A Middle East security innovation implemented at last month’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 could be the future of public security at major events to ensure easier and more efficient travel as well as a safer, problem-free visa process, according to Helmut Spahn, FIFA’s Director of Safety, Security, and Access.

The digital Hayya Card was implemented in place of an entry permit throughout the month-long world football showpiece in Qatar, providing authorities with key security data, including fans’ travel and accommodation plans and ensuring every spectator was accounted for.

Addressing a high-powered Security Leaders’ Summit on the opening day of Intersec 2023, which runs at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) until Jan.19, Spahn discussed the key takeaways of last month’s tournament and the lessons that can be implemented in at major events, including the next World Cup in 2026, which spans three countries across North America, in US, Canada and Mexico.

“This was my fifth World Cup and each one is unique,” said Spahn. “At the end of the day, it’s all about teamwork, stakeholder engagement, and preparation. The 2026 event will be different as we go from hosting in one city to hosting across an entire continent, so, from an organisational point of view, there is not so much we can take away.

“We did have a couple of security features like the Hayya Card, which was a replacement for visas and made travel really easier, so maybe that is something we can also introduce in Canada, Mexico, and the US. It will be difficult, we know the political situation – especially at the border between Mexico and the United States – but sports can be a driver and change things.”

Elsewhere at Intersec 2023, which has brought together more than 1,000 exhibitors from 55 countries, The BRE Group, which delivers rigorous services, standards, and qualifications, ran its first day of the Attack Zone, demonstrating to captivated delegates the resistance assessments it carries out before its Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), awards internationally recognised security ratings to companies offering security solutions.

It is the first time the BRE Group has performed live demos at the world’s leading trade fair for safety, security, and fire protection in Dubai.

Working behind a Perspex screen and faced with two standalone Assa Abloy steel doors – one uncertified; one certified – a BRE tester used a series of tools, from hammers and hacksaws to crowbars and axes, to attempt to open each.

The tester broke through the uncertified door within minutes, smashing the lock as well as forcefully removing the hinges with a screwdriver. Moving to the certified door, several additional security elements were highlighted as the tester struggled to gain access.

“Live Attack Testing is the No1 attraction at security shows worldwide and for us Intersec is, certainly by size, the biggest show in the world. It pulls from Africa, Middle East, the Gulf region, Russia and of course India, so it puts us in front of a huge market,” said Richard Flint, Technical and Business Development Manager, Physical Security, at BRE Group.