Security Guard Licensing in the UAE
Here's a quick rundown on security guard licensing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi:
- Dubai: Security guards in Dubai require a license from the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). They must complete SIRA-approved training to qualify for the licensing exam
- Abu Dhabi (and other Emirates): Security guards in Abu Dhabi and other emirates (except Dubai) are regulated by the Auxiliary Security Services Department (ASSD). They need to undergo training approved by the National Security Institute (NSI) to get licensed.
In Short:
- Dubai: SIRA license
- Abu Dhabi (and other emirates): ASSD license (formerly PSBD)
Different Between ASSD and SIRA
While both SIRA and ASSD govern private security in the UAE, here's the key difference:
Geographical Scope:
- SIRA: Regulates security guards in Dubai only.
- ASSD: Oversees security guards in Abu Dhabi and other emirates (except Dubai). ASSD was previously known as PSBD (Private Security Company Organization Department).
Licensing Body:
- SIRA: Conducts training and issues licenses for security guards in Dubai.
- ASSD: Works in conjunction with the National Security Institute (NSI) for training and licensing in Abu Dhabi and other emirates. Training programs might differ slightly between SIRA and NSI.
In essence, they are the same concept for regulating private security, but with different names and areas of responsibility depending on the location within the UAE.