Dubai is one of the safest places in the world for business and living. This is due to strict rules and strong security measures. At the centre of this ecosystem is SIRA the Security Industry Regulatory Agency. For any individual or company operating within the private security sector, SIRA certification is mandatory. This guide explains what SIRA is and why it is important. It covers who needs it, the types of licenses, the cost, how long it lasts, and how to apply step by step.
SIRA stands for the Security Industry Regulatory Agency.
It was created in 2016 by a decree from HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. SIRA operates as the official regulatory authority governing private security services, systems, and professionals across Dubai.
The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) is a Dubai Government entity responsible for regulating, supervising, and licensing the private security industry.
With Dubai’s rapid expansion across real estate, tourism, logistics, finance, and infrastructure, SIRA ensures that all security operations comply with international safety standards and local legal frameworks.
Licensing security companies and professionals
Regulating CCTV, alarm, and access control systems
Conducting inspections and audits
Enforcing compliance and penalties
Implementing smart security initiatives
Approving security training programmes
SIRA Certification is an official government approval confirming that a security individual, company, or system meets Dubai’s required security standards.
It applies to:
Security guards and supervisors
Security companies
CCTV and surveillance systems
Alarm and access control systems
Monitoring and command centres
A valid SIRA certificate acts as legal authorisation and quality assurance within Dubai.
Legal Requirement – Operating without SIRA approval is illegal.
Public Safety Assurance – Ensures services meet strict operational benchmarks.
Brand Trust and Credibility – Companies are recognised as professional and compliant.
Market Access – Required for most government and corporate contracts.
Updated Security Standards – Ensures the use of modern technology and best practices.
Security guards
Event security staff
CCTV operators
Security supervisors and managers
Security consultants and auditors
Cash-in-transit personnel
Surveillance technicians
Security dog handlers
Guarding service providers
CCTV and electronic security companies
Alarm system installers
Monitoring and control centres
Security consultancy firms
Hotels, malls, and facilities offering in-house security
Completed SIRA application
Passport and Emirates ID
Passport-sized photograph
Valid UAE residence visa
Good conduct certificate (attested)
Medical fitness certificate
SIRA-approved training completion
Trade licence from DED
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Business plan for security services
Bank account details
Appointment of licensed Security Manager
Employee SIRA licences
The cost of obtaining a SIRA Certification Dubai depends on two main factors: the type of licence and the required SIRA-approved training programs. Each licence corresponds to a specific role or service within the security industry and carries its own fee structure. For example, a Security Guard Licence typically costs less than a Security Manager Licence, which requires advanced training and additional approvals. Some licences also involve completion of mandatory training courses with separate fees. As a result, the total cost of obtaining a SIRA certification can vary significantly based on the licence type, training requirements, and the applicant’s role in the security sector.
Applicants should carefully review the requirements for their chosen licence to plan for all associated costs.
Required Documents
Completed SIRA application form
Passport & Emirates ID
Passport-sized photograph
UAE residence visa (if applicable)
Good conduct certificate (attested)
Medical fitness certificate (SIRA-approved clinic)
SIRA-approved security training completion
Required Documents
Completed SIRA application form
Passport & Emirates ID
Passport-sized photograph
UAE residence visa
Good conduct certificate
Medical fitness certificate (SIRA-approved clinic)
Proof of managerial experience
SIRA Security Manager training certificate
Company approval letter (if applicable)
| Feature | Security Guard | Security Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Licence Fee | AED 1,500 – 2,000 | AED 2,500 – 3,500 |
| Training Fee | AED 1,000 – 1,500 | AED 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Total Cost | AED 2,500 – 3,500 | AED 4,500 – 6,500 |
| Required Documents | Passport, Emirates ID, Good Conduct, Medical, Training | Passport, Emirates ID, Good Conduct, Medical, Manager Training, Experience Proof, Company Letter |
| Responsibility | Guarding, patrols, CCTV monitoring | Supervising operations, compliance, and staff management |
Obtaining a SIRA licence is mandatory for individuals and companies providing security services in Dubai. The process ensures compliance with the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) standards, protects public safety, and legitimizes security operations. The application process differs slightly for individuals and companies.
Individuals who want to work as security guards, CCTV operators, event security personnel, or managers must follow these steps:
Determine your role in the security industry.
Available licences include: Security Guard, Event Security, CCTV Operator, Security Supervisor, Security Manager.
Selecting the correct licence ensures that your application and training align with SIRA requirements.
Enroll in a SIRA-accredited training programme based on your role.
Training typically covers:
Security procedures and protocols
Fire safety and first aid
Surveillance and monitoring
Handling emergencies
Completion of training is mandatory before submitting your licence application.
Visit the official SIRA eServices Portal
Fill in the electronic application form for your selected licence
Upload all required documents
Pay the application and licence fees online
SIRA reviews your application and may conduct verification checks
Once approved, you will receive a notification
Collect your official SIRA licence, which is valid for 2 years
Companies offering security services in Dubai must follow these steps to obtain a SIRA licence:
Ensure your company has a valid Department of Economic Development (DED) trade licence
The trade licence must cover security or related business activities
Gather essential documents:
Trade licence copy
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Articles of Association (AOA)
Audited financial statements (if applicable)
Business plan detailing security services offered
Company bank account details
Every company must designate a Security Manager with a valid SIRA Security Manager Licence
The Security Manager oversees compliance, staff training, and operations
Ensure all employees providing security services hold valid SIRA licences appropriate to their roles (e.g., Security Guard, CCTV Operator)
Staff without licences cannot legally operate in Dubai
Apply via the SIRA eServices Portal
Upload all company documentation and staff licences
Pay the relevant application and licence fees online
SIRA may conduct facility inspections or audits before granting approval
After verification, SIRA issues the company licence, valid for 2 years
Maintain compliance and renew before expiry to avoid penalties
Double-check all documents for attestations and validity
Complete all training requirements before applying
Maintain a copy of all submitted documents for records
Ensure employees’ licences are current and renewed on time
A SIRA License in Dubai is generally valid for two years. Both individuals and companies must follow the renewal process to maintain their validity and ensure uninterrupted security operations.
In some situations, you may need to renew a SIRA license early. This can happen due to changes in staff qualifications, company personnel, or operations.
Important: Failure to renew a SIRA licence on time can result in fines, penalties, or suspension of security services. Timely renewal is essential for legal compliance and operational continuity.
Choosing a SIRA-certified provider ensures:
Legal compliance
Trained and licensed personnel
Approved security systems
Professional service delivery
Reduced operational risk
SIRA certification is essential for anyone operating in Dubai’s private security sector. It ensures legal compliance, professional standards, and public safety while granting access to corporate and government contracts. Whether you are an individual security professional or a company offering security services, obtaining and maintaining a valid SIRA licence is mandatory. By following the steps for training, documentation, and application, you can get your license easily. This will help you work confidently in Dubai’s security environment.
Partnering with SIRA-certified personnel or companies like MEBS Facility Services guarantees trained, licensed, and reliable security solutions that meet Dubai’s highest standards. Ensure your operations are compliant, secure, and trusted by obtaining your SIRA certification today.