Reflecting the safety and security concerns around the region and showcasing the latest trends and developments in combating crime, tackling terror, policing, emergency response and rescue, Intersec 2012 began its three-day run at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre on Sunday 15 January 2012.

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec enjoys the support and cooperation of UAE Civil Defense, Dubai Police and Dubai Police Academy as well as recognition from security agencies and authorities across the region.

Inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor, who toured the exhibition accompanied by a delegation of senior government and corporate leaders, Intersec is expected to draw much attention from trade buyers, decision makers and security and rescue agencies from around the region.

Ahmed Pauwels, Chief Executive Officer of German trade fair Organizer Epoc Messe Frankfurt, said: "The event brings together international experts and suppliers with regional influencers and buyers and thus plays a significant role in shaping the safety and security industries in the region."

Key areas of interest in Intersec 2012 are Commercial and IT Security, easily the largest segment with over 500 exhibitors. Concerns about the increasing sophistication of criminals as well as the increase in cyber crime are driving interest in effective counter measures and tactics.

Homeland Security is another key growth area at the event and this is reflected in the segment having a dedicated hall to cater more effectively to growing demand from the region. Interesting developments in this area includes armored vehicle manufacturers Streit Group announcing the launch of a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ras Al Khaimah. At 28,000 sq.m. this will be the world's largest manufacturing facility for armored vehicles and will include the production from design through to final product of four of Streit Group's armored vehicles.

Other particular areas of interest include biometric security, developments in forensic facilities, fire and rescue equipment and tactics as well as perimeter and remote surveillance.

With 907 exhibitors participating at the event, Intersec 2012 is nearly 15% bigger than last year and is the largest since its inception 14 years ago.

The Intersec Conference program also kicked off on the opening day with the Maritime Security Conference, discussing the threats and developments that are increasingly affecting the industry. Well received by the regional safety and security community, the next two days will feature the Commercial Security Summit and a Fire Systems Integrity Assurance workshop.

Taking place for the first time, the 1st Global Network Conference for Emergency Medicine is enjoying wide participation from emergency medicine professionals in the region. The conference is endorsed by the European Society for Emergency Medicine (EuSEM) and is designed to be a networking platform for emergency medicine professionals, offering academic and scientific exchange opportunities for those engaged in all aspects of emergency medical care and disaster planning, as well as those involved in training of emergency medical staff.

Also receiving a great deal of attention from trade visitors and guests alike was the Outdoor Demo area which saw elite units stage demos of tactical rescues and close combat operations covering various aspects of counter-terror tactics.

The UAE International FireFit Championship has drawn more than 100 participants from the cream of professional fire fighting & emergency rescue teams in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and America. Teams will be tested in skills and tactics over the 3 days of the show.