CCTV Installation in Dubai: Know the Laws Before Installing

CCTV installation in Dubai for your homes or offices can help improve your security. However, in UAE and specifically in Dubai, there are strict regulations on how you can use the surveillance systems. It is a good idea for you to get accustomed with these laws before you begin proceeding with the installation. Using these laws, the government aims to protect the privacy around individuals while ensuring public safety.

This guide will take you through all the essential aspects of the CCTV laws in Dubai. We will be covering the legal requirements and restrictions along with the key considerations for both residential and commercial properties.

·        Dubai is one of the most secure places across the globe. This is because it takes a proactive approach towards surveillance and crime prevention. Additionally, to ensure a perfect balance between safety and privacy, the government has declared clear regulations on how CCTV systems can be used. The Dubai police, Security Industry Regulatory Agency, is responsible for overseeing these regulations. Along with them the Dubai municipality and Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) are also responsible. In case you fail to comply with these regulations, you may face legal hassles or even removal of surveillance systems.

·        There are specific laws for governing the CCTV installation in Abu Dhabi for commercial properties. The commercial properties like offices, warehouses, hotels and retail outlets must follow these laws diligently.

o   Before you install the CCTV in your business place, you must get complete approval from SIRA. You should ensure that the design and layout of your CCTV system meets the criteria defined by them.

o   There are specific areas that should be mandatorily covered by your CCTV. These include entrances and exits as well as parking lots and cash counters. You should also add safes and corridors to this list along with elevators and common areas.

o   Mention the system specification and ensure it is in sync with what is allowed. The cameras should be 2MP resolution and you should store approximately 30 days of continuous video recording. The hardware and software you are using should be approved by the regulatory bodies. Lastly, you must ensure there is remote monitoring and audit access facilities for the authorities.

o   You must have CCTV installation in Dubai companies that have licensed professionals on board to work for you. Signages indicating the presence of CCTV should be placed.

·        There are specific laws governing the installation of CCTV in your residences as well. They may be slightly relaxed, however, you must follow them.

o   You don’t need SIRA approval prior to installing them as long as you don’t violate any type of privacy laws

o   Your camera should not point at your neighbor’s home or public walkways. You should not even let it’s view onto the private property

o   You should install cameras for the internal use only. You can install them along entrance doors, driveways and garage doors. Make sure to avoid using CCTV with audio recording. This is against the laws and shouldn’t be done without consent

o   You should have warning signs around the property indicating you have installed CCTV cameras

While CCTV installation in Abu Dhabi can uplift your security, you need to ensure you follow the regulations. In case your installation doesn’t sync with the laws, you might attract penalties or legal troubles.