Key Highlights

As generative AI transforms the world of surveillance — from smarter video analytics to the alarming rise of deepfakes — the need for digital trust has never been greater. In this exclusive interview, Leo Levit, chairman of ONVIF, discusses how the security industry is responding to these disruptive changes, the role of international standards in preserving the authenticity of video evidence, and why collaboration across stakeholders is critical to navigating this evolving landscape.

Since its establishment in 2008, ONVIF has played a pivotal role in creating global standards for the interoperability of IP-based physical security products. With more than 500 members worldwide and over 25,000 conformant products, the organisation continues to set the benchmark for trusted and secure video surveillance systems. Now, as the world grapples with AI-driven manipulation and increasingly complex surveillance networks, ONVIF’s mission has never been more vital.

1. How is the rise of generative AI reshaping the global security and surveillance industry, and what key trends are emerging in response to the technology’s growing influence?

The integration of generative AI into the security and surveillance industry is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it enhances capabilities, enabling more efficient video analytics, such as behaviour detection, crowd formation, or object tracking, as well as predictive surveillance geared towards crime prevention. On the other hand, it introduces new risks, for example in the form of manipulated video, fake identities, and misinformation. The rapid development of AI-generated content is pushing the industry to evolve frameworks that can quickly distinguish between authentic and altered footage.

One of the most notable trends is the increasing demand for video authentication and digital watermarking to verify the integrity of footage and its production source. This is especially important for evidence management.

Another trend is greater collaboration between camera manufacturers, software providers, and standards bodies to develop safeguards that work across systems and regions. AI is not only reshaping how surveillance is conducted—it is changing our trust in video authenticity, a cornerstone of the security industry.

2. With deepfake technology becoming more accessible, how are businesses and governments adjusting their security frameworks to protect against digital manipulation and fraud?

Governments and organisations are increasingly prioritising video verification methods in their security protocols. This includes implementing camera tampering detection, encrypting video files, and integrating secure-by-design principles to protect footage from the moment of capture to the moment it’s viewed—whether by police, the courts, or private entities.

At ONVIF, we are developing a method called media signing, which proves that a video has not been altered since it left the camera sensor that captured it. Securing the video at its source is key to ensuring its authenticity.

In forward-thinking regions like the UAE and the wider GCC — where smart cities and AI surveillance are strategic priorities—deepfakes are increasingly seen as a national security issue.

Governments are evolving frameworks that mandate authenticity, auditability, and transparency. The Dubai Police’s move toward zone-based security exemplifies how surveillance is becoming more proactive and technologically sophisticated. But as more data enters the system, ensuring that the footage is real becomes as important as detecting threats.

3. What role do you see international standards organisations like ONVIF playing in ensuring digital trust and interoperability in an increasingly AI-driven surveillance ecosystem?

We play a critical role in safeguarding the integrity and interoperability of security systems in an era of rapid AI evolution. As a global and open industry forum, ONVIF was created to standardise communication between IP-based physical security products, enabling devices and software from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. Today, ONVIF has become the de facto standard for interoperability in surveillance, with our products used by governments, businesses, and institutions worldwide.

As generative AI becomes more embedded in video and analytics workflows, maintaining trust in the output of surveillance systems is more important than ever. Our standardised interfaces support this by enabling secure and consistent data exchange across platforms—an essential feature when building systems that rely on AI to detect and respond to events.

Moreover, ONVIF’s work on standardising video authentication tools — such as media signing — will allow law enforcement and legal professionals to verify whether video footage has been tampered with, regardless of the device manufacturer. It’s not just about compatibility — it’s about building trust into every layer of the surveillance and security infrastructure.

4. As public scepticism around digital evidence increases, what innovations or best practices are emerging to help restore trust in video as a reliable source for legal, corporate, and security decisions?

That’s a great question. Distrust in video evidence can lead to concerns about reasonable doubt in legal and corporate settings. If AI manipulation undermines the current legal precedents around video admissibility, courts may be forced to redefine what qualifies as valid evidence. This could mean excluding footage where authentication can’t be proven.

Restoring trust hinges on two pillars: transparency and traceability. Innovations such as encrypted digital signatures and embedded forensic watermarking are gaining traction across public and private sectors. These tools help verify when, where, and how a video was captured — and crucially — whether it has been tampered with.

The Presidential Court in UAE has announced the official sighting of the crescent moon, marking the beginning of the month of Dhu Al Hijjah for the Hijri year 1446. Accordingly, Wednesday, 28 May 2025, will be the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah.

Consequently, Friday, June 6, 2025, corresponding to 10 Dhu Al Hijjah, will be the first day of Eid Al Adha, a WAM report said.

“On this occasion, we extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the Supreme Council members and rulers of the emirates; Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court; the people of the UAE; and the entire world. We pray to Almighty Allah to return this occasion upon our beloved nation and all people with blessings, prosperity, and joy,” the Presidential Court said in a statement.

The UAE Council for Fatwa convened on Tuesday, 29 Dhul-Qa’dah 1446 AH, corresponding to May 27, 2025, at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, to determine the sighting of the Dhu Al Hijjah moon. This meeting is part of the council’s national duties and responsibilities.

The session was chaired by Shaykh Abdullah bin Al Shaykh Al Mahfouz bin Bayyah, Chairman of the UAE Council for Fatwa. Attendees included Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Vice Chairman of the Council, along with other members who are experts in Islamic jurisprudence, legal studies, and astronomy.

Ascot Racecourse has today announced a landmark partnership with BEYOND Developments, a pioneering real estate brand born in Dubai. The collaboration sees BEYOND become the Official Real Estate Partner of Ascot and Royal Ascot across all 26 race days, including the globally renowned Royal Ascot in June. This partnership represents a convergence of legacies – on one side, the enduring heritage of Ascot, a symbol of British tradition; on the other, BEYOND, established in Dubai, a city where the love for horses runs deep and equestrianism is an integral part of its cultural fabric.

“We are thrilled to welcome BEYOND as an Official Partner. It’s very much a natural fit for both brands, with our focus on quality and luxury. We’re excited to work with BEYOND across our global network and on our race days throughout the year, and I’m sure that racegoers will be impressed by their activation at Royal Ascot,” Felicity Barnard, CEO, Ascot Racecourse, said.

“It is an honour to join the Ascot family as an Official Partner. This collaboration represents our commitment to connecting cultures through vision, heritage, and thoughtfulness. Horses have long symbolised grace, strength, and forward motion, values deeply embedded in the culture of the UAE, and echoed in how we approach progress and bold expression. In many ways, this partnership is a reflection of shared ideals shaped by legacy and driven by purpose,” Adil Taqi, Chief Executive Officer of BEYOND Developments, added.

Guided by Dubai’s bold vision and shaped by commitment to exceptional waterfront living, BEYOND, brings a fresh perspective to Ascot, one that blends refined design with a lifestyle shaped by clarity, creativity, and connection to place. At Royal Ascot 2025, BEYOND will offer racegoers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of modern living in the UAE, where coastline, lifestyle experiences, human connections, innovation, modern architecture, nature and community come together in harmony.

BEYOND, a new venture under the OMNIYAT Group, represents the next evolution in Dubai’s real estate landscape, committed to creating spaces that go beyond living, offering experiences that inspire, connect, and elevate the everyday.

Royal Ascot 2025, taking place from Tuesday, June 17 to Saturday June 21, remains one of the most anticipated events on the international racing and social calendar, welcoming over 300,000 racegoers and reaching a global audience of more than 650 million households. A true celebration of heritage, ceremony, and tradition on a world stage.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health, Fahad Al-Jalajel, announced on Monday that no epidemic cases have been detected among pilgrims during the ongoing Hajj season, affirming that there is no risk of disease outbreaks.

“We are pleased to announce that no epidemic cases have been detected so far and there is no risk for outbreak of diseases. The health and safety of pilgrims remain our highest priority,” Al-Jalajel stated during a press conference in Riyadh.

The kingdom’s extensive preparedness for Hajj 2025 has been guided by the directives of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, involving close cooperation across public, private, and non-governmental sectors.

Health authorities began Hajj readiness months in advance, conducting global health risk assessments for diseases such as yellow fever, polio, and meningitis.

These efforts led to the implementation of strict health entry requirements and the introduction of new “health capability” criteria to ensure pilgrims are medically fit to perform the rituals safely.

Medical services already in place to support Hajj pilgrims

Since the arrival of the first flight under the Makkah Route Initiative, health teams have been stationed at 14 entry points across land, air, and sea to provide immediate medical services.

To date, over 50,000 healthcare services have been delivered, including 140 surgeries, 65 cardiac catheterisations, and six open-heart procedures.

To bolster emergency response capabilities, the Ministry of Health has activated 11 medical evacuation aircraft, 900 ambulances, and 71 new emergency points, with more than 7,500 paramedics deployed on the ground.

In anticipation of extreme heat conditions, the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites has planted over 10,000 trees, expanded shaded walkways, and installed 400 water stations and mist fans.

The ministry has also significantly enhanced health infrastructure at the holy sites. Bed capacity has increased by 60 per cent compared to last year, with a new emergency hospital featuring 200 beds inaugurated in Mina. Additionally, three field hospitals totalling more than 1,200 beds have been deployed in collaboration with the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and National Guard.

This year marks the highest-ever private sector involvement in Hajj healthcare, with three major private hospitals operating in the holy sites.

Advanced digital solutions are being utilised, including smart monitoring devices for high-risk pilgrims connected to Seha Virtual Hospital — recognised as the world’s largest virtual hospital — and telemedicine services for remote consultations.

Over 50,000 healthcare and technical professionals are working with full readiness to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims.

Al-Jalajel urged pilgrims to remain vigilant: “You are the most important part of Hajj. Your awareness, prevention, and responsibility matter. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged walking and overcrowded areas, wear your mask, use an umbrella, and follow movement instructions. If you feel unwell, seek help immediately. We are always by your side.”

He emphasised that “awareness, prevention, and responsibility are not only personal choices — but religious and humanitarian obligations to protect the health and safety of all pilgrims.”

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia has launched a new “CV Upload” service for domestic workers through the Musaned platform.

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According to a Saudi Gazette report, this service allows employers to utilize the platform when transferring a worker’s services to a new employer.

Advantages of the service

The ministry explained that the service is an innovative model aimed at facilitating the selection of domestic workers based on their résumés and enabling a smoother, more efficient transfer of services. The process is fully automated, improving employers’ access to workers already residing in the country.

Through Musaned, domestic workers can upload their CVs once their contracts with their current employers end. These CVs include information such as job titles and prior experience, allowing prospective employers to search for and select candidates based on relevant skills and job requirements. This initiative also aims to protect the rights of both workers and employers.

The service is part of the ministry’s broader effort to develop the recruitment sector in Saudi Arabia. It follows a series of initiatives designed to safeguard the rights of all parties in the contractual relationship, including the Wages Protection Program for domestic workers, mandatory insurance, and the Unified Contract Program, which clearly defines the rights and obligations of both parties.

Rights and protections for domestic workers

Under Saudi law, the following practices are strictly prohibited:

• Employing a domestic worker under the age of 21.

• Assigning a worker to tasks not specified in their contract or making them work for another employer.

• Discriminating against workers based on race, color, sex, religion, nationality, social or national origin, or disability.

• Engaging in any form of sexual harassment, verbal or physical.

• Subjecting workers to forced labor or any form of human trafficking.

• Causing physical harm to the worker.

• Violating the dignity of migrant workers.

Obligations of Recruitment Offices in Saudi Arabia

Recruitment companies and domestic worker recruitment offices must adhere to the following responsibilities, as outlined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development:

• Inform workers of the nature of the job and their expected pay.

• Provide proof of the worker’s health, psychological, and professional fitness.

• Conduct medical examinations within 30 days prior to the worker’s entry into Saudi Arabia.

• Educate workers on Saudi customs, traditions, and public morals.

• Provide temporary housing and basic sustenance upon arrival until workers are handed over to employers.

• Offer proper housing and support in cases where workers refuse or are unable to work.

• Treat workers with dignity and avoid any form of violence.

• Inform workers about the appropriate authorities to contact in case of rights violations.

• Neither the office nor any third party may solicit or accept commissions or fees from domestic workers in exchange for securing employment.

• Conclude contracts with employers through mechanisms approved by the ministry. Contracts must include the employer’s specifications and conditions for the recruited worker.