SIRA requirements are activity- and property-specific. Do not assume one camera layout or retention period applies to every Dubai premises. Identify the regulated activity, use the current Preventive Systems Manual, and confirm the applicable approval or certification route with SIRA or a licensed security systems provider.
Regulatory requirements can change and differ by activity, property and approval stage. This guide explains the verification process; it is not an approval, compliance certificate or substitute for current SIRA instructions.
What SIRA is responsible for
Dubai’s Security Industry Regulatory Agency regulates the emirate’s security industry and publishes services and technical requirements for preventive security systems.
For CCTV, the practical question is which business activity, building category, certification service and technical provisions apply to the premises.
Start with current SIRA service pages and manual rather than screenshots, reseller summaries or an old checklist.
Why generic retention claims are risky
The official manual uses category-specific requirements, so a universal number of recording days can be wrong.
Retention, camera position, monitoring and features can differ between activities. Storage must be engineered for the applicable period at the selected resolution, frame rate, codec and recording mode.
A responsible verification workflow
Confirm the licensed activity and site category, map the current technical clauses to the design, and use the applicable certification process when required.
- Identify trade licence activity and exact premises use
- Check the latest Preventive Systems Manual and service page
- Use an appropriately licensed provider
- Document model specifications, camera schedule and storage calculation
- Complete testing and preserve project records
What to ask an installer
Ask the provider to name the applicable category and source, explain whether certification or drawings are needed, and identify responsibility for submissions and fees.
| Ask | Useful evidence |
|---|---|
| Which category applies? | Current manual section or SIRA instruction |
| What approval route is needed? | Relevant service and responsibility matrix |
| How was storage sized? | Documented bitrate and retention calculation |
| What is handed over? | As-built schedule, credentials and test records |
Frequently asked questions
Does every Dubai property have the same CCTV retention requirement?
No. Requirements can vary by activity and property category. Verify the current manual and applicable instruction.
Can this article confirm my property is compliant?
No. Compliance depends on the actual activity, design, installed system, documents and current process.
Where should I verify current requirements?
Use SIRA’s official website, current Preventive Systems Manual and an appropriately licensed provider.
Official sources and further verification
Use the current source itself before making a compliance or procurement decision.
