As a consumer, it’s hard enough getting through a normal working day without having to switch apps on your laptop or smartphone.

Even in everyday settings such as restaurants, fragmented digital systems force frontline staff to act as ad hoc tech support, guiding customers through QR codes, apps, and disconnected workflows.

While frustrating, a lack of interoperability in our personal lives is usually just an inconvenience. But for businesses, especially those operating across borders, sectors, and complex technology stacks, the implications are far more severe.

Why interoperability has become the CEO’s problem

Companies today operate in multi-layered digital ecosystems: cloud platforms, payment systems, communications tools, security systems, HR software, and logistics platforms. The list grows each year. For most industries, no single vendor can deliver every best-in-class capability. As a result, organisations source different manufacturers and providers to access the latest innovations.

But without common standards, clear integration pathways, and interoperable design, these choices create fragmentation instead of advantage. Operational inefficiency, data silos, cyber risks, duplicated costs, and friction between systems quickly erode the benefits organisations hope to gain.

Interoperability is no longer a technical feature, a procurement option, or an “if we have budget” consideration. It’s become critical to an organisation’s strategy and long-term success. As we kick off 2026, interoperability is emerging as a defining strategic imperative, one that every C-suite executive, public sector leader, and business owner must prioritise to remain competitive and resilient in a connected world.

From payments to messaging: Why interoperability is the new competitive edge

In today’s digital landscape, we are increasingly seeing brands across industries demonstrating the power of interoperability over exclusivity. PayPal’s introduction of PayPal World, connecting major payment systems like PayPal and Venmo, and Meta’s move to allow third-party messaging within WhatsApp in Europe, both highlight a broader trend. As regulators and consumers push for open systems, even market leaders must embrace collaboration and seamless integration.

This shift is a clear signal to CEOs across sectors that long-term growth lies in fostering open, interoperable ecosystems, both externally and internally.

Government and public services: Digital transformation needs teamwork

Governments worldwide are also leaning in. As highlighted by the 2025 Global Government Forum, digital transformation is increasingly seen as a “team sport,” requiring interoperable shared services and data frameworks to unlock efficiency at scale.

India’s Digi Yatra travel programme, which aims for global interoperability, demonstrates the impact. Efficient, secure, seamless travel requires alignment across airports, airlines, identity platforms, and border systems. Without interoperability, even the best digital service collapses into administrative friction.

Across industries, interoperability is proving to be the invisible engine of innovation. And the message is clear: interoperability enables markets to grow, industries to innovate, and customers to trust.

What this means for security leaders and organisations in the GCC

When it comes to physical security, the stakes are even higher.

Organisations increasingly combine hardware and software from multiple manufacturers to take advantage of the latest advancements in video analytics, access control, sensors, AI-powered threat detection, and cloud-based management. This multi-vendor strategy is not only smart; it is essential for resilience and competitiveness.

In the GCC, where mega-projects, smart cities, and digitally enhanced infrastructure are expanding rapidly, interoperable security ecosystems are foundational to long-term strategic success.

The cost–benefit equation CEOs must understand

The cost of non-interoperability is rarely a single dramatic failure; it is the steady accumulation of inefficiencies that drain value from an organisation.

Conversely, the benefits of interoperability compound over time – faster deployment of new technologies, freedom to choose best-in-class products, lower lifetime system costs, better data visibility and decision-making, reduced security and compliance risk, seamless scaling across markets and geographies.

And when viewed through a five-to-10-year strategic lens, interoperability is likely one of the highest-ROI decisions a CEO can make.

Interoperability is not the future – it’s the baseline

Industry after industry – payments, messaging, healthcare, financial services, public services, consumer electronics – has reached the same conclusion: closed systems slow progress; open systems accelerate it.

CEOs in the GCC now face a pivotal moment. As organisations and governments invest in digital transformation, physical and cyber security, and next-generation infrastructure, interoperability must shift from a technical afterthought to a board-level priority.

Those who embrace it will innovate faster, operate more efficiently, and remain resilient in a rapidly evolving world.

Leaders who deprioritise interoperability risk compounding technical debt, increasing operational rigidity, and missing opportunities for sustainable growth.

Interoperability isn’t just a technology standard. It’s a business strategy, and in my humble opinion, it should be the business ‘word’ of the year.

The writer is the chairman of ONVIF, an open industry forum that provides and promotes standardised interfaces for effective interoperability of IP-based physical security products

Xiaomi’s Middle East playbook is focused on scale, smart ecosystems, and staying close to the consumer. The company has moved decisively beyond being seen as a value-driven smartphone brand, building momentum across wearables, smart living, and AI-powered devices that are increasingly shaping how consumers interact with technology every day. From maintaining a leading position in regional smartphone shipments to deepening its AIoT footprint, Xiaomi is leaning hard into ecosystem thinking, not isolated products.

At the centre of this push is the company’s “Human x Car x Home” strategy, a framework that positions the smartphone as the gateway to a fully connected lifestyle. Add to that expanding retail ambitions, new product categories including large home appliances, and a renewed focus on practical AI, and Xiaomi’s Middle East strategy starts to look deliberate rather than opportunistic.

In this interview, Tommy Yang, general manager for the Middle East at Xiaomi, reflects on performance, priorities, and what it takes to build long-term relevance in one of the world’s fastest-moving consumer tech markets.

How would you describe Xiaomi’s performance in the Middle East over the last two to three years?

In 2024, Xiaomi continued to strengthen its footprint in the Middle East, achieving steady growth across both smartphones and smart AIoT categories. According to Canalys data, Xiaomi ranked second in smartphone shipments across the region in 2024 with a 19 per cent market share, a position we successfully maintained in H1 2025.

Beyond smartphones, Xiaomi’s broader ecosystem has shown strong momentum. In H1 2025, our smart band line ranked number one, our Basic Watch series came in second, and our robot vacuum cleaners ranked third across the Middle East. Meanwhile, product lines such as electric scooters and security cameras have also recorded significant growth, strengthening Xiaomi’s position as a leader in connected living.

This success reflects both the trust of local consumers and our strategic focus on delivering innovation with honest pricing.

What is Xiaomi’s strategy for strengthening its regional presence, and how do you adapt global priorities to local consumer needs?

Xiaomi has built a strong foundation in the Middle East, ranking among the top brands in both smartphones and AIoT products. Our goal is to expand this leadership by bringing more innovative technologies to local consumers.

We plan to introduce large home appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines, offering smarter and more energy-efficient solutions powered by Xiaomi’s AI technology.

At the same time, we are expanding our new retail presence. The Xiaomi Store in Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai, was our first self-operated store in the region. We have since opened our second location at Al Ghurair Centre, and we plan to continue expanding across key GCC markets to deliver better access and service to our users.

The smartphone and AIoT landscapes are evolving rapidly. How do you see the Middle East market developing, and what role is Xiaomi playing in shaping that trajectory?

The global and Middle Eastern smartphone and AIoT industries are indeed undergoing a period of rapid transformation and innovation—from advancements in mobile imaging and AI technology to increasingly sophisticated hardware integration and AI-driven IoT connectivity.

In October 2023, Xiaomi introduced its “Human x Car x Home” full-ecosystem strategy, which continues to guide our innovation roadmap today. This strategy reflects our vision to connect all smart devices, once isolated and serving single scenarios, into one intelligent network powered by AI, the Mi Home app, and smart voice control.

In this new era, the smartphone becomes more than just a communication tool; it is the gateway to an interconnected smart lifestyle. Through this window, Xiaomi enables users to seamlessly explore and control a full range of AIoT products and smart home experiences, bringing technology closer to people and people closer to a smarter way of living.

The Xiaomi 15T Series is positioned as a flagship experience. How does this launch reflect your vision of making cutting-edge technology accessible to Middle Eastern consumers?

The Xiaomi 15T Series represents our vision of bringing flagship innovation to everyone. Co-engineered with Leica, it delivers professional-grade imaging with a 5x telephoto lens and true-to-life colour science, while the new Golden Collection design reflects both elegance and craftsmanship.

Powered by HyperOS 3, it connects seamlessly across Xiaomi’s AIoT ecosystem, from wearables to smart homes. With the 15T Series, we’re giving Middle Eastern consumers access to cutting-edge technology that combines performance, design, and intelligence—all at an honest price.

Xiaomi has been building a connected ecosystem spanning wearables to smart home devices.

How are consumers in this region engaging with that ecosystem, and what comes next?

Xiaomi’s smartphones and AIoT products have always been designed as one unified ecosystem: intelligent, open, and seamlessly connected. Over the past few years, Xiaomi has introduced many of its most advanced innovations from China to the Middle East, bringing cutting-edge technologies into thousands of homes.

Features such as AI obstacle recognition in robot vacuums, next-generation smart fitness tracking algorithms in wearables, and AI-powered detection for fire, pets, and children in security cameras are already enriching the daily lives of regional consumers.

Looking ahead, Xiaomi will continue expanding its product portfolio in the Middle East, including the introduction of large home appliances in the near future. Empowered by Xiaomi’s AI technology, these products will offer smarter energy efficiency and effortless convenience, further enhancing the connected smart home experience for consumers across the region.

AI has become a major differentiator in consumer technology. How is Xiaomi embedding AI into its smartphones and AIoT lineup to enhance usability and everyday experiences?

AI is at the core of Xiaomi’s innovation. With HyperAI, we’re creating a seamless intelligent experience that connects smartphones, wearables, and smart home devices under one system. Features like AI Writing, Circle to Search, and AI Interpreter make daily interactions smarter and more intuitive, while HyperConnect ensures all devices collaborate smoothly within the Xiaomi ecosystem.

In June 2025, Xiaomi also introduced AI Glasses in China, an exciting step into wearable AI. They redefine how users interact with technology, enabling real-time translation, voice assistance, and visual recognition in a lightweight, stylish design. Together, these innovations show how the company is turning AI into a meaningful part of everyday life.

Xiaomi’s philosophy is “Innovation for Everyone”. How does this principle guide your operations in the region?

Innovation for Everyone is not just a slogan; it’s how we operate. In the Middle East, this means bringing flagship-level technology to real users, not just elites. For example, with the 15T Series we co-engineered with Leica, we deliver high-end imaging with 5x telephoto and advanced colour science, alongside elegant design through our Golden Collection, to everyday consumers.

We also recently launched large home appliances globally, stepping into air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines to complete our intelligent home vision.

In the Middle East, we established our first Xiaomi self-operated store in Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai, in October last year, followed by the recent opening of a store at Al Ghurair Centre this week. We plan to open more stores across key markets so consumers can directly experience the full Xiaomi ecosystem, from phones to AIoT to smart appliances.

This is what “Innovation for Everyone” means here: advanced technology, transparent pricing, and a unified user experience, making the extraordinary accessible.

Looking ahead, what are your top priorities for the company in the Middle East?

First, we remain committed to expanding our “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem, creating seamless smart experiences that combine mobility, entertainment, and intelligent living. We will continue to deliver more and better products across smartphones, AIoT, and smart appliances to meet evolving consumer needs. Looking ahead,

Second, expand our physical footprint to bring Xiaomi closer to users.

And above all, we want to build a bond with our users and fans and be the “coolest” company in their hearts, building trust, loyalty, and a brand people truly love.

As the security industry shifts from passive surveillance to intelligent, data-driven systems, Axis Communications is positioning itself at the centre of that transformation.

On the sidelines of Intersec Dubai 2026, Loubna Imenchal, MD for the Middle East, Turkey, Central Asia and Africa, discusses how the sector is evolving, what’s driving growth across the region, and why interoperability, edge intelligence and long-term system resilience are now non-negotiable.

What are you showcasing at Intersec?

At Intersec Dubai 2026, Axis Communications is showcasing how network video and sensing technologies are evolving into intelligent systems that support both security and operational decision-making.

At our stand, visitors will see the latest Axis solutions for smart traffic, stadiums and arenas, and critical infrastructure, including thermal cameras, radar technology and fusion cameras. These solutions are designed for complex environments where accuracy, reliability and fast response are essential.

We are also highlighting our expanding IP audio portfolio, including display speakers and cloud-based audio solutions, as well as our growing IoT offering, such as air quality sensors.

These smart devices demonstrate how security infrastructure can also generate valuable data that supports dashboards, analytics and more informed, real-time decisions.

What is the anticipated growth of the security industry in 2026?

The security and video surveillance market continues to grow at a strong pace globally, with the broader ecosystem expanding at an estimated 10–12 per cent CAGR through the late 2020s.

In the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) region, growth is expected to outpace global averages, driven by long-term national visions extending toward 2035–2040.

Large-scale investments in smart cities, transportation, tourism and critical infrastructure are accelerating demand for intelligent, network-based and AI-enabled security systems.

Importantly, growth is shifting toward higher-value segments. Advanced surveillance solutions that combine analytics, edge processing and multiple sensor types are growing faster than traditional CCTV, reflecting a regional focus on security systems that deliver operational insight and long-term value, not just video footage.

What trends will dominate the sector this year?

Several trends are shaping the security sector in 2026. The most significant is the move away from standalone surveillance towards intelligent systems that support both security and day-to-day operations. One example of this shift is the move towards connected ecosystems rather than individual products.

Customers want solutions that work well together, are easier to manage across large environments and can grow over time. This is especially important in complex settings where systems are expected to stay in place for many years and adapt as needs change.

Another key trend is the move towards smarter processing at the edge. More analysis is happening directly in cameras and sensors, with cloud and central systems used where they add value. This allows faster response, more reliable operation and less dependence on central infrastructure.

There is also increasing demand for mobile and temporary security solutions. Better connectivity, lower power use and more capable analytics are making it easier to deploy security quickly in places where permanent infrastructure is not practical, such as construction sites, temporary venues or fast-changing environments.

Finally, there is a growing focus on technology ownership and control. Vendors are investing more in their core platforms to ensure long-term performance, built-in cybersecurity and the ability to improve systems through software updates rather than frequent hardware replacement.

Together, these trends point to a security sector that is becoming more intelligent, flexible and future-ready, where long-term value is just as important as detection capability.

What are some best practices to stay ahead of security attacks?

Staying ahead of security threats starts with choosing technology that is designed to be secure by default. This includes devices with built-in cybersecurity, secure hardware foundations, regular firmware updates and strong access control.

As security systems become more connected, protecting devices at the hardware level and managing encryption keys securely is just as important as software security.

Equally important is working with vendors that provide long-term support. Threats evolve, and security systems must be updated and adapted over time to remain effective, rather than replaced entirely.

What are your projected growth plans this year?

While Asia Pacific continues to lead globally in absolute scale and total installations, the META region is among the fastest-growing markets in percentage terms, driven by long-term structural investments rather than short-term demand.

In the Middle East, double-digit growth is being fuelled by mega-projects, smart city initiatives, national digital transformation programs and strong adoption of AI-enabled, analytics-driven cameras across sectors such as airports, critical infrastructure, retail and hospitality.

Markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are rapidly shifting from traditional CCTV to intelligent, network-based systems. Turkey is emerging as a high-growth convergence market, driven by modernisation of infrastructure, transportation and industrial security, alongside growing demand for scalable IP and AI-ready solutions.

Africa represents a strong long-term opportunity, with urbanisation and population growth accelerating adoption in transport, city surveillance, utilities and critical infrastructure. Many deployments are leapfrogging directly to IP-based and edge-enabled systems.

Overall, META stands out globally for its growth velocity and transition toward intelligent, insight-driven security systems, positioning it as one of the most strategically important regions for security cameras over the next five years.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai is set to roll out a new pilot initiative focused on school transport pooling during the first quarter of 2026.

The program aims to enhance daily mobility for students while advancing Dubai’s vision for a smart and sustainable transport system. The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with Yango Group and Urban Express Transport. The announcement follows the signing of two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between RTA and the two companies, Dubai Media Office reported.

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Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency, signed on behalf of RTA. Islam Abdul Karim, regional head of Yango Group, and Dr Mohammad Al Hashimi, founder and CEO of Urban Express Transport, signed on behalf of their respective companies.

Addressing growing traffic challenges around schools

Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan highlighted the motivation behind the initiative: “In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of private vehicles used to transport students, which directly affects traffic flow around school zones. Through this initiative, RTA aims to offer an alternative school transport solution at affordable rates, helping to improve traffic movement and deliver a more efficient daily mobility experience.”

He emphasised that the pilot will adhere to the highest safety and security standards for school transport and will fully comply with Dubai’s regulatory and legislative frameworks. “The initiative will incorporate smart technological solutions for trip management, vehicle tracking, and operational monitoring, ensuring efficiency and service quality for parents and students alike,” Bahrozyan added.

Pooling buses to boost efficiency

The pilot program involves operating shared buses that serve multiple schools within defined geographic zones. This approach is expected to accelerate student arrivals and reduce congestion around schools. Bahrozyan noted that the initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader strategic objectives, including digital transformation and environmental sustainability.

“The initiative aims to explore innovative school transport models based on pooling, supporting better vehicle utilisation, reducing traffic congestion during peak hours, and raising safety and quality standards in student transport services,” he said. “It represents a step change in developing new models for school transport in Dubai. The pilot will allow us to assess outcomes, measure operational and societal impact, and explore the potential for a wider rollout in the future, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in smart mobility solutions.”

Private partners bring data-driven innovation

Islam Abdul Karim of Yango Group highlighted the operational advantages of the partnership: “School transport is one of the most complex and congested daily mobility challenges in any city, sitting at the intersection of safety, efficiency, cost, and family routines. Through this pilot with RTA, we are introducing a data-driven school transport pooling model that groups students traveling along similar routes into shared buses operating on optimised schedules.”

He added that the initiative will improve route planning, vehicle utilisation, and real-time oversight, reducing peak-hour traffic and enhancing service reliability. “Our goal is to provide a safer, more affordable, and convenient experience for families,” Karim said.

Dr Mohammad Al Hashimi, founder & CEO of Urban Express Transport, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “Urban Express Transport is proud to support this strategic school transport optimization project. By leveraging innovative approaches such as school bus pooling and flexible services, the initiative aims to reduce congestion, improve bus utilisation, and enhance the daily travel experience for students. It aligns perfectly with Dubai’s long-term transport vision, delivering safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective mobility solutions.”

The pilot program represents a significant step toward transforming school transport in Dubai, combining technology, sustainability, and operational efficiency to create smarter, safer, and more convenient travel for students and families alike.

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) in UAE has officially launched the Federal Government Real Estate Assets Platform, a centralised digital system aimed at documenting, managing, and continuously updating data on federal real estate assets in line with the highest standards of transparency and operational efficiency.

The launch marks a key milestone in the government’s broader digital transformation agenda, reinforcing efforts to modernise public asset management and enhance data-driven decision-making across federal entities, a WAM report said.

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The launch event was attended by Younis Haji AlKhoori, undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Mariam Mohamed Al Amiri, assistant undersecretary for the Government Financial Management Sector at the ministry. The event also brought together representatives from federal entities, government officials, and specialists in asset management and digital technologies.

As part of the programme, the event featured a panel discussion exploring the role of artificial intelligence in government asset management, alongside an interactive presentation that offered a live demonstration of the platform’s technical features and operational capabilities.

Regulatory compliance and strategic alignment

The platform was launched in compliance with Article 18 of Federal Decree-Law No. (35) of 2023 concerning Union-Owned Properties. The legislation mandates the Ministry of Finance to establish an electronic registry for federal real estate assets, ensuring unified documentation and governance at the federal level.

AlKhoori emphasised that the platform reflects the ministry’s commitment to the full digital transformation of government resource and asset management. He noted that the initiative aligns with the leadership’s vision of promoting excellence across all sectors by enhancing operational efficiency, rationalising expenditure, and automating procedures.

Enhancing governance and decision-making

According to AlKhoori, the platform is expected to deliver a paradigm shift in the organisation, governance, and management of federal real estate assets. By providing accurate, up-to-date, and reliable data, the system strengthens transparency and supports informed policymaking and strategic planning related to federal properties.

Al Amiri highlighted the platform’s role in unifying federal real estate asset data and improving its quality, while linking it to relevant financial and operational processes. She said this integration will enable faster access to information and improve efficiency in planning and expenditure across federal entities.

She added that the platform has been designed to be practical and easy to use, allowing entities to register and update asset data under unified classifications, manage leasable spaces, and process requests through automated procedures that reduce time and effort while reinforcing transparency and governance.

The platform provides federal entities with a strategic tool to register, monitor, and manage real estate assets through a structured and methodical approach. Its intuitive workflow simplifies classification and review processes while offering a comprehensive suite of digital services that enhance operational efficiency.

The launch represents a significant step toward building an integrated federal asset management system, reinforcing the UAE’s global leadership in public financial management and supporting its vision for a more sustainable and innovative government sector.