Intersec 2024: 25 Years of Innovation & Spotlight on Middle East’s Security
Visitors will engage in discussions covering security, fire safety, and the escalating impact of quantum computing in the Middle East region
Piše: Mirza Bahic; E-mail: editorial©asmideast.com
Intersec 2024 will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from January 16th to 18th. Intersec’s 25th landmark edition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed, is set to host 1,000 exhibitors from over 60 nations, with approximately 25% making their debut, anticipating over 45,000 trade visitors worldwide. Thus, the event will reestablish itself as a global hub for the security, safety, and fire protection industries.
Increasing prominence of quantum computing in the Middle East
The rapid advancement of quantum computing has ignited a fierce race for the next era of computing innovation globally and across the Middle East, according to new research from Frost & Sullivan. Although quantum computing is still in its early stages, it will likely impact fields like scientific research, cryptography, finance, supply chains, logistics, and drug discovery as it develops further. This is why its role in revolutionizing science and innovation is to be discussed at the Cyber Security Conference during Intersec 2024.
Quantum computing is pushing the development of new, more robust encryption called post-quantum cryptography. While the United States and China currently lead in quantum computing and cryptography development, there is an increasing prominence of quantum computing in the Middle East region. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize cybersecurity by improving secure communication with advanced encryption. Yet, it also challenges current encryption methods, so preparing for this quantum era is vital to protect data from new risks.
Speaking ahead of the Cyber Security Conference at Intersec 2024, Rajarshi Dhar, Principal Consultant, Security, Frost & Sullivan, said: “Quantum computing represents a revolutionary leap in computational power, promising to transform industries. While still nascent, this technology holds immense potential for solving complex problems faster and more efficiently than classical computers. As we continue to advance our understanding and capabilities in quantum computing, it is clear that this field will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of science, technology, and society at large.”
UAE’s Quantum Computing Initiatives
Frost & Sullivan’s analysis predicts a significant surge in the quantum cryptography market over the next five years, with more than half of the revenue expected to come from businesses, followed by the government and defense sectors.
“This growth is propelled by the imminent threat posed by the commercialization of quantum computers, making current security and cryptography outdated. Upgrading security systems is crucial, requiring future-proof cryptography capable of withstanding both quantum and sophisticated attacks,” Dhar added.
Although the United States holds the top position in quantum computing and cryptography development, China is following closely behind and is anticipated to impact technological advancement significantly in the future.
Meanwhile, the UAE has also been in a race for quantum computing and quantum cryptography development with its own Quantum Research Centre and UAE’s institutes working towards productization. In September 2023, the Technology Innovation Institute developed cryptography estimators that evaluate the security of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) schemes.
Charting Cyber Security Frontiers
Similarly, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are making substantial steps in the quantum computing space with a US$ 10 million investment from the Qatari government towards the Qatar Centre for Quantum Computing. Saudi Arabia recognizes the need to establish the Quantum Computing Council for Saudi Arabia.
The implications of quantum computing will be discussed in detail at the two-day Intersec 2024 Cyber Security Conference, which will gather experts, thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators as they collectively chart the course for cyber security excellence in the years to come.
Other notable regional and international speakers include His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, UAE Government; Fadhel Al Marri, Security Systems Officer, Dubai Electronic Security Center; Craig Jones, Director – Cybercrime, Interpol, Singapore; and Sergi Marcen, Secretary of Telecommunications & Digital Transformation, Government of Catalonia, Spain.
Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organizer Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “The Cyber Security Conference allows the industry to deepen its understanding of cyber security risks and enhance cooperation among stakeholders to counter these risks effectively. Intersec will also host world-leading cyber security exhibitors within the in {:cyber} Pavilion, including Fortinet, Moro Hub, Alpha Data, and ManageEngine.”
The Intersec 2024 in {:cyber} Pavilion features the Hack Arena, a three-day challenge for Middle East cybersecurity experts hosted by Malcrove CTF.ae. Participants demonstrate skills in web exploitation, digital forensics, cryptography, exploit development, and reverse engineering. Also, the Intersec Innovators Arena (IIA), powered by Unipreneur Inc, offers startups a platform to showcase products to potential investors.
Workshops within the pavilion include the ITU-led Scenario Based Exercise, analyzing attack scenarios, and the Table Top Exercise, simulating cyber-attacks on financial institutions.
Milestone Edition also focuses on the Middle East’s fire safety
In addition to the exhibition, Intersec 2024 offers a rich experience, including a vast conference program and the esteemed Intersec Awards Gala Dinner.
The fire and rescue segment, boasting over 400 exhibitors across five DWTC halls, stands out as the event’s fastest-growing section. Notably, 70% of the industry’s global leaders will converge here, presenting a prime opportunity for Middle East business engagements.
Leading UAE-based fire and safety entity NAFFCO, known for top-tier firefighting equipment and safety engineering, will showcase various innovative solutions. Exhibitors like Baldwin Boxall, HD Fire, Corodex, Inim, Pentair, Kopler, Fire Safety Science, SVT Products, Viking, and Erse Kablo will add further diversity to the showcase.
“This blend of established and fresh exhibitors underscores the global appeal and collaborative spirit that defines Intersec as a pivotal platform for the fire and safety community,” Tuchten added.
The Intersec 2024 Fire & Rescue Conference, hosted by Dubai Civil Defense, will address industry-shaping topics on the latest developments crucial for advancing fire protection and safety globally.
Key topics at the conference include emergency response planning, industrial firefighting, and innovations in fire prevention, among others, with esteemed speakers such as Gary Barthram, Chief Fire Officer at Heathrow Airport, UK, Mohammed Saeefan, Fire Protection, Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabia, and Terrance Wh Tsang, Chief Fire Officer (Kowloon) at the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, sharing invaluable insights and expertise.
