Middle East

• Date: 16 Jun, 2025
• Year: 2025

The International Code Council (ICC), a global authority on building safety and construction standards, will take part in the 7th edition of Big 5 Construct Egypt, held from 17-19 June 2025 at the Egypt International Exhibition Center.

Mohammed Amer, managing director – ICC MENA, will present a session titled “Highlighting the Impact of ICC on Innovative Building Practices in the MENA.”

His address will explore ICC’s expanding role in the region, with a focus on its International Codes (I-Codes) and the wider ICC Family of Solutions.

Using real-world case studies, Amer will demonstrate how ICC works with governments, developers, and industry experts to promote international best practices throughout the MENA construction ecosystem.

In Egypt, ICC plays a vital role in advocating for modern regulatory frameworks, encouraging safer, more sustainable infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, the organisation continues to support the country’s construction growth, while aligning it with global standards.

Bringing together more than 350 exhibitors from over 20 countries, Big 5 Construct Egypt showcases cutting-edge innovations driving regional construction forward.

Held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, and supported by the Egyptian Armed Forces Engineering Authority, the event serves as a key platform for shaping the built environment in North Africa.

Speaking about ICC’s participation, Amer stated, “At ICC, our mission is to support governments and industry stakeholders in implementing internationally recognised codes and standards that enhance safety, resilience, and sustainability. In Egypt and across the GCC, our efforts have played a key role in advancing building regulatory modernisation, integrating smart technologies, and strengthening the professional capacity needed to apply best practices effectively.”

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 13 June 2025
• Year: 2025

The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have signed an agreement to launch the third phase of their Programme of Cooperation, to strengthen labour market governance and promote decent work in the Kingdom

The new phase will build on ongoing collaboration and will focus on seven key areas, one of which is strengthening occupational health and safety. The other areas are promoting inclusive social dialogue and representation; ensuring fair recruitment and labour mobility of migrant workers; protecting the rights of domestic workers; expanding migrant workers’ access to fair judicial processes; improving social protection systems; and supporting the adoption of a fair and non-discriminatory minimum wage system.

The programme has a strong focus on improving conditions for vulnerable workers, including migrant and domestic workers, who make up a significant share of the workforce in Saudi Arabia. It will also enhance the institutional capacity of Saudi worker and employer representatives, including the Saudi National Committee of Workers Committees and the Federation of Saudi Chambers.

To support the programme, the ILO will establish a project team in Riyadh to provide technical assistance and coordinate activities with national stakeholders.

“This next phase of cooperation focuses on practical reforms to strengthen labour market institutions, improve working conditions and expand protections for vulnerable workers,” said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. “It reflects a shared commitment to advancing labour policies that are aligned with international standards and national priorities.”

Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) Ahmed AlRajhi, said, “Our renewed partnership with the ILO underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to a fair, inclusive and future-ready labour market. Guided by Vision 2030, we have introduced wide-ranging reforms - from expanding labour mobility and wage protection to pioneering the first National Policy to Eliminate Forced Labour in the region, strengthening labour protections and promoting social justice at every level. As our labour market evolves, collaboration with the ILO helps us align with international standards and build a more sustainable and resilient future of work.”

Previous cooperation has made a significant contribution to labour reform in Saudi Arabia, supporting the development of national employment policies, advancing occupational safety and health standards, strengthening social dialogue institutions and promoting rights at work. It has resulted in improvements in female labour force participation, social dialogue mechanisms, skills governance and labour inspection systems.

• Topic: Technology
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 10 June
• Year: 2025

According to Rockwell's 10^th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report, Saudi and Emirati manufacturers are leading the way in innovating with AI to tailor cybersecurtiy, energy management and quality control protocol

98% of the Middle Eastern respondents to the study, which collated feedback from over 1,500 manufacturing firms worldwide, use or plan to use generative AI for industrial processes: the highest rate of any region included.

Ediz Eren, Rockwell Automation's regional VP, Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa, affirmed that the region is "not just experimenting with smart manufacturing technologies; they are applying them to address real operational challenges.

"From cyber resilience to ESG performance and workforce engagement, the data shows a shift toward outcome-driven digitalisation."

61% of operators intend to use AI for cybersecurity and 46% for energy management in the next 12 months.

• Topic: Fire Safety
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 9 May 2025
• Year: 2025

Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) is partnering with Industrial Detection Solutions (IDS) to establish a new facility to manufacture gas detection sensors in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 

In line with the IKTVA (In-Kingdom Total Value Add) programme that promotes local manufacturing in KSA, the partnership will enable the local production of high-precision sensors for detecting toxic and combustible gases, helping to protect workers and assets at oil and gas production/drilling facilities, LNG/CNG plants, and refining and petrochemical sites.

The products concerned include the DM-700, a non-intrusive ‘smart’ sensor that detects and monitors oxygen and toxic gases in the air using electrochemical sensor technology. The intelligent, plug-in, field-replaceable cell automatically recognises gas type and range. While the FP-700 non-intrusive ‘smart’ sensor detects and monitors combustible gases over the range of 0-100% LEL using catalytic bead sensor technology. The IR-700 is a similar solution for combustible hydrocarbon gases. It uses miniature non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) optical sensor technology to detect and monitor gases over the range of 0-100% LEL.

All of these gas detectors support maximum safety with an innovative design that virtually eliminates sensor failure due to water ingress, corrosion, vibration or transient spikes.

“Our new partnership with Industrial Detection Solutions ensures that manufacturing is closer to both customers and suppliers, enabling even faster delivery of class-leading gas detection products in support of more efficient supply chains,” said Thomas Moeller, VP Sales & Marketing at Teledyne GFD. “The proven solutions manufactured in KSA will better serve a vast regional industry that recognises the importance of a robust and prevalent safety culture. We are proud to be part of KSA’s remarkable ongoing journey of economic and industrial growth, and we look forward to a successful future together.”

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 9 June
• Year: 2025

Between June 15^th and September 15^th, 2025, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) and the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health are enforcing a ban on working in direct sunlight in all private-sector establishments

The ban applies between 12 pm and 3 pm each day, aiming to protect workers from the health risks associated with working in the extreme heat expected during this period.

Announcing the ban, the MHRSD urged employers to adjust working hours accordingly around the ban and highlighted the potential efficiency and safety benefits it enables.

Several resources have been published, including a procedural guide on the risks of heat stress and other heat-related health risks and an advisory guide for working in heat, available via the MHRSD website.

• Date: 4 June, 2025
• Year: 2025

The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has successfully completed its Gas Systems Remediation Project with a 100% completion rate, recording more than 200,000 safe working hours since the programme began in August 2023.

The initiative is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader efforts to enhance the safety of gas systems across the Emirate.

Dr. Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, Acting Director General of Regulatory Affairs at the DoE, said, “Safety is a collective effort and a shared responsibility among all stakeholders in this sector. Building owners play a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of the community. We began our inspection and remediation project in August 2023 and have successfully inspected over 3,100 buildings across the Emirate.”

The DoE confirmed that over 2,400 buildings were remediated, including more than 200 high-risk properties addressed as a priority. The project also identified and repaired 550 previously undetected gas leaks, relocated all gas filling lines outside buildings, replaced more than 450 gas tanks and control panels, and installed over 10,000 gas leak detectors in kitchens.

Dr. Al Qubaisi added, “I would like to express my gratitude to the building owners in Abu Dhabi for their significant efforts and cooperation, which enabled us to focus our efforts on achieving a safer, more stable, and more sustainable energy sector for the Emirate.”

Eng Ahmed Alsheebani, Executive Director of the Petroleum Products Regulatory Affairs Sector at DoE, said, “Abu Dhabi continues to lead in ensuring the safe use of gas systems, recognizing gas as a vital resource that impacts various aspects of daily life and plays a key role—alongside clean and renewable energy sources—in supporting the stability of the energy sector. I urge all Abu Dhabi residents to remain vigilant when dealing with gas; through collective efforts, we will continue to build a safer and more sustainable community.”

Alsheebani also acknowledged the support of key government entities, including the Department of Economic Development (DED), Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), Abu Dhabi Police, the Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA), and the Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Center.

Under current regulations, property owners must sign annual maintenance contracts with licensed gas operators and undergo regular third-party inspections approved by the DoE. Additionally, they must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) confirming system safety—required to receive the ISTIFAA safety compliance certificate from Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 3 June 2025
• Year: 2025

A recent report by Grand View Research on the Saudi Arabia workplace safety market highlights a number of growth areas, with the market forecast to increase by a CAGR of 19.1% from 2025 to 2030

The personal protective equipment (PPE) segment accounted for a revenue share of over 51.0% of the workplace safety market in 2024, according to the report, and is set to grow further. The construction boom in Saudi Arabia, driven by Vision 2030 giga-projects such as NEOM, Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya, is boosting the demand for helmets, gloves, harnesses, and high-visibility clothing to protect workers from falls, dropped objects and falling debris, and accidents. While demand is high in the buoyant oil and gas sector for flame-resistant (FR) suits, respirators, and protective eyewear to protect workers from fires, toxic gases, and chemicals, with high-quality PPE mandated by Aramco and government regulations.

Also forecast to grow strongly is the workplace safety services segment, as Saudi companies invest in comprehensive training programmes, behaviour-based safety initiatives, and thorough incident investigations to foster a proactive safety culture. Rising insurance costs and legal liabilities are accelerating the demand for professional safety consulting, risk assessments and compliance solutions.

With smart safety solutions in construction and industrial zones mandated under Vision 2030 and Saudi OSH regulations, demand is growing for wearable IoT devices such as smart helmets and vests that monitor worker vital signs and environmental hazards, ensuring real-time alerts for health and safety risks. In high-risk sectors like oil and gas and mining, IoT-enabled gas/chemical sensors can detect leaks instantly, preventing explosions and harmful exposures and sending alerts to control centres. With 5G and AI integration, IoT safety systems are facilitating predictive risk management, driving rapid market growth as industries prioritise data-driven, proactive safety measures.

Another growth area highlighted is the VR sector. VR in safety training effectively simulates real-world scenarios, enabling employees to practice addressing workplace hazards in a safe, controlled setting. This immersive experience increases engagement, making learning more interactive and memorable and leading to quicker response times in actual situations, thereby helping to reduce workplace accidents and enhance overall safety performance.

• Topic: PPE
• Date: 02nd May
• Year: 2025

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA)'s annual 'Beat the Heat' programme has introduced wearable tech for workers that enhances location services, connectivity and real-time data to reduce the risk of heat-related illness

The industrial firm has recorded no cases of heat-related illnesses since 2021, yet continues its annual 'Beat the Heat' programme. CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban said the programme strives "to engage everyone in ensuring we have zero cases of heat-related illness at our company, and together we have a long track record of success.

"Technology has the potential to make our Beat the Heat programme even more effective."

The wearable tech deployment was joined by new full-body cooling units at EGA medical centres and operational areas at several plants across Jebel Ali and Al Taweelah.

2024 was the third consecutive summer of no recorded heat-related illnesses, with the last two incidents recovering within hours of treatment in summer 2021.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: May 2025
• Year: 2025

Kuwait's Minister of Oil, Tariq Sulaiman Al-Roumi, reiterated the state's support for the sustainability of the oil market's balance and security

During three virtual events (the OPEC Ministerial Conference, the OPEC + Joint Ministerial Montioring Committee, and the OPEC + Ministerial Meeting), the Minister emphasised the importance of the "enhanced joint coordination among countries within the framework of the OPEC+ Declaration of Cooperation and the adoption of well-considered decisions that support the stability of global oil markets."

Al-Roumi highlighted Kuwait's policy and market support in a press statement from the Ministry of Oil.

The Minister of Oil was joined by Kuwait's governor to OPEC, Mohammad Khudr Al-Shatti, and national representative to OPEC, Sheikh Abdullah Sabah Salem Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah.

• Date: 29 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s leading platform for security, safety, and fire protection, is set to return to the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) from 30 September to 2 October this year.

The event will bring together government authorities, industry leaders, and international solution providers to address the evolving needs of Saudi Arabia’s transformative giga-projects and global ambitions.

Organised by 1^st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, Intersec Saudi Arabia will operate under the theme “Securing progress, igniting safety: Unveiling tomorrow’s solutions for Saudi Arabia.”

The event aligns global innovation with the Kingdom’s national priorities, fostering collaboration to secure the infrastructure, environments, and communities driving Saudi Arabia’s prosperous future.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a monumental transformation with projects like Neom, Qiddiya, and Red Sea Global, alongside preparations for major global events such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

These developments position the Kingdom as a key player in global tourism, sports, and industry. Intersec Saudi Arabia serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of these ambitious initiatives.

“Intersec Saudi Arabia provides an important platform for decision makers across Saudi Arabia’s major projects to connect with global innovators and work together to build a secure, future-ready environment,” said Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences.

“We look forward to facilitating important business connections that support the country’s growth and long-term success.”

Key themes

The event is divided into five product sectors: Commercial & Perimeter Security, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, and Cybersecurity.

Intersec Saudi Arabia will also host CPD-certified content theaters, including the Future Security and Safety Summit Powered by ASIS and the Fire Protection & Technology Summit. New additions include a Thought Leadership Pavilion and the return of The Premium Club, offering exclusive benefits for select buyers and influencers.

The Future Security and Safety Summit will feature high-level discussions on emerging global threats, crisis response strategies, and responsible AI innovation. Speakers will include representatives from FIFA, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, Kearney, and Saudi Aramco, among others.

Meanwhile, the Fire Protection and Technology Summit will bring together fire and emergency service leaders to discuss challenges, standards, and technologies, with insights from Saudi Civil Defense, International Maritime Industries, and AESG.

“The conference and events element of Intersec Saudi Arabia continues to grow each year and will once again bring together the brightest minds in security, safety and fire protection from around the world,” said Riham Sedik, exhibition director, Intersec Saudi Arabia, Messe Frankfurt Middle East.

“The event will offer interactive showcases, live demonstrations and engaging panel discussions, all tailored to the unique needs of the Kingdom.”

• Date: 26 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

Panasonic Electric Works Middle East & Africa (PEWMEA) recently participated in the 2025 KSA Stakeholder Gathering, held in Riyadh.

The company presented its advanced fire alarm systems at the event, which included a comprehensive suite of intelligent fire detection and early warning systems.

Among the innovations displayed were Panasonic’s EBL512 G3 and EBLOne systems.

The EBL512 G3 is the company’s third-generation intelligent addressable fire alarm system, offering robust capabilities including four COM loops and support for up to 1,012 addresses.

Its AI-driven detection allows each sensor to adapt independently to its environment, ensuring swift and accurate responses to fire threats even in high-risk or sensitive settings.

Meanwhile, the EBLOne control unit caters to the needs of small- and medium-sized facilities, featuring remote monitoring capabilities and seamless integration with building management systems via an optional gateway.

Panasonic also demonstrated its detectors equipped with artificial intelligence and a unique learning function.

Other features

These devices constantly analyse environmental conditions and automatically select the most suitable VdS-approved algorithm, enhancing detection accuracy while filtering out short-term disturbances.

Another innovation showcased was the fully integrated addressable emergency and adaptive exit lighting system.

Connected to the same loop as the fire alarm system, these luminaires allow for individual control and real-time monitoring.

The adaptive lights dynamically guide building occupants away from hazardous areas during evacuations and are powered by 24V for simplified and cost-efficient installation.

Finally, the company unveiled a multifunctional display unit with a redundant connection to the central control panel.

This unit supports a range of functionalities including smoke control, fire brigade interface, and repeater panel use, further reinforcing Panasonic’s comprehensive approach to smart safety infrastructure.

"Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, fuelled by ambitious government initiatives and substantial infrastructure investments. With positive prospects predicted for the local market, it is paramount that businesses enhance their fire safety strategies to rapidly scale and gain competitive advantage," stated Eiji Ito, managing director, PEWMEA. "Panasonic, backed by over 40 years of Japanese innovation and high-quality craftsmanship in AI-powered fire detection, is ideally positioned to support the Kingdom’s vision for socio-economic transformation. Our complete, reliable and easily scalable systems are backed by a global track record and strong R&D commitment focused on developing technologies suited to the specific needs of our local customers.”

Sudesh Unni, sales director at PEWMEA, emphasised the brand’s legacy of quality and innovation. "Panasonic has a deep-rooted history of delivering exceptional products and solutions adhering to the highest quality standards. Our range of smart fire alarm systems ensures effective and reliable performance that meets the stringent demands of the hospitality industry. Panasonic's dedication to providing innovative solutions not only supports businesses in achieving operational excellence and sustainability, but also contributes to the overall advancement and evolution of the industry."

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 23 May 2025
• Year: 2025

A new report from Grand View Research on Saudi Arabia Workplace Safety Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis estimates the Saudi Arabia workplace safety market at US$504.6mn in 2024 and forecasts that it will grow at a CAGR of 19.1% from 2025 to 2030

The growing awareness of the importance of ensuring a safe working environment has boosted the demand for safety solutions, including personal protective equipment (PPE), safety management systems, and employee training, with more comprehensive safety measures and protocols being put in place.

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan is driving this growth, according to the report, with its focus on industrial diversification, infrastructure development and quality of life. The expansion of mega-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya has boosted the demand for advanced safety equipment, training, and digital safety platforms to protect workers in high-risk environments.

The rising awareness among employers of the economic and reputational risks associated with workplace accidents has resulted in more proactive safety management strategies rather than reactive responses, the report notes. Here, the growing adoption of digital technologies are playing an increasing role, with IoT-based sensors allowing real-time monitoring of hazardous conditions, while AI-powered analytics can predict potential risks. Real-time incident reporting systems enable quicker corrective actions and compliance tracking, thereby helping to reduce injuries and fatalities. Digital technologies also improve operational efficiency and productivity by minimising downtime, streamlining audits, and ensuring continuous improvement in workplace safety practices.

Stricter regulations from government entities like the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development are requiring companies to enhance their focus on occupational health and safety (OHS) compliance. These rules mandate rigorous safety practices, regular inspections, and adherence to international standards. As a result, there is increased investment in safety training, protective equipment, and digital monitoring tools. An example is the establishment in February 2025 of Red Sea Global’s (RSG), first Health & Safety Training Academy at the AMAALA luxury wellness destination, which offers free training to RSG's workforce, partners, and contractors, focusing on essential construction skills and safety practices.

Workplace safety requirements are particularly stringent in the energy sector, with Saudi Aramco's Safety Management System (SMS) enforcing rigorous standards for contractors. Saudi OSH laws and ECRA (Energy Compliance Regulations) also require real-time safety monitoring in utilities like power plants and desalination facilities, which is driving the adoption of advanced safety systems such as IoT sensors, automated alerts, and digital compliance tracking to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety.

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