1. Start with the site and the risk
Before choosing cameras, map the property: entry points, perimeters, blind spots, parking, lobbies and high-value areas. The goal of each camera should be clear — identify a face, read a plate, or simply monitor an area — because that decides resolution, lens and placement.
2. Resolution and camera type
For most UAE projects, 4MP cameras give a strong balance of detail and storage cost. Step up to 8MP (4K) for wide scenes, main entrances and any licence-plate or facial-identification needs. Choose dome cameras for discreet indoor coverage, bullet cameras for longer outdoor throw, and PTZ cameras where one operator needs to cover a large area.
3. Built for UAE conditions
Outdoor cameras should be rated IP66/IP67 against dust and water, with a wide operating-temperature range for summer heat and vandal-resistant IK-rated housings in exposed spots. Look for true WDR for high-contrast scenes (glare, shaded entrances) and good low-light or IR performance for night coverage.
4. Recording and storage
Size your NVR for the number of cameras, their resolution, frame rate and how many days of footage you must retain. Higher resolution and longer retention mean more storage — plan drives accordingly and consider RAID for critical sites. Confirm the NVR's channel count and PoE port budget up front.
5. Don't forget the network
IP CCTV is only as reliable as the network behind it. Budget for PoE switches with enough power, quality structured cabling, and — for larger sites — a managed network with VLAN separation for cameras. We help match cameras with the right PoE switches and cabling so the whole system performs.
6. Compliance (SIRA and regulations)
Security installations in Dubai must comply with SIRA requirements, including approved equipment, minimum retention periods and certified installation. Other emirates have their own rules. Factor compliant equipment and a licensed installer into the plan from the start to avoid rework.
7. Choosing brands
We supply a range of CCTV and surveillance options to match the project — from Hikvision for broad, cost-effective coverage to UniFi Protect where the site is already on a Ubiquiti network. The right choice depends on scale, integration and budget; we'll help you compare. Explore options on our products page or request a recommendation.
Quick specification checklist
Define each camera's job (identify / read / monitor) · choose 4MP vs 8MP accordingly · IP66+ and IK-rated for outdoors · size the NVR for retention days · budget PoE switching and cabling · confirm SIRA-compliant equipment and installer · plan for remote viewing and backup.
CCTV — common questions
For most UAE projects, 4MP gives a good balance of detail and storage. Use 8MP (4K) for wide areas, entrances and licence-plate or facial-ID needs where detail matters most.
Choose outdoor cameras rated IP66/IP67 with a wide operating-temperature range and IK-rated vandal resistance for exposed locations. Indoor cameras can be lower-rated.
Security systems in Dubai must comply with SIRA requirements, including approved equipment and certified installation. Plan for compliant cameras, storage retention and a licensed installer.
Yes — most IP cameras are ONVIF-compatible. We help match cameras (e.g. Hikvision, UniFi Protect) with the right PoE switches and cabling so the whole system is reliable.
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