Technology

Niftylift: making construction sites safer

The HR15 H2E and HR17 H2E can run for up to five days on batteries alone. (Image source: Niftylift).

Niftylift is at the forefront in the mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) sector, offering some of the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered equipment, as well as hybrid and fully electric models.

Recently, it introduced the world’s first hydrogen-electric-powered access platforms – the HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E – marking a breakthrough in zero-emission construction in the Middle East.

"When powered by renewable energy, Niftylift’s fully electric platforms provide a dependable zero-emission solution for a wide range of urban jobsites. However, we recognise that not all projects, especially those in remote locations, have access to grid power for charging. This is where the hydrogen fuel cell comes into play. By adding it on top of the electric system, we offer a versatile and practical solution that’s viable for virtually any jobsite," explains Thomas Hadden, global technical sales manager at Niftylift.

The HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E can run for up to five days on batteries alone, with the hydrogen system doubling this range. Even with daily use, the hydrogen cylinder only needs replacing every two to three weeks. These boom lifts integrate hydrogen technology seamlessly, maintaining Niftylift's renowned low weight and compact design while emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products. This makes them ideal for both urban and remote sites, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals.

Johnson Arabia became the first rental company in the region to acquire a Niftylift HR15 H₂E, impressed by its performance during a demonstration. The company also added 19 fully electric units to its fleet. The HR15 H₂E is now operational on a high-profile UAE construction site, delivering zero emissions without downtime for refuelling or recharging.

Enhancing safety at sites

Niftylift sees strong potential in the Middle East, driven by the focus on sustainability and safety in construction. “We’ve seen an ever-increasing growth for Niftylift products in the region even given the fierce market competition,” says Thomas. “This surge in demand is largely due to the heightened awareness of safety standards in the region and we are internationally renowned at Niftylift for our advanced safety features, such as SiOPS (sustained involuntary operation prevention system), load-sensing, and tilt-sensing technologies.”

To support growing demand, Niftylift is establishing a regional office in Dubai, serving as a hub for direct sales and support for key account rental companies. This will strengthen its partnerships in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and expand its customer base in Saudi Arabia, a key growth market.

Niftylift also maintains close relationships with customers through regular face-to-face meetings and participation in industry events, including sponsorship of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Middle East Conference 2024 in Riyadh.

“The Middle East’s transition to a sustainable future hinges on innovative technologies, such as hydrogen-electric equipment,” Thomas concludes. “As a leader in this field, we at Niftylift are committed to empowering the region’s construction industry to achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.

Global Cybersecurity Forum addresses global cyber challenges

A panel discussion at the Global Cybersecurity Forum on de-escalation strategies. (Image source: GCF)

Policymakers and experts at the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) Annual Meeting in Riyadh called for greater global collaboration in Cyberspace to empower and protect individuals worldwide.

They emphasised the need for stronger educational systems focused on cybersecurity and the development of a more inclusive cyber workforce to address a global shortage of 2.8 million cyber professionals.

“Cyberspace is closely linked to the growth of economies, the prosperity of societies, the security of individuals and the stability of nations,” said His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, in a statement welcoming participants to the 4th GCF Annual Meeting.

Held from 2-3 October, the forum prioritised ensuring Cyberspace is safe for all, especially vulnerable groups like children, while building resilience against increasing cyber threats.

“We have to work among like-minded nations – countries who agree with things like protecting children, protecting our economic prosperity and growth, protecting our national security,” said former U.S. Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark Esper, who spoke during the opening plenary.

New opportunities

GCF aims to address the geostrategic, economic, social, and behavioural dimensions of cybersecurity, driving collective action to ensure Cyberspace remains a space for prosperity and well-being globally.

“The workforce is not nearly inclusive enough and society and our education systems are not putting enough focus on cybersecurity,” said Sir Jeremy Fleming, former director of the UK’s GCHQ. “There are plenty of opportunities through the lens of resilience for nations and communities to work together.”

Over 70 high-profile speakers from government, the private sector, and academia engaged in two days of discussions. Despite challenges in the evolving Cyberspace, the forum carried an optimistic tone, centred on the potential of multistakeholder collaboration.

Former European Commission president José Manuel Barroso called for cooperation on global public goods, particularly child protection. “I don't see any reason why governments, in spite of geopolitical interests and differences, should not consider child protection a global public good,” he said. “Competition is unavoidable between states. Cooperation is indispensable.”

On the second day, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Adel Al-Jubeir, highlighted the importance of Crown Prince's initiatives—Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) and Women Empowerment in Cybersecurity (WEC)—as catalysts for global cooperation.

“There are areas that can be used to build confidence, and that confidence helps us to work better with each other,” Al-Jubeir said.

The forum also featured the Child Protection in Cyberspace Global Summit, organised in collaboration with UNICEF, the ITU, the DQ Institute, and WeProtect Global Alliance, which focused on pathways to safeguard children online.

AMAG Technology to showcase mobile credential solutions at Intersec 2025

Intersec 2025 is scheduled for 14-16 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre. (Image source: Intersec)

As the global perimeter security market expands, with projections estimating it will reach US$89.82bn by 2027, mobile credentials are emerging as a key element in shaping the future of access control and security management across the Middle East.

At Intersec 2025, scheduled for 14-16 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), AMAG Technology, a leading provider of security technology, will showcase the increasing integration of mobile credentials into regional security frameworks. This technology offers enhanced protection and flexibility for managing security across large organisations or multiple locations.

James Clark, director of sales – EMEA & APAC at AMAG Technology, explains how mobile technology is revolutionising security by reducing costs, improving convenience, and streamlining operations.

“Everyone carries a mobile device to manage their bank accounts, monitor and control their home, so it makes sense to use a mobile device or a mobile Wallet to unlock doors in the workplace. Organisations eliminate the expense of physical cards, printers and the administrative burden of managing physical cards. Meanwhile, security leaders can distribute credentials remotely, which creates operational efficiencies because there is less to manage,” said Clark.

Digital revolution

At the Commercial & Perimeter section of Intersec’s 26th edition, AMAG Technology will present its visitor management solution. The event, hosted in Sheikh Sa’eed Halls 1 and 2, and the Trade Centre Arena, will feature other prominent exhibitors such as Assa Abloy from the UK and IDEMIA from the UAE.

According to the UAE Government portal, the country leads globally in information and communication technologies (ICT) usage, government efficiency, and mobile network coverage. With 100% smartphone penetration, the UAE's digital transformation strategy, bolstered by the UAE PASS digital identity platform and its 5 million registered users, reinforces the adoption of mobile credentials.

Grant Tuchten, portfolio director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, noted, "As security leaders prioritise user-friendly and future-proof solutions, mobile credentials are poised to transform access control. The Commercial & Perimeter Security sector at Intersec 2025 will be the premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and services that enhance convenience for consumers and organisations and elevate security with scalable and data-driven innovations.”

Intersec 2025 is set to be the largest edition to date, with over 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries and an expected 52,000 visitors. In addition to the Commercial & Perimeter Security sector, the event will also feature Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Cyber Security, and Homeland Security & Policing product sections.

Making heavy machinery safer through technological advances

Tajdeed employs cutting-edge vehicle testing equipment to ensure precise inspections. (Image source: Canva)

In the UAE, Dubai’s Roads and Transportation Authority (RTA) is committed to the safety of construction machinery through stringent regulations and advanced technology.

To explore these efforts, Technical Review Middle East spoke to Kaleemuddin Khan, senior sales and business development executive at Tajdeed Vehicle Testing Centre, an RTA-affiliated facility.

The centre is instrumental in inspecting a wide range of construction equipment, including wheel loaders, excavators, backhoe loaders, bulldozers, boom loaders, and cranes. According to Khan, “RTA prioritises safety through various measures designed to protect road users and enhance overall transportation and vehicle safety.”

Digitalisation for added safety

Tajdeed employs cutting-edge vehicle testing equipment to ensure precise inspections. This includes a fully equipped, state-of-the-art mobile inspection unit. Tajdeed uses the latest and most advanced testing equipment, such as roller brake testers, emission testers, and side-slip testers, among other tools. In addition to this advanced technology, Tajdeed’s well-trained inspectors conduct thorough visual inspections of the equipment.

“Inspections are tailored to customer needs, including registration, renewal, export, and transfer tests,” Khan noted. “Proper maintenance of machinery is critical for the safety of workers who depend on these vehicles. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent accidents, breakdowns, and other hazards associated with poorly maintained equipment.”

To ensure adherence to safety procedures, the RTA has installed cameras inside mobile testing units to monitor the inspection process. A control room also oversees inspections to maintain compliance with RTA standards and international regulations.

“Inspections are conducted following strict RTA parameters and international standards, with a primary focus on machinery safety and operator well-being," Khan explained. “If the equipment meets RTA criteria, a pass report is issued. However, issues such as faulty parts, oil leaks, or worn-out/expired tires will result in a failed inspection.”

Read the full article in the latest issue of Technical Review Middle East.

Zenith Technologies drives security innovation in the UAE

The company's AI EagleEye Intelligent Patrol system integrates six AI-powered cameras into a patrol lightbar to deliver 360-degree situational awareness. (Image source: Zenith Technologies)

Zenith Technologies, a UAE-based provider of intelligent security and AI-driven analytics, is partnering with the police in the UAE to create a safer environment.

Zenith Technologies has partnered with prominent regional authorities, including Dubai Police, Ajman Police, and various security agencies across the Middle East, to implement cutting-edge technology that greatly boosts law enforcement capabilities. These collaborations have been vital in elevating security measures throughout the region.

LIDAR technology

The company's AI EagleEye Intelligent Patrol system integrates six AI-powered cameras into a patrol lightbar to deliver 360-degree situational awareness. This advanced platform, incorporating technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and AI-driven LIDAR, has transformed intelligent patrol operations in the region. The AI EagleEye also includes an AI drone embedded within the lightbar, which streams real-time intelligence to police headquarters, enhancing the ability to detect major crimes, traffic offenders, and minor violations with unmatched accuracy.

In 2008, Zenith Technologies introduced the world’s first mobile Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, marking a significant milestone in security technology.

As a key player in the Middle East’s security landscape, Zenith has been responsible for designing and developing numerous surveillance cameras that contribute to public safety across the UAE, including the Downtown Dubai area. This approach highlights Zenith’s ongoing dedication to enhancing security and supporting the UAE’s goal of being recognised as one of the safest countries in the world.

“Zenith Technologies is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in security technology,” said Russell Hammad, founder and CEO of Zenith Technologies.

“Our partnership with Dubai Police and other regional security agencies has allowed us to continuously innovate and deploy advanced solutions that not only enhance public safety but also set a global standard for intelligent policing. We take immense pride in our ability to anticipate the needs of law enforcement agencies and deliver technologies that not only address current challenges but also prepare them for future threats. Our mission is to ensure that the UAE remains a beacon of safety and security, and we are dedicated to providing the tools and technologies necessary to achieve that goal.”

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