Security cameras now a must for all Dubai buildings

All residential and commercial buildings in Dubai are now required to instal security cameras under a revised law that is aimed at reducing the crime rate in the emirate.

The decision has been taken following a number of serious and minor crimes, including thefts, that take place in buildings where no cameras are installed.

Starting August 26, owners of buildings will have three months to implement the law following which violators will be penalised.

Major Arif Al Janahi, Director of Protection System Department of the Dubai Police, said on Saturday that 25,000 buildings were required to comply with this law. “I expect that the rate of crime will drop, especially crime that take place in residential buildings,” he said.

A series of meetings have been held with building owners and real estate offices in this regard. “This will ensure that safety and security standards are provided in all buildings in Dubai according to law number 24 of the year 2008 for security service providers,” he added.

As per the revised law number 10 of 2014, cameras that should be installed should meet certain specifications such as having a clear image and ability to record. Companies that supply poor security equipment or do not abide by specifications would be fined Dh3,000.

Cameras should be digital and should have the ability to record for at least 30 days. Technicians who install cameras should have a good conduct certificate and should also attend a five-day course as well as pass an exam before being accredited.

“Those interested can get in touch with one of the 650 companies registered with the department,” he added.

Previously, cameras were only required to be installed in tourist areas, hotels, banks and markets, gold souqs and shopping malls.

Al Janahi also said that cameras are an important part of safety and security system in Dubai. “For example, cameras helped in detecting thefts that occurred at gas stations committed by some workers and shoppers,” he said.

“A suspect who started a fire at a gas station was also identified in one case.”

Describing another incident, Al Janahi said that in an incident that occurred in one of the hotels, officials found that 60 per cent of security cameras are not working. “A case involving a European who was believed to have been murdered was resolved when cameras showed that he committed suicide,” he added.

amira@khaleejtimes.com