Gustavo Gassmann, VP of Emerging Markets for Physical Access Control Systems at HID explains that the company will showcase MP Controllers, HID Signo Readers, and Mobile Access technologies among others at Intersec 2024 in line with Vision 2030 supporting Saudi Arabia’s sustainability and digital transformation efforts.
What are HID’s main objectives for participating in Intersec 2024? How does this event align with your strategy for growth in Saudi Arabia?
Our participation in Intersec Saudi is to demonstrate our continued commitment to Saudi Arabia through strategic investments, talent acquisition, technology innovation and expanding our ecosystem. Intersec aligns with our growth strategy by connecting us with key partners and clients, enabling us to showcase solutions tailored to the region’s security needs.
Could you highlight the key innovations and product demonstrations HID plans to showcase at Intersec 2024? What can attendees expect to learn from your exhibit?
From the HID booth 1-B24, we will showcase innovations like the next-generation MP Controllers, HID Signo Readers in white, HID Mobile Access Technology, and Employee Badge Integration with Apple Wallet. Attendees will learn how our solutions deliver enhanced security and flexibility, offering seamless mobile-first access control and digital badge integration.
How is HID adapting its solutions to meet the unique security and access control needs of the Saudi market? Are there any specific challenges or opportunities you’re targeting?
We understand the Saudi market’s needs and thereby we’re offering scalable, secure solutions like MP Controllers and Mobile Access, specifically designed to meet regulatory, operational, and environmental challenges. We’re targeting opportunities in smart cities, government projects, and large-scale enterprises.
Is HID taking any steps toward sustainability in your product offerings? How do your solutions contribute to more eco-friendly, sustainable access control systems, especially in large-scale implementations in Saudi Arabia?
We’re committed to sustainability by offering mobile-first solutions that reduce reliance on physical access cards. Our innovations, like HID Mobile Access and energy-efficient readers, contribute to more sustainable access control, ideal for large-scale implementations in Saudi Arabia.
Last year, we also launched Seos Bamboo cards that are made from sustainably sourced bamboo instead of PVC. They are designed to be an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic cards and badges, while still providing the same level of security.
How is HID aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, particularly around digital transformation and the push for smart cities? Can you share any examples of your contributions to projects in the country?
HID supports Vision 2030 by providing solutions for digital transformation, smart cities, and secure access management. We’re continuously working with customers and partners to contribute to the Kingdom’s shift toward a more connected and secure digital future. One such item is our Mobile offering, which includes Apple Wallet – enabling your smartphone or watch to be your digital credential.
With increasing concerns about cybersecurity in access control systems, how is HID ensuring its products, such as mobile access solutions, are secure from potential threats?
HID employs cutting-edge cybersecurity measures like secure boot processes and vulnerability scanning in our solutions. This ensures our products are resilient against potential cyber threats, providing secure and compliant access control for sensitive environments. In addition, through multi-layer security, including the development of the global OSDP standard for access control, we are able to continue to be at the forefront of encryption security between devices.
Beyond Intersec 2024, what are HID’s longer-term plans for the Middle Eastern market? Are there any upcoming innovations or partnerships that we should be looking forward to?
We will continue to deepen our presence in the Middle East by expanding our channel ecosystem and partnerships. We aim to introduce further innovations in mobile access and digital security solutions, aligned with the region’s growing demand for secure, scalable, and future-ready technologies. A key part of this is also expanding our integration partner network in the Kingdom, to also drive knowledge-transfer and Saudi-developed solutions.