What Is a Self-decor Permit and How to Apply for It in Dubai?
When seeking a home, people often look for a space that matches their lifestyle and requirements. From furnishing to room dimensions, all such factors are carefully considered to make an informed choice. However, there are times when the desired living space can be achieved by making some tweaks in the property structure and interior decor. This is where homeowners would need to request a self-decor permit in Dubai. Let’s learn more about the permit, its requirements and the process to apply for it.
What is a Self-Decor Permit in Dubai?

Besides knowing the landlord rights and responsibilities is also significant. Make sure there are no legal violations on your part as a landlord. This applies even when you are revamping the décor, including the fighting and fixtures to minor structural changes.
Every home improvement task that involves the aforementioned changes requires approval. It is important to note here that the size of the desired unit should exceed 100 sq m., which is equivalent to 1070 sq ft. To make the process transparent and seamless, the government issues a self-decor permit in Dubai.
The issuance of a self-decor permit is a part of the building permit system of the Dubai Municipality. The permit is only issued to the eligible candidates who fulfil the set criteria and requirements. Make sure to add the permit requirement to your home pre-renovation checklist.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
According to the law, a self-permit for decoration is only issued when these requirements are fulfilled:
- Drawing/map/blueprint of the proposed changes
- Landlord approval in writing for tenants
- The minimum fee for a decoration permit per sq.ft ranges from AED 200 to AED 1,000.
- Additional AED 20 are charged as the Knowledge and Innovation fee.
Note that the self-decor permit fee in Dubai varies according to the nature of changes and the project. For instance, the fee and criteria may be different in the case of home elevator installation or structural modifications on a such scale.
How to Apply for Self-Decor Permit in Dubai

Applying for a self-decor permit in Dubai involves the following steps.
- You need to access the online Dubai Building Permit System (PBS) portal.
- The system is available on both the website and mobile app.
- Sign up or log in with the required credentials.
- Choose and apply for the ‘self-decor permit’ service.
- Pay the service fee.
- After necessary verifications, the permit can be received via Dubai Municipality’s website.
Self-Decor Permit Validity in Dubai
After obtaining the permit, it is important to make the necessary changes to the property within a certain timeframe. The self-permit of decoration in Dubai has a validity of six months. Otherwise, a new permit would be needed. Moreover, it is important to adhere to the Dubai Building Code (DBC) standards to avoid any legal violations and disputes.
FAQs
What is the Dubai Building Permit System (PBS)?
The Dubai Building Permit System (PBS) is an online platform where individuals can apply for various permits related to construction and property modifications in Dubai.
What is the self-decor permit?
A self-decor permit in Dubai is permission granted by the Dubai Municipality for residents to make specific interior changes to their property, ensuring compliance with regulations. Once the permit is obtained, you can also work on different eco-friendly home decor ideas.
How do you request a self-decor permit in Dubai?
To apply for a self-decor permit in Dubai, access the online Dubai Building Permit System, choose the ‘self-decor permit’ service, pay the required fee, and, upon verification, receive the permit through the Dubai Municipality’s website. The idea of installing floating stairs would also become doable after acquiring the self-decor permit.
This was everything you needed to know about the self-decor permit for Dubai residents. Meanwhile, if you are looking for a rental home in the emirate, check out our guide to renting property in Dubai.
Those seeking real estate investment opportunities can explore these properties for sale in Dubai and weigh their options.
For more updates regarding real estate laws and regulations, keep reading dubizzle property blogs.