Genetec Releases Saudi Arabia Findings From 2026 State of Physical Security Report

Genetec Inc. has published its Saudi Arabia findings from the 2026 State of Physical Security Report, showing that organizations in the Kingdom are leading the EMEA region in cloud adoption and security investment, while accelerating modernization of physical security infrastructure.

The findings are based on responses from more than 150 physical security professionals in Saudi Arabia and form part of a global study covering over 7,300 industry participants.

Saudi Arabia Leads EMEA in Cloud Security Adoption

According to the report, Saudi organizations have the highest proportion of cloud-based physical security systems across the EMEA region.

1. 13% of Saudi respondents reported using cloud security systems

2. Compared with the EMEA average of 7%

The data indicates a growing preference for flexible, scalable, and resilient deployment models that simplify system management and support long-term digital transformation goals.

Security Budgets Show Strong Growth Momentum

The study shows that security investment in Saudi Arabia is rising faster than in other surveyed EMEA markets, reflecting a shift toward treating physical security as a strategic business function.

Key findings include:

1. 43% of respondents reported increased physical security budgets in 2025

2. This compares with an EMEA average of 24%

3. Among those with higher budgets, 92% recorded increases above 10%

4. 64% reported growth between 11% and 25%

This trend points to continued funding for modern, connected security platforms and operational upgrades.

Lower Impact From Legacy Infrastructure

Unlike many other markets in the region, legacy infrastructure is not viewed as a major obstacle in Saudi Arabia.

1. Only 12% of Saudi respondents cited outdated security systems as a top challenge

2. Compared with 44% across EMEA overall

The report links this gap to ongoing national investment in new infrastructure, smart city projects, and large-scale developments across the Kingdom.

Shift Toward Connected Security Platforms

Commenting on the findings, Firas Jadalla, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at Genetec, said Saudi organizations are rapidly transitioning from traditional security deployments to connected and flexible platforms that serve broader operational needs.

He noted that sustained investment and modernization efforts align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals, positioning Saudi Arabia as a fast-moving and future-focused security market.

Survey Scope And Methodology

The 2026 State of Physical Security Report draws on insights from:

1. 7,300+ physical security professionals worldwide

2. Participants including end users, channel partners, consultants, and manufacturers

3. 150+ respondents from Saudi Arabia contributing to the country-level analysis within the Middle East and Africa region