Privacy, footage and the law
Is CCTV footage personal data under UAE law?
Footage that identifies a person is personal data under the UAE's data protection law, Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021. In practice that means having a clear security purpose, telling people with signs, restricting who can view and export footage, keeping it no longer than needed, and protecting the system against unauthorised access. Free zones such as DIFC and ADGM have their own data protection rules.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change and vary by premises type: confirm with the relevant authority or an approved installer.