SIRA, or Security Industry Regulatory Agency, is a government agency in the UAE that regulates the security industry. The UAE Federal Government established SERA in 2016 to issue licenses to security companies or security guards, regulating the security industry in the UAE. If you are working in the freight industry, you will be familiar with SERA and the security requirements for companies operating in the UAE. Freight forwarders need to ensure that they are working with licensed security companies in the UAE, and all necessary documentation has to be in order.
What is SIRA?
The main reason why SIRA was established was in response to the growing number of private security companies in the UAE. There was a need for some regulatory agencies to oversee the functions of these companies. The agency is responsible for issuing licences to security companies, formulating standards for the industry, and investigating complaints against security agencies.
As far as the security industry in the UAE is concerned, it has undergone a paradigm shift in recent times. A booming economy and an enhanced reputation as a safe and secure place to work for the international community have contributed to this. The UAE is the hub of many international organisations and businesses. There has been an increase in the number of private security companies catering to the demand for security services.
The core objective is to oversee and regulate the private security industry in the country. It means setting standards and licencing private security businesses and the personnel that hire them. SIRA also promotes the professional development of security industry companies operating ethically and responsibly.
SIRA services
The security industry in the UAE is regulated by a number of federal, and local rules and regulations. It is the primary regulatory body for the security industry in the UAE. The other agencies that regulate the security industry include the Ministry of Interior, the Abu Dhabi Police, and the Department of Economic Development. SIRA is responsible for issuing licences to private security companies or individuals who are working in the security industry in the UAE. Some of the services provided by SERA in the UAE are as follows:
- Investor protection
- Licencing, along with registration
- Consumer protection
- Policy and regulation
- Dispute resolution
- International cooperation
- Research and development
- Enforcement
- Market surveillance
The services that are provided by SIRA in the UAE are important for consumers and businesses. It ensures that companies are operating legally and that customers are shielded from dishonest and disruptive behaviour. SIRA also requires that all businesses obtain a licence from the UAE government in order to engage in export- or import-related activity.
The requirements for a SIRA license
You may apply for a SIRA licence or vocational course even if you have a tourist visa. Hence, this certificate can be useful for obtaining a job in the industry. There is no need for any additional qualifications to apply for a job in the security industry. This means that you can take entry-level courses at your own leisure.
The required documentation for SIRA application training is
- Colour photo
- A copy of the passport
- Residence visa copy( if you have one)
- Emirates ID copy
- CV
- Medical fitness certificate
- Certificate of good conduct
- Educational qualifications
- Fitness certificate
Possessing a valid SIRA license enables you to find a security guard job in Dubai. The reason is that security companies love to hire candidates who possess a security license. They are able to deploy them to work quickly rather than wasting time in providing them with training. Though SIRA provides various training courses the cost varies based on the categories.
But if you want to apply for an advanced SIRA licence, you need to have the necessary experience. Putting things in a different perspective, if you want to work as a CCTV operator or a security officer, you require some amount of experience. Then only you will be allowed to apply for the SIRA licence.
An individual may opt for an entry-level licence if they do not require an advanced-level certificate. The person has to be fit in order to work in the security industry in the UAE, and their age bracket has to be between 21 and 35 years old.
To conclude, SIRA is responsible for regulating and monitoring the security industry in the UAE. Some challenges exist, like improving communication and training between various agencies. SIRA is working to improve the security industry.