Inspection professionals can quickly detect faults and issues to prevent downtime and extend equipment life. (Image source: Flir)

Flir, a Teledyne Technologies company, has launched the C8 latest-generation thermal imaging camera, providing enhanced image quality, higher accuracy, improved sensitivity, andf advanced reporting templates within Flir Ignite Pro

Traditional thermal inspections can be slow, unclear, and hard to document, relying on manual processes that risk overlooking critical issues, leading to higher maintenance costs, delayed repairs, and reduced productivity. The rugged, easy to use Flir C8 addresses these challenges with powerful, high-resolution thermography, ensuring accurate, efficient, standardised inspections. In addition, technicians can integrate FLIR Ignite Pro cloud connectivity and new advanced reporting templates that streamline workflows and save time as well as supporting easy collaboration.

New capabilities for the Flir C8 include 320 x 240 thermal resolution and 35° horizontal field of view to increase the number of pixels. Used in combination with Flir’s patented MSX detail enhancement technology, it provides clear and accurate imaging, supporting faster fault and anomaly detection for more accurate diagnostics. For example, in electrical and mechanical maintenance activities Inspection professionals can quickly detect faults and issues in factories, process plants, commercial facilities, and utilities to prevent downtime and extend equipment life.

“Users of our C8 can enjoy up to 40-50% quicker inspections, helping to cut labour and downtime costs,” revealed John Gould, Director – Global Business Development – Condition Monitoring. “Identifying faults faster and acting sooner reduces expensive outages and unplanned repairs, while confidence in consistent, reliable results is assured thanks to high resolution and high thermal sensitivity. Furthermore, isotherm alarms instantly highlight when temperatures cross set limits, helping users quickly identify potential issues”.

The camera also provides increased accuracy of ±2°C @ 0°C to a newly elevated 450°C maximum object temperature, higher sensitivity (NETD <50 mk) and streaming over USB.

Borouge has set a target of generating US$575mn in value by 2025. (Image source: Borogue)

Borouge is working with Yokogawa UAE Industry to test AI-powered autonomous control room operations at its Ruwais facility in Abu Dhabi.

The proof-of-concept will use advanced AI tools to analyse plant data, detect patterns, and predict anomalies, allowing faster corrective actions and reducing the risk of unplanned shutdowns. It will also assess how autonomous control could improve efficiency and optimise overall performance.

Borouge has set a target of generating US$575mn in value by 2025 through technology and AI-driven initiatives. By the end of Q2, the company had already achieved US$307mn.

At Ruwais, Yokogawa is trialling AI operations at the Borouge 3 Cracker, while Honeywell is running a parallel project at the Borouge 2 Cracker. Together, the initiatives aim to deliver the petrochemical industry’s first fully autonomous AI-driven control room.

Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chief Executive Officer of Borouge, said, "As we progress our AI, Digitalisation and Technology (AIDT) transformation programme, our goal is to deliver an AI-powered autonomous control room at what will be the single largest petrochemical site in the world, enabling Borouge to accelerate growth and create lasting value for shareholders.”

Norinao Sato, President and CEO of Yokogawa Middle East & Africa, commented, “An AI-powered control room is a next generation operational hub that leverages artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation to optimise decision-making, automate processes, enhance safety and boost efficiency sustainably, transforming the control room from a reactive monitoring station to a proactive, intelligent command centre.”

From 10–12 November, the DRIFTx exhibition will showcase smart solutions across land, sea, air, and robotics.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, Abu Dhabi will host its first Autonomous Week from 10–15 November 2025.

Organised by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), the event underscores the emirate’s commitment to autonomous mobility and its status as a global hub for smart systems and advanced technologies.

The week-long programme brings together industry leaders, experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore innovations that drive competitiveness, efficiency, and sustainable solutions.

The event kicks off with the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit on 10 November, providing a platform to discuss advancements in smart and autonomous mobility, shape policy, and identify investment opportunities.

From 10–12 November, the DRIFTx exhibition will showcase smart solutions across land, sea, air, and robotics.

RoboCup Asia-Pacific 2025, organised by Khalifa University, will also take place during the week, marking its debut in the Middle East and North Africa region, with global teams competing in AI-driven autonomous robotics challenges.

The week concludes with the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, highlighting the future of smart mobility and autonomous transport.

SASC plays a pivotal role in developing Abu Dhabi’s autonomous ecosystem by setting strategic direction, shaping policies, fostering investment, and enabling infrastructure development.

The event highlights the emirate’s readiness to integrate autonomous systems across key sectors, enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

With strong government support, world-class infrastructure, and a flexible regulatory framework, Abu Dhabi continues to lead in research, development, and deployment of smart and autonomous technologies, reinforcing its vision for a knowledge- and innovation-based economy and strengthening its global technological competitiveness.

Sam Alcock, newly appointed CEO of Tenable FEC. (Image source: Tenable FEC)

Oman-based Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy (FEC) has appointed Sam Alcock as chief executive officer, as it targets 30% growth this year

Alcock joined the specialist fire and life safety consultancy in 2011 as a fire consultant and was appointed Dubai director in 2016. He has been instrumental in positioning Tenable FEC as a trusted fire engineering partner across the GCC and internationally, expanding the consultancy’s footprint in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Africa and India while maintaining strong profitability and client relationships. In his new role he will have a strong focus on scaling operations in existing markets and developing new regional and international opportunities.

In 2024, Tenable FEC recorded a 25% increase in revenue, delivering over 540 projects valued at US$6mn, spanning mixed-use and hospitality developments and pre- and post-contract fire engineering services for high-end projects such as those along the Dubai Water Canal. So far in 2025, the consultancy has been awarded projects worth US$4.2mn. With Tenable FEC now Salamah-approved in Saudi Arabia and the local office fully operational, the consultancy is targeting 30% growth this year, driven by large-scale infrastructure and masterplanning projects.

Alcock said, “It’s a privilege to be awarded the role of CEO at such a pivotal time for the business. Our team has built a strong foundation for growth and I look forward to continuing this momentum. My focus will be on expanding our capabilities, enhancing service delivery and strengthening our reputation as a leader in fire and life safety consultancy.”

Founded in Oman in 2010, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy provides a comprehensive range of high-quality, fire and life safety services, including code consulting, fire system design, performance-based fire design and third-party verification within the built environment. With offices in Muscat, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and London, the company executes regional and international projects of any size in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia. The team approach projects with leading talent and innovative technologies while adhering to international best practices, design codes and standards.