Approvals and codes
Who signs off interior work in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, what a permit costs, and the green building clauses that reach indoors.
The Approvals and codes section explains who signs off interior work in the UAE. Dubai splits that responsibility between Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Development Authority and Trakhees according to where the plot sits, with Dubai Civil Defence, DEWA and the master developer adding their own conditions. Abu Dhabi runs a separate route through the Department of Municipalities and Transport.
The same section covers the green building rules that reach inside a building: Al Sa'fat in Dubai and the Estidama Pearl Rating System in Abu Dhabi set limits on glazing, lighting, water fixtures and the paints and adhesives a contractor may use. Articles quote the clause, the limit and the edition of the document, so a reader can hand the reference to a consultant.
Articles in this section
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Al Sa'fat and Estidama rules for interiors
Al Sa'fat in Dubai and the Estidama Pearl Villa Rating System in Abu Dhabi: tiers, glazing limits, water flows, VOC limits, air quality and lighting rules.
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Dubai fit-out approvals: DM, DDA or Trakhees
Which Dubai authority approves interior modification work by plot, what a permit costs under DM, DDA and Trakhees rules in 2026, timelines, NOCs and fines.
