How to Apply for a New Building Permit in Dubai
Applying for a building permit in Dubai is a structured process, ensuring that all construction projects comply with the city’s regulations and standards. Here is how to apply for a new building permit in Dubai, covering everything from the required documents to the final inspection.
Documents Required for New Building Permit in Dubai
To apply for a new building permit in Dubai, you need to prepare the following drawings for projects according to the type of property in the UAE:
- Architectural Drawings
- Structural Drawings
- Electromechanical Drawings
- Thermal Insulation and Drainage Plans
- Road Layouts
- Civil Defense Plans
Procedure for Applying New Building Permit in Dubai

Applying for a new building permit in Dubai involves a detailed process that varies based on the type of construction. The process is divided into three categories: villas, industrial buildings and multi-storey buildings.
Procedure for Villas
For those constructing private or investment villas for sale in the UAE, follow these steps to ensure compliance and approval.
Step 1: Request to Obtain a Building Permit
- Submit your application through the Dubai Building Permits System (BPS).
- Attach all necessary drawings and documents, fill in the building card information and pay the permit fees.
- The application will be reviewed by various governmental authorities through the unified Dubai BPS window.
- Once approved, the Dubai Municipality (DM) will issue the building permit and stamp all drawings. These can be printed online by the contractor or consultant.
Step 2: Request for Structural Inspection
- Structural inspections can be requested for shoring works, foundations and cast concrete slabs or steel structures.
- Applications for structural inspections in Dubai are submitted online.
- The Building Control Department and a Unified Inspection Committee (including the Survey Department) will conduct the inspections.
Step 3: Request for Final Inspection for Completion and Services Connection
- Once the construction is completed, the contractor and consultant must notify the DM through Dubai BPS.
- Final inspections are conducted by a joint team from various government authorities, including the Building Control Department, Etisalat, Survey Department and Du. Civil Defense inspections are conducted if required.
- Upon successful inspection, a completion certificate is issued and necessary service connections are made.
Procedure for Industrial Buildings
When planning industrial facilities, these steps will help you navigate the permit application process smoothly.
Step 1: Request to Obtain a Building Permit
- Submit your application through Dubai BPS, attaching all required drawings and documents and pay the permit fees.
- The application will be reviewed by governmental authorities. Once approved, the DM will issue the building permit and stamp all drawings, which can be printed online. You can also download Dubai Municipality App and access all their services conveniently.
Step 2: Request for Structural Inspection
- Structural inspections for shoring works, foundations, cast concrete slabs or steel structures (for heights greater than G+1) are conducted.
- Applications are submitted online and inspections are done by the Building Control Department and the Unified Inspection Committee.
Step 3: Request for Final Inspection for Completion and Services Connection
- Notify the DM through Dubai BPS once the construction is completed.
- Final inspections are conducted by a joint team from various government authorities, including the Building Control Department, Survey Department, Dubai Civil Defense, RTA, Etisalat and Du.
- A completion certificate is issued and necessary service connections are made upon successful inspection.
Procedure for Multi-Storey Buildings, FAR and Public Buildings

For developers of multi-storey buildings, adhering to these guidelines will facilitate the permit approval process.
Step 1: Request to Obtain a Building Permit
- Submit your application through Dubai BPS, attaching all required drawings and documents and pay the permit fees.
- The application will be reviewed by governmental authorities and once approved, the DM will issue the building permit and stamp all drawings, which can be printed online.
Step 2: Request for Structural Inspection
- Structural inspections for shoring works, foundations, cast concrete slabs or steel structures (for buildings taller than G+1) are conducted.
- Applications are submitted online and inspections are done by the Building Control Department and the Unified Inspection Committee.
Step 3: Request for Final Inspection for Completion and Services Connection
- Notify the DM through Dubai BPS once the construction is completed.
- Final inspections are conducted by a joint team from various government authorities, including the Building Control Department, Survey Department, Dubai Civil Defense, RTA, Etisalat and Du.
- A completion certificate is issued and necessary service connections are made upon successful inspection.
Time Required: The process typically takes around 3 working days.
Required Fees for New Building Permits in Dubai
Understanding the fee structure is crucial for budgeting your construction project in Dubai.
For subsequent submissions, the fees are as follows:
- Private villas: AED 100
- Investment villas: AED 200
- Multi-storey buildings up to 7 floors: AED 200
- Multi-storey buildings with more than 7 floors: AED 250
- Industrial and public facilities: AED 250
- Floor Area Ratio (FAR): AED 250
The required minimum fee for all types of buildings is AED 500, calculated as:
- Internal floor: 30 fils/sqft
- Concrete slab outdoor: 10 fils/sqft
- Concrete walls external: 10 fils/linear ft
- Pergola area: 15 fils/sqft
- Swimming pool and other services: 30 fils/sqft
Building Demarcation Certificate: AED 100 for a printed certificate.
Terms and Conditions
- Ensure the site is prepared for a property survey in Dubai and clear of any obstacles that could hinder the surveyor’s work.
- If the site isn’t ready: Obtain a site report detailing any issues. Also, address and correct all noted issues. Once done, reapply through the Dubai Building Permits System.
- The permit is valid for six months from the issuance date and can be renewed.
- This service does not cover temporary buildings.
- The active insurance policy is mandatory for contractors.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a building permit in Dubai?
It typically takes around 3 working days to get a building permit in Dubai.
Can I submit multiple new building applications for the same plot?
No, you can only submit one new building application per plot. Additional applications must be submitted as modification applications.
This is all about how to apply for a new building permit in Dubai. If you are planning to construct a new building in Dubai, this will help you navigate the process of obtaining a building permit smoothly and efficiently.
Besides, you can also find a range of ready-to-live apartments for sale in Dubai for comfortable living. If you are an amateur investor, check out these popular questions on investing in Dubai and enjoy healthy returns.
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