How to Get Initial Approval for Design Concept in Dubai

• Design Concept Approval Overview
• Required Documents
• Design Concept Approval Process in Dubai
• Design Concept Approval Fee
• FAQs

Planning a new building project or modifying an existing property in Dubai requires compliance with the emirate’s building regulations and design standards. One of the key services available through Dubai Municipality is obtaining initial approval for design concept in Dubai. 

What Is Initial Approval for Design Concept in Dubai?

Initial approval for design concept in Dubai is a preliminary review conducted by Dubai Municipality. It allows building consultants to obtain feedback on proposed architectural designs and ensure they comply with applicable building codes and planning standards before proceeding with final design development.

Required Documents for Dubai Design Concept Approval

The documents required depend on the type of project.

For New Buildings

To obtain Dubai design concept approval for a new building, applicants must submit:

Architectural drawings

For Additions or Modifications

For modification or addition projects, architectural drawings must be submitted in the following order:

• Approved drawing
• Proposed drawing showing the modifications

The drawings should clearly indicate:

• Modification location highlighted in yellow on the licensed plan
• Proposed modification highlighted in red on the proposed plan

How to Apply for a Design Concept Permit in Dubai

Applications are submitted through the Build in Dubai Platform. The step-by-step process includes: 

1. Log in to the Build in Dubai Platform: Access the platform online.
2. Upload the Required Documents: Submit the relevant architectural drawings and supporting documentation.
3. Submit the Application and Pay the Fees: Complete the application process and pay the applicable service fees.
4. Receive Dubai Municipality’s Response: Dubai Municipality will review the submission and provide one of the following responses through the platform: approved, rejected or consultation for revisions
5. Obtain the Approval: Once approved, the applicant can obtain the design concept permit in Dubai through the Build in Dubai Platform.

This is how to get design approval in Dubai.

Fees for Initial Design Concept Approval in Dubai

The fees vary depending on the building type.

New Building

Building Type	Approval Fee	Knowledge & Innovation Fee	Total Fee
Private villa, investment villa, multistorey building (up to 7 floors)	AED 100	AED 20	AED 120
Multistorey building (more than 7 floors)	AED 150	AED 20	AED 170
Floor area ratio buildings	AED 250	AED 20	AED 270

Modification and Addition

Building Type	Approval Fee	Knowledge & Innovation Fee	Total Fee
All building types	AED 100	AED 20	AED 120

Payment Channels

Applicants can pay the service fees through multiple channels.

• Dubai Municipality Application
• DubaiNow Application
• Website
• Dubai Smart Government Portal
• Al Ansari Exchange

Note: Cheques should be issued in favour of Al Ansari Exchange.

Accepted Payment Methods

The following payment methods are available:

• Noqodi
• Direct debit
• Credit card
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay

Important Considerations

Before applying for design approval in Dubai, keep the following points in mind:

• The initial approval does not authorise contractors to start construction work on-site.
• The initial approval is not mandatory.
• Applicants may proceed directly to applying for a Permit for a New Building or a Permit to Make Modifications or Additions to Buildings.

FAQs

Who can apply for a design concept permit in Dubai?

Building consultants can apply for Dubai building design approval. 

Who issues the initial design concept approval in Dubai? 

The initial design concept approval in Dubai is issued by Dubai Municipality through the Build in Dubai Platform. 

What is the next step after obtaining design concept approval? 

After receiving approval, applicants must apply for either a Permit for a New Building or a Permit to Make Modifications or Additions to Buildings to proceed with the project.

This is everything you need to know about initial design concept approval in Dubai. The document ensures compliance with the set standards and regulations. Understanding all such requirements is vital for anyone buying property in Dubai and tailoring it as per their needs.

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