More than 900 delegates and 55 exhibitors are attending the three-day event at the Dhahran International Exhibition Center including representatives from Saudi Civil Defense along with municipal and industrial fire protection and security organizations.

Eastern Province Gov. Prince Mohammad bin Fahd inaugurated the conference on Tuesday, which was followed by an impressive display by Saudi Civil Defense personnel.

“Our department is showcasing the latest, cutting-edge protection equipment in the vehicle demonstration area,” said Eastern Province Civil Defense chief Mohammad Abdul Rahman Al-Ghamdi, who noted it was imperative for security organizations to keep up with the latest advancements in technology.

The conference is focusing on protecting the Kingdom’s critical industrial infrastructure, both on and offshore. In different sessions over the next two days speakers also will emphasize the challenges and solutions to health and safety within the oil, gas, petrochemical, water and power industries.

The stakes are high with the Kingdom forecast to procure SR53 billion ($14 billion) worth of security systems and services over the next six years, much of it earmarked for the many additions to the nation’s industrial sector.

“We have about 55 exhibitors that include local companies and companies from the US, Italy, Germany, Egypt, the UAE, China and Ireland,” said Adel Abdul Aziz Al-Oumi Al-Tayar of the Dhahran International Exhibition Center.

“This is the first time that such an event is being held and going by the good response we will make it an annual event.”

Saudi Aramco’s Fire Protection Department will present the latest firefighting technology and training to ensure safer working environments. Control Risks will analyze the real threats from piracy to tanker operators in the region, and the Saudi Railway Organization will discuss the unique challenges to safety presented by the Kingdom’s growing railway infrastructure.