- Overview
- Documents Required
- Who can Apply
- Service Fees
- Payment Channels
- How to Apply
- Terms and Conditions
- FAQs
In a city as dynamic and environmentally conscious as Dubai, managing natural resources like groundwater is important. Whether it’s a farm owner looking to drill a well for irrigation or a contractor needing temporary water use for construction, obtaining the right permits is crucial. Fortunately, the permit for well drilling and groundwater use in Dubai can be easily obtained thanks to the streamlined process.
Permit for Well Drilling and Groundwater Use in Dubai
Dubai Municipality issues two primary types of permits related to groundwater – a well drilling permit and/or a groundwater use licence. These are required before drilling a well (either permanent or temporary), allowing regulated use of groundwater.
Both permits are essential for legal compliance and environmental sustainability.
Documents Required
Detailed below are the documents required to obtain a permit for groundwater use in Dubai:
For permanent permit
- Plot or project site plan (issued by relevant authorities)
- No Objection Certificate (if the applicant is not the landowner)
- Well completion report (stratigraphic report)
- Accredited lab water testing results
- Payment receipt for water flowmeter
For temporary permit
- Plot or project site plan
- No Objection Certificate
- Project details for construction works
- Undertaking letter (from consultant, contractor and subcontractor if applicable)
- Well completion report
- Accredited lab water testing results
- Payment receipt for water flowmeter
Who Can Apply?
Farm owners and contractors can apply for this service.
Service Fees
- Total: AED 120
- Application Fee: AED 100
- Knowledge & Innovation Fee: AED 20
Payment Channels
Smart Applications
- Dubai Municipality App
- Dubai Now App
Online
Dubai Smart Government Portal
Al Ansari Exchange
Cash or cheque payable to Al Ansari Exchange
Accepted Methods
- Noqodi
- Direct debit
- Credit card
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
Step-by-Step Application Process
The process to apply for a Dubai well drilling permit is as follows:
1. Apply for the Well Drilling Permit
- Log in to the Dubai Municipality website using your credentials or UAE Pass.
- Upload all required documents.
- Receive a response (approval, rejection or request for amendment).
- Coordinate with Dubai Municipality for site inspection within 3 working days.
- If approved, download the well drilling permit.
2. After Drilling
Within 3 months, upload:
- Well Completion Report
- Water Testing Results
Receive a follow-up response (approval, rejection or request for additional information).
3. Apply for the Groundwater Use Licence
- Within 5 working days of uploading post-drilling documents:
- Coordinate a second site inspection.
Obtain a payment voucher for the groundwater flowmeter.
Upload the payment receipt.
4. Receive Your Licence
- If approved, the Groundwater Use Licence will be issued through the website.
Terms and Conditions
- Permit Validity: Permanent – 2 years, Temporary – 6 months
- Flowmeter installation: Must be completed within 2 months of drilling
- Regulatory compliance: Activities must comply with Law No. (15) of 2008
Prohibitions:
- Do not tamper with the flowmeter
- Do not alter well specifications without approval
- Do not sell or trade groundwater
- Do not use groundwater after the licence expiry
Environmental Responsibility:
- Report contamination immediately
- Display the licence at the well site
- Ensure responsible use and protection of groundwater
FAQs
How to Apply for a Water Well Permit in Dubai?
To apply for well drilling approval in Dubai, visit the official Dubai Municipality website.
Who Issues The Well Drilling Permit?
Well drilling permits and groundwater use licenses are issued by the Natural Resources Sustainability Section within the Environmental Sustainability Department.
How Do I Check My Application Status?
Application status can be checked on the Dubai Municipality website.
This is how to obtain the permit for well drilling and groundwater use in Dubai. The government of Dubai has provided a streamlined process, allowing eligible individuals to obtain different sorts of permits and licences.
From getting solar permits and connections in Dubai to different licences, individuals can easily apply for all the services. The emirate also remains a popular real investment choice. Check out these new projects in Dubai and explore the options.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog to learn how to apply for different permits and more.
