How to Change a Contractor or Consultant After the Issuance of the Building Permit in Dubai
- Service Description
- Required Documents
- Service Channels
- Service Procedure
- Who Can Apply
- Terms and Conditions
- FAQs
Dubai’s construction industry has long been known for its rapid growth and innovative projects. With the city’s streamlined systems and efficient regulatory processes, it is now easier than ever to manage construction projects. However, there are times when it becomes necessary to change a contractor after building permit issuance. Dubai Municipality provides an easy path to people wanting to change the consultant or contractor.
Change A Contractor After Building Permit Issuance

The service allows applicants to secure the necessary authorisation to replace an existing consultant or contractor after a building permit in Dubai has already been issued. This service ensures that all regulatory requirements are met, project records are updated and the transition is carried out in full compliance with Dubai’s established procedures.
Required Documents
Applicants need to submit the following documents to change a consultant after building permit issuance in Dubai.
If the owner requests the service without the contractor’s approval, then no additional requirements. However, If the consultant or contractor requests the service, submission of the Change Consultant/Contractor Form is required.
Please note that the change consultant/contractor Form can be obtained after the building permit has been issued.
Service Channels
Stakeholders can access the service to update contractor on building permit via the following channels:
- Dubai Municipality website
- Build in Dubai platform
- Happiness Vehicle
Service Procedure
The procedure to to change the contractor after building permit issuance in Dubai is as follows:
Through the website
- Log in and apply for the service.
- Receive Dubai Municipality acceptance via SMS and e-mail.
- The current consultant/contractor will be notified of the change request via SMS and e-mail and must confirm within 5 working days through their task on the Build in Dubai platform.
- The current consultant/contractor will then receive instructions to evacuate the project site according to Dubai Municipality recommendations.
- The new consultant/contractor pays the fees through their task on the Build in Dubai platform within 14 working days.
- The project is electronically transferred to the new consultant’s/contractor’s name.
For contractor changes only, the new contractor must upload the insurance document through the Build in Dubai platform.
Through Happiness Vehicle
- Call Customer Service at 800900.
- Press 5 for citizen services.
- Receive a response from Dubai Municipality to schedule an appointment.
- Visit the municipality in person to complete the transaction.
Who Can Apply
- Building consultants
- Building contractors
- Citizens
- Residents
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions to change a contractor after building permit issuance include:
- The service is requested at the owner’s discretion.
- If the consultant is changed, the new consultant must confirm the change through the system after paying the applicable fees.
- Once the change of consultant or contractor is approved and the fees are paid, all transactions are electronically transferred to the new consultant’s or contractor’s name.
- The owner cannot assign the new consultant or contractor to begin construction works before the issuance of the updated building permit in their name.
- Dubai Municipality assumes no responsibility towards the changed consultant or contractor.
- If the current contractor or consultant does not accept the change, the relevant department will notify them of the change request and request feedback along with a technical report explaining the work progress and reasons for disagreement. This must be submitted within 5 working days from the notification date. If no response is received within the specified period, the department will proceed with the change procedures.
- To change the current consultant without their approval, the owner must submit the application through the Build in Dubai platform.
- If the application is rejected, a re-application can be made after addressing the Municipality’s remarks through the DM website or the Build in Dubai platform.
- The updated building permit can be printed through the website or system.
- If fees are not paid within 14 days from the voucher issuance date, the application will be cancelled.
- For enquiries or technical support, select General Messages, IT-related system issue on the Build in Dubai platform.
Service Fees
For changing an approved consultant:
- Total Fee: AED 320
- Service: AED 300
- Knowledge and Innovation: AED 20
For changing an approved contractor:
- Total Fee: AED 520
- Service: AED 500
- Knowledge and Innovation: AED 20
Payment Channels
The payment channels for paying fees to update contractor on building permit include:
Smart Applications
- Dubai Municipality Application
- Dubai Now Application
Website
- Dubai Smart Government Portal
Al Ansari Exchange Payment Options:
- Cash
- Due date cheque
Other Payment Methods
- Noqodi
- Direct debit
- Credit card
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
Service Completion Time
- For changing consultants – (1-20) working days
- For changing contractors – (1-35 ) working days
Important Things to know to Replace a Consultant on Building Permit in Dubai
Change requests approved by the current consultant/contractor are processed within one working day. The total duration also includes the time allocated for the current consultant/contractor, as specified by Dubai Municipality, to vacate the construction site.
FAQs
Do I need a new building permit to change my contractor?
Yes, an updated building permit in the contractor’s name is required before starting construction.
Can I Change Contractor in the UAE?
Yes, it is possible to change a contractor in the UAE following the official procedures.
Is there room for building permit amendments in the UAE?
Yes, building permits in the UAE can be amended through the official municipal procedures.
There you have it, the entire process to change a contractor after building permit issuance. By understanding the necessary approvals, documentation and timelines, project owners can ensure a smooth transition without disrupting construction progress.
From modifications in building permits in Dubai to offering many housing initiatives, the Municipality department has a range of services. People can also apply for building permit exception in Dubai if they fulfil the criteria. Similarly, it is possible to cancel a building permit in Dubai before work starts.
Contractors, consultants and individuals buying lands and properties for sale in Dubai must obtain all the required permits and permissions to ensure compliance with the law.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog to learn about property-related processes in the UAE and more.