Clearing the SIRA exam is the single non-negotiable requirement for anyone who wants to work legally as a security guard in Dubai. There is no shortcut, no exemption, and no alternative route. You sit the 60-question computer-based paper, score at least 38 correct answers, and earn your licence — or you don’t.
The good news is that the exam is genuinely passable for any candidate who attends training and prepares with the right question types. The bad news is that too many candidates walk into the test having only studied notes from class — without ever sitting under realistic exam conditions with actual question formats.
This guide gives you 60 complete questions and answers covering every major SIRA exam topic for 2026: fire safety, UAE law, access control, emergency response, first aid, communication, patrolling, and professional conduct. Work through all 60, check your answers honestly, and identify the areas where you need more revision before your exam date.
SIRA Exam 2026: Format and What You Need to Know
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total questions | 60 per paper |
| Pass mark | 38 out of 60 (approximately 63%) |
| Format | MCQ + True/False, computer-based |
| Language | English |
| Duration | Approximately 45–60 minutes |
| Exam centre | SIRA Training Centre, Al Mamzar, Dubai |
| Training cost | AED 1,625 (includes 40-hour training + exam) |
The topics below reflect the official SIRA 2026 training curriculum. Every question in your actual exam will come from one of these subject areas.
SIRA Exam Topic Distribution 2026
| Topic | Questions (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fire Safety Theory | 10–12 |
| UAE Law & SIRA Regulations | 8–10 |
| Access Control & Perimeter Security | 7–9 |
| Emergency Response & Bomb Threats | 6–8 |
| First Aid Theory | 6–8 |
| Communication & Radio Protocols | 5–6 |
| Patrolling Techniques | 4–5 |
| Health & Safety at Work | 3–4 |
| Conflict Management | 3–4 |
| Crime Scene Protection | 3–4 |
| People of Determination & Customer Care | 2–3 |
Read this Dubai SIRA exam question paper guide
SIRA Exam 60 Questions and Answers 2026
SECTION 1: Fire Safety Theory (Q1–Q12)
Q1. What are the three elements that make up the fire triangle?
A: Fuel, heat, and oxygen. All three must be present for fire to start and continue. Removing any one element extinguishes the fire.
Q2. Which type of fire extinguisher should NEVER be used on an electrical fire?
A: Water extinguisher. Water conducts electricity and creates a serious electrocution risk. CO2 or dry powder extinguishers must be used on electrical fires.
Q3. What does the acronym PASS stand for when using a fire extinguisher?
A: P — Pull the safety pin. A — Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. S — Squeeze the handle to release the agent. S — Sweep side to side across the base of the fire until extinguished.
Q4. What class of fire involves flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, and paint?
A: Class B fire. Class B fires involve flammable liquids and require foam, CO2, or dry powder extinguishers. Water must not be used on Class B fires.
Q5. What class of fire involves ordinary solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and fabric?
A: Class A fire. Water and foam extinguishers are suitable for Class A fires.
Q6. A fire evacuation assembly point should be located where?
A: Outside the building, at a safe distance from all exits and the structure itself. Assembly points inside a building are incorrect and dangerous.
Q7. What chemical is added to LPG gas to give it a detectable smell?
A: Ethyl Mercaptan. Natural LPG is odourless, so Ethyl Mercaptan is added as a safety measure so that gas leaks can be detected by smell before reaching dangerous concentrations.
Q8. What are the three main methods of extinguishing a fire?
A: Cooling (removing heat), smothering (removing oxygen), and starving (removing fuel). Fire extinguishing methods work by eliminating one element of the fire triangle.
Q9. What type of extinguisher is best for a kitchen grease fire (Class F)?
A: Wet chemical extinguisher. Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. Never use water or CO2 on a kitchen grease fire.
Q10. At what point should a security guard attempt to fight a fire?
A: Only at the very earliest stage — when the fire is small, contained, and the guard has a clear escape route behind them. Once a fire has grown beyond the initial stage, the guard must evacuate immediately and not attempt to fight it.
Q11. What should a security guard do when they discover a fire?
A: Activate the fire alarm immediately, call emergency services (997 in UAE), begin evacuation procedures following the site’s emergency plan, and attempt to contain/fight the fire only if it is very small and safe to do so.
Q12. Which fire extinguisher type leaves no residue and is safe to use on sensitive electronic equipment?
A: CO2 (carbon dioxide) extinguisher. CO2 evaporates cleanly without leaving residue, making it suitable for server rooms, offices with electronics, and electrical panel fires.
SECTION 2: UAE Law and SIRA Regulations (Q13–Q22)
Q13. What does SIRA stand for and which government entity is it part of?
A: SIRA stands for Security Industry Regulatory Agency. It is part of the Ministry of Interior of the UAE and was established in 2016 to regulate all private security activity in Dubai.
Q14. What is the minimum legal requirement for working as a security guard in Dubai?
A: Holding a valid SIRA security guard licence. Working as a security guard in Dubai without a SIRA licence is illegal and subject to legal penalties.
Q15. What level of force is a security guard legally permitted to use in Dubai?
A: Minimum necessary force proportionate to the threat. Security guards must use the least amount of force required to manage a situation. Excessive force is a legal offence and can result in criminal charges.
Q16. Which regulatory body governs private security in the UAE outside of Dubai?
A: The PSBD — Private Security Business Department, operating under Abu Dhabi Police for the emirate of Abu Dhabi and its respective authority in other emirates. SIRA’s jurisdiction covers Dubai only.
Q17. Can a security guard in Dubai accept gifts or money from visitors in exchange for access?
A: No. Accepting gifts, money, or any benefit in exchange for access or favours is strictly prohibited. It constitutes bribery and serious professional misconduct, and is a criminal offence under UAE law.
Q18. What is the primary role and responsibility of a security guard?
A: To protect people and property, maintain order, prevent unauthorised access, respond to emergencies, and report incidents accurately. A security guard is not a police officer and does not have powers of arrest.
Q19. A security guard discovers evidence of a crime. What should they do first?
A: Secure and preserve the crime scene without touching, moving, or contaminating evidence. Alert the supervisor and contact police immediately. Assist CID officers when they arrive as instructed.
Q20. Can a security guard detain a person who is committing a crime?
A: A security guard may detain a person in specific circumstances — such as catching someone in the act of committing a crime on the premises — but must hand the person over to police immediately. Prolonged detention without police involvement is not permitted.
Q21. What should a security guard do if asked by a person to reveal the security arrangements of their site?
A: Refuse and maintain confidentiality. Security guards have a professional obligation to keep all site security procedures, patrol schedules, access codes, and operational details strictly confidential.
Q22. What is the UAE emergency police number?
A: 999 is the UAE emergency police number. The Dubai Police emergency line is also 999. Fire and ambulance: 997 (Civil Defence) and 998 (Ambulance).
SECTION 3: Access Control and Perimeter Security (Q23–Q31)
Q23. What is “tailgating” and why is it a security risk?
A: Tailgating (also called piggybacking) occurs when an unauthorised person follows an authorised person through a secure entrance without independent verification. It bypasses access control entirely and is a major security vulnerability.
Q24. What information must be recorded in a visitor log?
A: Visitor’s full name, identity document type and number, organisation or company, purpose of visit, name of the host employee being visited, time in, time out, and vehicle registration (if applicable).
Q25. What should a security guard do when presented with an unfamiliar visitor who claims to be a regular contractor?
A: Verify the visitor’s identity with a valid ID, confirm their authorisation with the relevant department or host, and only grant access once authorisation is confirmed. Familiarity claims are not a substitute for proper verification.
Q26. What is perimeter security?
A: The physical and electronic security measures applied at the outer boundary of a facility to detect, delay, and deter unauthorised entry. Perimeter security typically includes fencing, barriers, CCTV, lighting, and guard posts at entry points.
Q27. A security guard discovers a suspicious unattended package near the main entrance. What is the correct response?
A: Do not touch, move, or open the package. Clear all personnel from the immediate area. Alert your supervisor immediately. Call police (999) and Civil Defence (997). Follow the site’s bomb threat and suspicious package procedure.
Q28. Which of the following is the correct access procedure for vehicles entering a restricted facility?
A: Check the driver’s identity, verify the vehicle’s authorisation or delivery booking, record the vehicle registration number, purpose of visit, and driver details, and issue a vehicle pass if authorised before granting entry.
Q29. What is the purpose of a security checkpoint?
A: To control and monitor the movement of people and vehicles entering and exiting a facility, verify identity and authorisation, detect prohibited items, and maintain a record of all access activity.
Q30. A visitor refuses to show identification. What should a security guard do?
A: Politely but firmly decline to grant access until proper identification is provided and authorisation is confirmed. Never compromise the access control procedure because of a visitor’s resistance or impatience.
Q31. What does CCTV stand for and what is its primary security function?
A: CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television. Its primary functions are real-time surveillance monitoring, crime deterrence, evidence gathering for post-incident investigation, and perimeter and access point monitoring.
SECTION 4: Emergency Response and Bomb Threats (Q32–Q39)
Q32. If you receive a bomb threat by telephone, what are the most important actions?
A: Keep the caller on the line as long as possible, note every word they say, listen for background sounds, note the caller’s voice characteristics, immediately alert your supervisor after the call ends, and contact police (999). Follow the site’s bomb threat procedure — do not act independently.
Q33. Should elevators be used during a fire or bomb threat evacuation?
A: Never. Elevators must not be used during any emergency evacuation. Stairwells are the only safe evacuation route. Elevator shafts can fill with smoke and lifts may stop between floors during emergencies.
Q34. What are the three most common categories of security emergencies?
A: Fire emergencies, medical emergencies, and security incidents (including intrusion, bomb threats, civil disturbance, and theft). A security guard must know the correct response procedure for all three categories.
Q35. A person in the building collapses. What is a security guard’s first action?
A: Call for professional medical assistance immediately (998 for ambulance in Dubai). Then provide basic first aid within your training capability — check responsiveness, open the airway, check breathing, begin CPR if trained and the person is unresponsive and not breathing.
Q36. During a building evacuation, who is responsible for checking that all areas are clear?
A: Designated floor wardens or fire marshals are responsible for area sweeps. Security guards support the overall evacuation process, manage crowd flow, direct evacuees to assembly points, and communicate with emergency services. Individual guards should not conduct lone sweeps in dangerous conditions.
Q37. What information should a security guard provide when calling police or emergency services?
A: Location (exact address or site name), nature of the emergency, number of people involved or affected, any immediate dangers, and your name and contact number. Stay on the line until instructed to hang up.
Q38. An angry individual at the entrance becomes threatening. What should the security guard do?
A: Remain calm, speak in a controlled and professional tone, maintain a safe distance, attempt to de-escalate verbally without provocation, call for backup, and if the threat becomes physical, use minimum necessary force to protect themselves and others while police are called immediately.
Q39. What is the correct procedure when a fire alarm sounds?
A: Treat every alarm as real until confirmed otherwise. Begin evacuation procedures, guide occupants to exits and assembly points, check for and assist any persons needing help evacuating, prevent re-entry until all-clear is given by fire authority.
SECTION 5: First Aid Theory (Q40–Q47)
Q40. What does CPR stand for and when is it used?
A: CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It is used when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally — to manually maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until professional medical help arrives.
Q41. What is the correct chest compression rate for adult CPR?
A: 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Compressions should be at least 5 cm deep on an adult and the chest should be allowed to fully recoil between compressions.
Q42. What position should an unconscious but breathing person be placed in?
A: The recovery position (lateral recumbent position). This keeps the airway open, prevents the tongue from blocking the airway, and allows fluids to drain from the mouth without risk of choking.
Q43. How should a security guard control severe external bleeding?
A: Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or dressing. Maintain pressure continuously without removing the dressing. Elevate the injured limb if possible. Call for medical assistance immediately.
Q44. What should you do if an object is embedded in a wound?
A: Never remove it. Build padding around the object to protect it from pressure, then bandage carefully to hold the padding in place. Removing an embedded object can cause significantly increased bleeding and further injury.
Q45. What is the sign of shock and what immediate action should be taken?
A: Signs of shock include pale, cold, clammy skin, rapid weak pulse, rapid shallow breathing, confusion or loss of consciousness, and nausea. Lay the person down, elevate their legs if no head, spinal, or leg injury is suspected, keep them warm, and call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
Q46. An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is found at the security post. When is it used?
A: An AED is used when a person is in cardiac arrest — unconscious and not breathing normally. Apply the pads to bare skin as shown in the device diagram, follow the audio and visual instructions, and ensure no one is touching the person when the device delivers a shock.
Q47. A security guard finds a person who has fainted. What is the correct first response?
A: Check responsiveness by calling to them and tapping their shoulder. If unresponsive, call for help and check for normal breathing. Place in recovery position if breathing, or begin CPR if not breathing. Monitor continuously until medical help arrives.
SECTION 6: Communication and Radio Protocols (Q48–Q53)
Q48. In the NATO phonetic alphabet, what are the words for the letters A, B, C, D, and E?
A: A = Alpha, B = Bravo, C = Charlie, D = Delta, E = Echo.
Q49. In the NATO phonetic alphabet, what are the words for M, F, I, T, O, and V?
A: M = Mike, F = Foxtrot, I = India, T = Tango, O = Oscar, V = Victor. These are among the most frequently tested phonetic alphabet codes in the SIRA exam.
Q50. What information must always be included in a security incident report?
A: Date and time of the incident, exact location, description of what happened (factual only), names and details of persons involved, names of witnesses, actions taken by the security guard, and the guard’s name and signature. No opinions or assumptions — only verified facts.
Q51. What does “radio discipline” mean for a security guard?
A: Using the radio only for official communications, keeping messages brief and clear, using proper phonetic alphabet and call signs, not using slang or personal conversation, and acknowledging all messages received with confirmation.
Q52. A security guard receives a radio message they do not understand. What should they do?
A: Request the sender to repeat the message by saying “Say again” on the radio. Never acknowledge a message you have not understood — confirm only when the message is clear and actioned.
Q53. Why is clear verbal communication important during an emergency?
A: Unclear communication during emergencies can delay response, send resources to the wrong location, create confusion during evacuations, and result in injury or fatality. Every message during an emergency must be clear, concise, and confirmed.
SECTION 7: Patrolling and Professional Conduct (Q54–Q60)
Q54. Why should a security guard vary their patrol route and timing?
A: To prevent predictability. A fixed, predictable patrol route and timing can be observed and exploited by criminals who time their activity to occur between patrol passes. Varied patrols are more effective at deterrence and detection.
Q55. What should a security guard do if they notice a health and safety hazard during patrol?
A: Report it to the appropriate supervisor immediately. Document it in the patrol log with time, location, and description. If the hazard creates immediate danger, take reasonable precautions to protect people from it while awaiting management action.
Q56. Is a security guard permitted to sleep during night duty shifts?
A: Absolutely not. Sleeping on duty is a serious disciplinary offence and grounds for immediate dismissal. Security guards must remain fully alert throughout their entire shift regardless of hour.
Q57. What is the correct approach when dealing with a Person of Determination (person with a disability)?
A: Treat them with full respect and dignity. Offer appropriate assistance proactively without being patronising. Never deny them access based on their disability. Follow the site’s disability access policy and UAE law regarding People of Determination.
Q58. A security guard observes a colleague behaving unprofessionally or engaging in misconduct. What should they do?
A: Report the conduct to their supervisor through the proper chain of command. Security guards have a professional and legal obligation to report misconduct — covering for a colleague’s wrongdoing makes the observing guard equally liable.
Q59. What is the correct uniform and appearance standard for a security guard in Dubai?
A: A clean, pressed, complete uniform at all times during duty. No visible personal jewellery. ID badge displayed. Professional grooming maintained. SIRA-licensed security guards must maintain appearance standards as a condition of their licence.
Q60. What should a security guard do at the end of their shift to ensure a proper handover?
A: Brief the incoming guard on all incidents that occurred during the shift, hand over all equipment (radios, keys, logs), ensure the incident log is complete and signed, confirm any ongoing situations or watch items, and sign out officially. Never leave a post unattended without a replacement in place.
Score Yourself: Topic-Wise Results Tracker
After reviewing all 60 Q&As, test yourself and track your score:
| Section | Questions | Your Score |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Safety Theory | Q1–Q12 | /12 |
| UAE Law & SIRA Regulations | Q13–Q22 | /10 |
| Access Control | Q23–Q31 | /9 |
| Emergency Response | Q32–Q39 | /8 |
| First Aid Theory | Q40–Q47 | /8 |
| Communication | Q48–Q53 | /6 |
| Patrolling & Professional Conduct | Q54–Q60 | /7 |
| Total | 60 | /60 |
Pass target: 38/60. Any section where you scored below 70% needs focused revision before your exam date.
10 High-Frequency Facts That Appear in SIRA Exams
These specific facts appear in SIRA question papers consistently across exam cycles. Memorise each one:
- Pass mark: 38 out of 60 correct answers
- PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
- Fire triangle: Fuel, Heat, Oxygen
- LPG smell chemical: Ethyl Mercaptan
- CPR rate: 100–120 compressions per minute
- UAE police emergency: 999 | Ambulance: 998 | Civil Defence (fire): 997
- NATO alphabet — most tested: M=Mike, F=Foxtrot, I=India, T=Tango, O=Oscar, V=Victor
- CO2 extinguisher: Electrical and Class B fires only — no residue
- Water extinguisher: Class A only — NEVER electrical
- SIRA founded: 2016, part of Ministry of Interior, Dubai only (PSBD for rest of UAE)
How to Pass the SIRA Exam on Your First Attempt
Attend all 40 training hours. Every question in your exam comes directly from training content. Missing sessions means missing exam answers.
Study Q&A format, not just notes. Reading class notes is passive. Answering questions under self-imposed time pressure is active — and far more effective for exam performance.
Do at least 3 full 60-question timed practice runs. Sitting a full 60-question paper under timed conditions is the most important exam preparation you can do. Your first full practice run will reveal weaknesses that note-reading never would.
Focus revision on fire safety and UAE law. These two topic areas together account for the largest share of exam questions. Getting them right almost guarantees a pass.
Memorise the phonetic alphabet completely. Communication questions are free marks if you know the alphabet. Don’t lose points on questions that require only memorisation.
On exam day: read every question twice. SIRA questions are not designed to trick you, but a single missed word can change the correct answer entirely. Read slowly and completely before selecting your answer.
Frequently Asked Questions: SIRA Exam 60 Questions 2026
What is the passing score for the SIRA exam 2026?
You need 38 correct answers out of 60 to pass the SIRA exam — approximately 63%. Scoring below 38 means you must rebook and resit the exam.
Where can I get SIRA exam questions and answers PDF for 2026?
SIRA does not officially release past exam papers. This guide provides 60 complete verified Q&As covering all 2026 exam topics. Additional practice resources are available at testmocks.com, nadipur.com, and taimourshah.com including free mock tests and printable PDFs.
How many topics are covered in the SIRA exam?
The SIRA exam covers approximately 11 topic areas: fire safety, UAE/SIRA law, access control, emergency response, first aid, communication, patrolling, health and safety, conflict management, crime scene protection, and People of Determination.
Is the SIRA exam difficult?
The SIRA exam is manageable for any candidate who completes the full 40-hour training programme and studies with real question formats. Candidates who fail typically either missed training sessions or attempted the exam with only passive note-reading as preparation, without practicing with actual question formats under timed conditions.
Can I take the SIRA exam more than once if I fail?
Yes. You can resit the SIRA exam. Contact the SIRA Training Centre at Al Mamzar, Dubai to rebook after a failed attempt. Confirm the applicable waiting period and rebooking fee directly with SIRA.
What is the format of the SIRA exam — multiple choice or true/false?
The SIRA exam uses both formats: multiple choice questions (MCQ) with 4 options, and true/false statements. The combination of both formats across 60 questions tests both conceptual understanding and ability to identify correct factual statements.
How long does the SIRA exam take?
The SIRA computer-based exam is timed. While SIRA does not publicly state an exact fixed duration, candidates are advised to allow approximately 45–60 minutes. The computer format allows navigation between questions, so use remaining time to review flagged questions before submitting.
Conclusion: Preparation Is the Difference Between Pass and Fail
The 60 questions and answers in this guide cover every topic tested in the SIRA exam 2026. Work through them systematically, check every answer, and track your results section by section using the score table.
The candidates who pass the SIRA exam are not the most intelligent candidates in the room. They are the most prepared ones. They attended every training session, studied real questions in the real format, and walked into the exam having already answered 60 questions correctly at least twice before the actual paper.
That preparation is entirely within your control.
Ready to pass your SIRA exam?
Use the 60 Q&As in this guide for study revision, then take a complete timed 60-question mock test at taimourshah.com to confirm your readiness before your actual exam date. Your security career in Dubai begins with clearing this paper take the preparation as seriously as you will take the licence.