Middle East

• 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.

Find our more here.

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

The facility management firm has partnered with the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority and the Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority to conduct a wide field study to evaluate and enhance the effectivieness of early warning systems in building and facilities

All three organisations will hope to assess and address technical faults in early warning alarm systems across Sharjah.

Initially, the organisations will identify alarms with technical malfunctions, with building owners and operators contacted regarding periodic maintenance requirements as set by the Civil Defence. The end goal of the campaign is to ensure better alarm system efficacy and reduce repair durations and response times to fire incidents.

Saned's managing director, Eng. Hamid Al Zarouni, described the importance of the Aman system, a fire safety initiative ongoing in Sharjah. "[Aman] stands as a top operational priority for us. It is considered one of the key pillars of the smart protection system implemented across buildings and facilities in Sharjah.

"Our ongoing partnership with the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority and the Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority reflects our commitment to supporting government efforts in promoting proactive prevention practices and achieving the highest standards of safety and readiness to protect lives and property."

• Date: 19 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

Last month, Dubai Municipality hosted an event at Canadian University Dubai, themed “Artificial Intelligence Trends in Shaping the Future of Occupational Health and Safety,” coinciding with the International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

As we reflect on this three weeks later, Dubai’s pioneering use of AI in workplace safety continues to set a global benchmark, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and sustainability.

The event, attended by H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, H.E. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, and H.E. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, Chancellor of Canadian University Dubai, alongside experts and academics, explored how AI is redefining workplace safety.

Discussions highlighted next-generation technologies such as predictive analytics, AI-powered wearable sensors, and automated compliance systems that enhance well-being, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

These tools are critical to preventing occupational accidents and diseases, a global priority emphasised by the ILO.

Growing use of digitalisation

Dubai Municipality showcased its digital transformation strides, including advanced robots that measure air pollutants in real time, a smart interactive map of the emirate with AI-driven geographic data for rapid alert responses, and virtual reality-based training programs for employees. 

As 2025 progresses, Dubai’s April vision remains a call to action.

Global AI adoption in workplace safety is projected to grow significantly, potentially reducing incidents by 25% by 2026, per industry trends.

Dubai Municipality urges companies to integrate AI into their operations.

Its smart monitoring platforms and applications, built on a foundation of 3D printing and other innovative technologies, offer a model for scalable safety solutions that benefit organisations of all sizes.

This forward-thinking approach supports the UAE’s Vision 2031, which prioritises innovation and societal well-being. By fostering collaboration and welcoming new ideas, Dubai Municipality continues to lead the charge in creating healthier, safer work environments worldwide.

In the future, businesses are encouraged to adopt AI-driven tools and partner with local authorities to align with Dubai’s standards.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 15 May 2025
• Year: 2025

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has recorded the best ever safety performance in its history

The company achieved a historic milestone of 35 million safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) on 8 May 2025, reaffirming its position as a regional and global safety leader.

Alba’s chief executive officer, Ali Al Baqali, commented, “35 million safe working hours is a groundbreaking achievement in the global aluminium industry. This milestone is a testament to the thousands of moments of mindful action, the collective responsibility embraced wholeheartedly by each and every member of our dedicated workforce and the power of a shared vision for a safer tomorrow.”

Alba’s foundational ‘Safety First’ culture is strengthened by dedicated safety campaigns, comprehensive in-house training programmes, weekly Safety Talks and active shop-floor engagement by Alba’s executives, all of which play a crucial role in promoting a safer workplace for all.

This year, its campaigns have included a plant-wide Ramadan safety and health campaign, aimed at prioritising the safety and well-being of employees and contractors’ workers through a range of various interactive activities. These included lectures by external and internal experts as well as plant visits promoting meaningful engagement between management and shopfloor employees.

Over the past seven years, Alba has achieved an 87.5% decrease in injuries, underscoring its dedication to safeguarding its workforce.

A proven track record

The company’s safety performance has been recognised this year with the award of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA’s) President’s award for the third consecutive year, and six major awards from the USA’s National Safety Council (NSC).

The RoSPA President’s award is given to organisations demonstrating exceptional Safety and Health performance over the years, and recognises the company’s commitment to ensure a safe and healthy work environment as well as setting global benchmarks in safety and health.

“At Alba, Safety is not just a priority or a practice, it’s the bedrock upon which all our operations and processes are built,” said Al Baqali. “We are not just building a safer workplace; we are building a culture of safety that prioritises the well-being of our people. Receiving this distinguished award for the third consecutive year proves that we are on the right track in our Safety journey and fuels our determination to advance with even greater dedication, ensuring the safety and well-being of our most valuable assets - our people, encompassing both our employees and contractors’ workers,”

Lord Jordan of Bournville, RoSPA's Life president, acknowledged the exceptional leadership and inspiration coming from the company’s CEO saying, “As one of the cornerstones of Bahrain’s economy, Alba sends out a powerful message to all industries. ‘You can be successful and safe’.”

The NSC awards are granted to organisations that meet strict criteria based on their safety performance in accordance with the OSHA requirements in the USA. The six awards scooped by Alba this year were the Million Work Hours Award, Occupational Excellence Achievement Award, Perfect Record Award, Safety Leadership Award, Significant Improvement Award and Milestone Award.

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

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has announced EternAI-AC, a product series centred around incorporating carbon offsets gained from operational efficiency

EternAI-AC allows operators to select verified greenhouse gas offsets, originating from Alba's improved operational efficiency. The series includes a carbon reduction classification system rating offsets based on their footprint—from as low as net-zero to up to four tonnes of CO₂e per tonne.

Offsets listed on EternAI-AC series platforms can then be integrated into organisations' own carbon measuring and environmental strategies.

Ali Al Baqali, Alba's CEO, described the product series as "a game-changer in the low-carbon aluminium market. By embedding verified carbon offsets generated directly from our own operational improvements, we are offering our customers an unparalleled level of transparency and confidence in their sustainability journey, providing a distinct advantage in a world increasingly focused on carbon accountability."

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

Saudi's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced plans to put government employees through mandatory occupational fitness testing

Provisional regulations are expected to apply to all employees and workers in public entities, private sector establishments, and non-profit organisations. New candidates will have to undergo tests prior to appointment. All tests will be conducted by specialists under the supervision of an occupational medicine specialist.

A survey platform has been published to invite the public and stakeholders to share their thoughts on the proposal, which spans three types of tests (general medical testing, additional specialised testing, and psychological testing) and aims to promote occupational health among government workers.

Tests will deliver tiered results, including: medically fit and permitted to practice the profession or job for which the candidate is applying; medically fit, with the restrictions or considerations required when practicing the profession for which the candidate is applying, including the duration; and medically unfit, with the restrictions or considerations required when practicing the profession for which the candidate is applying, including the duration.

Should occupational fitness requirements not be met, workers or candidates will not be allowed to continue practising their profession. Management will support them in changing their profession.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 7 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

The International Code Council (ICC) has launched the 45th edition of its annual Building Safety Month campaign this May, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of safe and sustainable construction practices worldwide.

The campaign underscores the critical role of modern, consistently updated building codes in ensuring structural safety and resilience.

Running throughout the month, the initiative seeks to enhance understanding of the key elements and professionals that contribute to safe building practices.

This year’s theme, “Game On!”, is a call to action, urging individuals, businesses, and communities to engage in strengthening building safety through education and active participation.

From schools and worksites to city halls and job sites, the campaign promotes local involvement—especially in fast-developing regions such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where urban growth heightens the need for robust regulatory frameworks.

The ICC’s growing presence in the GCC region reflects the organisation’s belief in the necessity of enforceable, evolving building codes that keep pace with technological advancements, climate concerns, and population pressures.

This year’s programme also includes the second annual International Building Safety Day (IBSD) on 22 May 2025.

Introduced last year with backing from 28 international organisations, IBSD spotlights the link between building safety and public health, wellbeing, and economic resilience.

It serves as a global reminder to governments, policymakers and industry leaders to keep safety at the forefront of construction practices.

In celebration of Building Safety Month 2025, the International Code Council (ICC) and its global partners will mark the month of May with a series of themed weeks, highlighting the many facets of building safety through official recognitions, public education and community outreach.

Key themes

Building Safety Month 2025 will be marked throughout May with a series of themed weeks aimed at raising awareness about the critical role of building safety in everyday life.

The following weeks explore strategies for strengthening safety frameworks, from advocating for policy improvements to preparing for natural disasters. Professionals who uphold safety standards will be celebrated during the fourth week, while the final week, themed “Going into Overtime”, will examine emerging trends and innovations shaping global resilience. Through these activities, ICC’s campaign aims to foster a broader understanding of modern building practices and inspire ongoing commitment to safety across the built environment.

Mohamed Amer, managing director of ICC MENA, stated, “ICC MENA’s mission has always been to strengthen the safety and integrity of buildings while supporting the region’s extraordinary pace of development. As cities across the GCC continue to grow vertically and technologically, the importance of compliance with unified, robust building codes becomes even more essential, not only to protect lives and property but to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.”

He further added, “Building safety is not a one-time action; it’s a continuous commitment that involves government leaders, private-sector innovators and community stakeholders. Through our advocacy and partnerships, we aim to create a culture of safety that lasts for generations. We are proud to be participating in multiple regional events across the full ecosystem of building safety, and we’re pleased to see growing momentum around both Building Safety Month and IBSD — a timely reminder of the shared responsibility and collective action needed to elevate safety standards across the built environment."

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 6 May 2025
• Year: 2025

Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) held a week of awareness and engagement activities around World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which took place on 28 April

With the theme of shared responsibility and proactive prevention, the programme featured a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening occupational health and safety practices across all levels of the organisation.

A series of awareness sessions were organised in collaboration with the Civil Defence, involving staff involved in field operations and site supervision.

Other sessions, led by internal teams, addressed everyday risks and highlighted the importance of observing safe work practices.

Training and drills

The week also included interactive competitions, quizzes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that encouraged greater involvement from employees across departments.

EtihadWE's Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Department plays a central role in cultivating a safe and healthy work environment, implementing awareness programmes, including onsite guidance, first aid training, fire safety workshops, and targeted safety e-messages.

In 2024 alone, EtihadWE conducted 142 training sessions and 64 evacuation drills across various sites.

Additionally, regular inspections are carried out to monitor compliance with safety standards and assess work areas, helping to identify and mitigate potential risks.

The company also maintains a robust emergency response and evacuation framework, with clear protocols for scenarios such as fires, chemical spills, injuries, and natural disasters.

Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity, said, “At EtihadWE, safety is a shared responsibility and a core value — not just a protocol. Our people are at the heart of every plan we execute and every service we provide, and it is our duty to ensure they return home safely every day. Through continuous awareness, active participation, and clear procedures, we aim to build a workplace where everyone feels empowered and protected.”

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 28 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

A new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) explores how AI, digitalisation, robotics and automation are improving worker health and wellbeing in workplaces worldwide, while underlining the need for proactive policies to ensure these technologies are implemented safely and equitably

The report, titled Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work, highlights how robots help reduce risks and improve efficiency by taking on hazardous tasks, assisting in surgeries, and optimising logistics. AI-powered systems enhance safety and health monitoring, and streamline tasks and operations, easing workloads and driving innovation – even in traditionally low-tech sectors. 

“Digitalisation offers immense opportunities to enhance workplace safety. Robots can replace workers in hazardous ‘3D jobs’, which can be dirty, dangerous, and demeaning. Automation can reduce repetitive tasks, such as in factory production lines or in administrative work, allowing workers to take on more challenging tasks,” said Manal Azzi, team lead on OSH Policy at the ILO. “But for us to fully benefit from these technologies, we must ensure they are implemented without incurring new risks.”

Technology’s impact on safety and health

The report highlights that advanced robotics and automation, the use of virtual and extended reality, as well as new tools such as smart wearable devices that provide real-time risk detection or environmental sensors that track air quality, are transforming safety and health by preventing accidents and reducing hazardous exposures. Furthermore, digitalisation is leading to the rise of hybrid and remote work arrangements that are creating flexibility and improving mental health.

VR is transforming training by providing immersive, interactive experiences for high-risk environments that are difficult to simulate theoretically, such as emergency response, fire training and working at heights. The report highlights an example from Qatar, where The Qatar Ministry of Labour, in cooperation with the ILO, launched a VR-based training programme for labour inspectors, which enhances OSH enforcement by allowing inspectors to explore virtual construction sites, identify workplace risks and correct safety violations without entering hazardous environments. The programme also improves guidance for employers and workers, strengthening compliance with OSH standards.

However, these advancements may also bring in new risks. While robots effectively take on hazardous tasks, workers who maintain, repair, or collaborate with these machines may face new dangers. Unpredictable robotic behaviours, system failures, or cyber threats can compromise safety. Ergonomic risks may arise from human-robot interaction, as well as from the use of wearables and exoskeletons that lack proper fit, usability, or comfort.

The study highlights that over-reliance on AI and automation may reduce human oversight, which would, in turn, increase OSH risks, while algorithm-driven workloads and being continuously connected can contribute to stress, burnout, and mental health issues.

The report also exposes safety and health risks faced by workers across the digital supply chain, from those in extraction processes to those powering AI, as well as workers handling electronic waste.

Global policy response and the role of the ILO

The report highlights regulatory gaps in managing OSH risks linked to digitalisation and calls for stronger global, regional, and national policies. The ILO’s OSH conventions (Nos. 155 and 187) provide a foundation for ensuring the right to a safe and healthy workplace in the digital era.

Policies and regulations worldwide increasingly include new measures covering robotic safety and human-robot interaction, the right to disconnect, improved algorithmic management of work, and safe telework and platform work.

Worker involvement is essential at every stage of technology adoption, the report argues. Training and awareness raising initiatives are key to ensuring safe use of new technologies. Further research will be needed to fully understand the long-term occupational safety and health impacts of digital transformation.