The National Security Services Company (SAFE), a Public Investment Fund fully-owned company and a Saudi member of the U.S.-Saudi Business Council (USSBC), is a leading provider of comprehensive security solutions, specializing in protecting assets, people, and properties across various sectors. SAFE employs 12,000 professionals dedicated to ensuring that SAFE’s safety and security services, including advisory & consultation, security solutions, education and training, and command & control centers, are delivered according to the highest standards to U.S. and Saudi clients. The USSBC sat down with CEO Turki Bin Matooq Thonayan in our latest member spotlight to discuss SAFE’s recent growth and technological investments, its world-class suite of security services, and its unique expertise in providing effective support based on trust, confidentiality, and the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks before they arise.
SAFE has experienced significant growth across diverse business segments in a relatively short period, even in the face of global challenges. Could you share insights into the key factors and strategies that have contributed to this success?
The success and growth of SAFE can be attributed to a combination of key factors, each playing a pivotal role in our expansion. First, our commitment to understanding and adapting to the unique security needs of each market has enabled us to diversify and excel across multiple business segments. We have always focused on delivering tailored, high-quality security solutions, which has allowed us to gain the trust of clients in various industries, from government entities to multinational corporations.
Another critical factor is our investment in cutting-edge technology and a highly skilled workforce. By continually improving our services and integrating the latest advancements, we’ve been able to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that we provide the most effective and reliable security solutions. Our ability to be agile in the face of global challenges, such as economic shifts or geopolitical tensions, has further reinforced our resilience and growth.
Finally, our strategic partnerships, including collaborations with international security organizations and technology providers, have played a key role in expanding our reach and ensuring our competitive edge in the marketplace.
Turki Bin Matooq Thonayan, CEO, SAFE
Security technology is constantly evolving. How does SAFE stay at the forefront of technological advancements in the security sector and ensure the integration of these technologies into its services?
At SAFE, we view technological innovation as a cornerstone of our success and a critical component in providing top-tier security services. We have dedicated teams focused on research and development (R&D), ensuring that we continuously monitor global trends and emerging technologies in the security sector. Whether it’s AI-driven surveillance systems, biometric authentication, or automated threat detection, we integrate these advancements into our services to enhance both efficiency and effectiveness.
We also maintain strong relationships with leading technology partners and cybersecurity experts to ensure that we stay ahead of emerging threats and can quickly adapt our services. Moreover, our team is continuously trained in the latest technologies, ensuring that our personnel are always equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to deliver optimal security solutions. The integration of these technologies is always done with the end goal in mind — ensuring a seamless, user-friendly experience for our clients, while maintaining the highest levels of safety and reliability.
Could you elaborate on SAFE’s security services, including offerings like SAFE Cash Management Services, Events Security Services, K-9 Services, and VVIP Protection? What sets these services apart in the market?
SAFE offers a comprehensive range of security services, each designed to meet specific needs and provide unparalleled protection.
- SAFE Cash Management Services: Our cash management services are designed for businesses that require safe and efficient handling of cash, from transport to storage. What sets us apart is our combination of advanced security technology, such as GPS tracking and real-time reporting, alongside our highly trained personnel, ensuring that all cash handling processes are secure, transparent, and reliable.
- Events Security Services: With a track record of managing large-scale events, our event security services are tailored to meet the unique demands of any occasion. Whether it’s a corporate conference, a high-profile sports event, or a diplomatic gathering, our expert team ensures that attendees are protected, crowd control is managed, and any potential threats are mitigated swiftly. What distinguishes our approach is our ability to customize solutions based on the specific risks and logistical needs of the event.
- K-9 Services: Our K-9 units are deployed for both detection and deterrence, providing an additional layer of security at critical locations. Our K-9 teams are specially trained to detect explosives, narcotics, and other potential threats, ensuring rapid identification of risks. This service is particularly valued for its effectiveness in high-security areas like airports, embassies, and corporate offices.
- VVIP Protection: Providing close protection for high-net-worth individuals, dignitaries, and corporate executives, our VVIP Protection services are discreet, professional, and highly customized. We ensure that the security personnel assigned are highly trained in both protective techniques and managing high-profile individuals. Our approach is built on trust, confidentiality, and the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks before they arise.
What sets all of these services apart is our commitment to not just responding to risks but proactively anticipating them. Each service is backed by cutting-edge technology, a highly skilled workforce, and a commitment to customization based on client-specific needs.
Training and development are integral to maintaining a high standard of security services. How does SAFE ensure the expertise and skills of its security personnel, and what role does training play in delivering best-in-class security solutions?
At SAFE, we recognize that our personnel are the backbone of our security services. To maintain a high standard of security, we invest heavily in training and development. Our training programs are comprehensive, covering everything from technical skills, such as the operation of advanced security systems, to soft skills, such as communication and customer service.
We have a state-of-the-art training facility where personnel undergo rigorous simulation-based training, which includes real-life scenario exercises. These simulations help our security teams prepare for a variety of situations, from emergency response to high-risk protection assignments. Additionally, we offer continuous professional development, ensuring our teams stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices.
Our training programs are designed to be hands-on and practical, ensuring that security personnel are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their skills in real-world situations. Furthermore, we collaborate with international security experts and institutions to provide specialized training, ensuring that our personnel are equipped with global expertise to handle complex security challenges.
For U.S. companies operating in the Kingdom and the MENA region, what unique advantages or expertise does SAFE offer that make it an ideal choice for security solutions and services?
SAFE’s unique advantages lie in our deep understanding of the MENA region, combined with our experience in delivering global standards of security. For U.S. companies operating in the Kingdom and across the MENA region, we offer a distinct blend of local expertise and international best practices. Our teams are fluent in the cultural, political, and regulatory landscapes of the region, which allows us to provide highly tailored and contextually relevant security solutions.
Moreover, SAFE has a proven track record of working with international companies, including U.S.-based firms, helping them navigate the region’s security challenges with confidence. Our knowledge of local laws, customs, and the ever-evolving threat landscape ensures that we can provide security solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients.
In addition, our advanced technological capabilities, combined with our highly trained personnel, provide an additional layer of assurance to U.S. companies looking for robust, reliable, and forward-thinking security services. Whether it’s corporate security, asset protection, or crisis management, SAFE is equipped to deliver solutions that are not only effective but also aligned with the highest global security standards.
