I see three main trends shaping the future of our industry. First, there is a growing emphasis on regulations and standards aimed at strengthening security, especially regarding data privacy, digital security, and the convergence between physical and cyber security. New initiatives such as the NIS2 Directive in Europe drive this shift.
Second, the integration of new technologies such as touchless biometrics, mobile IDs, and artificial intelligence. It will undoubtedly impact all industry players. While these technologies are at different stages of maturity, companies must proactively prepare for their adoption.
Finally, the shift toward cloud-based and hybrid solutions is gaining momentum. Many clients are already transitioning to models that combine on-premises systems with cloud-based platforms, benefiting from enhanced security and operational efficiency. This trend redefines how security solutions are deployed and managed in the coming years.
a&s Middle East: What are the main challenges facing the security industry in the Middle East, and how are industry leaders innovating to overcome these hurdles?
Deville: Today, the primary challenge is the absence of clear regulations and standards and the lack of proper verification to ensure their effective implementation. We actively collaborate with our partners and local authorities to establish these frameworks. As a member of the SPAC Alliance, we are committed to promoting higher security standards in access control.
a&s Middle East: Your products integrate with Touchless Biometric Systems and Milestone XProtect. How does this integration help users optimize their security processes, and what are its key benefits?
Deville: Customers increasingly seek fully integrated solutions that simplify configuration and usability while ensuring robust data protection. By integrating with Touchless Biometric Systems and Milestone XProtect, our products enhance security and convenience, allowing users to streamline their operations without compromising safety.
a&s Middle East: The 5th-generation controllers are designed to meet the latest European cybersecurity standards. Could you explain the main challenges you faced in achieving this compliance and the features that make these controllers stand out?
Deville: The biggest challenge has been engaging all stakeholders across the supply chain—from production and specification to implementation. This includes technology partners, distributors, system integrators, consultants, and clients. It is still an ongoing process, and while significant progress has been made, there is still work to be done.
a&s Middle East: IDtech emphasizes tailoring solutions to meet industry-specific needs. Could you share how your products have been customized to address unique challenges for clients in different sectors?
Deville: In 2025, IDtech will celebrate its 40th anniversary—a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect on our achievements, and embark on a new five-year strategic cycle with renewed ambition.
Deville: IDtech systems provide unique flexibility, allowing limitless security configurations to be adapted and scaled as organizations evolve. Partnering with IDtech means working with a long-term, open-minded solution provider committed to addressing specific client needs. We continuously refine our solutions to meet industry-specific challenges, as seen in projects for central banks, military facilities, data centers, and R&D labs.
a&s Middle East: What do you expect from the year to come?
Deville: In 2025, IDtech will celebrate its 40th anniversary—a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect on our achievements, and embark on a new five-year strategic cycle with renewed ambition. It is also set to be a pivotal year in solidifying our position as a leading provider of physical access control and alarm management systems in the Middle East. With a growing backlog, we are eager to expand our regional sales and technical teams further to support our continued growth.
