New 2025 Genetec State of Physical Security Report Reveals Evolving Trends in the META Markets

 Genetec Inc. (“Genetec”), the global leader in enterprise physical security software, today shared the results of its 2025 State of the Physical Security Report. Based on insights from more than 600 physical security leaders, including end users, channel partners, systems integrators, and consultants based in the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (MEA) markets, the report offers a comprehensive analysis of evolving trends in physical security operations.

Hybrid cloud adoption grows as organizations seek flexibility and control

According to the report, 48% of META end users envision hybrid deployments as their preferred approach within the next five years, compared to just 22% favoring fully cloud-based implementations and 25% planning to remain fully on-premises. This preference for hybrid-cloud is echoed by consultants and channel partners, with 53% of consultants planning to recommend hybrid deployments in the next five years. 

This data not only reflects the rising demand for adaptable deployment models in the region but also highlights a measured approach to cloud adoption as the industry matures. 

“In the META market, where digital transformation and operational resilience are top priorities, the evolving role of physical security is critical. By placing IT at the center of hybrid and cloud implementations, businesses can make security operations more resilient, data-driven, and adaptable to the region's dynamic threat landscape, safeguarding both people and digital assets effectively," said Firas Jadalla, Regional Director – Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) at Genetec.

IT departments become central to decisions 

A decade ago, physical security systems in large organizations were typically managed by personnel in specialized security departments. However, the increasing adoption of cloud and hybrid-cloud solutions, the rise in cybersecurity threats, and the need to align physical and digital security have led IT teams to take an increasingly prominent role in influencing the acquisition and deployment of physical security systems. 

According to the report, 78% of end users in the META region say physical security and information technology (IT) departments now work collaboratively. Additionally, IT departments are taking on an increasing role in the buying process, with over 50% of end users, systems integrators, and consultants reporting that IT teams are now actively involved in physical security purchasing decisions. 

AI adoption grows as industry prioritizes practical applications

The report reveals a significant rise in the interest toward AI adoption in physical security, with 46% of end users planning to implement AI-powered features in 2025, up from just 14% in 2024. This heightened interest aligns with a strategic, purpose-driven approach. With 49% of end users seeing AI as a tool to streamline security operations, organizations are focusing on practical applications, such as refining threat detection and automating routine processes, with intelligent automation as the ultimate goal. 

Survey methodology

Genetec Inc. surveyed physical security professionals from August 12th to September 15th, 2024. Following a review of submissions and data cleansing, 5,696 respondents (including end users, channel partners, and consultants) were included in the sample for analysis. Survey samples were run across all regions including North America, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, East Asia, Southern Asia, South-Eastern Asia, Central Asia, Western Asia, and Australia-New Zealand.