At Dubiz, we understand the complexities & challenges of establishing a business in UAE’s evolving landscape. Our suite of expert business setup services is specially designed to support your venture at every stage, from inception to expansion.
Mod-friday, 10AM -06PM
In today’s modern lives, where the scope of risks and uncertainties is ever-expanding, having robust security measures in place provides peace of mind. It is crucial not to overlook the importance of protecting what matters most—our loved ones, our homes, and everything we hold dear.
Dubai, too, has been witnessing a growing demand for security services from both businesses and residents who want to safeguard themselves from unseen threats. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle drives the need for enhanced safety, presenting prime opportunity for entrepreneurs to open security company in Dubai.
But hold on! There are certain things you must be aware of for a successful security business setup in Dubai. This guide will cover everything you need to know. Let’s explore how to open security company in Dubai, including its process, costs, and regulations.
Before starting any business, it is essential to thoroughly understand its market and assess the demand. In Dubai’s security services sector, opportunities are abundant for entrepreneurs. As one of the safest cities in the world, Dubai places a strong emphasis on security, leading to significant demand for these services. With numerous businesses, frequent events, and vigilant residents, demand for security services in Dubai comes from multiple directions. This creates a promising environment for establishing a successful security business.
Reasons to open security company in Dubai:
The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), established in 2016, is responsible for regulating and overseeing the security sector in Dubai. All businesses and individuals intending to provide security services in the Emirate of Dubai must first obtain a SIRA license. This validates that they deliver services according to the rules and best standards and are qualified enough to safeguard lives and properties. Also note that an individual may provide security services only through a company or establishment which is licensed.
Following are the types of security business licenses that SIRA issues:
You need to get this license for your security business in Dubai. The type of license required depends on the security activities you wish to pursue. SIRA lists more than 20 such activities, including:
This license is must for individual (a natural person) who delivers security services in Dubai. The type of license issued to him depends on his security duties or post which can be:
You can check out SIRA’s official website to find out the complete list.
Certain security devices and equipment require a license before they can be traded, imported, exported, or transmitted through the territory of Dubai. This includes surveillance devices, protective devices, alarm devices, spying or anti-spying devices, and paramilitary or police equipment. To obtain this license, one must be a licensed establishment.
Some activities require a special license each time they are conducted, such as importing or selling paramilitary or police devices and equipment.
Note: Each SIRA license type has its own requirements and application procedure. Our experts at Dubiz Business Setup can provide detailed assistance for better understanding.
Wondering how to start security company in Dubai? We have got you covered! Here are the simple steps you need to follow to open security company in Dubai:
To start with, you will have to decide what security services are you going to provide. There are various types of activities you can carry out, such as installing security devices, providing event security, offering security consultancy, performing general guarding, trading in security equipment and more. The activities you choose will determine the type of license you will need.
Next, for your business setup in Dubai, you also need to choose and register a trade name. While doing so make sure it does not violate any UAE law. Be mindful that it should not be offensive to any religion or social norm.
Choose the legal structure for your security business. There are various types of UAE business structures from which you can choose. You can establish a limited liability company, a partnership firm, a branch or even be a sole proprietor. Of course, the decision depends on your business needs and requirements.
You will have to decide whether to open security company in Dubai freezone or on a mainland. Each jurisdiction has its own benefits and regulation.
To start any kind of business in Dubai, you need to get initial approval from DED (Dubai Economic Department). Once you receive the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from them, you can proceed with the license application. Also, it is also important to get the initial approval from the SIRA for your security business in Dubai.
Once all the approvals are in place, you can go ahead with license application. You need to prepare the necessary documents and paperwork and submit those to relevant authorities for successful license application. Remember, to open security company in Dubai, you need two kinds of license. First, you must apply for the trade license with DED (in case of mainland) or your respective freezone authority. Second one is SIRA license. You need to obtain company security license and individual security license for your staff from SIRA.
Note: SIRA, after issuing the initial approval, gives you time period of 6 months (renewable once for same period), to complete the procedures for obtaining the SIRA license and commercial license. In case you fail to do so, the initial approval will be deemed invalid.
To work or stay in Dubai legally, you need to secure a residence visa. You must apply for that and fulfil all the documentation requirements. Once you secure your residence visa, you can also sponsor your family, dependants, and domestic staff.
To keep track of your business’s finances, you must open a corporate bank account. The process can be bit challenging for non-residents. It is better to consult professionals.
Once you complete all the above given steps, you can officially start operating your security business and embark on your entrepreneurial journey in the golden city of Dubai!
These are the documents that you need to open security company in Dubai:
There may be additional documents that you may need to submit as per your specific business case. To know about the exact paperwork, please reach out to our professional consultants at Dubiz Business Setup.
The cost to start security services business in Dubai is around AED 17,000* onwards. The cost can vary based on various factors such as number of visas applied for, office rent, staffing costs, licensing costs and more.
SIRA license fees can vary depending on the type of license you are applying for, training requirements etc.
Let our professional consultants be your guide for exact cost estimation.
Dubai is the safest city worldwide, with security services always being prioritized to keep individuals’ lives and properties secure. The demand for such services is perpetual presenting a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs to open security company in Dubai.
As the UAE’s most trusted consultancy, Dubiz Business Setup is proud to have helped over 4,000 businesses achieve success. We are your one-stop shop for all company formation needs in the UAE. We will assist you from the initial step of establishing your security business in Dubai and offer additional services to enhance your brand’s presence. We will handle everything from obtaining your license and visa on time to registering your company and opening a business bank account – all hassle-free.
We offer a free consultation to address any questions you may have about business setup in Dubai. If you want to open security company in Dubai, now is the time. Contact us to get the best-tailored package for your needs.
Call us: +971 562986853, WhatsApp us: +971 501309366, Email us: info@dubiz.co
Yes, security business is indeed profitable in Dubai. The demand for security services is high in the city and both the individuals and businesses are seeking such services.
The security sector in Dubai is regulated by the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). It aims to ensure Dubai’s safety by implementing international security best practices, suggesting new laws, training security personnel, and inspecting facilities to protect lives and property.
The company and establishment security license issued by SIRA is valid for one year, renewable for the same period and an individual security license is valid for two years, again renewable for the same period. Both need to be renewed at least 30 days before the expiry date.
You will need two licenses to open security company in Dubai. First one will be the trade license issued by DED in case of mainland company formation or relevant free zone authority. The second one would be SIRA license issued by the Secondary Industry Regulatory Authority (SIRA). You need both to operate your security business legally in the city.
A SIRA license is a permit, issued by the Security Industry Regulatory Authority (SIRA) that authorises businesses and individuals to provide a security service in the Emirate of Dubai.
