Country Hub
Security Services in the UAE
Operating in UAE? Speak with a security consultant.
The UAE is one of the world’s most significant international business hubs, combining a strategic geographic location, world-class infrastructure, and a business environment that has attracted the regional headquarters of hundreds of multinational corporations.
FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to the UAE due to regional tensions (April 2026). This represents an unusual change from the UAE’s normally low-risk designation and reflects the broader Middle East security environment rather than domestic conditions inside Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi: domestic security profile
By conventional security metrics, Dubai is among the safest cities on our platform. Crime is very low. Police response is excellent. Personal security on the streets is not a material concern for most visitors. The risks are different in character: legal, regulatory, and regional.
Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, has a comparable domestic security profile. Both cities operate under SIRA’s regulatory framework for private security.
The regional picture, April 2026
FCDO’s advisory reflects Middle East regional escalation. Houthi maritime attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Oman, and the general regional security environment, elevate the contextual risk for all Gulf states. The UAE’s own military involvement in regional affairs means it is not a neutral party in current Middle East dynamics.
A current risk assessment for UAE travel will reflect the latest FCDO position and provide a client-specific assessment of whether the regional factors materially affect your specific activities.
SIRA-regulated market
The UAE’s security industry is regulated by SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency). This creates one of the more transparent and professionally regulated markets in our network. All security companies must be SIRA-registered. Close protection is unarmed. The market is primarily driven by events, HNWI clients, and corporate executives rather than the crime-prevention requirements that dominate other P1 cities.
Cities We Cover
Dubai
Medium riskGlobal business hub. Currently FCDO advises against non-essential travel due to regional tensions (April 2026). Domestic security excellent. Legal compliance essential.
View city guide →Security Regulations
Firearms
Private security firearms are strictly prohibited in the UAE. All licensed close protection is unarmed. SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency) regulates all private security companies.
Licensing
SIRA registration is mandatory for all security companies operating in the UAE. Regular audits and renewal required. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have separate licensing within the federal framework.
Foreign Operators
Foreign security companies must register with SIRA and establish a UAE entity. Foreign personnel require UAE residency visas (employment visa). All armed functions are performed only by state security forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
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