Geospatial Security Strengthened As GEOSA Attends DGI 2026 In London

A delegation from the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA), led by GEOSA President Dr. Mohammed bin Yahya Alsayel, took part in the 22nd Geospatial Intelligence for Defence and Security conference (DGI 2026) in London from 23 to 25 February, stressing that geospatial security is now central to national security planning.

Dr. Mohammed bin Yahya Alsayel used a keynote address at DGI 2026 to underline how geospatial information supports the protection of critical infrastructure and guides strategic decisions. The speech linked secure geospatial systems with national resilience, highlighting links to defence operations, government coordination, and wider economic stability.

DGI 2026 is viewed as one of the main global platforms for defence geospatial security, gathering public and private sectors to examine risks facing geospatial data. Sessions focused on cyber threats, data protection practices, and the need to secure geospatial infrastructure as states depend more on digital mapping and location-based services.

The event in London brought together military leaders, security officials, geospatial specialists, major technology firms, and organisations working in satellite, space, and analytical solutions. Participants exchanged expertise on satellite imagery analysis, artificial intelligence applications, and remote sensing tools, while also reviewing how these technologies support defence, border control, crisis response, and long-term planning.

In the speech, Dr. Alsayel stressed that embedding geospatial security requires integration of technology with effective governance and regulation. The vision presented included training national cadres, maturing geospatial infrastructure, strengthening data governance, developing clear policies and standards, and classifying data by sensitivity to balance openness with necessary protection and control.

Conference discussions underlined the need for stronger integration between defence institutions, regulators, and technology providers to build secure and resilient geospatial systems. Speakers highlighted how legislative and governance frameworks can regulate geospatial data exchange, support responsible use, and encourage sustainable management of spatial information across sectors, including security, urban planning, and environmental monitoring.

Geospatial security, data integrity and sustainable development

Dr. Alsayel also pointed to information integrity as a priority, calling for improved accuracy, protection of confidentiality, and structured rules for data sharing. A secure geospatial environment, according to the GEOSA perspective, helps maintain economic stability and strengthen community security, while staying aligned with national sustainable development objectives and long-term planning goals.

With inputs from SPA