Request for Approval to Demolish or Delist a Building in the Historic Areas in Dubai
In Dubai, the preservation of historical and cultural heritage is a key aspect of urban development. As the city continues to modernise and expand, property owners may find the need to demolish or alter buildings in historic areas.
For that, Dubai Municipality offers a service that facilitates this process. It allows owners to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for their projects. This service ensures that any changes comply with local regulations while preserving Dubai’s rich architectural heritage.
Here are the steps to request for an approval to demolish or delist a building. Let’s go through them.
How to Request for an Approval to Demolish or Delist a Building
Dubai Municipality offers several services such as new building permits and demolition permits. This service enables property owners or property developers in Dubai to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to demolish buildings located in historic areas or to remove the ‘historical’ designation from a building’s affection plan.
It is an essential service for those looking to modernise properties or redevelop land in areas with heritage significance. Moreover, this process ensures that any modifications to historic buildings comply with Dubai’s urban planning regulations. It is particularly beneficial for projects in heritage zones or areas where historical classification impacts future construction or use of the property.
Here is a quick checklist for approval of the demolition of buildings or delisting a building.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
The service only requires pictures of the buildings’ interior and exterior. These images must be submitted to request for an approval to demolish or delist a building.
PROCESS STEPS
Here’s a breakdown of the steps to request an NOC to demolish or delist a building in a historic area through the Dubai Municipality website:
- Begin by accessing the official Dubai Municipality portal. If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to register. Once registered, log in using your credentials (username and password).
- After logging in, navigate to the relevant section for building services or demolition permits to locate the NOC application for historical areas.
- Once you’ve found the service, complete the application form by entering all necessary details about the building and the purpose of the demolition or delisting request.
- Upload the required documents as specified by Dubai Municipality. After that, apply through the portal.
- After your application is submitted, Dubai Municipality will review the request. The response will be provided through the website.
- Moreover, the response may fall into one of the following categories: Approved, Rejected, To be Amended, To be Completed.
- Once the application is approved or requires amendments, a fee will be generated by Dubai Municipality. You must pay these dues within three working days to avoid delays or cancellation of your application.
- After the payment is processed and verified, the final NOC or permit will be issued. You can download or print the permit directly from the website.
SERVICE FEES

This is the fee structure to request for an approval to demolish or delist a building.
- For delisting a building: AED 100
- For Demolition of a building: AED 100
- Knowledge and Innovation Fees: AED 20
PAYMENT CHANNELS
You can make payments through the following channels.
Smart Applications
Thanks to the digital platforms, you can pay for this service via the following apps.
- Since it’s a service by the Municipality authority, the app for Dubai Municipality is a convenient pay channel.
- DubaiNow App offers many options including fee payment for real estate services.
Website
The Dubai Smart Government Portal is another option for service fee payment.
Al Ansari Exchange
Applicants can pay for the service through cash or cheque. However, the cheque must be payable to the Al Ansari Exchange branch in Dubai.
OTHER METHODS
Other payment channels include the following:
- My Wallet
- Direct Debit or credit card
- Apple Pay
- Samsung Pay
TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The following terms are a part of the checklist for approval of delisting a building and building demolition approval.
- Before starting any demolition work in Dubai, you must first obtain approval from the Building Permits Department and consult with the Architectural Heritage and Antiquities Department. These approvals ensure compliance with safety regulations and protect heritage structures in historical areas.
- If the due fees are not paid within three working days after approval, the application will be cancelled. You would then need to again request for an approval to demolish or delist a building, which could delay the process.
- Cancelling the historical classification of a building from its affection plan allows the landlord more freedom. They can demolish or build according to the procedures set by the Building Permit Department without the restrictions of historical status.
FAQs
What is the fee for a demolition permit application in Dubai?
The service fee for demolition and delisting a building is AED 100 each.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Dubai?
It takes around 2-3 working days to get a building permit in Dubai.
Can you buy land and build in Dubai?
Yes, you can buy a property in Dubai and use it for various purposes that are in line with the city’s regulations.
That is all on the request for an approval to demolish or delist a building. The service steps are quite straightforward. To proceed with the process, ensure you fulfil all the requirements and terms and conditions.
Moreover, if you are willing to settle in the city, here are rental properties in Dubai to consider. However, if you are looking to invest, the new projects in Dubai are a sound choice, offering a plethora of choices.
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