Why UAE finds women security guards ideal

Sabinaq Castillo Litonco, a woman security officer, at the Oasis Centre in Dubai.

With their stern looks, they just keep a check on whatever is happening around them. We come across these uniform clad women at shopping malls, night clubs or events daily.
The fact is that their job is tougher than what it looks, apart from being pro-active and alert, they are bound to be quick in their job.
At present, more than 1,500 regulated women security guards are working in various sectors across the UAE.
In the last three years, demand for women in the security services has increased by 30-40 per cent.
"Women are believed to be more organised, multitasking and good at handling children. This is the main reason why they are more in demand here these days. Today, we have approximately 200 women security officers from 30 different nationalities and we are targeting to double this number in the next year," said Alida Scholtz, CEO&MD at G4S UAE.
She added: "When we recruit women for this job we look for fit, daring, confident and fluent individuals."
Sebina Castillio, a lady security officer in one of the malls in Dubai, is in love with her job completely.
With 10 years of experience in the profession she has come a long way and she has learnt to manage people in worst possible situations also. The Filipina student of criminology has completely shifted to fruits and vegetables to remain fit. She makes sure to give at least half an hour in a day for exercise and running.
She said: "I have worked in Abu Dhabi before coming to Dubai and I feel both the places are equally good and manageable. If we talk about rules, then this part of world is bit challenging; but its fine for me as we get paid well here. I am planning to be here for quite sometime and would definitely try to rope in many more for this job."
ankita@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE

Ankita Chaturvedi

ankita@khaleejtimes.com