519 exhibitors from 41 countries at Messe Essen
The security industry is undergoing profound change. Artificial intelligence is driving rapid innovation, while protecting critical infrastructure is becoming increasingly important in the face of growing cyber threats and geopolitical developments. At the same time, companies, public authorities and operators are under increasing pressure to take an integrated approach to physical and digital security. Security Essen, taking place at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September 2026, will show how these developments are transforming the industry and which solutions will shape the market in the future. As the leading international trade fair for the security industry, it brings together more than 500 exhibitors from 41 countries and provides trade visitors with a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies, innovations and trends.
Once again, the trade fair covers the full spectrum of modern security solutions. The range extends from access control, mechatronics and mechanical security systems to fire and intrusion protection, perimeter security and video surveillance, as well as services, special protection vehicles and solutions for civil protection and civil defence.
One trend is particularly evident: the boundaries between individual areas are becoming more and more blurred. Modern hazard management systems integrate video technology, access control and intrusion detection on a single platform. Artificial intelligence helps security professionals identify risks more quickly and assess incidents more efficiently. Cloud-based applications enable complex security infrastructures to be controlled across multiple sites, while intelligent sensor technology and automation are setting new standards in prevention and response times.
This trend is also reflected at Security Essen. Companies such as Advancis and Milestone are presenting solutions for modern security and hazard management. ASSA ABLOY, dormakaba, Salto and Telenot are showcasing innovations in access control and building security. Exhibitors in intelligent video and perimeter security include Axis Communications, Dallmeier and Strops. The offering is complemented by numerous other market leaders, specialists, innovative companies and start-ups from all areas of the security industry. This gives trade visitors a compact overview of the technologies and solutions that will shape the security industry in the years ahead.
Julia Jacob, Head of Project Security Essen: “The security industry is more interconnected today than ever before. At Security Essen, we show how artificial intelligence, digital networking and innovative technologies are coming together to form integrated security solutions – and bring together precisely the manufacturers, users, planners and decision-makers who are actively shaping this development.”
Knowledge transfer as an integral part of the trade fair
Exchange between the different players in the security industry does not take place only at the exhibition stands. With its extensive supporting programme, Security Essen provides additional platforms for knowledge transfer, discussion and networking between manufacturers, users, academia, associations and public authorities.
The supporting programme begins on 22 September with the Training and Further Education Day, organised by the BDSW Federal Association of the Security Industry in cooperation with Messe Essen, as well as the Emergency Services Forum, organised by Ebner Verlag. Also starting on the first day of the trade fair is the DNS – Digital Networking Security Conference, organised in partnership with Datakontext, which on 22 and 23 September will address current developments in cybersecurity, digital resilience and networked security solutions.
The European Drone Conference on 23 and 24 September, organised by the BDSW, focuses on a field of technology that is becoming increasingly important both for civilian security applications and for public authorities and organisations with security responsibilities.
Another programme highlight is Banks and Savings Banks Day on 24 September, which examines current challenges and solutions for protecting financial institutions. This special event is organised by the European Security Systems Association (ESSA) e. V.
On 25 September, the KRITIS Forum in Hall 7 will focus on the protection of critical infrastructure. The spotlight will be on the impact of the KRITIS Umbrella Act and the requirements that critical infrastructure operators will have to meet in future. Expert presentations and discussions will provide practical insights and outline approaches for implementing the new requirements.
Throughout the trade fair, the Security Experts Forum will also feature practice-oriented expert presentations and discussions. Exhibitors will present their innovations and provide insights into current developments, best practices and new technologies.
New synergies with EUDEX taking place in parallel
For the first time, Security Essen is taking place in parallel with EUDEX – Euro Defence Expo. The new trade fair for the defence industry, with more than 350 exhibitors, expands Security Essen to cover topics that are becoming increasingly important in view of current security-policy developments.
Protecting critical infrastructure, civil protection, crisis preparedness and resilient security concepts can now only be addressed through coordinated action by industry, public authorities and the armed forces. Holding the two events in parallel creates new opportunities for professional exchange and cooperation between the civilian security industry and the defence industry.
This particularly benefits trade visitors who are looking at integrated security strategies and the interfaces between physical security, cybersecurity, civil protection and defence. Together, the two trade fairs create a unique platform for innovation, knowledge transfer and networking.
Book tickets online
Security Essen will take place at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September 2026. The trade fair is open from 9 am to 6 pm from Tuesday to Thursday and from 9 am to 4 pm on Friday. Day tickets cost €49 and are available online.
Plan your visit to the trade fair!
