Intersec Awards 2025 Shortlist Announced: Celebrating Excellence in Fire Safety and Security
The anticipation is building as the Intersec Awards 2025 prepare to return for their fourth year, shining a spotlight on the remarkable achievements in fire safety, security, and related industries. This prestigious event, organized by Messe Frankfurt Middle East, aims to recognize and celebrate the innovations and contributions of individuals and organizations that are making a significant impact in these critical sectors.
A Record Number of Entries
This year, the competition has seen an impressive response, attracting 1,412 entries across 15 categories divided into three main divisions: Fire and Safety, Security, and Industry. The enthusiasm for participation underscores the growing importance of safety and security solutions in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
Among the standout categories, Excellence in Fire Safety led the way with 196 entries, followed closely by Outstanding Safety Solutions with 156 entries and Outstanding Commercial Security Solutions with 131 entries. These numbers reflect the high level of innovation and commitment to safety within the industry.
New Award Categories Highlighting Innovation
In a bid to keep pace with the evolving landscape of safety and security, the Intersec Awards 2025 have introduced three new categories: Excellence in Testing, Evaluation, and Certification, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of the Year, and Consulting Leadership in Fire Safety, Security, and Cybersecurity.
Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, emphasized the significance of these additions, stating, “The Intersec Awards 2025 features a broad range of categories, truly reflecting the diversity and scope of the industry.” This year’s awards provide even more opportunities for businesses to showcase their innovative services and solutions, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity, fire protection, and perimeter security.
Among the nominees for the Excellence in Testing, Evaluation, and Certification Award are notable organizations such as Emirates Safety Laboratory, UL Solutions, and the Fire Protection Association, all of which are recognized for their commitment to excellence in safety standards.
Celebrating Cybersecurity Leaders
The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of the Year category has garnered significant attention, featuring a strong lineup of finalists. Notable contenders include Jody Blanchard from Zimmer Biomet, Harrison Nnaji from FBN, and Sultan Mahmood Malik from Huawei Technologies. Other finalists, such as Ahmed Elshamy from Fujairah eGovernment and Shahmeer Amir from Authiun, showcase a diverse pool of talent in the cybersecurity field.
Additionally, the Rising Star Award for Emirati Talent aims to recognize emerging leaders in fire safety and security, with finalists like Lt. Col. Dr. Humaid Al Ali from the General Command of Civil Defense and Dr. Maryam Bin Essa from Dubai Municipality.
Honoring Women in Fire Safety and Security
This year’s awards will also shine a light on the contributions of women in the industry through the Women Trailblazers in Security/Fire Safety Award. Prominent figures such as Dr. Naseem Rafee from Dubai Municipality and Salma Al Ali from Dubai Civil Defense are among those being recognized for their impactful work.
Moreover, team achievements will be celebrated, with awards dedicated to outstanding teams in both Fire Safety and Security, highlighting the collaborative efforts that drive progress in these vital sectors.
Key Awards and Gala Dinner
The Intersec Awards 2025 will honor a variety of key achievements, including the Fire Safety Excellence Project for the Middle East & Africa and Exemplary Perimeter Security Solutions.
The winners will be unveiled during a gala dinner on January 15, 2025, as part of the larger Intersec 2025 event at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This event is expected to feature over 1,200 exhibitors and attract more than 52,000 visitors, making it a significant gathering for professionals in the fire safety and security industries.
Conclusion
The Intersec Awards 2025 promise to be a landmark event, celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals, teams, and organizations in fire safety, security, and related sectors. With a record number of entries and the introduction of new categories, this year’s awards reflect the dynamic and innovative spirit of the industry. As the finalists prepare for the gala dinner, the anticipation builds for a night that will honor excellence and inspire future advancements in safety and security.