The UAE hosts hundreds of private security companies, but we’ve handpicked the top security companies in UAE. All of these companies operate under two key regulatory frameworks:
PSFRD governs security operations across six emirates—Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain—while SIRA oversees operations exclusively in Dubai.
Despite these two separate regulatory bodies, the training and enforcement policies are quite similar. The UAE government introduced new security regulations in 2001 to ensure security service providers are more responsible for community safety.
Companies operating in Dubai need a SIRA license, while those in other emirates require a PSFRD license. However, companies licensed by both authorities can operate across all UAE territories.
Security Companies’ Role in the UAE
The security industry in the UAE has created over 30,000 jobs and plays a crucial role in safeguarding public and private properties worth billions.
These companies offer a wide array of services beyond manned guarding, including building protection, cash-in-transit, cash center security, and security services for hotels, hospitals, banks, events, and critical infrastructure.
Security officers in the UAE are regarded as highly professional, earning better salaries than their counterparts in other GCC countries.
While salaries comply with PSFRD or SIRA regulations, overtime pay can vary depending on the company.
Therefore, partnering with a reputable security firm ensures that you won’t have to worry about salary delays, overtime pay, accommodation, vacations, or other benefits.
Why Some Large Companies Didn’t Make the Cut
In researching these companies, I consulted their employees because they truly understand what it’s like working there.
Our selection is based on several criteria: timely salary payments, overtime pay, company reputation, size, employee health and life insurance, vacation policies, gratuity, and accommodation standards.
You might recognize some big security companies that aren’t on this list, and that’s intentional. Despite their size and reputation, some have questionable management practices.
Although these companies are large, profitable, and well-known, this post focuses on how well they treat their employees. I won’t disclose their names, but some well-known organizations fall short in employee welfare. Their accommodations, for example, do not meet PSFRD/SIRA standards.
The companies listed here were chosen for their commitment to both clients and employees. Some smaller companies with around 500 guards made the list because they offer good salaries, standard accommodations, and timely vacations.
If you’re searching for the best security companies in the UAE, this post should answer your questions.
Here Are the Top 15 Security Companies in UAE
1. Allied Universal Security and G4S
In 2021, Allied Universal Security acquired G4S, a renowned global security brand. Despite the acquisition, the company continues to operate under the G4S brand across its worldwide operations.
G4S, now part of Allied Universal, is a leader in security services with operations spanning multiple continents, including the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Its comprehensive range of services includes manned guarding, project management, and risk management, catering to diverse industries and sectors.
G4S in the UAE
In the UAE, Allied Universal operates under the G4S brand, maintaining its reputation as a leader in manned and integrated security services.
With five branches across the Emirates and a workforce of over 10,000 employees, G4S provides cutting-edge security solutions tailored to meet local needs, ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability.
Employees can expect timely salary payments and above-average overtime pay. The company also provides excellent accommodations, though some have noted limited opportunities for career advancement.
2. Securiguard Middle East L.L.C
Established in 2005, Securiguard Middle East started as a professional security guard provider for the private sector. It has since expanded its services to include manned guarding, escort services, access control, event management, and incident response. The company has a strong relationship with the UAE government.
Employee Experience: Employees report satisfaction with the company’s salary structure and management.
Securiguard Middle East also offers excellent overtime pay, vacation time, and medical benefits, in line with UAE labor laws. Notably, it’s one of the few private companies that provide MOI (Ministry of Interior) guards.
3. Transguard Group
Founded in 2001, Transguard has outpaced its competitors in securing contracts across the UAE. With over 65,000 employees, Transguard is the largest provider of uniform security, cash handling, and integrated facility services in the country.
Benefits: Transguard offers timely salary payments, vacation opportunities, and health and life insurance. Employees receive free accommodation and transportation, though they must pay for their meals.
4. Securitas UAE L.L.C
A multinational security company founded in Sweden in 1934, Securitas operates in 53 countries, employing 320,000 people.
While its UAE client base isn’t as large as some competitors, Securitas offers top-notch services to its business partners, focusing on manned and integrated security services.
Work Environment: Employees enjoy competitive salaries, free laundry services, and free accommodation. The company is known for its professional supervisors and managers.
5. Hemaya Security
Hemaya is a semi-government entity established in 2009 with the approval of the UAE’s Minister of Interior and Deputy Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The company primarily supports UAE police forces and provides services to corporate clients.
Employee Profile: Many Hemaya employees are former military or police officers, earning higher salaries than standard security guards in the UAE.
6. Middle East Security
Sponsored by Elias Mr. Shalameh in 2000, Middle East Security is a leading provider of security services in Abu Dhabi.
The company supplies MOI guards to the Ministry of Interior and offers uniformed guards for hospitals, banks, retail stores, educational institutions, and government offices.
Employee Benefits: Employees receive personal health and life insurance, as well as timely salary payments.
7. Spark Security
Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Spark Security is a top private security provider licensed by both PSBD and SIRA. With over 5,000 personnel serving 340 clients, Spark specializes in physical security, event management, and security consulting.
Why Work Here: Spark is a locally owned company that ensures timely salary payments, yearly vacations, and decent accommodation facilities.
8. Al Jaber-Coin Security Company
Founded in 2004, Al Jaber-Coin is a subsidiary of the Al Jaber Group and merged with Protea Coin Security Services in its founding year. The company offers a wide range of security services and has offices in every emirate.
Employee Satisfaction: Al Jaber-Coin compensates its employees according to UAE security regulations, ensuring timely payments and professional management.
9. RAK Security Company
Established by members of the Ras-Al-Khaimah royal family, RAK Security originally served the Northern Emirates but now operates across the entire UAE. It is licensed by both PSFRD and SIRA.
Company Strengths: Although smaller in size, RAK Security is a reliable employer offering good working conditions and employee benefits.
10. A.J. Security and Safety Consultant
A.J. Security is a medium-sized firm that has quickly gained a reputation for partnering with public and private organizations.
While its website may not be as polished as larger companies, A.J. Security is fully licensed and pays its employees on time, regardless of client payment delays.
11. Arkan Security Services
Arkan is one of Dubai’s top security companies and a subsidiary of Dubai Property Holding. It primarily provides security services to Dubai Holding properties, offering reliable salaries and leave policies.
12. Trust Security Services
Established in 1993, Trust Security is one of the oldest security companies in the UAE. It mainly provides services to educational institutions, shopping malls, and government offices. The company was restructured in 2002 and now operates under the name Trust Security.
Employee Perks: Trust Security offers stable employment with timely salary payments and good working conditions.
13. Etihad Secure Logistics Services LLC
After the Etihad Group acquired the Australian-based Armaguard operation in Abu Dhabi, the entity was rebranded as Etihad Secure Logistics Services LLC (ESL).
ESL specializes in providing high-security solutions for currency and high-value cargo management. Its services include:
- Secure Escort and Handling: Ensuring the safe transportation and management of valuable assets.
- Secure Storage: Offering state-of-the-art facilities for storing high-value goods.
- Airside Services: Facilitating secure staging and handling operations directly at airport premises.
14. Brinks Global Services Ltd
Brinks, a U.S.-based company, has been a leader in risk management and secure logistics for over a century. It provides top-tier security services to central banks, financial institutions, governments, and the diamond and jewelry industries in 110 countries, including the UAE.
15. Landmark Security
Established in 2004, Landmark Security focuses on providing integrated security services across the UAE. It has a reputation for reliability and cost-effective solutions.
In conclusion:
International security companies are the best places for career growth in the UAE. Emirati-owned companies are a strong second choice, while those owned by Asian nationals should be considered third. I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to comment below