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The Private Security Business Department (PSBD) established itself as the first authority to regulate the private security sector in the United Arab Emirates. Security professionals operating under PSBD’s supervision are commonly referred to as PSBD security personnel.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the countries in the Middle East where we find professional security guards in residential, commercial, and public properties. This is made possible through the regulation of the private security industry by specialized authorities.
Over the years, regulations have grown to shape the private security industry into what it is today. The PSBD security (Private Security Business Department) has undergone several name changes and is now known as the PSFRD (Private Security Firms Regulatory Department).
In the past, the private security sector in the UAE operated without structure. Companies hired watchmen and paid them whatever they deemed fair. Most security guards were untrained and underpaid.
However, everything changed with the introduction of PSBD security regulations in 2001. This marked a significant turning point, setting regulations and standards that transformed the private security industry in the UAE.
Although I refer to PSBD in this post, it’s important to understand that the current name is PSFRD. The department was known through different names, such as PSCOD before becoming PSFRD.
Why Did the UAE Implement Private Security Legislation?
When the UAE started diversifying its economy from fossil fuels to service and industry sectors, the demand for private security personnel surged.
This surge led to the rapid growth of private security companies, particularly in Dubai. Tourism became a focal point of Dubai’s economic strategy. Government investment in constructing iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Miracle Garden boasts tourism.
With millions of visitors pouring into the country annually, luxury hotels and other high-end establishments were established, further driving the need for a professional security industry.
Before 2001, it was common for cleaning companies to supply security guards, with workers serving dual roles depending on the company’s needs. However, with the new security regulations, all security companies were brought under federal regulation.
Security regulatory body in UAE
- PSBD/ FSRD in the Northern Emirates
- PSRFD in Abu Dhabi
- ASSD (Axillery Security Service Department) Abu Dhabi police
- SIRA in Dubai
Why Should You Work as a PSFRD Security Guard in the UAE?
If you’re considering a career as a security guard in the UAE, you’re in the right place. I can guide you step by step through the process of becoming a certified guard.
People from developing countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, the Philippines, and various African nations actively seek security jobs in the UAE.
Although working as a security guard may not be considered prestigious in their home countries, the story is quite different in the UAE. Here’s why many people choose security guard jobs in the UAE:
- Good salary package
- Respectable job
- Professional training
- Strict enforcement of employment contracts by authorities
- Recognition as part of the National Defense Force
- Fair and regulated salary payments
- Understanding the Security Systems in the UAE
The UAE has two main security systems: “SIRA,” and “PSFRD” (Private Security Firms Regulatory Department), previously known as PSBD.
What is PSBD Security?
PSFRD, formerly known as PSBD in Abu Dhabi, continues to be widely recognized as PSBD in the Northern Emirates. It regulates private security companies across the UAE. PSBD/PSFRD enforces regulations for security firms operating in Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
Formation of PSBD/PSFRD
Initially formed in 2002 as a unit of Abu Dhabi Police and part of the Ministry of Interior, PSBD has since developed into a federal department. Staffed by both police officers and civilian personnel, it operates offices across several emirates.
Responsibilities of PSFRD
- Stabilizing security regulatory standards
- Approving security companies and security guards
- Ensuring quality training and maintaining high standards
- Examining and licensing security companies and guards
- Inspecting companies and guards for compliance with federal law
- Enforcing private security laws through fines and prosecutions, with daily monitoring and review
The Process to Become a PSBD (Now PSFRD) Security Guard
1. Get Hired as Security:
Before obtaining a PSBD license, you must secure a job with a security company in the UAE. The company might hire you from your home country or from within the UAE. If hired from abroad, the company will handle your visa and labor contract documentation.
2. Undergo Training:
After arriving in the UAE, the company will apply for training at the National Security Institute (NSI) or you can do it with Tadweer. This training lasts for 6 days and covers topics like legal rights, safety, and security measures.
3. Apply for PSFRD Test:
After completing the NSI training, you can apply for the PSFRD test. If the training was done on your own, you can apply for the PSFRD exam appointment yourself.
4. Exam Preparation:
PSBD does not provide training but administers the licensing exam. The test is based on NSI training material, so a solid understanding of the security knowledge gained during NSI training will help you succeed in the exam.
5. Pass the Exam:
The test is computerized, with multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 38 out of 60 questions correctly (75%) to pass.
6. Results and Licensing:
Once you submit your test, the results are immediate. The license is usually issued within three days.
Note: You can only start working after obtaining your PSFRD/PSBD license. Always carry your license while on duty to avoid fines during inspections.
Conclusion
The PSBD security course has developed significantly over the years, becoming more rigorous and comprehensive. The PSFRD security guard training at NSI is now at level 3, covering a wide range of skills. Trainees will also learn about smart security systems during this training.