Preparing Your Dubai Property for a SIRA Audit: What Security Systems Inspectors Look For

Dubai’s Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) maintains strict oversight of property security systems across the emirate. Whether you own a residential complex, commercial building, or industrial facility, understanding SIRA audit requirements is essential for compliance and avoiding penalties.

What Is SIRA and Why Are Security Audits Mandatory?

The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) operates under the Dubai Police and regulates all security-related activities in the emirate. Established to enhance public safety, SIRA ensures that properties meet minimum security standards through mandatory inspections and licensing requirements.

Key SIRA Responsibilities:

• Licensing security companies and personnel
• Regulating CCTV and surveillance systems
• Conducting property security audits
• Enforcing compliance with Dubai security laws
• Managing the Tarassod platform for surveillance registration

Important: As of 2024, all CCTV systems in Dubai must be registered on the Tarassod platform within 30 days of installation.

Types of Properties Requiring SIRA Compliance

SIRA audits apply to various property categories across Dubai:

Property Type	Audit Frequency	Minimum Camera Requirement
Residential Buildings (10+ units)	Annual	Entry/exit points + parking
Commercial Offices	Annual	All access points + common areas
Retail Establishments	Bi-annual	Sales floor + storage areas
Hotels & Hospitality	Quarterly	Comprehensive coverage
Industrial Facilities	Annual	Perimeter + critical zones
Educational Institutions	Bi-annual	Campus-wide coverage

Core Security Systems SIRA Inspectors Evaluate

1. CCTV and Surveillance Systems

CCTV compliance forms the cornerstone of SIRA audits. Inspectors thoroughly examine:

Technical Specifications:

• Minimum camera resolution: 2 megapixels (1080p)
• Storage capacity: 30-90 days depending on property type
• Frame rate: Minimum 15 fps for standard areas, 25 fps for high-security zones
• Night vision capability for outdoor cameras

Coverage Requirements:

• All entry and exit points
• Parking areas and garages
• Elevator lobbies and stairwells
• Common areas and corridors
• Perimeter boundaries

Registration Status:
All cameras must be registered on the Tarassod platform with accurate specifications and locations documented.

2. Access Control Systems

Modern access control is mandatory for most commercial and multi-unit residential properties:

• Biometric readers at main entry points
• Card access systems with audit trail capabilities
• Visitor management systems with ID verification
• Integration with CCTV for visual verification

3. Intrusion Detection and Alarm Systems

Inspectors verify:

• Functional alarm panels with backup power
• Motion sensors in critical areas
• Door/window contact sensors
• Connection to monitoring stations
• Regular testing documentation

4. Intercom and Communication Systems

• Video intercom at main entrances
• Emergency communication capabilities
• Integration with building management systems

SIRA Audit Checklist: 15 Critical Inspection Points

Prepare your property using this comprehensive checklist:

Documentation

1. Tarassod registration certificate
   
2. Security company license (if applicable)
   
3. Maintenance records for all security systems
   
4. Staff training and certification documents
   
5. Previous audit reports with remediation proof
   

Technical Systems

6. All CCTV cameras operational with clear footage
   
7. Recording storage meeting required retention periods
   
8. Access control logs accessible for inspection
   
9. Alarm system functional with recent test results
   
10. Backup power systems (UPS or generator) operational
    

Physical Security

11. Security personnel properly licensed
    
12. Adequate lighting installed at all camera locations
    
13. Clear signage indicating monitored surveillance areas
    
14. Secure and restricted server/DVR room
    
15. Documented emergency response procedures

Common SIRA Compliance Violations and Penalties

Understanding common violations helps you avoid costly penalties:

Violation Type	Penalty Range (AED)	Resolution Timeline
Unregistered CCTV systems	5,000 – 20,000	14 days
Insufficient storage capacity	2,000 – 10,000	30 days
Non-functional cameras	1,000 – 5,000 per camera	7 days
Missing documentation	3,000 – 15,000	14 days
Unlicensed security personnel	10,000 – 50,000	Immediate
Expired maintenance contracts	2,000 – 8,000	30 days

Step-by-Step SIRA Audit Preparation Guide

Phase 1: Documentation Review (2-3 Weeks Before)

Gather Essential Documents:

• Property trade license
• Security system installation certificates
• Tarassod registration confirmation
• Maintenance service agreements
• Staff ID and training records

Phase 2: Technical Assessment (1-2 Weeks Before)

Conduct Internal Audit:

1. Test every camera for image quality and functionality
2. Verify recording storage meets retention requirements
3. Check all access control points
4. Test alarm systems and sensors
5. Confirm backup power functionality

Create Camera Health Report:

Camera ID	Location	Status	Image Quality	Last Maintenance
CAM-001	Main Entrance	Active	Excellent	15/01/2024
CAM-002	Parking Level 1	Active	Good	15/01/2024
CAM-003	Lobby	Active	Excellent	15/01/2024

Phase 3: Physical Preparation (3-5 Days Before)

• Clean camera lenses and housings
• Ensure adequate lighting at all surveillance points
• Verify security signage is visible
• Organize the server room and equipment
• Brief the security staff on audit procedures

Phase 4: Day of Audit

• Assign a knowledgeable staff member to accompany inspectors
• Have all documentation readily accessible
• Ensure technical staff are available for system demonstrations
• Document any observations or concerns raised

SIRA-Approved Security Standards for 2024

Dubai has updated security requirements to align with international standards:

Minimum Technical Standards:

Video Surveillance:

• H.265 compression or higher
• Remote viewing capability
• Encrypted storage systems
• Weatherproof outdoor cameras (IP66 rating minimum)

Access Control:

• Multi-factor authentication for high-security areas
• Real-time access logs
• Anti-passback features
• Integration capability with SIRA systems

Data Retention Requirements:

Property Category	Minimum Data Retention Period
Residential	30 Days
Commercial	60 Days
Hospitality	90 Days
Financial Institutions	180 Days
Government Buildings	365 Days

Working With SIRA-Licensed Security Providers

Engaging licensed professionals simplifies compliance:

Benefits of Licensed Providers:

• Pre-approved equipment and installations
• Direct Tarassod registration assistance
• Regular compliance updates
• Audit support and representation

How to Verify Provider Licensing:

1. Visit the official SIRA website
2. Navigate to “Licensed Companies”
3. Search by company name or license number
4. Confirm license validity and scope

Post-Audit Actions and Remediation

If Your Property Passes:

• Obtain and store the compliance certificate
• Schedule next audit based on property category
• Continue regular maintenance routines
• Update documentation as systems change

If Violations Are Identified:

1. Review the official violation report carefully
2. Prioritize issues by resolution deadline
3. Engage licensed contractors for repairs/upgrades
4. Document all remediation actions
5. Request re-inspection upon completion
6. Submit compliance evidence through official channels

Conclusion

Preparing your Dubai property for a SIRA audit requires systematic attention to documentation, technical systems, and regulatory requirements. By following this guide and maintaining proactive compliance practices, property owners can ensure smooth inspections and avoid costly penalties.

Start your preparation early, engage licensed professionals when needed, and maintain regular system checks throughout the year. SIRA compliance isn’t just about passing audits, it’s about ensuring the safety and security of everyone who enters your property.

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