Last Updated on October 17, 2025

What does ASSD mean in the UAE?

PSFRD stands for Private Security Federal Regulatory Department, which now replaces the former ASSD (Auxiliary Security Services Department) under the Abu Dhabi Police and the Ministry of Interior (MOI).

The PSFRD supervises, regulates, and develops all private security operations across the UAE. It ensures that both companies and guards maintain high standards of professionalism, safety, and efficiency through smart systems and continuous training.

Why Was PSFRD Security Training Introduced?

The Private Security Forces Regulatory Department (PSFRD) continued the transformation that began under ASSD.

The Ministry of Interior launched a Smart Training System to replace conventional PSCOD methods and to focus on technological competence, digital communication, and smart service integration within the security industry.

This upgrade was officially introduced at the National Security Institute (NSI) in collaboration with private security companies and government stakeholders.

The training aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2031 for innovation, digital governance, and high-performance human capital.

From ASSD to PSFRD — What Changed?

Under the new name, PSFRD, several improvements were implemented to enhance private security training and operational excellence:

1. Smart Communication System
   Real-time internal messaging between guards, control rooms, and higher authorities for faster response and reporting.
2. Digital Command and Control Chain
   Clear command flow from PSFRD ⇒ Control Room ⇒ Security Guard and vice versa, ensuring operational accountability and quick coordination.
3. Smart Training Curriculum (Level 3)
   A comprehensive qualification framework that integrates both theoretical and practical learning through smart technology.
   It helps in rehabilitating and upgrading guards’ professional skills and attracting national cadres into the private security sector.
4. Advanced Licensing Platform
   The PSFRD licensing portal provides faster approvals, online registration, and updated information for security companies and individuals seeking professional certification.
5. Remote Performance System
   Although guards work on-site, the system uses digital monitoring and feedback tools to improve productivity and employee satisfaction.

New Topics in the PSFRD (Formerly ASSD) Security Training

The PSFRD Level-3 Security Operations Course includes both traditional security skills and new smart-system modules.
The topics covered are:

1. First Aid
2. Fire Safety
3. Health & Safety (OHS)
4. Security Roles and Responsibilities
5. Control Room Operations
6. Patrolling
7. Observation & Note-taking
8. Traffic Management
9. Vehicle Searching
10. Person Searching
11. Access Control
12. Conflict Management
13. Critical Incident Response
14. Cash-in-Transit
15. Bank Security
16. Hospital Security
17. Special Event Security
18. Ports, Airports & Borders Security
19. Critical Infrastructure Security
20. Museums Security

Conclusion

The transformation from ASSD to PSFRD represents the UAE’s continuous commitment to excellence and innovation in private security regulation.

By integrating smart technology, digital communication, and advanced operational systems, the Private Security Forces Regulatory Department (PSFRD) ensures that the UAE remains one of the safest and most advanced nations in the world.

The new PSFRD Security Training in the UAE empowers private security guards with the knowledge, technical skills, and confidence to operate effectively within modern digital environments — setting a new benchmark for security services across the region.