Last Updated on October 5, 2025
Dubai, one of the largest and most developed emirates in the UAE, is home to the regional headquarters of many global organizations.
As Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become global investment hubs, multinational companies have established their offices here, creating a growing demand for safety and protection.
To meet this demand, the security industry in Dubai has experienced rapid growth, offering thousands of security guard jobs in Dubai and other emirates.
Evolution of Security Regulation in the UAE
In 2001, the Abu Dhabi government restructured the security sector by introducing the Private Security Business Department (PSBD) regulation, which also extended to other emirates.
Around the same time, Dubai established its own regulatory body, known as the DPS (Dubai Protective System).
Later, both were renamed:
- PSBD → PSCOD (Private Security Companies Organization Department)
- DPS → SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Authority)
These reforms brought the private security industry under the national security framework, ensuring professional standards, fair pay, and high-quality service across the UAE.
Equal Salary and Professional Standards
Following the new regulations, the UAE government ensured fair pay for all security guards, regardless of nationality.
However, salaries still vary slightly between SIRA-licensed and PSCOD-licensed guards because they follow different pay structures.
In general, security officers in the UAE earn more than those in neighboring countries such as Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.
Guards working under reputable companies enjoy proper overtime payments and benefits in line with UAE labor laws.
Steps to Become a Security Guard in Dubai
1. Educational Qualification
Most security guard jobs in Dubai are entry-level positions that require at least a high school certificate. Having a diploma or an associate degree in criminal justice or public safety can give you an advantage.
2. Required Skills
Employers prefer candidates who can:
- Communicate effectively
- Think quickly in emergencies
- Apply good judgment in risky situations
- Understand public safety and security principles
- Work independently or as part of a team
3. Physical and Mental Fitness
- Height: Minimum 5.6 ft (male), 5.2 ft (female)
- Weight: Minimum 50 kg (male), 40 kg (female)
- Age limit: 21 – 45 years
- Must be mentally fit with no physical limitations.
4. Background Check
Applicants must have a clean criminal record both locally and internationally, including previous employment in Gulf countries.
5. Experience
At least 2 years of experience in security, police, or military service is preferred. Prior experience adds great value and helps in quick adaptation to professional security standards.
Preparing for a Security Guard Job in Dubai
- Document Verification:
Get your educational certificates attested by your country’s education board, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the UAE embassy. - Experience Letter:
Obtain an experience certificate from your previous employer (security company, police, or military). - Training Certificate:
If you’ve completed any security training course, include it with your application. - SIRA Training:
For Dubai, completing SIRA training before recruitment gives you an edge. For Abu Dhabi (PSCOD), NSI training is required but can only be arranged through a licensed company.
How to Find Security Guard Jobs in Dubai
1. Avoid Fake Job Portals
Many online job ads for security jobs in Dubai are fake. Apply only through trusted platforms or directly on company websites. Always verify the authenticity of recruiters before sharing documents.
2. Apply Through Company Websites
Visit official security company websites, go to their “Careers” section, and submit your application directly.
3. List Licensed Security Companies
Visit the SIRA or PSCOD official sites to find licensed companies in the UAE. Some companies hold both licenses, giving you flexibility to transfer between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the future.
4. Use Personal Networks
Stay connected with friends already working in the UAE security industry — they can inform you about real job openings and recommend you to hiring managers.
5. Apply In-Person
Visit the company offices in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and submit your CV personally. It shows professionalism and increases your chance of being shortlisted.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Practice both common and job-specific security guard interview questions. Research the company and be ready to discuss your experience confidently.
Training, Test, and Licensing
Once selected, candidates must complete SIRA or NSI training depending on their work location. After successfully passing the test, they receive their official security guard license, allowing them to start work legally in Dubai or other emirates.
Conclusion
Finding security guard jobs in Dubai takes patience, preparation, and persistence. While the interview process is not overly difficult, competition is high.
By meeting all requirements, completing SIRA or NSI training, and applying through legitimate channels, you can secure a rewarding and stable security job in Dubai and build a strong career in the UAE’s growing security industry.
