Physical security market to embrace cloud and hybrid solutions

For over 25 years, Genetec, a global technology company, has been at the forefront of revolutionising the physical security industry.

Recently, AI-driven analytics and automation are fundamentally reshaping security operations, signalling a transformative future for the video surveillance industry. We spoke to Firas Jadalla, Regional Director – Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Genetec, who shed further light on the future of the industry and the latest findings from the company’s 2024 State of Physical Security Report.

1. How has the demand for video surveillance products changed in recent years, and what trends do you foresee in the near future?

The demand for video surveillance products in the Middle East has witnessed a significant uptick, driven by a growing emphasis on security and the rapid adoption of smart city initiatives. As urbanization and infrastructure development surge, there’s an increased need for advanced video surveillance solutions to safeguard public spaces and critical infrastructure. Additionally, the integration of video analytics and AI-driven capabilities has become more prevalent, enhancing the overall effectiveness of surveillance systems.

Looking ahead, the market is likely to see a continued focus on technological advancements, with a surge in demand for high-resolution cameras, intelligent video analytics, and cloud-based solutions. In fact, our 2024 State of Physical Security Report[i], a study based on insights from over 5,500 physical security leaders worldwide (including end users and channel partners), revealed that physical security market is rapidly embracing cloud and hybrid solutions.

Privacy concerns is another area that is expected to influence the adoption of privacy-centric technologies, striking a balance between security and individual rights. The convergence of video surveillance with other smart city components, such as access control and IoT devices, will likely be a key trend, fostering more holistic and integrated security ecosystems.

2. What makes your cybersecurity approach stand out in a market like the UAE?  

The UAE’s strategic role as a global business hub highlights the crucial need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect businesses, government entities, and individuals from today’s fast-evolving cyber threats. With a rapidly advancing digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive data, critical infrastructure, and personal information has become imperative. As the country continues its digital transformation journey, a proactive approach to cybersecurity is vital for ensuring digital assets’ integrity, confidentiality, and availability.

Recognising the paramount importance of cybersecurity, at Genetec, we prioritise safeguarding our customers’ physical security systems from potential vulnerabilities. Our distinctive edge lies in the utilisation of the advanced Genetec Security Centre platform, a robust solution designed to fortify devices against potential cyber threats. This platform unifies diverse security systems and data into a single interface, ensuring genuine integration and streamlined operations. Our commitment extends to maintaining the resilience of our systems through robust encryption protocols, regular software updates, and diligent provision of patches to address emerging security risks.

Furthermore, our cybersecurity strategy encompasses best practices for network segmentation, access control, and authentication. By adhering to industry standards and collaborating with cybersecurity experts, we ensure that our solutions remain at the forefront of resilience against cyber threats. This holistic approach provides our clients with the confidence that their critical security infrastructure is not only secure but also well-protected against the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity challenges.

3. Security and privacy concerns are paramount in the video surveillance industry. How does your company address these concerns, and what measures do you take to ensure data protection and user privacy?

At Genetec, we firmly believe that security and privacy are not mutually exclusive. Our approach centers on responsible data gathering and management, especially in the realm of video surveillance, all while ensuring compliance with global privacy laws. Privacy by Design principles guide our innovative development, embedding privacy into our products from code inception to third-party integrations. One prime example is KiwiVision™ Privacy Protector™, seamlessly integrated into our Genetec™ Security Center platform. This tool automatically obscures individuals within a camera’s view, safeguarding their identity and ensuring security operators only access pertinent information. To further uphold privacy, our solutions align with international standards like GDPR, CCPA, PIPEDA, and LGPD. Our commitment extends to data integrity, restricting access to authorized users and empowering end-users to configure systems to their privacy preferences. Just as a homeowner controls access to their residence, we, as software manufacturers, share the responsibility of providing robust tools that prioritise privacy without compromising security. Our holistic approach places user control at the forefront, offering a transparent and configurable system that respects individuals’ privacy rights while ensuring optimal security measures.

4. How do you customise your security solutions to meet the unique challenges and requirements of businesses in the UAE? 

Customizing security solutions for businesses in the UAE is a collaborative process that hinges on understanding each customer’s unique needs. With many enterprise clients having sophisticated requirements, we closely collaborate to develop tailored features within our products. Recognizing that security teams often underutilize their systems, we address the consumption gap by working with systems integrators. Beyond initial deployment, we assist in bridging this gap through training plans, ensuring customers maximize the full potential of their security investments. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of current systems but also creates opportunities for future growth and expansion of services, fostering long-term customer satisfaction and engagement.

5. How do you envision the future of video surveillance technology, and what new developments can we expect from Genetec in the coming months?

The future of video surveillance is poised for transformative advancements, and at Genetec, we’re at the forefront of pioneering innovations. We foresee a landscape where AI-driven analytics and automation redefine security operations, enhancing both efficiency and effectiveness. Genetec is committed to pushing these boundaries, introducing cutting-edge developments in the coming months.

As we navigate the dynamic landscape of security technology, Genetec is poised to introduce solutions that not only meet the challenges of today but also anticipate the needs of tomorrow, setting new benchmarks for the industry. Stay tuned for a future where video surveillance is not just a tool but a strategic asset in ensuring the safety and security of communities and organisations.

[i] https://www.genetec.com/a/physical-security-report