Behind Dubai’s reputation of being one of the safest cities in the world, is SIRA. The Security Industry Regulatory Authority Agency (SIRA) ensures highest standards of safety in the city by inspecting and issuing SIRA certificates to security systems, service providers, and guards.
For all individuals and businesses looking to offer any type of security services in Dubai, it is essential to obtain the SIRA certificate Dubai through SIRA’s e-portal.
Crosschecked from SIRA’s official website, this blog gathers all the relevant information about SIRA certification including the types of permits, step by step processes, fee breakdown, documentation for professionals seeking job opportunities in Dubai and company looking to offer security services.
What is SIRA, Security Industry Regulatory Agency?
The Security Industry Regulatory Agency, known as SIRA, is the primary regulatory body of security industry in Dubai since 2016. SIRA approves all laws governing Dubai’s security systems, sets minimum safety standards, defines the code of conduct for security professionals, and licenses security companies.
What is SIRA certification in Dubai?
SIRA certification is an official accreditation issued by SIRA to individuals and businesses in the security industry as well as for businesses that sell high-value goods such as precious metals and stones.
Validity: SIRA certificate in Dubai is typically valid for two (2) years from the date of issuance.
Importance of SIRA certification in Dubai:
- For individuals, it confirms that they are qualified and capable enough to safeguard commercial or residential properties, people, and valuable assets.
- For businesses, it ensures that a company offering security services or trading security-related devices passes the highest levels of security standards and can be trusted.
What most people get confused about: is SIRA certificate and SIRA license the same?
The two terms can be used interchangeably. However, “SIRA license” is more specifically used for security companies established in Dubai, whereas a “SIRA certificate” is used for professionals (e.g., managers, guards, technicians) or specific activities (e.g., fire work show) that need approval.
But for your easy understanding, in this guide we will be using them interchangeably.
Who needs SIRA certificate Dubai? Common examples
People or companies offering any kind of security services or handling high value items (like gold) need SIRA’s certificate to begin operations. These include:
1. Professionals working in the security sector:
Individuals working in private security roles and jobs in Dubai must hold SIRA certification. This, in turn, demonstrates their professionalism and competence in the field. For example:
- Security guards
- Watchmen
- Security dog trainers
- Security consultants
- Guards for the transport of valuable items
- Security system technicians
- Employees at security monitoring centers
2. Companies operating in the security sector:
Security businesses in Dubai must also get SIRA security activity license before their trade license process can be completed. This includes companies offering:
- Security consulting
- Trading and installation of security equipment and devices
- Electronic services like CCTV, alarms, and fire detection systems
- Providing patrolling, guarding, security trading services
- Other businesses that need SERA approval:
Businesses where security services are part of the company’s core activities, such as:
- Hotels offering security to guests
- Monetary financial institutions
- Businesses seeking jewellery and gold trading licenses
In other words, the SIRA certification ensures that these establishments have robust security measures and systems in place, such as trained personnel and surveillance systems, to prevent theft and protect assets and customers.
Types of SIRA security activity license (for companies)
For security companies, these are the common types of SIRA security activity licenses, along with the activity code.
| License Name | Activity Code | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Security Equipment and Equipment Trading License | 4773954 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones |
| Security Equipment and Equipment Rental License | 7730040 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones |
| Installation of Security Devices and Equipment License | 4321009 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign 3 engineers, or provide 2 engineers and 1 technician, or provide 1 engineer and 2 technicians (3 employees at a minimum) |
| Security Devices Industry License | 2630102 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Security System Inspection Certificate (Security Audit Report) |
| Technical Survey Services License | 8020101 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Apply for a Security Expert (Optional) |
| General Guard Services License | 8010013 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Manager |
| Tourist Facilities Guarding Services License | 8010101 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Manager |
| Event Security and Personal Guarding License | 8010001 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Manager |
| Money & Valuables Transport Services License | 8010002 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Manager. Assign a minimum of 3 cash-in-transit guards |
| Security Consulting | 7490017 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Consultant |
| Command and Control Center License | 8020002 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Assign a Security Manager |
| Trading of Private Vehicles for Safe Transportation License | 4510105 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Security System Inspection Certificate (Security Audit Report) |
| Hazardous Materials Transport Services License | 4923008 | Trade license or Business name certificate and initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones. Provide a security tracking system for hazardous material transport vehicles |
Other activities for which SIRA Dubai issues license to companies:
- Car tracking systems services
- Equipping and Preparing Safe Transport Vehicles
- Security Training
- Marine Guard Services
- Sports Clubs Security Guard Services
- Security Dogs Training
- Secure Storage Services
Types of SIRA security cadre card (for individuals)
Security personnel license or cadre card from SIRA is issued only if applicant holds a valid Emirates ID, valid residency, and good conduct certificate from Dubai police.
Its application is made through licensed security company or employer, and applicant’s residency should be linked to the same company.
These are the types of SIRA-approved certificates that professionals can get:
| License Name | Additional Requirements (Other Than Emirates ID, UAE Residency Visa, Good Conduct Certificate) | Eligible Age | SIRA Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Consultant License | Bachelor’s + 10 yrs experience, pass SIRA tests (70%), consultant course | Min 30 years | 520 |
| Security Expert License | Bachelor’s + 10 yrs (or 15 yrs no degree), pass knowledge test (70%) | Min 30 years | 520 |
| Security Trainer License | Good conduct certificate, trainer course | Min 30 years | 520 |
| Chairman of the Security Board of Directors License | Security manager course, needs 2 managers/3 ops managers/5 supervisors under them | 25–60 years | 520 |
| Security Manager License | Security manager course | 25–60 years | 520 |
| Security Operations Manager License | Operations manager course | 25–60 years | 520 |
| Security Supervisor License | Ops manager + supervisor courses | 25–60 years | 420 |
| Security Systems Engineer License | Ops manager + systems engineer courses | 21–60 years | 420 |
| Security Systems Technician License | Security systems technician course | 21–60 years | 320 |
| Security Systems Operator License | Security systems operator course | 21–60 years | 320 |
| Money Transport Guard License | Security guard course, cash transport guard courses, physical fitness certificate, fire safety certificate, life support certificate, certificate in dealing with people of determination | 21–60 years | 320 |
| Security Guard License | Physical fitness certificate, fire safety certificate, life support certificate, certificate in dealing with people of determination | 21–60 years | 320 |
| Event Permit (One Day) | Emirates ID, UAE residency visa, good conduct certificate | — | 120 |
Please note that the information presented in the table above has been directly verified from SIRA’s official website as on 16th September 2026. However, rules can change at any time.
Eligibility and documentation required for obtaining SIRA certificate Dubai
SIRA license requirements in Dubai depend on whether you are applying as an individual or a company:
1. Eligibility for SIRA certificate:
For individuals:
- Hold Emirates ID
- Hold valid UAE residence visa
- Has a Dubai police good conduct certificate
- Passes SIRA-approved tests
For companies:
- Staff completes training programs relevant to their specific roles.
- Holds trade license or name certificate + initial approval receipt or NOC from free zones.
- Appointment of manager (as per SIRA).
2. Documentation for SIRA permit in Dubai:
For individuals:
- Filled license application form
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID copy
- Latest coloured passport sized photograph
- Residence visa (where applicable)
- Good conduct certificate issued in home country
- Medical fitness certificate from Dubai accredited health center
For companies:
- Filled license application form
- Business license, trade name certificate, or NOC
- Memorandum of Association
- Detailed business plan highlighting the security/relevant services offered
- Proof of company bank account
How to get SIRA certificate in Dubai as an individual?
Here is the step-by-step guide of SIRA certification for individuals (usually applied through licensed security company):
Step 1 – Identifying the appropriate SIRA license:
Choose the type of license that matches the role such as guard, supervisor, manager, technician, etc.
Step 2 – Meeting the legal requirements:
Applicant must ensure eligibility such as the age requirements as per the category, paperwork preparation including a passport copy, visa copy, passport-sized photograph, police clearance certificate, etc.
Step 3 – Undergoing training and pass the exams:
Applicant must also complete any training program or course as mandated by SIRA and, in turn, pass the relevant exams related to safety topics like fire safety, first aid, and other areas.
Step 4 – Apply for license on SIRA e-portal:
Once all the steps above are completed, you can apply for the SIRA license Dubai and pay the necessary fees (ranging AED 120 – AED 520) through the SIRA e-services portal.
Step 5 – Collecting SIRA license:
Once the application is reviewed and approved by SIRA, you will be issued your SIRA certificate in Dubai.
How to apply for SIRA license in Dubai as a company?
Steps to get the SIRA security activity license for company in Dubai:
Step 1 – Choose the appropriate security activity:
Choose the correct security activity which you plan to take on. Few examples include equipment sales/installation, guard services, cash and hazardous materials transport, consulting, and training.
Step 2 – Fulfil SIRA license requirements:
Next, collect the essential documents for the SIRA license Dubai application. This includes a detailed business plan, trade name, trade name certificate, memorandum of association, financial statements, as per requirement.
Step 3 – Appoint a security manager (where applicable):
For activities like consulting, companies must also appoint a senior security manager, who must hold a Security Manager license issued by SIRA.
Step 4 – Get licenses for employees:
All employees working for the firm must be trained and must hold a SIRA license as per their designations.
Step 5 – Submit the application for the SIRA license:
The application for the SIRA company security license must be made, and applicable fees must be paid through SIRA’s official portal.
Step 6 – Collect the license:
The application will be reviewed by SIRA. Once approved, the official SIRA license will be issued to the company.
What is the SIRA certification cost in Dubai?
Here are the SIRA certificate costs you need to know:
SIRA security activity license fees:
While applying for new SIRA security activity license, you need to pay service fee of AED 100, knowledge fee of AED 10, and Innovation fee of AED 10.
Generally, the SIRA license fee varies based on your service activity and ranges from AED 2,020 to AED 5,020. Here are a few examples:
| Security Activity Name | Fee (in AED) |
|---|---|
| Security Equipment and Equipment Trading | 4020 |
| Installation of Security Devices and Equipment | 2020 |
| General Guard Services | 2020 |
| Tourist Facilities Guarding Services | 2020 |
| Event Security and Personal Guarding | 4020 |
| Money & Valuables Transport Services | 4020 |
| Security Consulting | 3020 |
| Command and Control Center | 5020 |
| Trading of Private Vehicles for Safe Transportation | 3020 |
| Hazardous Materials Transport Services | 4000 |
| Car Tracking Systems Services | 5020 |
| Equipping and Preparing Safe Transport Vehicles | 4020 |
| Security Training | 5020 |
Source: www.sira.gov.ae
SIRA security cadre card fees:
SIRA security cadre card fees range between AED 120 – AED 520.
Training charges:
Additionally, some SIRA licenses require applicants to attend training programs and courses at accredited institutions. These programs may involve additional training costs.
To get more detailing on costs, we recommend contacting experts like Dubiz Business Setup or checking with SIRA UAE itself.
Validity and renewal of SIRA license
Generally, the SIRA license is valid for two years. Therefore, to continue operating legally in Dubai’s security sector, you must renew your SIRA license before it expires. You can renew the license by logging in to the SIRA e-services portal.
Steps on renewal of SIRA certification:
1st Step – Log in to e-services portal.
2nd Step – Submit an application to renew the security activity license / cadre card.
3rd Step – Fill the form and attach the paperwork.
4th Step – Pay the service fee (AED 100 + activity fee)
5th Step – Collect the renewed SIRA certificate.
Importance of holding a Dubai SIRA certificate
A SIRA license or certificate in Dubai offers the following benefits:
Broad market access: The demand for top-notch security services in Dubai is high, coming from both businesses and individuals. This creates ample opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs or professionals within the industry.
Ensures safety: Holding a license means that the security service provider adheres to all safety laws and protocols set by the Dubai government.
Brand reputation: Moreover, businesses and individuals holding a security license issued by SIRA may be perceived as more trustworthy and credible by customers and the wider public.
Legal compliance: In Dubai, it is mandatory for security companies, individuals, and other eligible entities to hold a proper SIRA certificate Dubai to operate legally.
Up-to-date practices: SIRA-approved services are always up to date with the latest technology and devices, ensuring safety is provided at the highest level.
Get your SIRA certification easily with Dubiz Business Setup
Overall, a SIRA certificate Dubai is essential for businesses and individuals operating in the security and valuable goods sectors. It helps ensure that safety and security standards are maintained, with license holders required to follow the practices and standards set by SIRA and Dubai law.
For those looking to start ventures like security company in Dubai or gold trading company in Dubai, obtaining one becomes extremely important. The process may look dauting with multiple steps and formalities. Due to this, right assistance becomes important. Be it SIRA certification or any other type of UAE trade license, our team of experts can assist you with the application.
Dubiz Business Setup can help you with your entire business setup in Dubai, from UAE company registration, visa processing to document clearance. For any business-related query, please contact us on any of the below given means:
📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485
💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485
📧 Email: info@dubiz.co
FAQ
Q1. What happens after the SIRA training?
After finishing the SIRA training, candidates usually have to pass different tests which can include a physical test for evaluating heath of candidate, a written exam that tests the knowledge gained during training, and finally there can be oral evaluation to assess the listening and speaking abilities of candidates. However, tests and training requirements may vary from case to case.
Q2. What is validity of SIRA license Dubai?
Generally, the SIRA license Dubai is valid for two years, after which it must be renewed to continue operating legally.
Q3. Is SIRA approval needed for gold trading?
Yes, SIRA approval is an important step for businesses seeking licenses for jewellery, precious metal, and gold trading.
Q4. How long does it take to obtain SIRA certification?
The duration for SIRA certification processing may take few weeks to a couple of months. However, it depends on factors such as documentation, category you are applying under, etc.
Q5. Is training needed for getting a SIRA license?
Yes, individuals applying for SIRA certificate Dubai must undergo specialized training according to the desired role, provided by SIRA-approved institutions.
Q6. Can I get a SIRA license without being a resident of Dubai?
There may be additional legal requirements that must be met. Accordingly, please check with SIRA for the latest updates.



