Last Updated on October 16, 2025

The security guard license is an official document that allows a person to perform security duties in a country. The department responsible for issuing the license varies from one country to another, depending on local laws and regulations.

In most countries, a Private Security Regulatory Authority is formed by the government to supervise the private security industry. This authority is responsible for the training, licensing, and monitoring of private security companies and their guards.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the countries that has set a high standard of professionalism in the private security industry.

The UAE government has allowed private security companies to participate in securing both private and public properties across the country.

Among the Gulf nations, the UAE is one of the most attractive destinations for job seekers around the world. Dubai, in particular, is not only an economic hub but also home to the regional headquarters of many international companies.

Over the years, the UAE government has reduced its dependency on oil exports and shifted its focus toward industrial, service, and tourism sectors. This transformation has attracted many global companies to establish their regional headquarters in Dubai.

Even though the UAE still earns a large portion of its income from oil, the government has prioritized tourism, hospitality, and business services. As a result, world-class hotels and multinational businesses continue to invest and expand in Dubai every year.

This fast-growing economy and changing business environment have created new job opportunities in almost every sector, including the security industry.

To maintain safety and protect people and property, the UAE government has made it mandatory for all security personnel to complete basic security guard training and obtain a valid security guard license before starting their duties.

Two Security Licensing Systems in the UAE

If you want to work as a security guard in the UAE, you must have either a SIRA license or a PSCOD license. These licenses are issued only after completing training and passing the official examination conducted by the respective authority.

How to Get a PSCOD Security Guard License

The PSCOD license (Private Security Company Organization Department) allows you to work in six emirates of the UAE, excluding Dubai. The process is managed by the PSCOD department and usually takes more than two weeks, including paperwork, training, and exams.

To get a PSCOD license:

1. You must first be employed by a licensed security company in the UAE. You cannot apply for the license as an individual.
2. The company will refer you to the National Security Institute (NSI) for Basic Security Guard Training, which lasts for five days. You must complete the training and pass the written test.
3. After completing your course, the company will apply for the PSCOD exam on your behalf. The exam is conducted in the PSBD office, and you need at least 75% to pass.
4. Once you pass the test, you will receive your PSCOD security guard license, which allows you to work legally as a security guard in the UAE.
5. The company handles all paperwork. You only need to attend training, take the exam, and collect your license.

How to Get a SIRA Security Guard License

The SIRA license stands for the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (formerly known as DPS). It regulates all private security operations in Dubai.

Unlike the PSCOD system, individuals apply directly for the SIRA license without needing to be hired by a company first.

There are two ways to apply for a SIRA license:

1. Apply on your own:
   Visit the SIRA Cadre Academy and apply directly by paying the training fee. You will be given your training schedule and exam date.
   Complete the course, attend all sessions, and pass both the physical and written tests. Once you pass, you will receive your SIRA license and can start applying for security guard jobs in Dubai.
2. Apply through a company:
   If you already work for a security company, your employer manages the entire SIRA licensing process. The company pays the course fees, arranges transport, and provides uniforms and other necessary equipment.

Many companies prefer to hire guards who already hold a valid SIRA license because it saves them time and money on training and paperwork.

Conclusion

Getting a security guard license in the UAE is not an easy process, but it opens the door to a stable and rewarding career. Although SIRA guards generally earn slightly less than PSCOD guards, they can later upgrade to a PSCOD license through their employer.

Whether you choose SIRA or PSCOD, both licenses are equally important for learning the basic security skills required to perform your duties professionally.

Completing the Basic Security Guard Training ensures you are well-prepared to handle real-world challenges while maintaining safety and professionalism on duty.

• Training for the PSCOD license
• The whole process for the PSCOD guard 
• Security guard salary in the UAE
• SIRA training and exam in Dubai