Question 1

What physical security systems does Dubai IT AMC support?

Accepted Answer

We support access control and CCTV systems from HID, Suprema, ZKTeco, Dahua, and Hikvision. Services include system design, installation, configuration, integration with HR/directory systems, and maintenance under the IT AMC. We treat physical security as an integral part of your overall IT security posture.

Question 2

What is the difference between a biometric and card-based access control system?

Accepted Answer

Card-based systems use RFID cards or key fobs — fast, convenient, but cards can be lost, stolen, or shared. Biometric systems use fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans — more secure (cannot be lent or shared) but require contact or proximity. Most modern deployments combine both: biometric for high-security areas (server rooms, finance), card for general office access.

Question 3

How do I control access to my server room?

Accepted Answer

Server room access should be restricted to authorised IT personnel only. We deploy access control readers on server room doors, with audit logs of every entry and exit. Typically a biometric reader (fingerprint or facial recognition) plus a PIN provides dual-factor physical access. We also advise on server room environmental monitoring (temperature, humidity, water detection) as part of infrastructure protection.

Question 4

How many CCTV cameras do I need for a typical Dubai office?

Accepted Answer

Camera count depends on your floor plan, entry/exit points, and coverage requirements. A typical 10–30 person office requires 4–12 cameras covering main entrance, reception, server room, emergency exits, and key work areas. We conduct a site survey to design the optimal camera layout before installation.

Question 5

How long are CCTV recordings stored?

Accepted Answer

Storage duration depends on your recorder capacity and recording resolution. Most UAE businesses store 30–90 days of footage. Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality recommend a minimum of 30 days for commercial premises. We size your NVR/DVR storage to meet your retention requirements, and can integrate cloud storage for extended retention.

Question 6

What resolution should my CCTV cameras be?

Accepted Answer

For general office surveillance, 4MP (2K) IP cameras provide a good balance of image quality and storage efficiency. For entrances, cashier areas, or high-security zones where you need to identify individuals clearly, 8MP (4K) cameras are recommended. Older analogue HD cameras are being phased out in favour of IP cameras with superior resolution and remote access.

Question 7

Can I access my CCTV cameras remotely from my phone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Modern IP camera systems include mobile apps (Dahua DMSS, Hikvision iVMS-4500, or NVR vendor apps) that allow live viewing, playback, and alerts from your smartphone. We configure remote access securely — using VPN or the vendor's encrypted cloud relay — so that your footage is not exposed on a publicly accessible port.

Question 8

What is a visitor management system and does my business need one?

Accepted Answer

A visitor management system digitises the visitor sign-in process: visitors check in on a tablet, a badge is printed, the host is notified, and a digital log is maintained. This replaces paper sign-in books, improving security, compliance, and the visitor experience. We recommend visitor management systems for organisations with regular client visits, regulatory audits, or security-sensitive environments.

Question 9

How do I integrate access control with my HR system?

Accepted Answer

Most enterprise access control platforms (including HID and Suprema) support synchronisation with Active Directory, HR software (SAP, Oracle HCM), or custom APIs. When a new employee is added to HR, their access rights are provisioned automatically. When they leave, access is revoked immediately — eliminating the risk of former employees retaining physical access. We implement and maintain these integrations.

Question 10

Are there UAE regulations about CCTV in the workplace?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE law prohibits CCTV in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy (bathrooms, prayer rooms, changing areas). Employers must inform employees that CCTV is in use — usually through employment contracts and visible signage. Dubai Municipality has guidelines for CCTV in commercial establishments. We advise on compliant camera placement and policy documentation.

Access Control & CCTV — FAQs

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