The Most Common CCTV Mistake Dubai Businesses Make
Most businesses either overbuy or underbuy. After 300+ CCTV installations across Dubai, here is how to get it right.
Step 1: What Are You Actually Protecting?
Answer these before buying anything:
- What are you protecting? (Inventory, cash, people, servers)
- Who are the threats? (External intruders, internal theft, disputes)
- Do you need real-time monitoring or recorded evidence?
- Do you need remote access from your phone?
Step 2: IP vs Analog
Analog: Lower upfront cost, requires coaxial cable, max 1080p, no analytics. Best for single-site tight budgets.
IP (Recommended): 2MP to 12MP resolution, runs on Cat6 cable, advanced analytics, remote access, scalable. Best for offices, warehouses, retail chains.
Recommendation: Always go IP unless you have existing analog infrastructure.
Step 3: Camera Types
| Camera | Best Location | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet | Parking, perimeter, entrances | Long range, visible deterrent |
| Dome | Indoor ceilings, lobbies | 360 degrees, vandal-resistant |
| PTZ | Large open areas, warehouses | Remote pan/tilt/zoom |
| Fisheye | Single-camera rooms | No blind spots |
| Thermal | Dark perimeters | Works in zero light |
Step 4: Resolution Guide
| Resolution | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 2MP (1080p) | Indoor general coverage |
| 4MP | Entrances, mid-range outdoor |
| 4K (8MP) | High-value areas, license plates, facial recognition |
Default recommendation: 4MP for most cameras. Upgrade to 4K only where detail matters.
Step 5: How Much Storage Do You Need?
| Cameras | Resolution | 30-Day Retention |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1080p | 1TB |
| 8 | 4MP | 3TB |
| 16 | 4MP | 6TB |
| 32 | 4K | 20TB |
Always use H.265 compression. Dubai minimum: 30 days retention.
Step 6: SIRA Compliance
For regulated Dubai businesses, SIRA requirements apply: minimum resolution per zone, minimum retention, approved equipment, SIRA-licensed installer.
Step 7: Top Brands
| Brand | Best For |
|---|---|
| Hikvision | Most commercial applications |
| Dahua | Large enterprise |
| Axis | Premium high-security |
| Uniview | Mid-range commercial |
| CP Plus | Budget SME |
CCTV Installation Costs in Dubai
| System | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| 4-camera basic | 1,800 to 3,500 |
| 8-camera office | 4,500 to 8,000 |
| 16-camera warehouse | 9,000 to 18,000 |
| 32+ enterprise | Custom quote |
Get a free CCTV site survey for your Dubai business. Contact us or call +971-526716178.
*Related: Commercial CCTV Installation Dubai | Access Control System Dubai*
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