Why More (U)HNW Families and High Profile Women Are Requesting Female Bodyguards

The unique strengths of female close protection operatives.

In today's world of close protection, female operatives are increasingly being sought after for their unique blend of cultural sensitivity, trust-building skills, and ability to discreetly blend into certain situations where their male counterparts would stick out. Clients typically from regions such as the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa often prefer female Close Protection Operatives (CPO’s) for their ability to integrate seamlessly into traditional household, family and religious settings. 

Whether ensuring privacy in gender-specific spaces or being able to appear as a Nanny, EA / PA or friend, covert female bodyguards offer strategic advantages that make them the ideal choice for some clients.

Female Close Protection Operatives are trusted at the very highest levels, including within the British Royal Family. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has been accompanied by a female bodyguard on numerous royal engagements, including during her tour of Fiji. 

Catherine, Princess of Wales, has long relied on female CPOs for her personal security, while HRH Queen Camilla, notably appointed an all-female security team for her visit to the UAE. 

These choices reflect not only the discretion and professionalism of female operatives but also their ability to navigate high-profile environments, cultural sensitivities, and complex public appearances.

Below, we dive into why female CPO’s are being requested more often than ever by (U)HNW families and high profile women.

1. Cultural Sensitivity and Discretion for (U)HNW Families 

Female Close Protection Operatives (CPOs) are uniquely suited to environments where cultural or religious customs prioritise modesty, privacy, and gender-specific boundaries. For families, especially across the Middle East and parts of Asia, male operatives may not be permitted to enter private areas designated for women, but beyond those limitations, many (U)HNW families simply prefer the discretion and cultural appropriateness that a female operative provides in certain spaces, routines, or sensitive scenarios.

A female bodyguard can work closely with wives, daughters, or female staff, respecting customs while delivering elite security. For example, a female CPO might accompany a client to a wedding or religious event, blending in as a guest while maintaining the safety of the principal at all times. Trained in cultural etiquette (link) and can be multilingual if requested, these female bodyguards build trust quickly, ensuring protection aligns with certain traditions and cultural norms. 

2. Trust and Comfort in Family Environments

Female operatives can often bring a calming, patient and paternal energy that resonates with children, elderly relatives, principals or family members with disabilities or special needs, and their caregivers. This is critical in family settings where security must feel non-intrusive. 

For instance, a female CPO can escort a child to school, appearing as a nanny or family friend, preserving normalcy whilst keeping the principal secure. Female CPOs also are typically known for their approachable presence, especially for children. This trust extends to caregivers, nannies and household staff creating an environment where safety feels natural. 

3. Discreet Protection for High-Profile Women

Certain high-profile women like executives, celebrities, and diplomatic spouses often choose female CPOs for their low-profile, personalised security approach, appearing as a friend or even EA / PA. Whether attending meetings in London or a gala in Paris, female operatives can pass as colleagues or friends, avoiding the attention a male bodyguard might draw. 

This discretion allows clients to maintain their lifestyle and privacy. For example, a female Close Protection Operative (CPO) can navigate the luxury retail districts in Knightsbridge or Mayfair, ensuring safety without disrupting the experience. Their ability to blend seamlessly into the lifestyle of high profile women makes female bodyguards ideal in both public and private settings for certain clients.

4. Benefits of Female CPOs in Covert Operations and Surveillance 

In the world of covert operations and surveillance, the presence of a female Close Protection Operative (CPO) can be an unique asset. Female operatives naturally attract less suspicion, allowing them to blend seamlessly into a variety of environments, from private gatherings and corporate settings to high-society events. Their ability to move unnoticed while maintaining an acute level of situational awareness makes them exceptionally effective in intelligence-gathering and discreet protective roles.

For UHNWIs, VIPs, and high-profile families, the advantage lies in subtlety. A skilled female CPO can operate as a personal assistant, family friend, or guest, all while monitoring threats, assessing behavioural cues, and relaying critical information in real time. This quiet adaptability not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures that protection remains discreet, ensuring both physical security and personal privacy without disrupting the client’s lifestyle.

5. Rigorous Training and Credentials

Female Close Protection Operatives (CPOs) at Privat Security undergo the same elite training as their male counterparts (link - why hire female), all of which are licensed by the UK’s Security Industry Authority (SIA) and vetted and screened to BS7858 standards. Our female operatives are drawn from elite ex-military, police or intelligence backgrounds. Their training includes cultural sensitivity and behavioural detection skills, making them uniquely equipped for diverse environments. This ensures clients receive world-class protection without compromise.

Why Choose Female CPOs?

Hiring female close protection operatives gives you security that’s culturally appropriate, family-friendly, and discreet. From navigating certain sensitive customs to protecting high-profile women, their skills meet the needs of today’s diverse clients. As demand grows, female bodyguards are becoming more commonplace in the close protection industry and their growing presence reflects the evolving needs of today’s most discerning high profile individuals and families.

To discover whether a female bodyguard is the right choice for you, explore our latest blog for in-depth insights on hiring a female CPO, or contact Privat Security for a free, no obligation security consultation where we can design a bespoke protection plan built entirely around your life and preferences.