Are you running a security company in Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Do you feel worried about the new 2026 compliance checks? The security field in the UAE has changed a lot. It now focuses on modern technology and good care for workers. Unannounced visits from SIRA and PSBD happen more often. If you do not follow the rules, your business can face big problems. You may get fines of more than AED 100,000 or even lose your license.
This simple guide explains the most important legal changes in 2026. Every employer and security worker needs to know these rules. It will help you pass inspections from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) without any trouble.
2026 SIRA & PSBD Regulatory Standards
In 2026, everything starts with the “Cadre Card”. This is very important for all security companies. If you work in Dubai, you follow the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). If you work in Abu Dhabi, you follow the Private Security Business Department (PSBD). Now, only digital licenses are accepted. No more paper licenses.
The Digital Guard Mandate
By 2026, all old physical licenses are gone. Every guard must have the new Smart Security Cadre Card. This is a digital card. Inspectors use mobile scanners to check it quickly. They scan the card on the spot during a visit.
If a guard is working without an active digital card, the company gets immediate penalties. This rule makes sure every guard is properly licensed and trained. No excuses are allowed.
Main Points About Licensing in 2026
Here are the key things you need to remember:
- Every guard needs a valid SIRA Security Cadre Card or PSBD Security Guard License.
- New workers can get a 90-day Trainee Permit to start training.
- Some special jobs need a Security Systems Operator license.
- You must renew the license every year.
- You use the SIRA eServices portal for online work.
- All training must come from approved centers.
- The law comes from Federal Law No. 557 of 2008.
- Guards need a clean criminal record. In Dubai, this means a Dubai Police clearance certificate.
These standards help keep the security industry safe and professional.
Also Read: USA Hospitality Industry: Employer Compliance Checks and Rules for 2026
2026 Wage & Welfare Compliance (MOHRE)
The UAE does not have one minimum wage for all foreign workers. But in 2026, there are strict rules for the security industry. There are also big changes for Emirati workers.
Salary Rules for Security Guards
For normal entry-level security guards, the salary starts from:
- AED 1,920 in Dubai (SIRA area)
- AED 2,770 in Abu Dhabi (PSBD area)
These are the basic standard salaries. Companies must pay at least this amount.
Big Change for Emirati Workers
From January 1, 2026, Emiratis working in private companies must get at least AED 6,000 per month. This is the new minimum wage for them. If you have Emirati staff, you must update their contracts by June 30, 2026. This helps more Emiratis join private jobs.
Wage Protection System (WPS) Checks
The Wage Protection System (WPS) is very strict now. It checks if salaries go to workers on time. There is zero tolerance for delays. Even a delay of 24 hours can cause big trouble. The system can block your establishment card automatically. This stops you from hiring new workers until you fix the problem.
Always pay salaries through WPS banks on the correct dates.
Operational Inspection Standards 2026
Inspectors in 2026 do not only check papers. They look at real work and equipment too. They check the Daily Occurrence Book (DOB) and your technology.
Documentation and Equipment Checks
During a surprise visit, inspectors will ask these questions:
- Are your patrol plans (SOPs) updated with the new 2026 safety rules?
- Does your CCTV system meet the latest SIRA standards? This includes good resolution and frame rate.
- Are all incident reports written digitally? Are they sent to the main company portal on time?
You must keep everything modern and digital.
Physical Fitness of Guards
This year, guard health is very important. Every guard needs:
- A valid Certificate of Physical Fitness
- A Life Support Certificate (First Aid training)
For some jobs like event security, guards also need a special “Crowd Management” certificate. This makes sure guards are strong and ready for any situation.
The “Guard Welfare Bridge”: Accommodation Standards
In 2026, the government cares a lot about worker living conditions. MOHRE and other inspectors now check labor housing very carefully.
New Rules for Worker Accommodation
The new welfare rule says:
- Each person must have at least 3.6 square meters of space.
- There must be central air conditioning in all rooms.
- The room temperature must stay between 22°C and 24°C all the time.
These are called “Sanitary Living Conditions”. If your accommodation does not meet these rules, the company can lose the right to bring new workers. This is a serious penalty.
Good housing helps workers stay healthy and happy. It is good for your business too.
Employer Liability & Penalties
Making mistakes is very costly now. The UAE made penalties stronger in 2026.
Common Penalties
Here are some big fines:
- Hiring guards without licenses: Fine starts at AED 100,000.
- Pretending full-time guards are freelancers to avoid benefits: This is a big red flag. It can bring heavy punishment.
- Workers now have two years (not one) to make labor claims after their contract ends. So, keep all records safe for a long time.
Always follow the rules to avoid these problems.
WRC Inspection Checklist: Are You Ready?
Use this simple checklist before any inspection:
- All staff have a valid Digital Cadre Card.
- Salaries are always paid through WPS on time.
- Health insurance is active for all workers and their families.
- The Security Manager has finished the 2026 refresher training course.
Check these points every month. It will help you stay ready.
Next Step for You
Do you want help? I can make a full “UAE Security Guard Compliance Checklist 2026”. Your HR team can use it for practice audits inside the company.
Disclaimer: This article is only for information and learning. Please always check the latest rules from official places like SIRA, PSBD (Ministry of Interior), or MOHRE before you make any decisions for your business or job.