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All rights reserved to Civil Engineering


Department Ports, Customs & Free Zone
Corporation, Dubai. No parts of this
publication may be reproduced, stored
in any retrieval system, or transmitted in
any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or
otherwise, without the prior consent of
the copyright owner.

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BUILDING REGULATIONS

&
DESIGN GUIDELINES

Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, Dubai


United Arab Emirates

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Fourth Edition-2006

P.O. Box 17000, Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, Dubai
Tel.: 00971 4 8819444
E-mail: ced.regulations@ced.ae
http://ced.dubaitrade.ae
United Arab Emirates

Reprinted in April 2007


Jebel Ali, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
All rights reserved to Civil Engineering Department, Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, Dubai. No parts of this publication may
be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the copyright owner.

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Fourth Edition-2006

Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, Dubai


United Arab Emirates


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Acknowledgement

The publication of this book could not have been possible but
for the ungrudging efforts put in by a large number of individuals
working in Projects, Contracts, Structural, Architectural & Quality
Sections of Civil Engineering Department. We would like to
thank the section managers and their respective teams for their
meticulous effort in maintaining the content, structure and quality
of the book. We also wish to acknowledge contributions made
by JAFZA legal department, many Consultants and Engineers;
and Finally Local Regulations (DM) and International Standard
whose publications and articles are frequently used.
Our thanks go out to all those who contributed, whether through
their comments, feedback, edits, or suggestions.
As there is always room for improvement, Civil Engineering
Department welcomes comments on this Book, and will
consider all that are received. Your comments will continue the
development of this book leading to its ultimate acceptance.
As always it has been a great joint effort.

Nazek Al Sabbagh
Chief Civil Engineering Officer
Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation CED

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Page

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

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SECTION 2: DEFINITIONS

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SECTION 3:


25
26

THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL


DRAWINGS SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Concept proposal stage
3.2 Detailed proposal stage

SECTION 4: GENERAL BUILDING PRINCIPLES

29

SECTION 5: SITE PLANNING REQUIREMENTS

31

SECTION 6: PLOT AREA REQUIREMENTS

33

SECTION 7: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT CONTROL FACTORS


7.1 Building Coverage
35
7.2 Building Height
35
7.3 Building Setback
37
SECTION 8: PLOT FENCING
SECTION 9: BUILDING HABITABLE SPACE REQUIREMENTS
9.1 Habitable space areas
9.2 Corridors
9.3 Openings
a. Windows
b. Doors

39
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41
42

SECTION 10: BUILDING PROJECTED ELEMENTS


10.1 Balconies and Terraces
10.2 Overhead Pergolas

45
46

SECTION 11: BUILDING STORY/FLOOR TYPES


11.1 Basement and Semi Basement
11.2 Ground

11.3 Mezzanine
11.4 Roof Top

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48
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SECTION 12: EXTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


12.1 Route access to the site

12.2 Route access to the building or the structure

51
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SECTION 13: INTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS
13.1 Staircases
53
13.2 Electrical Elevators
54
13.3 Fire-escapes
56
a. Horizontal travel to the exits
b. Vertical travel down staircases
c. Door requirements

SECTION 14: RAMP REQUIREMENTS
14.1 Vehicle ramps
59
14.2 Public ramps
59
14.3 Ramps for people with Special Needs
60
14.4 Service ramps
60
SECTION 15: PARKING REQUIREMENTS
15.1 General Requirements
15.2 Parking lot design
15.3 Parking provisions
15.4 Parking for people with Special Needs
15.5 Loading and unloading bays
15.6 Turning radius (maneuvering space)

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SECTION 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


16.1 Residential
71
16.1.1 Villas annexes
16.1.2 Labor accommodations
16.2 Religious
72
16.2.1 Mosques
16.3 Commercial
77
16.3.1 Restaurants, eating places and food service facilities
16.3.2 Hotel Establishments
16.3.3 Automobile service gas stations
16.4 Educational
85
16.4.1 Schools
16.4.2 Kindergartens

16.4.3 Nurseries

16.5 Health
88
16.5.1 Hospitals

16.5.2 Clinics

16.5.3 Pharmacies


16.6 Industrial
90
16.6.1 Factories and Warehouses

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SECTION 17: SANITATION REQUIREMENTS
17.1 General Requirements
17.2 Residential Bathrooms
17.3 Public sanitary
17.4 Sanitary facilities for people with Special Needs

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SECTION 18: SWIMMING POOL REQUIREMENTS


18.1 Construction Materials
18.2 Structural Design and Stability
18.3 Fences & Enclosures
18.4 Swimming Pool Systems
18.5 Deck & Walkway
18.6 Ladders, Steps and Stairs
18.7 Diving Towers and Boards
18.8 Lighting, Ventilation & Electrical Requirements
18.9 Swimming Pool Facilities
18.10 Standards of Water
18.11 General Safety Requirements

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SECTION 19: REFUSE DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS


19.1 General Requirements
19.2 Garbage Rooms or Chutes and Collection
Areas
SECTION 20: LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
20.1 General Requirements
20.2 Landscape elements
a. Hardscape
b. Softscape
SECTION 21: UTILITY SERVICES
21.1 Water supply
21.2 Septic tanks
21.3 Plumbing works
21.4 Rainwater drainage
21.5 Gas facilities
21.6 Ventilation and air conditioning
21.7 Electricity
21.8 Lighting
21.9 Telephone Installations
21.10 Irrigation

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SECTION 22: INSULATION REQUIREMENTS

121

SECTION 23: POWERS OF THE AUTHORITY

123

SECTION 24: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DISPUTES

125

SECTION 25: CED - STRUCTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES



BUILDING STRUCTURES

127

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Section 1: INTRODUCTION

These regulations are intended to provide minimum building


design requirements for all types of developments, such as
residential, commercial, recreational, industrial and institutional
developments.
Dubai has a natural environment of outstanding visual quality
that contributes to a high quality of life and to property values.
These standards exist to ensure buildings integrate with the
natural environment, to protect and enhance land and property,
to maintain the values created in the community, and to promote
the health, safety and general welfare of the community.
The regulations contained in this document shall be considered
to be the minimum requirements.
Developments shall also comply with all relevant legislative
requirements of Dubai Authority Standards.
However, in case of any contradictions, these regulations will
take precedence over the previous regulations.
Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Civil Engineering
Department reserves the right to change any of these regulations
and it shall be the duty of consultants, contractors & developers
etc, to ensure that they possess the latest updates.

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS

In applying these regulations, the meanings listed below will be attributed


to the words and phrases listed beside them, unless the context specifies a
different meaning:

Authority: Shall mean the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Civil
Engineering Department.
Alleyway: The area of a public or private path, which can be used as a
secondary road to any plot. It does not appear as a public road or street in the
Emirates outline plan.
Annexe: A building or installation attached to or independent from the main
building, whose use is secondary or complementary to the function of the main
building.
Accessible Route: A continuous unobstructed path connecting all accessible
elements and spaces of a building or facility. Interior accessible routes may
include corridors, floors, ramps, elevators, and clear floor space at fixtures.
Exterior accessible routes may include parking access aisles, curb ramps,
crosswalks at vehicular ways, walkways, and ramps.
Addition: An expansion, extension, or increase in the gross floor area or height
of a building or facility.
Apartment (Residential unit): Part of a Residential building containing one or
more rooms and a hall, having a minimum area of 10 square meter, designed
and equipped to house one person or a number of people. It has minimum of
one place for preparing and cooking meals (kitchen) and one bathroom. It is
usually rented out as an independent unit.
Arcade: A series of arches supported on columns or piers. A flat or blind
arcade is applied to a wall to articulate the surface.
Additional ventilation: This is installed in rooms whose depth is more than
three times their width, to provide natural ventilation and lighting for the internal
spaces through an opening or a shaft with a minimum area of 5% of the space
area and minimum width of 1.2 meter.
Affection Plan (Lease Plan): Plan of the plot or site issued by the Authority,
Planning and Survey Department or Business Units, showing the plot
boundaries, dimensions, areas and surroundings as well as the land uses.
Automatic Door: A door equipped with a power-operated mechanism
and controls that open and close the door automatically upon receipt of a
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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
momentary actuating signal. The switch that begins the automatic cycle may
be a photoelectric device, floor mat, or manual switch.
Building: A structure forming an open, partially enclosed, or enclosed space
constructed by a planned process of combining materials and components to
meet specific conditions of use.
Building Specifications: A statement of building requirements describing the
loading conditions, design practices, materials, finishes and their quality.
Building Permit: The license that the Authority issues to allow construction
work to proceed on a specific piece of land, in accordance with approved
plans, specifications and conditions.
Building Permit committee: The committee set up by the Authority to study
building permit applications and to take suitable decisions in this regard.
Building extension: Extension of the external wall of the building at ground
floor level, located on one or more sides of the building facing the public road.
Balconies: A platform that projects from the walls of the building, protected
by a railing balustrade or parapet and it can be covered or uncovered; or that
portion of a seating space of an assembly room, auditorium or theater that is
raised at least 1.2 meter above the level of the main floor.
Building height: The vertical distance measured from the pavement of the
adjacent road which is the reference of the ground finished floor level to the
highest point of the building roof (the top floor), excluding the roofs of the
staircases or mechanical rooms, etc.
Bathroom: A room containing a toilet, washbasin and bathtub or bathtub/
shower combination. A toilet and washbasin (no bathtub or shower) equals
a half bathroom and a toilet, washbasin and shower, equals a three-quarter
bathroom.
Client: Natural or corporate person in whose name the plot of land or building
is registered whether in his / its capacity as landlord or possessor or tenant.
Consultant: A registered consultant holding a valid consulting engineers
license from the Dubai Economic Department.
Contractor: A registered contractor holding a valid contracting engineers
license from the Dubai Economic Department.
Circulation Path: An exterior or interior way of passage from one place

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
to another for pedestrians including, but not limited to corridors, hallways,
courtyards, stairways and stair landings.
Commercial buildings: Building in which commercial business is permitted
to be conducted in accordance with statutory classification of lands.
Comprehensive development: A development containing any number
of buildings or uses on a site or a combination of sites that are planned or
developed in an integrated fashion.
Component: An element or space in a building or facility.
Clear: Unobstructed.
Developer (owner): Shall mean the lessee or his authorized Agent who
submits an application to the Authority on his clients behalf.
District: Same as Zone It is an area of land with a particular designated use.
Driveway: An access to a required off-street parking facility or an off-street
loading area.
Dwelling Unit: A single unit which provides a kitchen or food preparation
area in addition to rooms and spaces for living, bathing, sleeping and the like
preferably with a separate entrance.
Dwelling multiple: A building divided into two or more dwelling units each
of which is occupied or intended to be occupied as a permanent home or
residence.
Emirate: Emirate of Dubai.
Engineer: The person authorized to prepare the design and/or supervise
construction work from the Authority.
Egress: An exit.
Embellishments (Ornaments): Elements that are added to the building for
aesthetic purposes. They are expressive and symbolic.
Element: An architectural or mechanical component of a building / facility /
space or site.
Entrance: Any access point to a building, portion of a building or facility used
for the purpose of entering. An entrance includes the approach walk, the
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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
vertical access leading to the entrance platform, the entrance platform itself,
the entry door(s) or gate(s).
Elevation: A view that shows the image of one side of a building.
Facade: The face of a building.
Frontage: That portion of a plot that abuts a road.
Facility: All or any portion of buildings, structures, site improvements,
complexes, equipment, roads, walks, passageways, parking lots or other real
/ personal property located on a site.
Fence: A structure constructed of wood, metal, block, brick, stone or any
other material other than natural vegetation to create a barrier.
Functional Spaces: The rooms and spaces in a building / facility that house
the major activities for which the building / facility is intended.
Floor: Part of the building situated in between the surface of any flooring and
the surface of flooring right above it in the upper level.
Floor Height: Distance between its flooring level and flooring level of the next
floor.
Floor Area Ratio: The division of the total floor area of the building or a number
of buildings, by the total plot area.
Grade: The elevation of the surface of the ground at any point on a site.
Guesthouse: An accessory building for the housing of temporary guests, not
containing a kitchen and not being rented or leased.
Guards room: A room, residential unit or an annexe located within the plot
limits or it might be located within the building enclosure with a minimum area
of (6.5) square meter.
Ground floor: Any occupiable floor less than one story above or below grade
with direct access to grade. A building or facility always has at least one ground
floor and may have more than one ground floor as where a split level entrance
has been provided or where a building is built into a hillside.
Garbage room: The location of the room to be approved by the Authority,
whether to be within the plot limits or to be within the building enclosure for the

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
purpose of holding, prior to disposal of, waste generated in the building.
Gross Area: This is the sum of the floor areas of a building included within the
exterior walls for all stories or areas that house floor surfaces including attics,
basements, penthouses, mechanical room, etc.
Gross area does not include cornices, pilasters, buttresses, etc. It also does
not include open, unroofed courts even if surrounded by the building. The air
space or open space above auditoriums and other similar rooms that extends
through two or more floor levels is not included in the gross square footage.
Habitable room: This means a room used for office, shop, workshop or other
purpose involving occupation by human beings for continuous periods of time
but not including a water closet (W.C.).
Hotel Establishments: Hotels, motels or hotel serviced apartments.
Hotel: Building or independent part of a development or a building, containing
no less than 10 bedrooms (each with a private bathroom) providing boarding
and lodging against a certain fee.
Hotel apartments: A collection of not less than 8 furnished villas, apartments or
studios that are rented to guests by the day, the week, the month or the year.
Hazardous Goods: Includes, but not limited to:
a) Any compressed, liquefied or dissolved gases.
b) Any substance which becomes dangerous by interaction with water or air.
c) Any liquid substance with a flash point below 65oC.
d) Any corrosive substance or a substance which emits poisonous
concentrations of fumes when heated.
e) Any substance liable to spontaneous combustion.
f) Any substance which readily emits heat or other harmful radiations
when it changes state or decomposes.
g) Sheds which contain vehicles loaded with hazardous materials.
h) Any other substance considered hazardous by the suppliers.
Inspector: The engineer or supervisor employed by the Authority.
Investment villas: A complex of private, interconnected or semi-detached
villas which might have communal spaces and shared entertainment services.
Ingress: An entry.
Intersection: The crossing of two or more roads.
Internal Court Yard: Space open to sky and surrounded by buildings on
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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
three or more sides and has rooms of one or more residential or office units
overlooking it.
Kerb: A raised edge on a concrete floor slab or roof accessory.
Kerb Ramp: A short ramp cutting through a kerb or built up to it.
Kitchen: A place set aside for the preparation of meals and beverages. Each
housing unit should have one kitchen as a minimum requirement.
Lighting and ventilation vents: The openings that provide natural light and
air in any part of the buildings utilities. They can be found on ceilings and
external walls.
Landscaping: The treatment and maintenance of a plot area or property with
predominant vegetation such as ground cover, plants, shrubs or trees and
includes paving, brick, rock work and other natural or decorative features in an
organized manner designed to create a specific appearance.
Loading Space: An area used for loading or unloading of vehicles, located
entirely on private property with a minimum vertical clearance of 4 meter and
provided with permanent independent access.
Labor Accommodation: A building that is used to house the workers
belonging to a company, establishment or the like. It provides toilets, basins
and showers. It has a kitchen, a common dining room and individual rooms for
labor supervisors for every 40 laborers.
Level: A ground or floor surface or part of a surface having a slope of not more
than 1 in 50 or 2% at any point and in any direction.
Module: The measurement that engineers use to determine the proportions of
a structure, e.g. the grids of columns, etc.
Main Building: Building used for the main or prime functional use within the
plot.
Mezzanine Floor: That portion of a floor which is an intermediate level placed
within the floor and having occupiable space above and below its floor. Its
functional use may either be complementary and belonging to the ground
floor or independent functional use similar to typical floor or may be used for
services.
Motel: A building or part of a development / building containing no less than

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
10 bedrooms and thus providing board and lodging for a fee with a number of
shared bathrooms.
Marked Crossing: A crosswalk or other identified path intended for pedestrian
use in crossing a vehicular way.
Mechanical Services floor: Floor allocated fully for accommodating
mechanical and electrical equipment required for the building. Neither part
thereof shall be permitted to be used for any other purpose and shall not be
included in calculating the floor ratio.
Neighborhood (surroundings): Any adjacent piece of land excluding roads
and alleyways.
Occupiable: A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in
which individuals congregate for amusement, educational or similar purposes
and which is equipped with means of egress, light, and ventilation.
Office: A work station with a minimum area of 10 square meter.
Project: The construction of a permanent building, or any other civil work
on a leased property including any modifications or installations in pre-built
facilities.
Permanent Building: A building designed and constructed with reinforced
concrete, steel, with block / metal cladding or other durable material.
Plot: A piece or parcel of land separated from other parcels by a specific number
and location. It is occupied by a legally permissible project or development.
Parcel: Any contiguous areas, sites, plots or portions of land under common
ownership.
Plot Line: Any line bounding a plot as herein defined.
Plot line, front: A line separating an interior plot from a road or a street. In the
case of a corner plot, the orientation of the existing or proposed development
shall be used to determine which plot line shall be considered the front.
Plot Line, rear: A plot line which is opposite and most distant from the front
line. In the case of an irregular plot, the rear plot line shall be an assumed line
parallel to and at the maximum distance from the front plot line.
Plot line, side: Any plot boundary lines not a front plot line or a rear plot line.
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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
Plot frontage: The front of a plot shall be construed to be the portion nearest
to the street. For the purpose of determining requirements on corner plots and
through plots, all sides of a plot adjacent to streets shall be considered frontage.
Plot Area: The total area of a plot within the plot lines as measured on a
horizontal plane.
Plot Coverage: Horizontal area occupied by all main and annex building
on the same plot, calculated from the external surface of external walls or
useful roofed balconies in the ground or upper floors (whichever have more
projections). Non functional beautifying projections less than 0.45 meter in
length shall not be included in the coverage calculation.
Plot Percentage: Is the ratio between the plot coverage and the total plot
area.
Public Utility: Any person, firm, corporation, municipal board duly authorized
under the Emirates regulations to supply public electricity, gas, steam,
communications, water, drainage, flood control, irrigation, garbage / trash
disposal / sewage disposal.
Public Use: Describes interior / exterior rooms or spaces that are made
available to the general public. Public use may be provided at a building /
facility that are privately or publicly owned.
Private Garages: An enclosed accessory building attached or detached to
be used for storage of motor vehicles used by the occupants of the principal
building.
Private Villa: A detached or semi-detached building made up of several floors
to accommodate a single family unit. It has a ground floor entrance, garages
and independent external open areas.
Pantry: A place for preparing light snacks and should not replace the kitchen
in the residential units.
Parking area: An area of open land other than a road used or intended to be
used to provide space for the parking of motor vehicles. This includes parking
spaces, loading spaces, maneuvering aisles and other areas providing access
to parking or loading spaces.
People with Special Needs: Anyone who uses a wheel chair, crutches, or
other walking aids to help them move. This includes people who are paralyzed,
chair-bound, amputees, blind or deaf as well as the aged who are unable to

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
walk independently.
Regulations: Building Control Regulations & Design Guidelines and other
regulations issued by the Authority.
Road or street: The public or private road way for vehicles according to the
maps attached to the Land Use Classification and Regulations in the Emirate.
Road Corridors Line: The official line that separates between the road
and any plot that is situated thereon. It is also called the end line to the road
corridor.
Road demarcation: The legal line separating the road or street and the plot
abutting it. It is also known as the edge of the road.
Room: A place that is meant to be residential or to be used for any purpose
that requires people to reside in it on a temporary or permanent basis. Its area
should not be less than 10 square meter.
Reference level: It is the level of the finished floor of the first step of the
entrance at the ground edge. It shall be 0.3 meter above the level of the road
edge.
Ramp: A walking surface which has a running slope greater than 1in 20 or 5%.
Roof Top: Part of a full floor situated above the Top/Last floor of the building and
to be normally used for accommodating elevator machine rooms, staircases,
mechanical electrical room, water tanks, some pergolas or swimming pools,
gymnasiums and services associated therewith. It shall have a minimum
setback 1.5 meter from the building roof limits and maximum area 50% of the
last floor area.
Site: A plot of land.
Site Plan: Arrangement of the overall physical environment in complete
detail including structures, landscape, land contours, vehicular / pedestrian
circulation, drainage and the entire complex of physical forms.
Site Improvement: Landscaping, paving for pedestrian and vehicular ways,
outdoor lighting, recreational facilities and the like which have been added to
a site.
Setback: The minimum horizontal distance between a plot line and the nearest
point of a building, structure or use, as the context indicates, located on a plot.
Setback shall not include eaves of the building.
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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
Structure: Any constructed, erected material or combination of materials
which requires being located on the ground or attached to something located
on the ground.
Signage: Displayed verbal, symbolic and pictorial information.
Service Entrance: An entrance intended primarily for delivery of goods or
services.
Swimming Pool: Any constructed pool used for swimming, bathing or
wading, whether above or below the ground surface regardless of depth or
water surface area.
Space: A definable area e.g. room, toilet, hall, assembly area, entrance,
storage room, alcove, courtyard or lobby.
Shared accommodation: A building containing more than one room that
is used to accommodate several people belonging to a university, boarding
school, hospital, company, etc..)
Showroom: Any place that is set aside for commercial use such as displaying
goods to be marketed wholesale or retail. The showroom frontage that is facing
the road should not be less than 10 meter wide.
Studio: Part of a residential building which contains only one room to house
one individual or more. It has a place for preparing and cooking meals and a
bathroom. It is rented out as an independent unit.
Shop: A space with a minimum area of 12 square meter that is used for
commercial activities.
Shopping Malls: A group of shops, showrooms or areas used for commercial
purpose of a minimum area 1000 square meter that opens to covered air
conditioned halls or internal corridors.
It can also be any shop or showroom whose net area for commercial use
exceeds 1000 square meter.
Store: Covered part of a building used as a storage area for material. Such
space may be used for collecting and sorting material for purpose of shipping
or storage without introducing any change in the chemical or physical
characteristics of such material.
Servant quarters: An accessory room or portion of a main building designed

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Section 2: DEFINITIONS
or used as the principle residence of persons employed on the same property
as domestic help, driver, gardener, maintenance man or similar occupations.
Area of the room shall not be less than 7.5 square meter.
Special approval: Approval granted by parties empowered by the law to
authorize exemption from this Regulation or from any other legislation related
to construction works.
Service duct: Closed channel through which the various service and utility
pipes pass with access openings for inspection and repair work.
Staircase: Space inside the building within which the stairs are erected.
Shade Structure: Projected cover that extends outside the external wall of
any building or a cover supported by a column in order to protect any door or
window or corridor from rain or solar effect. It can be a stand alone structure
also.
Temporary Building: A building used as a site office or to house construction
equipment during the construction period.
Total floor area: The area of all floors of a building (measured from the external
sides of the building) including finished attics, finished basements, swimming
pools and any other structures on the plot.
Typical floor: A floor that is similar to the floors that follow it or precede it or
both. It is usually located above the ground floor.
Top/Last Floor: It is the last storey of the building which is located directly
below the roof top.
Wind Towers: Shelter with 50% of its area open to the sky usually constructed
to enhance the architectural beauty of a building or to suit a certain climate
need.

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SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT

Section 3: ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS

The

Development Architectural Drawings submission process consists of


two main phases:
3.1 The Concept proposal (Preliminary) stage
3.2 The Detailed proposal (Developed) stage
3.1

The Concept proposal stage:


The concept proposal shall consist of the followings in electronic copy
in PDF form + 1 P-Liner drawing with all the plan outlining the areas of
all the floors for area calculation:

3.1.1

Layout Plan (Scale 1:1000) showing:


The location of the proposed development and any existing neighboring
developments.

3.1.2

Plot Site Plan (1:200 in metric system) showing:


1) The north orientation.
2) The coordinates, dimensions and levels of all site services and
entrances.
3) The location and setting out of all proposed buildings and other
improvements including access ways and car parking in relation to
the boundaries and required building setbacks.
4) The location of boundary walls, transformer station, and refuse
containers where applicable.

3.1.3 Schematic architectural drawings showing:


1) Floor and roof plans (Scale 1:100) along with MEP and structural
provision and control dimensions of all the areas.
2) Elevation (Scale 1:100) at least 2 facades of the building.
3) A table of area calculations showing floor areas, gross floor area,
car parking calculation and building percentage and landscaping
coverage.
4) Coloured Perspective images, sufficient to present the concept.
5) Sections (Scale 1:100) at least one passing through critical areas
such as staircase and electric substation of building stating levels
and heights of all main elements.
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Section 3: ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS

6) Verification and provision for Utility Services.


7) Verification of provision of Environment Health & Safety (EHS)
requirement as per NFPA and local codes.
8) Verification of traffic study and report.
3.1.4

Documentation:
Proof of Ownership, letter of appointment of consultant, documentation
establishing the qualifications, registration and experience of the
architect approved by the Authority. Owner to sign the title sheet +
main setting out / site layout plan and consultant to sign and stamp
all the drawings.

3.1.5

Schematic Landscape Plan (Scale 1:200) showing:


Areas to be allocated for landscape treatment including a detailed
allocation of hard and soft landscape.

3.1.6

Topographical Plan (Scale 1:200) showing:


Existing contours and surface features sufficient to accurately depict
the existing topography of the site.

3.1.7

A brief report about the project and its environmental impact on the
surroundings.

3.2

The Detailed proposal stage:


The detailed proposal shall accurately illustrate the following:

3.2.1

A plot Site Plan (Scale 1:200):


Containing all information submitted at concept proposal stage but
modified to incorporate any changes to the proposal made at the
instigation of the developer and approved by the Authority or at the
direction of the Authority.

3.2.2

Architectural drawings, consisting of the following:


1) Plans (Scale 1:100) showing all of the floors of the development or
improvements / alterations, including roof plan and indicating the
proposed uses and dimensions for all indoor and outdoor spaces
together with linkages to adjoining development or areas where
appropriate. Also to show appropriate furniture to determine
population of the enclosed area & its function.

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SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT

Section 3: ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS

2) Area calculations: a table of area calculations to permit ground


coverage evaluation.
3) Elevations (Scale 1:100) showing all sides of the building or the
development.
4) Sections: At least two main sections (Scale 1:100) showing the
internal and external floor levels, window sill heights, parapet
heights, and the relationship of the proposed development to
existing neighboring development and the pavement levels
contiguous to the development, essentially passing through
staircase and electric sub-station.
5) Fences and walls: Detailed drawings, including elevations for the
whole site (Scale 1:100) and sections (Scale 1:20) of proposed
transparent fences and solid boundary walls.
6) Schedule of external and internal finishing materials showing size,
proposed color, texture and appearance.
7) Necessary construction details like roofing / water proofing /
expansion joints, etc..
3.2.3

Grading and Surface Water Drainage drawings and calculations


including measures to contain surface discharge of rain water at the
plot limits.

3.2.4

A Landscape Plan (Scale 1:200):


Indicating the numbers, species, sizes and positions of all trees,
shrubs, ground cover plants and lawn areas related to the estimated
irrigation water demand calculations.
The landscape plan shall also identify and describe all hardscape
surfaces and any landscape features.

3.2.5

A Utility Layout Plan (Scale 1:200) showing:


1) The coordinates, depths, levels and sizes of all pipes, conduits and
connections with respect to potable and irrigation water, sewer,
telephone, electricity from the points of entrance to the site, to
the centers of distribution including location of transformer station,
switch room and meters.
2) The location of any proposed standby generators.

3.2.6

Electricity Calculations and detailed design drawing along with all

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Section 3: ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS

the single line diagram and electric load schedule as per DEWA
requirement and NOC.
3.2.7

Garbage Calculations and Plans:


A calculation showing the anticipated garbage generation in cubic
meters (m3), together with plans showing the provision to be made for
garbage storage and disposal.

3.2.8

Environmental Impact Assessment:


As required by the Authority, a study describing the existing site
environment, the nature of the project, the potential for environmental
impacts and the measures that will be implemented to mitigate
impacts.
1. (EIA) Environmental Impact Assessment
2. (TIA) Traffic Impact Assessment

3.2.9

Structural Design and calculations :


Detailed design and drawings along with structural calculations and
reinforcement schedule as per BS or equivalent international accepted
standards.

3.2.10 Mechanical (HVAC) :


Detailed Airconditioning, ventilation and exhaust drawings with detailed
calculation as per ASHRAE standards.
3.2.11 Telephone system Drawing :
Detailed drawings showing all points and single line diagrams for
telephone, fax, internet, cable TV and fiber optic requirements of
the building, as per Telecommunication Authority requirement and
approval with NOC.
3.2.12 Water supply and Drainage drawings :
Detailed drawings showing all mechanical and plumbing works for
water (hot & cold) supply and drainage details and layout including
surface drainage system and supply / discharge connections as per
DEWA and DM requirement and approval with NOC.

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3.2.13 Verification of requirement for Helipad from Dubai Civil Defense


Authority for the building 20 or more storey high and detailed drawings
as per Dubai Civil Aviation Authority if helipad is mandatory. authorize
exemption of this Regulation or from any other legislation related to
construction works.
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Section 4: GENERAL BUILDING PRINCIPLES

This section shall regulate the exterior design of buildings and structures

and the design of streetscape associated with all new buildings developed for
Commercial, Industrial and Institutional uses.
Exemptions: The requirements of this section shall not apply to Private
Residential Villas or Agricultural uses.
These are some Architectural Criteria which the developer shall take into
account:
4.1

The location and size of the development, the nature and intensity of
the operation involved in or conducted in connection with it and the
location of the site with respect to streets giving access to it, such that
the development should not dominate the immediate environment and
should respect the surrounding neighboring properties.

4.2

Similar Themes and Elements within Developments:


Buildings, structures and streetscape within a development shall
maintain a
similar style and design of architectural theme including
but not limited to building materials, colors, form, roof style and
detailing.

4.3

Faade Treatment:
Side and rear walls of all buildings shall be constructed of similar
building materials and contain similar architectural treatment as the
front or main elevation of the building, excluding window areas.
Balconies facing main roads are to be free from unpleasant elements
view like laundry and antennas etc.

4.4

Screening of Accessory Equipment:


All outdoor mechanical equipment including antennas, roof top
equipment, refuse storage areas, shall be concealed from public view
by solid walls, screens, fences, parapets, enclosing structures or
landscaping.

4.5

Building Articulation:
Entrances into buildings shall be easily identified through building
design including the use of recessed or projected entryways, higher
rooflines or changes in building massing, material or color.
Exterior walls shall be articulated by the use of architectural features
including the variation of materials, colors or a change in surface
plane.
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Section 4: GENERAL BUILDING PRINCIPLES


4.6

Roof Treatments:
All buildings must feature either some form of sloped roof or parapets
screening a flat roof.
A flat roof, if specified, shall be screened with parapets on all sides
of the building. Parapets shall be at least 1.10 meter in height from
average roof FFL and be on all facades of the building.

4.7

Building Scale and Massing:


The size, floor area, mass and general appearance of the proposed
structure in the proposed development is highly encouraged to
be designed such that the visual privacy shall be maintained with
adjacent structures and buildings in the surrounding properties /
neighborhood.

4.8

Site Planning:
1) If building is facing more than one road, the parking (underground
or surface) entry and exit to be from secondary road.
2) Adequate access roads or entrance / exit driveways shall be
provided to minimize traffic congestion and hazards in public
streets.
3) Parking and loading spaces: All structures and land uses are
provided with sufficient space for parking and loading to meet the
needs of persons making use of and making deliveries to such
structures and land uses.
4) Pedestrian sidewalks or paths shall be provided from building
entries to surrounding streets, parking spaces and external
sidewalks.
5) Landscaping: shall be provided to encourage pleasant and
attractive surroundings, contribute to the relief of heat, noise, dust
and glare through the proper placement of green plants, trees and
decorative features.
6) Facilities for people with special needs to be provided such as
toilet, entry ramp, handicapped parking etc.

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Section 5: SITE PLANNING REQUIREMENTS


5.1

It is forbidden to construct any building on any plot unless it is


in accordance with the Affection Plan attached to the Land Use,
Classification and Regulations issued by the Authority.

5.2

The Affection Plan shall define (according to the related Business Unit)
the number of floors, the function, external setbacks, the required
car parking spaces, access road to the plot, the percentage area
permissible for construction and the floor area ratio.

5.3

All building elements of the project are to be within designated property


limits.

5.4

The site layout shall allow for loading and unloading of vehicles to take
place within the plot boundaries. Adequate parking spaces shall be
provided within the plot limits and an access route for fire fighting shall
be provided for all types of buildings except the private residential
villas.

5.5

In case the utility services (to a designated property) are to be brought


from across the road or public facility area/s, the cost including supply
of required material & equipment, making arrangement to supply the
services, repairing the damage caused during the course and making
good to maintain as per original form and finishes to be borne by the
owner of the designated property.

5.6

Any earthwork (filling or cutting) shall be restricted to the plot limits.

5.7

The developer is encouraged to allocate a part of area within the plot


limits for landscaping. No landscaping will be permitted outside the
Leased plot.

5.8

Access to the plot shall clear all existing services in the service corridor
and the cost of any relocations or modifications shall be borne by the
developer.

5.9

Space for Utility Provision such as electrical sub station and other
services as required by the concerned Service Providing Authorities
shall be provided within the plot limits.

5.10

Heavy and light vehicle movement within the related property is to be


separated including entry and exit.

5.11

Manoeuvring of vehicles for parking or loading / unloading for a


particular property is to be within property limits.

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Section 6: PLOT AREA REQUIREMENTS

The minimum plot area that is suitable for construction, shall be as follows:
6.1

Within the central business districts, a minimum plot area of 100


square meter.

6.2

In the remaining districts of the Emirate, a minimum plot area of 150


square meter.

6.3

The minimum width of the frontage or the main elevation of the plot
that overlooks the approach road shall be 10 meter wide.

6.4

In case of irregular shaped plots, area of which exceeds the minimum


mentioned above, no building permit will be issued unless the plot can
accommodate an area of 10 x 10 square meter in order to be meet
construction requirements.

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Section 7: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT CONTROL FACTORS


7.1

Building Coverage:
All parts of buildings shall be within the plot boundaries and shall not
occupy more than:

7.1.1

For Industrial type:


a) In Free Zones districts shall be 60% building coverage

7.1.2

For residential, commercial and beach type developments, the


maximum plot coverage shall be as per the Design Control Regulations
of the related business units.

7.2

Building Height:
The maximum height of the building is to be measured from main ground
Finished Floor Level (FFL) till the top of the roof level (according to the
system that applies to each Business Units planning requirement).

7.2.1

The Finished Bench Mark Level of all types of buildings shall not be
less than 0.15 meter above the approach road edge level, except
the Residential Villas which shall not be less than 0.3 meter. This will
indicate the Gate Level.

7.2.2

The Ground Finished Floor Level for all types of buildings shall not
exceed 1.2 meter above the gate level, except for Residential Villas
which shall not exceed 1.5 meter.

7.2.3

The internal clear (net) height of each floor for different building types is
the Distance from the Finished Floor Level to the Finished Ceiling Level
as shown in the following:


1. Residential Type:

Minimum : 2.7 meter.

Maximum : 4.2 meter.

2 Commercial Type:

2.1 Shops and Showrooms:
a) Ground floor : Minimum 3 meter. And in case of additional
half mezzanine floor, it shall be 2.4 meter.
Maximum : 4 meter.
b) Full mezzanine:
Minimum : 2.6 meter.
Maximum: 3 meter.

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Section 7: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT CONTROL FACTORS


2.2 Commercial Halls and Shopping Malls:


Minimum : 4 meter.
Maximum: 6 meter (except aisles & atriums)


2.3 Offices:

Minimum : 2.5 meter.
Maximum: 3 meter.

2.4 Basement Parking Areas:


Minimum : 2.4 meter net, clear from any over hanging services

or elements.
Maximum: 3 meter.

3. Industrial Type:
Factories and Warehouses at one level
Minimum : 4 meter.
Maximum: 9 meter.
It is possible to go above the maximum figures mentioned
above, for certain Industrial Projects, according to their functional
requirements which require different height measurements.

4. Educational Type:
Schools, Nurseries and Kindergartens:
Minimum : 2.5 meter (from lowest suspended services,

elements or ceilings).
Maximum: 4.2 meter (from lowest suspended services,

elements or ceilings).

5. Religious Type:
Mosques:
Minimum : 3.6 meter.
Maximum: according to the design and capacity of the mosque.
7.2.4

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Some buildings are special cases because of their architectural design


such as showrooms, cinemas, schools, commercial centers, industrial
installations, etc.. These are allowed to go beyond the heights that
have been mentioned in clause (7.2.1) of this Section. The Building
Permit Committee approves certain specifications and measurements
with consideration to activities or the types of the adjacent neighboring
buildings.

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Section 7: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT CONTROL FACTORS


7.2.5


7.2.6

The parts of buildings and installations that are permitted to exceed


the required height are defined as follows:
1) Embellishments (ornamental elements), such as minarets,
domes and towers that are embellished in traditional and
aesthetic patterns.
2) Chimneys and smoke stacks, water reservoirs, elevator shafts,
staircases, radio and television aerials, wind towers, pergolas,
helipads and roof shading devices.
3) Commercial structures for advertising purpose (only after
obtaining permission from the Authority).
Exemptions mentioned above, shall comply with the followings:
1) Any part of the building which is permitted to exceed the height
shall not be used as habitable spaces.
2) Height shall not exceed the function of the purpose as decided
by the Building Permit Committee, shall be within the permissible
limits of the Civil Aviation Regulation, and shall not hamper the
adjacent building activities.

7.2.7

All buildings higher than 20 floors shall be provided with a helicopter


pad as per standard specifications approved by the Authority unless
otherwise exempted by Civil Defense / Civil Aviation authorities.

7.3

Building Setbacks:
Setbacks from all plot boundaries are necessary to allow visual
screening from the adjacent developments, also to protect the common
general amenity and as per planning requirements and guidelines of a
Business Unit.

7. 3.1 A setback is measured from the edge of the plot limits of adjacent
plots and from the edge of the property line.
7.3.2

Setbacks are implemented starting from the ground floor of all building
types.

Exemptions of Commercial buildings in which a setback is implemented


starting from the first floor above the commercial part and starting from
the ground floor for the section that is beyond the commercial depth. In
this case, if the ground floor is entirely taken over for Commercial use,
the setback for the ground floor must be 3 meter from the rear and
side line of the adjacent buildings, if their activities are non-commercial
type until instructed differently elsewhere.
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Section 7: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT CONTROL FACTORS


7.3.3

No construction works shall be permitted in the setback area for all building
types, except for power transformers, pergolas, uncovered parking areas
and the projected elements, in accordance with section 10.

7.3.4

The maximum setback required for all building types is 6 meter,


regardless of the overall height of the building.


With the exception of:

1) The Industrial type that shall provide a minimum setback of:

- In Free Zones districts: 5.5 meter from all plot limits.

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2) The Beach development that shall provide a minimum beach


setback of 20 meters over a length not greater than 25% of the
facade facing the beach; 40 meters for the remainder of the
facade facing the beach. Other setbacks to be as / DCR issued
by business units of related developments.

7.3.5

The minimum setback (within one development) between two main


buildings or a main building and any annexe on plot shall be 3 meter.

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Section 8: PLOT FENCING

The developer is to provide perimeter fencing to define the boundary of

the property and to provide the degree of security that is consistent with the
building type.
The construction shall be within the plot limits.

8.1
8.2

The fencing height for different building types as follows:


1) Residential:
The residential buildings & villas shall not exceed 3 meter

Industrial & Commercial:


Shall not exceed 2.4 meter
a) An open mesh or chain like fences erected for:
b) Public playgrounds, parks, play areas
c) Agriculture uses
This shall not exceed 3.5 meter except for special purpose
requirement (like tennis court) at the discretion of the authority.

8.3

Construction Sites
1) Fencing shall have a reasonably smooth surface facing the
public way and shall be without openings, except those required
for access.
2) Access openings through fencing shall be equipped with
gates which shall be kept closed and locked when the site is
unattended and maintained in place until completion of the
construction or demolition activities.

2)





8.4

In all cases for the placement, construction and/or the removal of a


fence, the developer shall coordinate with Authority at the start of the
project.

8.5

Necessary earth retaining structures and proper measures to prevent


discharge of surface drainage to adjoining plots shall be provided
along the plot boundary where required and to suit the site conditions,
to the approval of the authority.

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Section 9: BUILDING HABITABLE SPACE REQUIREMENTS


9.1

Habitable Space Areas


The minimum floor area and minimum dimension of any space in
different types of building shall be as follows:
Minimum Floor Area

Minimum Dimension

Shop

12 sq.meter

2.4 meter

Office

10 sq.meter

2.5 meter

Residential room

10 sq.meter

3.1 meter

Kitchen

6.0 sq.meter

2.0 meter

Bathroom

4.5 sq.meter

1.8 meter

Lavatory

1.5 sq.meter

1.0 meter

It is permissible for some service rooms such as those used by the


servants or the guard rooms to have a floor area of 6.5 square meter
and minimum dimension of 2.10 meter.

9.2

Corridors

9.2.1

The minimum clear un-obstructed width of public corridors shall be as


follows:
1. Residential type:


1.1 Apartments:
1.8 meter for plot areas above 250 square meter.
1.5 meter for plot areas below 250 square meter.

1.2 Labor accommodations:
1.8 meter with rooms on both sides.
1.5 meter with rooms on one side.

2. Commercial type:


2.1 Office buildings:
1.8 meter for plot areas exceeding 250 square meter.
1.5 meter for plot areas less than 250 square meter.

2.2 Shopping Malls:
In general 3 meter.
In case of providing kiosks along the mall:
- The maximum kiosk width shall be 1.8 meter.
- The minimum distance between kiosk and shops on both sides
shall be 3 meter.
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Section 9: BUILDING HABITABLE SPACE REQUIREMENTS


- The minimum width of 1.5 meter, shall be provided free

on either sides of each Kiosk.

3. Educational type:


3.1 Schools, Institutes and Universities:
3 meter with classes on both sides.
2.4 meter with classes on one side.

4. Public buildings, other than the ones mentioned above:

These will vary according to their function and should not be less
than 2.4 meter width.

5. The minimum clear width of internal corridors between rooms in


residential apartments (flats) and offices shall be 1.2 meter.

9.2.2


The minimum height of public corridors shall be as follows:


1) 2.4 meter for Residential and Commercial type (office buildings).
2) 3 meter for Educational type and Commercial type (shopping malls).
3) 2.4 meter for other building types.

9.2.3

The minimum corridor width for people with special needs:


1) The unobstructed width of a low traffic corridor should be 0.9
meter, with maneuverability in 90 degree turns.
2) The unobstructed width of a public corridor should be 1.5 meter,
with maneuverability in 180 degree turns. The recommended
width is 1.8 meter.

9.3

Openings:

9.3.1 Windows:

1) All habitable spaces (whether Residential or non-Residential),
lobbies or corridors, shall have a lighting and ventilation opening
whose area is not less than 10% of the habitable space floor area.
And 5% for service spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, toilets,
storerooms and staircases.

2) Natural ventilation and light openings shall be provided in Industrial
type, with an area not less than 5% of the floor area.
3)

The main staircase of the building shall be provided with lighting


and ventilation openings in each floor level effective from the first
floor upwards until the highest level.

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Section 9: BUILDING HABITABLE SPACE REQUIREMENTS


4) Height of window sills shall not be less than 0.9 meter except in
case of existence of balconies or terraces outside such windows,
in which safety protection (balustrades) of minimum height 1.10
meter shall be provided.

9.3.2

Doors:

The minimum width of doors opening shall be as follows:

Buildings Main door

1.2 meter

Apartments Main door

1.0 meter

Bedrooms and offices

0.9 meter.

Kitchens

0.9 meter.

Bathrooms

0.8 meter.

Shops

1.2 meter, as a part of the glass frontage.

Workshops and warehouses 3.0 meter.


Staircases

1.1 meter.

1) All doors in alcoves shall comply with the maneuvering clearances


for inward opening directions.
2) The minimum number and dimensions of entrance and exit
doors shall be decided as per the number of floors, total floor
area, functional use of the building and criteria approved by the
Authority.
3) Emergency signs shall be set up, at all fire exit doors.
4) The entrance / exit doors for the residence, public and service shall
be separated.

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Section 10: BUILDING PROJECTIONS


10.1

Balconies and Terraces

10.1.1 Balconies and Terraces to start from the first floor upwards.
10.1.2 The minimum clear un-obstructed vertical distance of the balcony from
the approach road pavement level, shall be 4.50 meters.
10.1.3 The minimum horizontal distance of the balcony from the adjacent
buildings, shall be 3 meters.
10.1.4 It is not permitted to construct balconies over a road or alley with
minimum width 10 meter, or over internal ducts, shaft and setbacks.
10.1.5 It is not permitted to construct any projections beyond the plot limits
unless and until higher than 6m from road level and to the approval of
the related authority.
10.1.6 It is permitted to close and add the existing balconies or terraces, in
order to be annexed to the internal habitable spaces, according to the
following conditions:

1) The width of the approach road exceeds 10 meter.

2) The length of the total balcony at any floor shall not exceed 50%
of the total length of the building faade.

3) The habitable space area, excluding additional balcony area,


conforms to the minimum habitable space area requirements.

4) The adding process shall be situated in the first floor upwards.

10.1.7 It is permitted to construct balconies and terraces to the building


facades, according to the followings:






1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

A projection of 1.8 meter if the road width is 18 meter or above.


A projection of 1.5 meter if the road width is 15 meter till 18 meter.
A projection of 1.2 meter if the road width is 12 meter till 15 meter.
A projection of 1.0 meter if the road width is 10 meter till 12 meter.
An aesthetic, non-functional projection of 0.5 meter, if the road
width is 6 meter till 10 meters.
6) An aesthetic, non-functional projection of 0.3 meter, if the road
width or alley is below 6 meter.
7) An aesthetic, non-functional projection of 0.9 meter for the roof
parapet of Residential Villas.
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Section 10: BUILDING PROJECTIONS


8) An aesthetic, non-functional projection in the set backs of


Residential Villas, of a maximum of 0.3 meter, at the window sill or
lintel level.

10.1.8 For low rise (1-3 floors) and multi-rise (4-6 floors) Residential buildings,
Hotels and Furnished apartments, the minimum height of the external
balcony railing shall be 1.10 meter, with maximum clearance among
the vertical rods of the railing 0.10 meter and when the balcony
connects the units, privacy partitions should be installed.
For mid-high rise (7-9 floors), high rise (10 floors and above) Residential
Buildings, Hotels and Furnished apartments, the balcony must be
with solid panels and when the balcony connects the units, privacy
partitions should be installed.
10.1.9 For other types of buildings, the minimum height of the internal and
external balcony railing shall be 1.10 meter, with maximum clearance
among the vertical rods of the railing 0.125 meter.

10.2

Overhead Pergolas:

10.2.1 It is permitted to build pergolas in the unoccupied /setback areas of


the plot, with the minimum area percentage 50% of its total area, and
maximum height of 3 meter.
10.2.2 It is permitted to build pergolas as a shading device for the swimming
pools, on the roof floor, according to the followings:

1) Minimum setback of 1.5 meter from the Roof edge.

2) Maximum projection of 1.5 meter from the Pool edge.

3) Maximum height of 3 meter above the pool level.

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Section 11: BUILDING STORY / FLOOR TYPES


11.1

Basement and Semi Basement

11.1.1 The Basement shall not extend beyond the plot limits.
11.1.2 The Basement Ceiling Level shall not exceed 1.0 meter from the
approaching road edge, for all building types. And 1.30 meter for
residential villas.
11.1.3 The Basement shall be connected to the super structure by vertical
circulations (staircases and elevators) and fire-escape exits shall be
provided for all basement floors.
11.1.4 The Basement floor shall not be used for Residential or Office or
Commercial use. It shall be restricted to the following functions:

1) Car Parkings, service rooms for the building, such as the electricity
room, telephone room and pump room.

2) Tenants facilities (laundry room, drying room, swimming pool,


health club and its facilities, childrens playground and sports
facilities).

11.1.5 The minimum clear un-obstructed height of the basement and semi
basement for all types of functions shall be 2.4 meter from any
suspended element or soffits till FFL.
11.1.6 In the course of excavating, concreting, dewatering and casting piling
works for basement floor, care shall be taken to ensure all safety
precautions for the neighboring construction works.

11.2

Ground

11.2.1 A building / facility always has at least one ground floor and may have
more as where a split level entrance has been provided or where a
building is built into a hillside.
11.2.2 The Ground Finished Floor Level for all types of buildings shall not
exceed 1.2 meter above the gate level, except the Residential Villas
which shall not exceed 1.5 meter.

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Section 11: BUILDING STORY / FLOOR TYPES


11.3

Mezzanine

11.3.1 Mezzanine floor shall be permitted to be used 100% independently


in case it is used as parking space for cars, or as extension to the
main function of the whole building, which is used for one common
purpose.
11.3.2 The mezzanine floor can be used for commercial purpose that is 100%
independent, in case of using the ground floor and the mezzanine as
a Shopping Mall. In this case the Escalators and Panoramic Glass
Elevators with minimum capacity of 10 people shall be provided as
connection elements between the floors.
11.3.3 No second mezzanine shall be permitted within the ground floor space
if the original mezzanine floor had been detached and independently
used.
11.3.4 No balconies or terraces or projections shall be permitted in the
mezzanine floor.

11.4

Roof Top

11.4.1 It is permitted to add roof on the top floor for all building types, except the
Residential Villas, Industrial buildings and Labor accommodations.
11.4.2 If the plot area exceeds 250 square meter, then the roof can
accommodate the following:

1) Installation of rooms for elevator machinery, water tanks, pumps,
electricity and telephone rooms.

2) For pergolas and swimming pools. It can also be used to
accommodate gymnasium and its facilities, which are used by
tenants of the building.
11.4.3 The construction areas shall not exceed 10% of the total area of the
typical floor, maximum area 950 square meter and with a minimum
setback of 1.5 meter from the building roof edge. Swimming pool
shall be exempted from setback condition and shall not be included in
calculating the percentage construction.
11.4.4 The maximum height of a pergola above top floor swimming pool from
the swimming pool deck shall be 2.4 meter.

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11.4.5 The minimum clear unobstructed ceiling height of a gymnasium shall
be 3.6m.
11.4.6 It is forbidden to use the installations that are built on the roof top for
any kind of commercial purposes whatever its nature might be.
11.4.7 Elevators are allowed to serve the roof functions.
11.4.8 Advertising boards may be placed on the roof in accordance with the
requirements of the advertising by-laws applicable in the Emirate.

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Section 12: EXTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


12.1

Route access to the site

1) Provision of points of ingress and egress shall be located to the


satisfaction of the Authority.

2) All parts of the site to which vehicles may have access shall be
hard surfaced and drained to the satisfaction of the Authority.

3) All access locations and curb crossings shall require the approval
of the Authority. Public roadways carrying heavy volume of traffic
shall not be used for access unless there is no other practical
alternative.

4) The access routes for fire fighting shall be provided.

5) The site and all improvements thereon shall be maintained in clean


and tidy conditions.

12.2

Route access to the building or the structure

1) Public entrances and Service entrance shall be located and clearly


identified.

2) Location of the car parking to main entrance shall be clearly


identified.

3) Location of the disabled parking to the main entrance shall be


identified.

4) Location of the loading area shall be identified.

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Section 13: INTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


13.1

Staircases:

13.1.1 One main staircase shall be provided in all types of buildings with more
than one one floor and with a floor area less than 450 square meters
and less than 1400 square meters in total floor area.

Regarding additional area, from 450 to 950 square meter per floor
or from 1400 to 2800 square meter, total floor area, an additional
staircase shall be provided.

13.1.2 The clear width of the stair landing shall not be less than the clear width
of the stair, and shall not be less than 1.10 meter for residential and
office buildings, and 1.5 meter for public buildings.

The minimum clear vertical height from the bottom margin of the
landing structure to the pedestrian passageway shall be 2.4 meter.

13.1.3 The maximum number of steps in one single stair case or in one
direction shall be 14 steps.
13.1.4 For normal staircases the following relationship to be satisfied

2R+T = 0.60m, where R= riser and T= tread,

1) maximum R shall be 0.19 meter


2) minimum T shall be 0.25 meter

13.1.5 All the steps shall be identical in height and width.


13.1.6 The main staircase in Residential, Commercial and Public buildings
must be made of fire resistant material (with the exception of villas).
Sufficient natural ventilation and lighting must be available on staircases,
through windows that have direct access to open air, or through ducts
and shafts.

The staircases of towers that are more than 10 floors are exempt
from the rule of natural lighting and ventilation, but they must provide
mechanical and electrical ventilation and lighting, according to the
conditions and specifications for fire-fighting and safety.

13.1.7 There shall be a protective barrier on the empty side of the staircase
(rail or balustrade) whose minimum height shall be 0.9 meter, and
maximum clearance among the vertical rods of the stair railing shall be
0.125 meter.
13.1.8 The staircase location shall be according to the following
requirements:

1) Easily approachable from any part of the building, in which the


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Section 13: INTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


farthest point shall not exceed 30 meter in distance.

2) Direct, leading to the external access approach road.

13.1.9 The minimum door inward-swinging clearance shall be 0.9 meter from
the first step.
13.1.10 Stairs for people with special needs:

1) For indoor stairs, the riser should be between 0.12-0.18 meter,
and the tread between 0.28-0.35 meters.

2) For outdoor stairs, the maximum riser should be 0.15 meter and
the minimum tread should be 0.3 meter.

3) An intermediate landing should be provided when the stairs cover


a difference in level of more than 2.5 meter.

4) The length of the landing should be at least 1.2 meter extending


along the full width of the stairs.

5) Handrails must be installed on both sides of the stairs and around


the landing for gripping.

6) Handrails must extend a distance between 0.3-0.45 meter at the


start and end of the stairs.

13.2

Electrical Elevators:

13.2.1 Elevators shall be provided in buildings that are higher than three floors
and depending on the building or project requirements.
13.2.2 For Commercial Buildings higher than one floor, panoramic elevators,
with capacity of 10 people per travel shall be provided.
13.2.3 The following variables are involved in elevator selection:

1) Travel distance

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2) Elevator speed

3) Elevator capacity: The minimum capacity shall be 4 people per


travel.

4) Building population

5) Number and areas of the floors

13.2.4 For buildings with a tower or corridor style, the installation of the
elevators might be centralized. For the building with a unit style, if there
is only one elevator for each unit, the unit should be connected at
some floors. It shall be clearly indicated and be located close to the
staircase circulation.
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13.2.5 Rooms that are built on the roof to house elevator equipment shall
satisfy the following:

1) Have dimensions that conform to the specifications and
measurements of the elevator manufacturing company.

2) Have a good air-conditioning system.

3) Have a door and openings that can be shut securely.

4) Have all their operating wires and cables concealed and made
from anti rust material.

5) Have suitable covers for all moveable parts and components.

13.2.6 Elevators shall be provided with an electrical closing system and a


warning signal that goes off when the maximum load is exceeded. They
should also have an emergency landing system, sufficient mechanical
ventilation and suitable internal lighting.
13.2.7 Directional and warning labels shall be fitted inside the elevator for
banning smoking while inside the elevator, and showing total weight
permissible.

Notice label shall be fitted next to each door, warning passengers


against the use of elevator in case of fire and prohibiting the use by
small children not accompanied by adults.

13.2.8 All elevators shall be regularly checked to make sure they are in working
order. The landlord must obtain a yearly certificate confirming proper
elevator function from a company approved by the Authority.
13.2.9 In Shopping Malls comprising more than one floor, at least one lift
designed in accordance with international standards for people with
special needs shall be provided. Electrically operated escalators shall
not suffice for a replacement to this lift, except if such escalators were
provided with features necessary for people with special needs, in
which it can be provided with an adaptable tread of at least 1.2 meter
long.
13.2.10 Elevators for people with special needs:
1) Elevator cabin:

a) The minimum internal elevator dimensions, allowing for one


wheelchair passenger alone is 1.00x1.30 meter.

b) The door opening should not be less than 0.9 meter.

c) The inside of the elevator should have a handrail on three


sides mounted 0.8 meter from the floor.

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Section 13: INTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


d) The maximum tolerance for stop precision should be 20 mm.

2) Elevator signals:

a) For ease of reach, the control panel and call buttons should
be mounted 0.9 to 1.2 meter from the floor.

b) Control buttons should be in an accessible location and


illuminated. Their diameter should be no smaller than 20 mm
and should be readable to blinds also.

c) The elevator hall signal should be placed at an approximate


height of 1.8 meter.

3) The door opening interval should be no less than 5 seconds. Reopening activators should be provided.
4) The floor of the elevator and the area in front of the elevator on
each floor should have a non skid resilient surface or a low pile
fixed carpet.

13.3

Fire-escapes:

13.3.1 Fire-escape enclosure shall require construction, which is fireproof


with sprinklers, alarms, fire detectors and fire resistance doors.
13.3.2 Fire-escape design types:

1) spaced exterior stairs

2) spaced interior stairs

3) scissor stairs at core

13.3.3 Horizontal Travel to Exits



1) Long corridors shall be sub-divided by fire doors.

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2) Corridors must be enclosed in fire resisting construction, in which


all doors are fire resisting, self closing and fitted with smoke seals
as per NFPA standards.

3) Walls and ceilings shall not be lined with flammable materials.

4) Escape corridors should not contain sources of ignition or


obstructions to the flow of people (e.g. photocopiers and
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Section 13: INTERNAL BUILDING CIRCULATION ELEMENTS


vending machines). A minimum clear width of 1 meter shall be
maintained.

5) An interior corridor does not become part of an exit until it is


enclosed as a fire compartment.

13.3.4 Vertical Travel down Staircases


1) Staircases shall be totally enclosed in fire resisting construction

2) The maximum number of consequtive steps is 20 steps, and


minimum of 3 steps in the same direction, with maximum riser
0.19 meter and minimum tread 0.25 meter.

3) Doors leading to escape staircases shall be fire resisting, self


closing and fitted with in- tumescent smoke seals. Gaps around
the door shall be minimized all as per NFPA codes.

4) Sufficient natural and mechanical lighting shall be provided with


minimum fresh air vents of 0.5 square meter in area, for each
floor.

and should lead directly to an exit at ground floor level.

13.3.5 Requirements for Doors on Escape Routes


1) Doors on escape routes should preferably open in the direction of


escape.

2) Exit doors must be openable from the inside and self-closing.

3) The doors shall be smoke resistant and shall have minimum fire
resistance as per NFPA codes.

4) Doors of small individual rooms such as offices are not considered


as exits unless they actually lead directly to the open air.

13.3.6 The Fire-escape in all building types shall be clearly marked, and
provided with the minimum number, according to the following
conditions:
Max. No. of people

Min. No. of Exits

Min. Net wiidth of Stairs

200 people

1.0 meter

300 people

1.2 meter

500 people

1.5 meter

750 people

1.5 meter

1000 people

1.5 meter

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13.3.7 Where an external stairway exists, it shall be ensured that the use of
it at the time of fire is not blocked by smoke and flame issuing from
openings (e.g. windows, doors) on the external face of the building.
13.3.8 Lifts, escalators, and revolving doors not be considered as EXITS .
All exits shall be clearly marked as per the provisions of the relevant
NFPA codes.
13.3.9 The design of staircase shall take into consideration all the safety
and fire fighting conditions and specifications approved by the EHS
department.

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Section 14: ACCESS RAMPS REQUIREMENTS

A ramp is defined as a sloping vehicular / pedestrian way which is attached


to a building as a means of moving from one floor elevation to another
without encountering any obstruction.

Natural or mechanical ventilation and lighting shall be provided for every part
of a ramp and all the necessary provisions shall be made for draining off rain
water or cleaning process.
14.1

Vehicle Ramps

14.1.1 Straight ramps shall have a slope that does not exceed 10%, curved
ramp shall be not more than 8%.
14.1.2 Driveways used exclusively for ingress and egress shall not exceed
10% slope.
14.1.3 Parking stalls and vehicle manoeuvring areas shall not exceed 2%
slope.
14.1.4 The minimum vertical clear height above any point on the ramp shall
be 2.4 meter.
14.1.5 The floor of ramps shall be rough and treated in such a way as to
prevent slipping. Corners of columns and walls adjacent thereto shall
be covered with protective rubber angles.
14.1.6 Ramps shall be provided with an adequately sized reflector mirror, to
improve visibility on curves, sharp turns and wherever poor visibility
occurred.

14.2

Public Ramps

14.2.1 Public access ramps shall have a minimum width of 1.2 meter.
14.2.2 Ramp slope shall not be greater than 8 % (1 : 12).
14.2.3 If a ramp slope is 5% (1 in 20) or less and there is no drop-off, then no
handrail will be required.
14.2.4 If a ramp slope is greater than 5% and there is no drop-off, then one
handrail will be required.
14.2.5 Handrails installed for wheelchair and for use by children shall be at a
height of 0.6m.
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14.2.6 Landing platforms at all building entrance doors shall be leveled,
sloped only as required for drainage.
14.2.7 Landing platforms shall be at least 0.9 meter wide if doors swing
inwards, and 1.5 meter wide if doors swing outwards.
14.2.8 If the vertical height requires two ramps to achieve the properly graded
slope, the ramps shall be no longer than 6 meter, separated by a level
landing platform at least 1.7 meter long and 90 or 180 degree turns.
14.2.9 The ramp surface should be hard and non slip.
14.3

Ramps for people with special needs

14.3.1 Should be located close and accessible to an entrance.


14.3.2 Should be clearly identified as being for the use of special need
people.
14.3.3 Ramp slopes shall not be greater than 8% at the pavements, external
staircases and points of change of levels both inside and outside the
buildings.
14.3.4 Dimension requirements shall be as mentioned in clause (14.2).
14.3.5 Landing platforms should be provided for every 10 meter, at every
change of direction, at the top and bottom of every ramp and the
landing should have a minimum length of 1.20 meter and a minimum
width equal to that of the ramp.
14.3.6 For ramps more than 3 meter wide, an intermediate handrail should be
installed.
14.3.7 If carpets are used / furnished, they should be fixed permanently.
14.3.8 Street curb ramp for wheelchair shall be sloped 1:12 maximum, with
0.9 meter minimum clear width and shall have non slip, coloured
surface.
14.4

Service Ramps

14.4.1 Service access ramps minimum width shall be 0.8 meter, with slopes
not greater than 8% (or minimum of 1 : 12).

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


15.1

General Requirements
These street parking requirements are established to provide properly
designated parking areas adequate in design, capacity and location
to prevent traffic congestion and avoid hazards to the publics safety
and welfare.

15.1.1 Parking area shall be provided for vehicles (covered or uncovered)


within the plot limits.
15.1.2 In all types of buildings, parking plans for street parking facilities shall
be submitted for approval by the Authority to the issuance of building
permits or certificates of occupancy. All plans shall clearly indicate
the proposed development, including parking location, size, design,
lighting, landscaping, curb cuts, ingress and egress, traffic rules and
signs.
15.1.3 Any deletion or other changes made to a parking lot shall be reviewed
and approved by the Authority prior to such work being commenced.
15.1.4 The Authority may request a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) for some
developments which many have an impact on the traffic generation for
the surrounding roads and properties.
15.1.5 In case a plot is situated on two roads; one of them a main road and
the other is a branch, entry to and exit from car parking lots shall be
situated only on the branch road or as specified by the Authority.
15.1.6 Location of car parking entry or exit shall be far away from traffic
intersections by an adequate distance to be approved by the building
permits committee. In case of individual roads forming T junction,
location of car parking entry or exit shall not be opposite such
intersections.
15.1.7 No parking area shall be counted as both required parking stall and a
loading space.
15.1.8 Existence of public car parking lots in the vicinity of any plot shall not
exempt such plot from satisfying the car parking requirements as
specified in accordance with provisions of these regulations.
15.1.9 The minimum width of car entry and internal roads shall be:

1) 3 Meter clear un-obstructed road or pavement width in case of
one way traffic.

2) 6 Meter clear un-obstructed road or pavement width in case of


two way traffic.

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


c) In the case of small plots or plots with exceptionally difficult


technical circumstances, the competent authority may accept
one 3 meter way for both entry and exit of cars after providing
traffic signals and traffic electronic control system and fulfilling all
requirements of the Authority.

15.1.10 All parking areas shall be permanently maintained in a safe, clean


and good condition free of physical obstructions. All areas including
landscaping shall be kept free of trash and weeds.
15.1.11 All parking areas shall be paved and sloped (maximum to 2 %), to drain
to a public road.
15.1.12 All parking areas shall be provided with exterior lighting for the surface
area. Lighting shall be designed, arranged and installed so as to
confine direct rays on to the premises and to direct light away from
adjacent structures, premises or streets. Lighting fixtures should be of
an energy saving type.
15.1.13 All parking areas are to be screened from surrounding streets with
proper landscape elements and the use of minimum 2 meter high
planters.
15.1.14 After the building permit is issued, if a conflict occurred with the
neighbors access, or the traffic flow impact on the adjacent roads,
the Authority is permitted to modify or relocate the source of the
obstructions and all the cost of the modifications or relocations
including the repair of damage and maintaining as original form & finish
shall be borne by the relevant developer.

15.2

Parking Lot Design

15.2.1 All parking lots and driveways shall be surfaced with asphalted concrete
to a minimum thickness of 7 cm over a minimum aggregate base of
15.24cm or surfaced with Portland cement concrete with a minimum
thickness of 12 cm over a 7 cm aggregate base. After review of the
probable vehicular traffic and the soils report for the project, additional
material may be required as per the approval of the Authority.
15.2.2 Concrete wheel stops or a 15 cm high concrete curb shall be installed
where parking stalls abut fences, walls or buildings.
15.2.3 Directional arrows and traffic signs shall be required for all parking
areas.

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15.2.4 All parking lots shall be provided with a durable, and well-drained
surface.
15.2.5 Driveways used exclusively for ingress and egress shall not exceed
10% slope. Parking stalls and vehicle maneuvering areas shall not
exceed 2% slope.
15.2.6 The central driveway may be crowned, with a 1% slope draining to the
edges, so that the driveway will be relatively free from water after rain
or washing.
15.2.7 In designing parking spaces, end stalls should be about 0.3 meter wider
than usual, especially if bounded by a building or other obstruction.
15.2.8 Parking spaces under buildings or basement parking, shall account for
the presence of columns and adjacent walls, which shall be covered
with protective rubber angles, and shall have 2.4 meter clear height.
15.2.9 Provision of a mirror for blind corners shall be provided.
15.2.10 A provision for surveillance camera is recommended for emergency
purposes.
15.2.11 The minimum width of the car parking lots and the driveways inside
parking area shall be as follows:

1) In case of Parallel Parking:

The minimum parking lot dimensions 2.5x 6 square meter, and
the minimum drive way width 3 meter.

2) In case of Angle Parking according to single unit situation:


Actual
Inclined
Stall
Stall
Length
length
Length

Curb/
Inclined
Stall
depth

Drive
way
width

Total
width

Road
type

Angle

Stall
Width

90

2.5

5.5

5.5

2.7

6.0

17.0

Dual
Way

60

2.5

5.5

6.0

2.9

3.8

15.8

Single
Way

45

2.5

5.5

5.7

3.6

3.3

14.7

Single
Way

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


3) In case of Angle Parking according to single units situation, a


concrete stops or paved islands shall be provided.

15.3

Parking Provisions:
Parking provisions are established in order to ensure residents, visitors
and staff are provided with parking space, to reduce congestion
on adjacent streets, and to minimize spillover parking into adjacent
habitable areas.
Parking Provision Requirements should be as follows:

1.

Residential buildings:

a) Villas:

Residents: one garage space for each occupancy.

Visitors: where villas are served directly from a road, driveways


provide a minimum of one space within the plot boundary of
each villa.

b) Apartments:

One parking space for each apartment (studio or single bed)


or up to 150 square meter floor area.

One and a half parking space for each apartment (2 bed) or


with area between 150 square meter to 200 square meter.

Two parking spaces for each apartment (3 bed) or over 200


square meter and less than 250 square meter floor area.

Two and a half parking spaces for each apartment (4 bed) or


with area between 250 square meter and 300 square meter.

Three car parking spaces for each apartment (5 bed /


penthouse) or with floor area above 300 square meter

2.

Educational buildings:

a) One parking space for each class.


b) One parking space per 45 square meter of administrations area.
c) One bus parking space per 3 classes.

3.

Religious buildings:

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a) Mosques:

As mentioned in section (16) clause (2).

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4.

Health buildings:

a)

Hospitals:

Staff: one parking space for each doctor and surgeon, plus
one parking space for each three others.

Outpatients and Visitors: one parking space per 3 beds.

5.

b) Health centers and Clinics:


Staff: one parking space for each doctor and surgeon, plus
one parking space for each two others.

Outpatients and Visitors: two parking spaces per consulting


room.

Commercial buildings:

a) Offices:

Staff: one parking space per 50 square meter floor area.

Visitors: 10% of staff parking provision.

b) Banks:

Staff: one parking space for each managerial or executive


staff, plus one per four others.

Visitors: one parking space per 10 square meter of banking


hall.

c) Showrooms:

d) General Retail:

One parking space per 25 square meter sales area.

e) Trade Centers:

One parking space per 70 square meter floor area.

One parking space per 45 square meter floor area.

f) Hotels:

One parking space per 5 hotel rooms.

One parking space for each hotel room that contains kitchen
or pantry.

One parking space per 2 hotel suites.

One parking space for each flat up to 150 square meter floor
area.

Two parking spaces for each flat over 150 square meter floor
area.

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


One parking space per 45 square meter of restaurants area.

One parking space per 20 square meter of meeting rooms or


exhibition halls and if conferences are held, space required
should be assessed separately at one parking space for each
five seats.

One parking space per 45 square meter of offices and shops


area.

Staff: one parking space per 2 employees.

g) Automobile service gas stations:

6.

Cultural buildings:

a) Museums and public art galleries:

Staff: one parking space per 2 members normally on duty.

Visitors: one parking space per 30 square meter of public


display area.

b) Public libraries:

Staff: one parking space per 2 members normally on duty.

Visitors: one parking space per 10 seats.

c) Cinemas and Theaters:

Staff: one parking space per 2 members normally on duty.

Visitors: one parking space per 3 seats.

7.

Industrial buildings:

a) Production buildings (factories):

Staff: one parking space per 100 square meter floor area.

Visitors: 10% of staff parking provision.

b) Storage buildings (warehouses):

66

One parking space per 50 square meter of the Mini Marts,


quick meals and drink service areas.

Staff: one parking space per 200 square meter floor area.

c) Manoeuvring of vehicle outside property limit is not permitted.

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


8.

Recreation and Entertainment buildings:

a) Swimming Pools:

Staff: one parking space per 2 members normally on duty.

Visitors: one parking space per 10 square meter of pool


area.

b) Playing Fields:

Staff: one parking space per 3 members normally on duty.

Players: one parking space for each two players who can use
the facility simultaneously.

c) Marinas:

Staff: one parking space per 3 members normally on duty.

Boat users: two parking spaces per 3 users.

9.

Miscellaneous

a) Horse stables:

Riding stable: one parking space per 2 horse stalls.

Horse Barn: one parking space per 10 stalls.

Horse race track and Grandstand: one parking space per 4


seats.

b) Green Houses

Staff: one parking space per 2 employees plus one per


company vehicle.

Visitors: one parking space per 25 square meter of sales


area.

Requirements for uses not specifically listed herein shall be determined


by the Authority, based upon the requirements for comparable uses
and upon particular characteristics of the use. Additional parking over
and above required herein may be required upon the discretion of the
Authority that the specific type of business or user generates a greater
demand for more parking than the requirement herein

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


15.4

Parking for people with special needs

15.4.1 The minimum width of the car parking lots and the driveways inside the
parking area shall be as follows:

a) In case of Parallel Parking:


The minimum parking lot dimensions 3.7x 6 square meter and the
minimum drive way width 3 meter.

b) In case of Angle Parking:

An acutal width of 3.7m for which the inclined width should be.
- 4.30m for an angle of 60 degrees
- 5.20m for an angle of 45 degrees

15.4.2 Additional width is needed for opening doors and for maneuvering of
wheelchairs, which should be 1.5 meter.
15.4.3 The slope of the ramp shall not exceed 8%, and the ramp location may
be varied.
15.4.4 Parking spaces shall be properly identified through the use of signage
so that the spaces are not used indiscriminately by people not needing
them, and the displayed signs shall be international symbols for
accessibility.
15.4.5 Signs shall be installed at a minimum height of 1.5 meter above the
floor or ground surface to the bottom of the sign.
15.4.6 Standard size for all accessible signs is 0.3x0.5 square meter.
15.4.7 A minimum parking provision shall be designated for use by people
with special needs, at the rate of 2.0% of total number of car parking
stalls or one space per 50 cars, or in accordance with the following
schedule:

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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS

Total Spaces Required

Special Needs Stalls Required

1 -- 50

51 -- 100

101 -- 150

151 -- 200

201 -- 250

And so on

15.4.8 These spaces shall be located as close as possible to a main entrance


of a building or function, preferably no more than 30 meter away.

15.5

Loading and unloading bays

Off-Street Loading: Every building or structure used for business,


trade, or industry that normally requires truck loading or unloading
with respect to the use, shall provide space as herein indicated for
the loading and unloading of vehicles off the street or public area. Offstreet loading and unloading space shall be in addition to and not
considered as meeting a part of the requirement for off-street parking
space. Off-street loading and unloading space shall not be used or
designed, intended or constructed to be used in a manner to obstruct
or interfere with the free use of any street or adjoining property. The
minimum off-street loading and unloading maneuvering space required
for specific uses shall be as follows:

15.5.1 Retail business and service establishments shall provide one off-street
loading, unloading and maneuvering space at least 3 meter wide and
12 meter long with a 4 meter height clearance per building.
15.5.2 Industrial plants shall provide one off-street loading and unloading
space per 1800 square meter of floor area. Each loading space shall
be minimum of 4.0 meter wide and 15 meter long plus maneuvering
space with a 5 meter height clearance above FFL.
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Section 15: STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS


15.5.3 Trucking terminals shall provide one off-street loading and unloading
space per 450 square meter of total floor area used for storage,
warehousing, and shipping. Loading maneuvering space shall be
a minimum of 4 meter wide and 20 meter long space with 5 meter
clearance.
15.5.4 Any other required off-street loading area shall have the following
minimum dimensions, 3.0 meter width, 12 meter length and 4 meter
height.

70

In general, off-street loading areas shall not be permitted in front of any


principal building.

Loading areas shall be located and designed so the vehicle intended


to use them can maneuver safely and conveniently to and from a
public right of way and can complete loading and unloading without
obstructing or interfering with any public right of way or any parking
space.

All off-street loading areas shall be adequately drained and have


adequate lighting.

15.6

Turning radius (Maneuvering spaces)

Minimum Turning Radii for cars shall be as follows:


a) Inside Curve: 4.5 meter.

b) Outside Curve: 8 meter.

c) Road Width: 3.5 meter.

Minimum turning radii for other types of vehicles shall be as per TimeSaver Manual for Building Types 4th edition

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


16.1

Residential Type:

16.1.1 Villas - additional annexes:


1) It is permitted to build annexes to Residential Villas with maximum


height limited to ground floor only and without any set back from
the plot boundary.

2) It can be used as private garages, servants quarter, external


kitchen or as a sitting room (majlis ), according to the following
conditions:

a) The maximum height shall not exceed 4.2 meter from the
adjacent neighbors and 4.5 meter from the approaching road
or alleyway.

b) The minimum set back shall be 3 meter between the annex


and the main villa.

c) The annex configuration shall be in a form of a row, attached


to the plot boundary, or with an adequate set back to allow
for natural ventilation and lighting for the habitable spaces, or
in order to install air conditioners.

Annex shall be used to serve the main building only. They shall not
be used as independent units or for commercial purposes.

1) Its roof shall be limited for water tanks and air conditioner
equipments.

2) It is forbidden to build a main staircase leading to its roof, if it is


located next to the adjacent neighbors.

3) The annex may be connected to the main building by a covered


passage or corridor with maximum width of 3 meter and same
height as the annex.

4) The area of the annex shall not exceed 50% of the main villas
area.

16.1.2 Labor accommodations



Each person is required to have 2.8 square meter space area
within the labors room.

The number of floors and setbacks shall be according to the


D.C.R of related requirement.

The minimum internal setbacks between the buildings should be


3 meter, within the property line.

1 W.C., 1 washbasin, 1 shower is the minimum requirement for


every 10 occupants.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


The minimum percentage construction for the first phase of


construction shall be adequate enough to accommodate 50% of
the total number of the labor as per documents relating to the plot
allocation.

It is forbidden to direct room door openings into the road or alleyway


and the main entrance shall be open within the plot limits.

A room with independent services (non-collective) for the supervisors


at the rate of one room per 40 labors.

There shall be one or more kitchens for preparing food, with dining
rooms (messes) that can accommodate minimum of 1/3 of the total
number of labors at one time. The design and furnishings of the kitchen
and dining room must meet all health requirements.

Indoor recreational facilities to be minimum of 1/4 of total carpet area.

There shall be a garbage room or an open collection point for garbage


containers within the perimeter of the plot, according to the rules on
garbage rooms set out in these regulations.

Bus parking space, to cater for 50% of the occupants at one time shall
be provided.

16.2

Religious

16.2.1 Mosques

72

When designing mosques, the following services shall be


provided, according to the mosque type, location and the number
of worshippers.

Residential Areas (Villas):

a) Awqat mosques:
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

150
worshippers

Flat for Imam


Room for worker

150 - 300
worshippers

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

15

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


b) Jame mosques
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

Not less than


300
Worshippers
( between
301 & 500)

10

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

30

From
(501-700)
Worshipper

14

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

40

From
(701-1,000)
Worshippers

10

20

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

60

More than
(1,000)
Worshippers

(Building Permit Committee must study it).

Town centre areas, Residential/ Commercial:

a) Awqat mosques:

Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

Not less than


150
Worshippers
From
150 & 300

12

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

15

From
(501-700)
Worshipper

14

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

25

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


b) Jame mosques
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

Not less than


500
Worshippers
( between
501 & 700)

10

20

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

50

From
(701-1,000)
Worshippers

12

10

24

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

70

More than
(1,000)
Worshippers

Rural areas:
a) Awqat mosques:
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

Less than
150
Worshippers

Flat for Imam

10

b) Jame mosques:
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

Not less than


300
Worshippers
( between
301 & 500

12

Flat for Imam


Flat for muezzin
Room for worker

30

3-4

More than
(500)
Worshippers

74

(Building Permit Committee must study it).

(Building Permit Committee must study it).

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


Public places:

a) Gardens & parks

Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Gardens &
Parks

Flat for Imam

12

Parking
Spaces
(Min.)

Shops

b) Highways
Type

Lavatories
(Minimum)

Wash
Basin
(Minimum)

Ablutions
(Maydat)
(Min.)

Housing

Less than
150
Worshippers
( Men )

Flat for Imam

Less than
150
Worshippers
( Men )

Shops

The number of worshippers is counted as 0.75 square meter


for a single prayer inside the mosque, excluding those who pray
outside the mosques area.

The following conditions shall be considered when designing a


mosque:

a) The design, implementation and supervision shall be done


by Muslims with good experience in Islamic Architecture and
construction work.

Director of the consultants office assigned to handle such a


project shall be a Muslim. The same shall apply to engineers
in charge of design and supervision of the work.

b) It is preferable to design the mosques with a rectangular shape,


in which the longer side is facing the qibla (the point towards
which Muslim turn to during prayer), without containing any
openings on the side that includes the mihrab and the interior
space shall be column free, in order to maintain consistent
rows of worshippers.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


c) It is possible to add to the mosque a library, a women prayer


area (messala), a storeroom and rooms for teaching the Quran.
The number of rooms to be added depends on the number of
worshippers in the mosque and the study that is submitted to
the Authority.

d) Mosques shall generally include yards (yards open to sky as


part of the mosque). Space should be allocated for fitting a
water cooler and covered area for safe keeping of shoes for
worshippers.

e) Separate entrances and facilities shall be provided for men


and women worshippers.

f) It is preferable to separate the location and the entrance of the


lavatories from the mosque building, and shall not be set or
located in the same direction of the (qibla), according to the
Islamic doctrine (sharia), in which they are usually located in
the south east side, with eastern lavatories (Arabic toilets) and
one of them may be western style.

g) The ablution area (maydat) shall be provided as an essential


part of the mosque.

h) It is preferable to fence the mosque premises, with suitable


height of solid and non-sight obstructing design.

i) Islamic Architecture and decorative elements shall be used.

j) Signs should be placed at all the entrances, identifying


directions of circulation and announcing the services that the
mosque provides.

It is preferable to add a women messala to the mosques which


are located in the commercial districts, large central mosques,
rural places, highways, public parks and recreation areas. The
minimum facilities provided in the womens messala are:

a)

Lavatories

b)

Wash basins

c)

An ablution facility -
(maydat)

The womens messala that is located on the highway may have


half the number of facilities mentioned above.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


a) Shopping Malls with an area that exceeds 10,000 square


meter should be provided with praying area for men and
another one for women.

b) Minimum number of associated service facilities should be


provided for each.

c) The dimensions of mosques and the minaret designs shall be


designed according to the standards that are approved by the
Authority.

d) These must meet the requirements and conditions that suit


Islamic doctrine (sharia).

e) Design and capacity of air conditioning system should take


into consideration the maximum number of worshippers,
volume, space, dimensions, and mosque configuration.

f) Lighting intensity and homogeneity should be taken into


consideration when designing lighting fixtures.

g) Sound system and acoustic characteristics should be studied


by specialized parties.

h) Traffic circulation in and out of the mosque for both male and
female worshippers should be studied with consideration of
full segregation, and the ease of usage of ablution for both
sexes without any interference.

16.2.2 Prayer Rooms



A reasonable space for male and female prayers is to be provided in all
Residential / Offices / Commercial / Hotel / Motels / Apartment buildings
with ablution facilities, close to building entrance / reception.

16.3

Commercial Type:

16.3.1 Restaurants, Eating places and Food services facilities:


1) Food and drink establishments such as restaurants, cafeterias,


cafes, fruit juice shops, green-grocers, cake and sweet shops,
soft drink shops, mills, roasteries, stores that sell chilled, frozen
and dried goods, bakeries, super-markets, sea food sales outlets
and other establishments shall be designed according to the
Public Health Requirements issued by the relevant Authorities.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


2) The floors, walls and ceilings of restaurants, food and drink shops
shall be made of a smooth material that is easily cleaned, non
absorbent, fire resistant, pale-colored, non-toxic and crack-free.
The floors shall have a slight slope, in order to facilitate flow of
water during clearing. The angles between the walls, the floors
and the ceiling shall be completely sealed and rounded to facilitate
the cleaning process.

3) Ventilation and lighting should be provided for all internal space in


accordance with these regulations.

4) The minimum area of a kitchen or food preparation site in the


establishments, is as follows:


Activity
Restaurants

Minimum area of kitchen or food


preparation site Restaurants
30 square meter or 40% of the restaurant
area, whichever is greater

Cafeteria

20 square meter

Cafs

10 square meter

Fresh juice shops

10 square meter

Traditional sweet
shops

20 square meter

Bakeries

20 square meter

Sale and preparation


of seafood

20 square meter

5) Kitchen Requirements:

78

a) The required kitchen shall be constructed of fire resisting


materials and comply with standards required by the
Authority.

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b) Floors and walls shall be impervious to moisture and capable


of being cleaned by washing down. Floors shall be hardsurfaced, non-absorbent & adequately drained. They shall
be constructed with waterproof, non-absorbent washable
materials without fissures or crevices.

c) Walls shall be tiled to a height of 2.1m above floor level with


ceramic tiles. Internal walls shall be smooth, waterproof,
resistant to fracture, light colored and readily cleanable.

d) Drains shall incorporate grease and pea (rice) traps and


interceptors.

e) Working surfaces for preparation of food are to be of stainless


steel or other approved impervious material to facilitate
cleaning and maintenance of hygienic conditions.

f) Mechanical extraction with exhaust hoods and fans shall be


provided to all areas involving cooking activities i.e. stoves,
gas rings, tandoors etc.

g) Gas pipes to cookers, rings etc., shall be laid in an approved


manner with approved materials i.e. copper or steel tubing,
permanent joints, and minimum flexible hose.

h) Kitchens shall be fitted with recommended fire extinguishers


as decided by the Fire Officer.

i) Layout and construction details of any temporary canteen


required during the period of construction shall be approved
by the Authority.

6) The chimneys that are installed in bakeries, restaurants and


roasteries shall be located on the rear side of the plot or through
the building shafts and ducts, in order to maintain the building
elevation presentable. The chimneys shall rise to a maximum height
of 1.8 meter above the building roof. They should be treated with
environmental protection filtering kit to prevent hazardous effects
on the neighbors and /or ruin the general image.

7) Cold stores and freezers shall be provided with thermometers for


taking temperature readings. Such thermometer shall be fitted in
such a way as to allow taking readings externally. Doors should be
openable from both sides, inside and outside.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


8) The minimum area of an establishment, is as follows:


Activity
Greengrocer

20 square meter

Butcher

15 square meter

Soft drinks

10 square meter

Mills
Roastery

Super Market

Grocer

Minimum Area

15 m2 the display area shall be separate


from the preparation area
25 square meter
200 m2, 50 m2 of them as a storage

12 square meter

9) The facilities that should have provisions for people with special
needs:

a) Restaurants and eating spaces should be as accessible as


possible to a wheelchair user.

b) In self service restaurants tray slides and counters should be


mounted at a minimum height of 0.9 meter from the finished
floor level. Food shelves should be mounted at a maximum
height of 1.2 meter.

c) Cantilevered tables or tables with straight legs at each


corner are preferable to central pedestals that might restrict
wheelchair access.

16.3.2 Hotel establishments (Hotels, Motels and Hotel Apartments)

80

1) Hotel establishments shall be located in an area which has been


set aside for Hotel establishments, in accordance with the map
attached to the Land Use Classification and Regulations in the
Emirate.

2) Hotel establishments shall be designed according to approved


requirements and the rules of the Department of Tourism and the
provisions of these building regulations.
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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


3) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section 15


of these regulations.

4) Hotels and Motels shall have minimum of 10 rooms.

5) Number of single hotel rooms shall not be less than 50% of the
total hotel rooms.

6) Hotel Apartments shall have minimum of 8 apartments, villas or


studios.

Technical conditions shall be as follows:

1) The ground floor level shall consist of a reception counter, a safety


deposit room and an adequate waiting hall (for the Hotels, Motels
and Hotel Apartments).

Also a dining room or cafeteria with a pantry or kitchen shall be


provided (for the Hotels and Motels).

2) A small storeroom shall be presented in all typical floors.

3) An electrical elevator shall be provided for buildings higher than


three floors (ground floor plus two floors above).

4) In Hotels and Motels there should be separate public lavatories for


male and female to serve the reception, waiting area and another
two sets to serve the dining room.

Each lavatory should have a wash basin, a toilet with a seat and
cover, and a washing hose or bidet. There should be a door
separating the basin from the toilet. Each lavatory must have hot
and cold running water.

If the dining room is on the same floor as the reception hall, they
can share one set of lavatories for male and female. Each set shall
include minimum of two wash basins, two toilets and two bidets
or two washing hoses.

Staff sanitary installation requirements, as mentioned on


Section (17).

5) The minimum area of Hotel rooms, excluding bathroom and


entrance lobby, shall be as followings:

a) Single room
: 12 square meter

b) Double room

15 square meter

c) Triple room

20 square meter

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6) Each bedroom should have a bathroom attached with a shower


or bath tub, a toilet with a seat and cover, a washing hose or
bidet, a wash basin, hot and cold running water and a socket for
an electric shaver next to the mirror.

7) The minimum area of Motel rooms , excluding bathroom and


entrance lobby, shall be as follows:

a) Single room

8 square meter

b) Double room

10 square meter

c) Triple room

12 square meter

8) Each bedroom should have a bathroom attached with a shower


or bath tub, a toilet with a seat and cover, a washing hose or
bidet, a wash basin, hot and cold running water and a socket for
an electric shaver next to the mirror.

9) The minimum number of bathrooms should be as follows:

a) 25% of the rooms should have attached private bathrooms.

b) 75% of the rooms should have shared bathrooms, minimum


of one bathroom per 2 rooms.

10) The minimum area of Hotel Serviced Apartments, excluding


bathroom and entrance lobby, shall be as followings:

a) Bedroom
: 12 square meter

82

b) Studio

18 square meter

11) Each bedroom should have a bathroom attached with a shower


or bath tub, a toilet with a seat and cover, a washing hose or
bidet, a wash basin, hot and cold running water and a socket for
an electric shaver next to the mirror.

12) Adequate lighting should be provided at the main entrance,


corridors, staircases, rooms and halls.

13) Air conditioning shall be provided for all rooms, halls, restaurants
and entrance lobbies.

14) Self illuminating signs must be placed in all the corridors, staircases,
hallways, reception and places that are used by the public, in case
of fire.

15) Fire extinguishers should be positioned in visible and accessible


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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


places, with signs indicating where they are to be found. No
materials or obstacles should be allowed to hamper the use of the
extinguishers.

16) Building architectural plan drawing shall be placed behind the door
of each guests room, indicating the fire escape exits, in order to
ensure safe evacuation in case of fire hazard.

The minimum facilities provided to people with special needs, in hotels that
are (3) star and above, shall be as follows:

1) One hotel room, if the total number of rooms and suites is less
than 100. Two rooms if the number is more than 100 and they
should be located on the first floor.

2) The room shall be in accordance with International Standard


Requirements for people with special needs, regarding its
dimensions, the door dimensions and locations, the design of
the furnitures and location of the electrical switches. And the
minimum maneuvering space shall be provided 1.5 meter.

3) The room should have a bathroom in accordance with International


Standards for people with special needs, regarding the toilet seat,
bathtub, washbasin, cabinets, mirror, the type of flooring, the size
of the doors, the location of the bathroom accessories and the
position of the bars and handles that are aids to movement.

4) Room to have an emergency exit leading directly outside the


building or to a balcony. Means of safety and security shall be
provided for various categories of people with special needs in the
hotel.

5) Car parking lots for disabled shall be provided at a rate of one


space per 75 car parking lots.

Car parking lots to be as near as possible to the main entrances
and shall be provided with signs and labels as necessary.

16.3.3 Automobile Service Gas Stations


1) Automobile Service Gas Stations shall be located in an area which


has been set aside for gas stations, in accordance with the map
attached to the Land Use Classification and Regulations in the
Emirate.
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2) Plots allocated for gas stations shall not be permitted to be used


for any other uses except for some secondary functional uses
such as vehicle servicing sales outlet for refreshments and fast
food (Mini Mart and the like) with a minimum area of 150 square
meter.

3) The height of the sales outlet and its annexes shall not exceed 4.2
meter.

4) A maximum of two rooms may be built for station labor


accommodation that is located within the city limits, and maximum
of 3 rooms in all stations outside the city limits.

5) Construction shall be permitted right up to the limits of the plot


on the road side. A setback of 3 meter shall be observed on the
neighbors sides.

6) Public Male and Female toilets must be provided, additional to the


ones that are used by the station workers.

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Minimum of one toilet for male and one for female, each with a
washbasin.

7) Installation of Public Telephone booth and ATM machines are


recommended for emergency purposes.

8) The car service and wash stations must be equipped with devices
and equipments, which are used for draining and purifying water,
such as sand sedimentation rooms, oil traps and pumps to purify
the water before connecting it to the decomposition (septic) tanks
or to the public drainage network.

9) Air and Water hoses for the customer shall be provided.

10) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section (15)


of these regulations.

11) The consultant must submit a site plan of the station showing:

a) The proposed entrances and exits, according to the existing


speed limit on the road on which the station is located.

b) All the existing elements that are within a distance of 500


meter before and after the proposed station, including traffic
signs, lampposts, trees, inspection chambers, pump rooms

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


and branch electricity stations.

16.4

c) The direction of the traffic, number of road lanes and speed


limit.

Educational Type:

16.4.1 Schools:

1) Schools shall be located in an area which has been set aside for
schools, in accordance with the map attached to the Land Use
Classification and Regulations in the Emirate.

2) Schools shall be designed according to approved requirements


of the Ministry of Education and the provisions of these building
regulations.

3) Sanitary installation requirements for pupils shall be as mentioned


on Section (17).

4) Teachers and employees shall have one lavatory and a washbasin


per 10 employees.

5) Water coolers shall be distributed in various locations inside the


different parts and wings of school building and in shaded areas
of the open courtyards.

6) Natural ventilation, lighting, and air-conditioning shall be available,


according to the standard specifications that apply to every part
of the school, especially for classrooms, laboratories and halls.

7) Light fixtures shall be located on the left of each pupil and shall not
be opposite to the teaching board.

8) Classrooms, courtyards, school canteens and lavatories for boys


and girls, shall be segregated.

9) The school shall have a library, with adequate area to accommodate


the number of pupils in the school.

10) The school shall have enough laboratories, computer rooms, and
activities hall (Multi-purpose Hall or Auditorium). The laboratories
shall be away from the classrooms and shall have strong extractor
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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


fans installed or gas chambers where chemical experiments can
be carried out.

11) School shall have a health clinic that consists of a minimum of


one physician room, nurse room, an examination room and a
lavatory.

12) School shall have required number of playing fields, according to


the rules of the Ministry of Education and their area should not
be less than double the area allocated to classrooms, and part
of them should be shaded. Also a mast for the flag should be
provided.

13) Vehicles (cars and buses) entrances/exits and routes shall be


away from the pupils route.

14) A provision for security/guard post, with minimum space area of


6.5 square meter, should be provided.

15) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section (15)


of these regulations.

16) All teaching, administrative, common areas, auditoriums and


recreational facilities should be accessible and useable by people
with special needs.

16.4.2 Kindergartens

1) Kindergartens shall be located in an area which has been set


aside for kindergartens, in accordance with the map attached to
the Land Use Classification and Regulations in the Emirate.

2) Kindergartens shall be designed according to approved


requirements of the Ministry of Education and the provisions of
these building regulations.

3) Natural ventilation, lighting and air-conditioning shall be provided


according to approved standards, for every part of the building. All
windows to be provided with appropriate curtains.

4) The kindergarten building shall include waiting areas and rooms


for management staff, teachers, administrators and supervisors.
Room areas to match the number of children enrolled.
5) Kindergartens shall have a playground of an area not less than

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


double the area allocated to classrooms. At least one third of such
area shall be covered, and part of it shall be planted. Toys and
recreational facilities shall be provided for children and shall be
maintained and inspected on regular basis.

6) Shall have at least one canteen, and Multipurpose Hall.

7) Childrens sanitary installation requirements shall be as mentioned


on Section (17).

8) Teachers and employees shall have one lavatory and a washbasin


per 10 employees.

9) Kindergartens shall have a health clinic that consists of a minimum


of physician room, an examination room and a lavatory.

10) A provision for security/guard post, with minimum space area of


6.5 square meter, should be provided.

11) The kindergarten building must be independent and it shall not


include any other educational classes belonging to any other
academic levels. The classrooms shall be located on the ground
floor level.

16.4.3 Nurseries:

Nursery shall be located in an area which has been set aside for
nurseries, in accordance with the map attached to the Land Use
Classification and Regulations in the Emirate.

1) Nurseries shall be designed according to approved requirements


of the Ministry of Education and the provisions of these building
regulations.

2) Children sanitary installation requirements shall be as mentioned


on Section (17).

3) Teachers and employees shall have a lavatory and a washbasin


per 2 nursery rooms.

4) Natural ventilation, lighting and air-conditioning shall be provided


according to approved standards, for every part of the building. All
windows to be provided with appropriate curtains.
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5) The minimum distance between beds in the nursery rooms should


be 1.0 meter.

6) Nursery shall be located either on the ground or first floor. It shall


include open spaces that can be used for childrens physical
activities.

7) The building shall have a room which is used as a clinic with all
basic medical equipments and first aid supplies.

8) A provision for security/guard post, with minimum space area of


6.5 square meter, should be provided.

16.5

Health Buildings

16.5.1 Hospitals:

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Hospitals shall be located in an area which has been set aside for
hospitals, in accordance with the map attached to the Land Use
Classification and Regulations in the Emirate.

1) Hospitals shall be designed according to approved requirements


and the rules of the Ministry of Health and the provisions of these
building regulations.

2) Staff sanitary installation requirements shall be as mentioned on


Section (17).

3) The areas of various departments, their relationship to each


other, the width of the corridors, doors, the electrical, hygienic
and mechanical facilities that are needed and the materials used
must fit in with the types, specifications and measurements of the
medical apparatus and equipment required.

4) A provision for isolation room for patients with communicable


diseases shall be provided.

5) Natural ventilation and lighting shall be available in the patients


rooms, the waiting rooms, the offices and halls. Mechanical
ventilation shall also be provided in accordance with the approved
standards, for areas which have no natural ventilation.
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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


6) The patients rooms should be as far as possible from the road


and car parking area. The walls should be sound proof to prevent
noise transmission.

7) The hospital shall have a reserve generator.

8) There shall be garbage rooms and ways of disposing of waste,


in accordance with Section (19) of these regulations and with the
approval of the Authority.

9) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section (15)


of these regulations.

10) The facilities that should be provided to people with special


needs:

a) All entrances should be accessible to a wheelchair user.

b) All rooms should be accessible for the benefit of patients,


visitors and staff members with special needs.

c) All clinics on all floors should be accessible.

d) All patients rest rooms should be accessible to a wheelchair


user.

16.5.2 Clinics:

Clinics shall be located in an area which has been set aside for clinics,
in accordance with the map attached to the Land Use Classification
and Regulations in the Emirate.

1) Clinics shall be designed according to approved requirements


and the rules of the Ministry of Health and the provisions of these
building regulations.

2) The clinic shall have a minimum of:

a) Two rooms, one for specialist doctor and other for examination
or treatment, each one with minimum area 12 square meter.

b) Reception lobby.

c) Male and female segregated waiting halls.

d) One Lavatory.

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


3) The floors shall be of a smooth and cleanable material.

4) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section (15)


of these regulations.

16.5.3 Pharmacies

1) Pharmacies shall have a minimum area of 28 square metes and


they should be located in districts with commercial activities.

2) The minimum ceiling height of the pharmacy should be 2.7


meter.

3) The minimum distance between the new pharmacy and any other
existing pharmacies shall be 200 meter.

4) The floor should be made of a smooth and cleanable material.

16.6

Industrial types:

16.6.1 Factories and Warehouses

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1)

Factories and warehouses shall be located in an area which has


been set aside for Industrial types, in accordance with the map
attached to the Land Use Classification and Regulations in the
Emirate.

2) Staff sanitary installation requirements, as mentioned on Section


(17).

3) Parking spaces shall be provided, in accordance with Section (15)


of these regulations.

4) Every factory and warehouse must have openings for natural


ventilation and lighting that are at least 5% of the floor area.

5) The net internal height of any depot, workshop or factory must not
be less than 4 meter and not more than 6, with the exception of
special cases which requires extra heights.

6) Building coverage requirements, as mentioned on Section (7.1).

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Section 16: BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT TYPES


7) Building setback requirements, as mentioned on Section (7.3).

8) It is not permitted to undertake commercial activities or to display


goods for trading in industrial establishments.

9) Arrangements for special needs employees are directly related


to the type of work they perform. Arrangements for people with
special needs need not be considered in heavy manufacturing
factories.

Arrangements for all special needs people should be incorporated


into the design of new light manufacturing factories where special
needs people may be employed.

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Section 17: SANITATION REQUIREMENTS


17.1

General Requirements:

17.1.1 Every habitable building must include provision of sanitary facilities,


unless otherwise permitted by the Authority. These facilities must
include the provision of at least one W.C. with no direct access from a
habitable room.
17.1.2 Hot and cold water services shall be provided to washbasins.
17.1.3 Trapped floor gullies or drainage channels shall be provided in ablutions
to enable all areas to be washed down, cleaned and drained.
17.1.4 All finished internal surfaces of ablutions shall be non-absorbent and
cleanable.
17.1.5 The construction of cubicles, wherever provided shall not impede the
free movement of air within ablution buildings.
17.1.6 Water closets, urinals and washbasins shall have a smooth and readily
cleanable non absorbent surface. They shall be constructed and fitted
to discharge through an effective trap of suitable dimensions and
thence without storage to a pipe or drain. The flushing apparatus for
a water closet or urinal shall be capable of effective cleaning of the
receptacle.
17.1.7 Soil pipes and waste pipes shall be of adequate size for their purposes
but in no case shall the internal diameter be less than the internal
diameter of the outlet of any appliance which discharges into it. (Refer
to the Health and Safety manual for details).
17.1.8 Ventilation pipes shall be of adequate size for their purpose but in
no case shall be less than 50 mm internal diameter. They shall be
carried upwards to such a height and so positioned as not to transmit
foul air in such a manner as to become prejudicial to health.
17.1.9 Permission must be obtained from the Authority for the location of
any manhole within any building. Where permission is given, such
manholes must have a double sealed, screwed down cover.

17.2

Residential Bathroom and Toilet

17.2.1 The minimum areas for bathrooms and toilets shall be as follows:
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Section 17: SANITATION REQUIREMENTS


a) Bathroom with a door opening to the outside, 1.8m2
b) Bathroom with an inside-opened door, 2.0m2
c) Toilet with a door opening to the outside, 1.1m2
d) Toilet with an inside-opened door, 1.3m2
17.2.2 Bathrooms and toilets without ventilating windows shall be replaced by
ventilating ducts. The air inlet and exhaust should be well designed.
17.2.3 Light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental
controls shall be in accessible locations.

17.3

Public Sanitary Facilities

Every operational building must include provision of sanitary facilities, unless


otherwise permitted by the Authority.
17.3.1 Sanitary facilities shall be provided at rates not less than the
followings:

a) Educational buildings:

Schools

Appliances

All fittings i.e. WCs,


urinals & washbasins

Special
Schools

Primary Schools

Secondary Schools

1 per 10
pupils

Less than 50 pupils-2


fittings, per 40 or
part thereof, plus 2
additional fittings.
More than 50 pupils
- 2 fittings per 40, or
part thereof, plus 4
additional fittings .

Less than 1000


pupils - 2 fittings
per 30
More than 1000
pupils - as
approved by the
Authority.

Nursery

Appliances
WCs & Washbasins

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1 per 10 children under 5 years old

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Section 17: SANITATION REQUIREMENTS


b) Religious buildings:

Mosques: As mentioned in Section (16) clause (2).

c) Commercial buildings:

Offices and Shops

Appliances

Wash Hand Basin


& WCs
(no urinals
provided)

Male Staff

Female Staff

1 for 1-15 persons

1 for 1-15 persons

2 for 16-30 persons

2 for 16-30 persons

3 for 31-50 persons

3 for 31-50 persons

4 for 51-75 persons

4 for 51-75 persons

5 for 76-100 persons

5 for 76-100 persons

For over 100 plus 1 for every


additional 25 persons or part
thereof.

For over 100 plus 1 for every


additional 25
persons or part thereof.

1 for 1-20 persons


2 for 21-45 persons
3 for 46-75 persons
WCs
(urinals provided)

4 for 76-100 persons


For over 100 plus 1 for every
additional 25 persons or
part thereof, but 1 in 4 of the
additional fittings may be a
urinal.

Hotels

Appliances

Male Staff

Female Staff

WCs

1 per 100 up to 400.


For over 400, add at the rate
of 1 per 250 or part thereof.

2 per 100 up to 200.


For over 200, add at the rate
of 1 per 100 or part thereof.

Urinals

1 per 50 persons

Wash Hand Basin

1 per WC

1 per WC

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Appliances

For Male Public

For Female Public

WCs &
Wash Basin

1 per 100 up to400.


For over 400, add at the rate
of 1 per 250 or part thereof.

2 per 100 up to 200.


For over 200, add at the rate
of 1 per 100 or part thereof.

Urinals

1 per 25 persons

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Health buildings:
Hospitals

Appliances

Male Staff

Male Staff

WCs &
Wash Basin

1 per 4 persons

1 per 4 persons

d) Cultural buildings:

Restaurants and Cafes

Theatres and Banquet Halls

Appliances

For Male Public

For Female Public

WCs &
Wash Basin

Minimum 1 up to 250 males


plus 1 for every additional
500 males or part thereof.

Minimum 2 up to 75 females
plus 1 for every additional 50
females or part thereof.

Urinals

Minimum 2 up to 100 males


plus 1 for every additional 50
males or part thereof.

Cinemas

Appliances

For Male Public

For Female Public

WCs &
Wash Basin

Minimum 1 up to 250 males


plus 1 for every additional
500 males or part thereof.

Minimum 2 up to 100 females


plus 1 for every additional 100
females or part thereof.

Urinals

Minimum 2 up to 200 males


plus 1 for every additional
100 males or part thereof.

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Section 17: SANITATION REQUIREMENTS


e) Industrial Buildings:

Factories and Warehouses

Appliances

Male Staff

Female Staff

WCs &
Washbasins

1 per 25, or part thereof. For


over 100, add at rate of 1 per
40 - if sufficient urinals also
provided.

1 per 25, or part thereof.

17.3.2 The entry shall be properly laid out.


17.3.3 All passageways or corridors should have a minimum width of 1.1
meter.
17.3.4 The minimum dimensions of stalls shall be 0.9 x 1.0 square meter.
17.3.5 There shall be 1.5 x 1.5 square meter wheelchair turn around space.
17.3.6 The working parts of at least one of each type of dispenser, receptacle
and vender (coin slots, push buttons, dispenser openings, etc) shall be
located 1 meter above the floor finish level.
17.3.7 Waste receptacles are recommended to be recessed into the wall, out
of everyones way.
17.3.8 In addition to general lighting, task lighting shall be provided for each
functional area in the sanitary facility.
17.3.9 The doors to adjacent male and female washrooms shall not be next
to each other as this is psychologically disturbing and does not offer
privacy. Doors shall be self closing wherever possible.

17.4

Sanitary Facilities for people with special needs:


A WC compartment for general use by disabled people shall allow
for frontal or lateral transfer from the wheelchair, with space for an
attendant to assist.

17.4.1 Usually the end toilet compartment is designed to accommodate the


disabled.
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17.4.2 Turning circles of area 1.5 x 1.5 square meter are recommended inside
the stall to allow for full maneuvering of a wheelchair.
17.4.3 The door is swinging to the outside and hinged on the wall side to
avoid interference with other compartments. The door may swing in if
additional clear floor area of 0.9 meter minimum width is provided.
17.4.4 Toilet compartments for special needs shall have a minimum width of
1.0 meter for front entry and 1.2 meter for side entry compartments
and have 1.2 meter of clearance space in front of the toilet to allow the
wheelchair to enter and the door to close.
17.4.5 The minimum height of the toilet seat should be 0.45 meter from the
finished floor level.
17.4.6 The minimum distance between the center line of the toilet seat and
the adjacent wall, if provided with a horizontal grab bar (handrail),
should be 0.45 meter.
17.4.7 The horizontal grab should be mounted on the wall behind the toilet or
on the lower left, for supporting and raising themselves and should be
mounted at a minimum height 0.85 meter from the finished floor level.
17.4.8 The horizontal grab bar dimensions are, 1219 mm long, 28 mm
diameter and 38 mm clearance from wall.

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Section 18: SWIMMING POOL REQUIREMENTS


18.1

Construction Materials

A swimming pool and its appurtenances shall be constructed of


materials which are non- toxic to humans, inert, impervious, durable
and shall be capable of withstanding the design stresses of the
particular swimming pool to be constructed, and provide a water-tight
tank with a smooth, easily cleanable surface.

18.2

Structural Design and Stability


1) A swimming pool shall be constructed in such a shape and size,
in order to be safely patrolled and to provide good circulation of
water.

2) Swimming pools shall be designed and constructed to withstand


anticipated structural loadings when full or empty, and that the
design and materials used shall be in accordance with generally
accepted good structural engineering practices.

18.3

Fences & Enclosures

The wall of a swimming pool shall be at least 1.8 meter from all plot
limits and from all existing structures.
All filters, pumps, chemical feeding apparatus, and other mechanical
equipment
shall be secured and protected by an appropriate
enclosure, separate and apart from the enclosure of the swimming
pool.

18.4

Swimming Pool Systems

1) Overflow Gutters:

Over flow gutters extending completely around a swimming pool,


should be provided on all pools having water surface area of 380
square meter or more.

2) Surface skimmers:

Skimmers of an approved design are permitted in swimming pools


having a water surface of less than 380 square meter.

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18.5

Deck and Walkway

1) A continuous unobstructed deck or walkway at least 1.2 meter


wide excluding the width of the coping or the interior portion of
a gutter shall extend completely around swimming pools. The
walkway or deck shall be immediately adjacent to the pool.

2) The deck or walkway shall be constructed of concrete non-slip tile


or other equally impervious material with a smooth, but non-slip,
easily cleanable surface.

3) All decks and walkways shall be sloped at a grade 1in 40, in order
to effectively drain water to deck drains.

18.6

Ladders, Steps and Stairs

1) Pools shall have ladders if the depth exceeds 0.6 meter.


100

2) Pools with steps only may be permitted in case the depth is


shallow and does not exceed 1 meter.
3) A minimum of one ladder shall be installed within each 30 meter
of pool perimeter. There shall be at least one ladder located at
the deep end and another at the shallow end.

4) Material for the swimming pool ladder shall be corrosion resistant,


and shall be provided with non-slippery stepping surface with at
least 10 cm clearance from the wall.

5) Minimum width of step shall be 0.15 meter and minimum height


shall be 0.30 meter.

6) Swimming pool ladder shall be provided with a side balustrade


that extends around the water surface on both sides of the ladder
or the recessed wall steps.

18.7

Diving Towers and Boards

1) A minimum clear head height above the diving board shall be 4.8
meter for head movement.

2) Diving boards shall be fully covered by anti slippery material.

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3) Minimum water depth underneath a diving board fitted at 1 meter


or less above water surface shall be 2.5 meter. Depth of water
underneath shall increase at the rate of 0.3 meter for each 1 meter
of height or any part thereof.

4) A horizontal spacing of at least 3 meter shall separate between the


diving boards, and between any diving boards and the side wall of
the pool.

18.8

Lighting, Ventilation & Electrical Requirements

1) All indoor swimming pool equipments, rooms, bath houses,


dressing rooms, shower rooms and toilet spaces shall be
ventilated adequately either by natural or mechanical means, or
by a combination of both means.

2) Swimming pools shall be provided with adequate lighting, both


above and underneath the water surface in such a way as to
provide an adequate illumination for the overall area of the pool.

3) Every electrical circuit shall be provided with earth leakage circuit


breaker.

18.9

Swimming Pool Facilities

Swimming pools shall have showers and taps for washing feet at the
rate of 1 per 25 meter of pool perimeter and at a minimum of 1 of each
type. Pools shall have adequate numbers of lavatories and changing
rooms.

18.10 Standards of Water


Swimming pools shall comply with all the requirements for health and
safety, such as:

1) Filtering and water circulation

2) Purifying and sterilizing the water

3) Other control procedures concerned with public health and


safety that are implemented during the design process and at the
operational stage.
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18.11 General Safety Requirements

102

1) An appropriate place shall be provided for the lifeguards high


chair and for the notice boards with the guidelines and policies,
which the swimmers shall follow.

2) Signboard showing water depth shall be fitted on the pool edges


about the maximum and minimum depth and at the point of the
slope changes.

3) Adequate number of life saving devices (rings, etc.) shall be


provided.

All details shall be as per the approval of EHS Department.

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Section 19: REFUSE DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS


19.1

General Requirements

19.1.1 All Building types shall be provided with a garbage collection point
within the plot limits.

Or it could be provided with a garbage room on the ground floor level


of the building for collecting purpose.

19.1.2 The garbage room specifications are as follows :

1) Shall be located close to the adjacent road or alleyway, if there


is no service route to facilitate removing the containers and
transporting them to the garbage collection vehicles.

2) Shall have a door with minimum width 1.8 meter or an over head
door leading to the loading facilities and made of non-rusting
metal (aluminum), with louvers at the bottom or any other method
of mechanical ventilation. Doors shall open outwards.

3) The minimum height of the garbage room shall be 2.1 meter.

4) Shall obtain water supply directly from the network or from the
distribution (pumping) tank.

5) Shall be connected to the buildings drainage network.

6) Shall be provided with adequate lighting and ventilation system.

7) All windows to be air tight and protected by a metal mesh wire


screen in order to prevent insects and rodents from getting into
the room.

8) Floors and walls shall be tiled with ceramic tiles, for easy
cleaning.

19.1.3 For buildings with more than three stories or the plot area exceeding
230 square meters garbage chute shall be installed.

1) The material used for the garbage chute shall resist corrosion,
prevent dampness, be non-combustible and the inner surface
shall be smooth.

2) The minimum chute diameter shall be 0.6 meter, enclosed by a


small room, not less than 0.9 x 0.9 square meters in size with an
outward opening door, 0.8 meter minimum width and fitted with
an automatic door closing mechanism. (For all typical floors).
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19.1.4 For plot area exceeding 900 square meter, the garbage chute can be
replaced by a small room 1.8m x 1.2m on each floor in addition to the
main garbage room on the ground floor.

The doors shall be 0.9 meter minimum width opening outwards and
shall have an automatic door closing mechanism and mechanical
ventilation.

19.1.5. The owner of the building or the authorized representative is responsible


for the cleaning process of the building internally and externally and
surrounding area up to the public road.
19.1.6. If the location of the chute is far from the road surrounding the plot, the
garbage collection room shall be located near to the road, or alleyway
in case of non existence of a road.
19.1.7. Active chemical waste material, toxic material or liquids and /or any
other hazardous material shall not be put inside the garbage dumpsters
or containers.
19.2

Garbage Rooms or Chutes and Collection Areas

19.2.1 In buildings with an area below 180 square meter, garbage rooms
1.2 x 1.8 square meter shall be provided on the ground floor level only.
They shall have mechanical ventilation with minimum door width 0.9
meter and an automatic door closing.
19.2.2 In buildings with an area exceeding 180 square meter, garbage
rooms shall be provided as follows:

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Up to 100 kg of rubbish

A room that accommodates one dumpster


(container), 1.1 cubic meter (m3) capacity

Up to 250 kg of rubbish

A room that accommodates one dumpster,


2.5 m3. Or two dumpsters 1.1 m3 each.

Up to 500 kg of rubbish

A room that accommodates two dumpsters,


2.5 m3 each.

Up to 750 kg of rubbish

A room that accommodates 3 dumpsters,


2.5 m3 each.

Up to 1,000 kg of rubbish

A room that accommodates 4 dumpsters,


2.5 m3 each.

The number of garbage rooms is decided


according to special study requirements or
More than 1,000 kg of rubbish
calculating the same averages as above for
half of the volume that exceeds 1,000 Kg.
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Section 19: REFUSE DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS


19.2.3 The amount of garbage is calculated as follows:

1) Residential use: an average of 12 kg for each 100 square meter of


occupied area.

2) Commercial use:

a) Shopping Mall use: an average of 12 kg for each 100 square


meter of occupied area.

b) Office use: an average of 5 kg for each 140 square meter of


occupied area.

c) Hotel use: an average of 3 kg for each room, 5 kg for each


suite and other areas according to the type of activities.

19.2.4 The standard measurements for the garbage room areas :


1) The garbage rooms shall accommodate all the dumpsters


(containers) that are required, according to the standard
measurements for containers as follows:

a) The measurements of a 1.1 cubic meter dumpster is 4.00 ftx


4.46ft or 122cm x 126cm.

b) The measurements of a 2.5 cubic meter dumpster is 4.86 x


6.70 square feet or 148cm x 204cm.

2) There should be 0.3 meter of clear space between the dumpsters


and the wall of the garbage room.

3) There should be 0.3 meter between one dumpster and another,


on all directions.

4) There should be a space of 0.6 meter between the dumpster and


the door location.

5) The minimum internal corridor width of the garbage room shall be


1.2 meter.

6) The minimum height of the garbage room shall be 2.4 meter.

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19.2.5 Disposal requirements for different Types of Buildings:

1)

2) In Educational establishments, a dumpster collection point must


be provided, that will accommodate no less than two of 2.5 cubic
meter dumpsters, one of them for papers and other for waste
products.

3) In Health establishments, a dumpster collection point must be


provided, that will accommodate no less than two of 2.5 m3
dumpsters, in addition to containers for patient rooms, offices
and administrative area whose output is calculated on basis of 12
kg for each 100 square meter of the net space area, in which a
proper segregation should be provided for the hospital waste and
the ordinary waste.

4) In Labor accommodation, a dumpster collection point must


be provided that will accommodate an average of one 2.5 m3
dumpster for each 1000 square meter of the building total area.

5) In Industrial installations, a dumpster collection point must be


provided with an area that is at least 3 x 3 square meter. It should
be tiled with washable tiles, and a water supply for washing. The
collection point should accommodate the number of dumpsters
required, at an average of one 2.5 m3 dumpster for each 2000
square meter of the building total area.

6) In Residential villas, the following shall be taken into account:

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In Hotel establishments, it is possible to provide a hydraulic


Compressor. This requires the submission of a special study, and
the approval of the Authority.

a) In Investment complexes which consist of a number of villas,


rooms for collecting garbage shall be provided as per the
following table:No. of Villas

Capacity of Dumpsters

No. of Dumpsters

1 10

2.5 m3

11 - 20

2.5 m3

21 - 30

2.5 m3

30 - 40

2.5 m3

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Section 20: LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS


20.1

General requirements

1) All sites must be suitably landscaped to:-

a) Provide attractive and pleasant appearance.

b) Contribute to the relief of heat, noise, dust and glare through


proper placement of green planting.

c) Provide visual privacy, in which significant trees are to be


planted adjacent to boundaries, acting as a Buffer Zone.

d) Provide a natural shading device.

2) Regular maintenance is to be ensured.

3) All landscaped areas are to be provided with the irrigation system,


as mentioned in Section (21) clause (9).

A landscaped plan should indicate the design, materials, species,


hardscape, feature elements and irrigation system must be submitted
for approval as part of the development application process.

20.2

Landscape Elements

Generally the landscaping to be carried out as per the guidelines in the


Planning guidelines of a related Business Unit.

1) Softscape

Indicating the numbers, species, sizes and positions of all trees,
shrubs, ground cover plants and lawn areas.

a) It is preferable to introduce softscape species, in combination


with the extensive use of date palms or other varieties of
palms, to produce an individual character of the UAE or Gulf
environment.

b) Design for private landscape areas is to maximize the softscape


in preference to the hardscape such as paving.

2) Hardscape

a) Hardscape surfaces (Pavement)

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Section 20: LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS

b) Hardscape features (Sculptures, water features, signage,


street furniture and lighting standards).

Paving

Color and material types should be consistent in size, material and


proportion appropriate to the pavements location and use.
Signage

Signage can be divided into the followings:


a) Street Signage
This signage pertains to the street names and to individual
addresses. A standard clear simple graphic sign attachable
to a multi use or smart pole system, displayed in Arabic and
English, needs to be designed.

b) Pedestrian Signage
A signage to assist pedestrians and allow connectivity between
the various parts of the development or the project.

Street Furniture

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A set of street furniture shall be chosen as per the approval


of the authority. Items such as park benches / tables, recycle
and litter bins, bollards, drinking fountains, signage units,
stands and bus shelters. There will be a need for specialized
furniture as well as special decorative fences / railing that may
be used within the environments.

Lighting Standards

A set of street lighting fittings shall be chosen as per the


approval of the authority for use on pedestrian paths during
night time. The color of these fittings should be a darker tone
compared to that selected for the street furniture. Smaller
bollard type lights will be used in smaller pedestrian routes
where lighting is only required for immediate pedestrian use.
This will avoid excessive illumination.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.1

Water supply

21.1.1 Water supply installations shall comply with relevant British Standards or
an equivalent standard approved by the Authority and the requirements
of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) -Water division. Any
house connection charges shall be paid by the developer.
21.1.2 Each building or premises shall be connected to the public water
supply network, unless any other alternative water supply source, duly
approved by the Authority has been adopted.
21.1.3 Water supply tanks shall be manufactured of material that does not
rust nor corrode and shall not adversely affect the natural or chemical
characteristics of water and shall not cause any changes in the color
or taste or odor of water.
They shall not be affected by either temperature or humidity and shall
be opaque and shall not cause any harmful effect on human health.
21.1.4 Water supply tanks shall be provided with lockable inspection openings
of adequate size for cleaning process. Openings shall be located away
from the direct day to day movements and sources of contamination,
and shall be positioned higher than the floor level.
21.1.5 Design of tank shall take into consideration that the tank be free from
sharp corners that may accumulate dirt or prevent thorough cleaning.
21.1.6 Water supply tanks shall be cleaned at least once every six months.
Material used for cleaning shall not include toxic material or any
substance harmful to public health.
21.1.7 Location of water supply tanks shall be chosen as far as possible
from drainage network lines, inspection chambers, septic tanks and
soakaways. In all cases, drainage pipe lines shall not be permitted
to run above or next to water tanks in case such tanks are fitted
underground.
21.1.8 Storage capacity shall be calculated on basis of actual demand of
the building occupants and additional storage required for fire fighting
systems in accordance with Fire departments requirements for
each development.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.2

Septic Tanks

21.2.1. Shall be within the plot limits


21.2.2. Shall be located close to the approach road or alley way and distanced
from the main building and the adjacent buildings to the plot. Location
shall be subject to approval by the Authority and should be capable of
being connected in future with the public drainage network.
21.2.3. Shall be made of reinforced concrete in order to withstand the load of
vehicle traffic if necessary.
21.2.4. Tanks shall have an opening of adequate size with a heavy duty
lockable cover and top surface of the cover shall not rise above the
finished ground level of the site in which it is situated.
21.2.5. Shall be accessible for cleaning, maintenance and evacuating
process.
21.2.6. The tank capacity shall be selected according to the average daily use
per person.
21.2.7. If the tanks are made of reinforced concrete and non-porous material, a
minimum distance 1 meter shall be provided from the adjacent building
and fence. If it is made of block work or brick, a minimum distance of 3
meter shall be provided with minimum depth 1.5 meter from the level
of the bottom surface of the pipe connected to the inlet.
21.2.8. The design of tanks and soakaway shall be in accordance with
approved standard specification. Septic tank shall be provided with
ventilation pipe as per requirements of the Authority.

All the tank openings shall be covered in such a way as to prevent
insects from entering. Except for residential buildings, grease and oil
traps shall be provided for kitchens and pantries.

21.3

Plumbing works

21.3.1 No plumbing works shall proceed on site except after obtaining a


building permit from the Authority.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.3.2 Material selected in the design for plumbing works shall conform to
standard Specifications laid down by the Authority.
21.3.3 Under no circumstances shall the drainage of private buildings be
connected to the public drainage network without notifying the Authority.
Only the department concerned may perform such connection.
21.3.4 No amendment or variation shall be introduced on the drainage design
after the issuing of the relevant building permit, except after obtaining
the appropriate authorization, even if such variations were technically
acceptable.
21.3.5 The Minimum plumbing work requirements when applying for building
Permit, shall be as follows:

1) Receipt for payment of drainage connection fees in case a public


network exist and the F.I.C. documents showing the connection
location on such network.
2) Drawing showing specification, terms and conditions applicable
to drainage as per instructions of the competent department duly
signed by the Consultants Engineer.

3) Setting out plan indicating the public drainage lines (if any) passing
through the area in the vicinity of the relevant plot and the external
drainage lines, inspection chambers within the plot limits, final
inspection chamber, F.I.C. location, public drainage lines and their
levels, septic tank and soakaway in case of non existence of a
public drainage network.

4) Plumbing and domestic water supply drawings for all floors of the
building and any other documents or details that may be required
by the competent department.

21.3.6 In tower buildings of less than 20 floors, drainage connection of


the ground floor shall be connected separately and directly to the
inspection chamber. It shall not be connected to the same vertical
ducts that belong to the higher floors.
21.3.7 In tower buildings of more than 20 floors, drainage connection of both
the ground and first floors shall be connected separately and directly
to the inspection chamber. They shall not be connected to the same
vertical ducts that belong to the higher floors.
21.3.8 Internal drainage system of buildings shall be provided with ventilating
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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


pipes as appropriate. Size of such pipes shall be adequate for
application.

Under no circumstances, their inner diameter shall be less than 5 cm


incase of inner connections and 8 cm in case of vertical ducts. They
shall be fitted vertically and lifted up to a height of not less than 1 meter
above the highest opening in the building and a horizontal distance of
not less than 2 meter.

21.3.9 Working and regular drainage pipes buried under ground shall be made
up of robust material. Pipe connections shall be air tight free from any
leakage or any obstacles inside the pipes and shall be capable of
resisting a minimum pressure of 3 meter of water.
21.3.10 An inspection chamber shall be fitted at each point where the direction
of drainage pipes changes or at which the degree of slope changes or
at the junction of a branch and main line. Distance between any two
successive inspection holes shall not exceed 15 meter.
21.3.11 No inspection chambers shall be constructed inside roofed buildings
except in shafts, service rooms, car sheds and adequately ventilated
corridors. Such chambers shall be of dry type. Drainage pipes which
extend underneath flooring and inside walls shall be protected from
any external works or against settlement of floors.
21.3.12 All inspection chambers shall be dug within the plot limits.
21.3.13 All basement levels shall be provided with appropriate means and ways
for drainage and filtration of water such as sand separation rooms,
pumps, grease traps, etc. In case of grease traps are not required in
the current proposed design, arrangements shall be made in order to
allow fitting them whenever required.
21.3.14 Drainage pipes shall not pass through columns, beams, foundations
and electrical rooms except if the competent department permits
that in which case pipes shall pass through prearranged openings to
be shaped in advance prior to pouring concrete. Pipes shall also be
provided with the necessary flexible joints.
21.3.15 In case a large quantity of grease is discharged into the public network
from restaurants or kitchens and the like, a grease and oil valve
approved by the department concerned shall be fitted.
21.3.16 Commercial and Industrial waste shall not be drained into the public
drainage network except with the approval of the Authority. Such

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


approval shall not be granted except if the appropriate facilities for
preliminary processing of such waste have been provided. Heater
water at temperature exceeding 37 Degrees Celsius shall not be
drained into the public drainage network except after cooling it.

21.4

Rainwater drainage

21.4.1 The system for carrying rainwater from a roof shall be adequate. The
system shall carry the flow to an outlet, minimize the risk of blockage
or leakage and be accessible for cleaning the blockages.
21.4.2 Every exposed roof, canopy or building shall be finished with a gradient
of not more than 1in 50 and not less than 1 in 70 in order to direct the
rainwater to suitable channels, gutters, outlet or downpipes.
21.4.3 Every channel, gutter, outlet or downpipe shall be:

1) Made of durable materials with suitable watertight joints

2) Of adequate size

3) Securely attached to the building

4) Fixed to a gradient of at least 1in 90.

21.4.4 Rainwater shall not be discharged into the septic tank or soak away,
the authoritys drainage system, where existing, or the adjacent plot.
21.4.5 All rainwater shall be either drained into a specially constructed
soakaway or into the approach road.
21.4.6 All surface water drainage shall be dispersed off to public road corridor
and measures to prevent dispersal of surface water towards adjacent
plots shall be provided.
21.4.7 Residual / waste water shall not be drained into the rainwater drainage
network, whatever the reasons might be.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.5

Gas facilities

21.5.1 Gas cylinders shall be kept in a covered, well ventilated area outside
the Kitchen or the habitable spaces.
21.5.2 The gas cylinder storage in public buildings shall be well ventilated,
easily accessible to facilitate changing the empty cylinders and to be
isolated, in case of fire.
21.5.3 All gas connections shall confirm to the standard specifications
approved by the Authority.
21.5.4 For gas cylinder storage, there shall be an annual inspection by the
owner on all the joints and gas pipes that supply the residential units,
to prevent any gas leakage.
21.5.5 Gas cylinder storage shall be equipped with alarm and fire fighting
systems, according to the specifications and rules defined by the
Authority.
21.5.6 Also the storage shall be free from any inflammable items.

21.6

Ventilation and Air Conditioning

21.6.1 The design of walls and roof shall take into account Ventilation and Air
Conditioning requirements. The purpose is to limit the accumulation
of moisture and pollutants which originate in the building and which
would otherwise become a health hazard. An adequate supply of fresh
air is necessary to ensure the health and comfort of the occupants of
buildings and to limit condensation.
21.6.2 The objective is to provide a means of:

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1) Extracting moisture (e.g., from a kitchen).

2) Occasional rapid ventilation (for the dilution of pollutants and


moisture).

3) Achieving background ventilation.


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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.6.3 Habitable rooms will comply if there is either:

1) For rapid ventilation - one or more ventilating openings with total


area of at least 1/20 floor area of room with some part of the
opening at least 1.75 m above floor level.

21.6.4 Ventilation of kitchens will comply if there are both:


1) Mechanical extract - extract rate not less than 20 Air changes per
hour.

2) Hood extract system shall be designed based on latest ASHRAE


(American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air conditioning
Engineers) Guidelines.

21.6.5 Ventilation of common spaces will be acceptable if opening(s) with a


total area of at least 1/50 of common space floor area is provided. If
the common space is internal and for access only, it may be ventilated
mechanically (1 ach).
21.6.6 Ventilation for bathrooms can be provided by mechanical extraction at
6 Air changes per hour, which may be operated intermittently.
21.6.7 WCs may be ventilated by either rapid ventilation (openings at least
1/20 floor area with part at least 1.75 m above floor) or mechanical
extraction (6 ach which may be operated intermittently and with 15
minutes overrun).
21.6.8 A habitable room can be ventilated through an adjoining space if:

1) The adjoining space is a conservatory or a similar space and

2) There is an opening (which may be closable) between the room


and the space, with an area not less than 1/20th of the combined
floor areas and

3) There is a ventilation opening(s) in the room and the space together,


or in the space alone, equal to at least 1/20th of the combined
floor areas and with a part of the ventilation opening area at least
1.75 m above the floor level and for background ventilation there
are openings to the space and between the space and room each
having not less than 4000 mm2 area.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.6.9 Shafts and Ducts

The minimum area of the ducts and shafts for the natural lighting and
ventilation requirements shall be as follows:


1) Bathrooms:

The minimum area of the shafts shall be 0.8 square meter, and
minimum width shall be 0.9 meter

2) Closed Kitchens:

The minimum area of the shafts shall be 3 x 3 square meter,
regardless of the Buildings height and mechanical ventilation
shall be provided, according to the specifications and conditions
approved by the Authority, if the building exceeds ground floor
plus 7 typical floors.

3) Open Kitchens:

It is permitted to build kitchens that occupy part of the common
spaces (Halls or Living areas), without providing ventilation
shafts, regardless of the building height, as long as the Kitchens
are located opposite to the main ventilation openings of such
common spaces, and is provided according to the specification
and conditions approved by the Authority.

4) Pantry:

With the exception of the residential apartments that are not
permitted to have this type of Kitchen; the minimum area of the
shaft shall be 0.8 square meter and minimum width shall be 0.9
meter.

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There shall be mechanical ventilation, according to the


specifications and conditions approved by the Authority.

5) In Residential apartments with an area exceeding 150 square


meter, natural lighting and ventilation for the maids rooms can be
provided through the shafts, that shall be no less than 3x3 square
meter, regardless of the building height and mechanical ventilation
shall be provided, according to the specifications and conditions
approved by the Authority, if the building exceeds ground floor
plus 7 typical floors.

6) The shafts shall be accessible for maintaining and cleaning


purposes, and in case of areas 1.2m x 1.8m or below, metal
ladders shall be provided.
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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES



`7) The floor shall be hard surfaced, non-absorbent and adequately


drained.

8) All shafts and ducts shall be open to sky. If any roof or other
structure is built to cover them, the following conditions and
requirements shall be applied :

a) If the roof is transparent or semi-transparent, side vents shall


be provided, with a total area that is at least equal to the shafts
area.

b) If the roof is opaque, side vents shall be provided, with a total


area that is at least one and half times the shafts area.

c) A suitable way of opening and closing these vents shall be


provided.

21.6.10 Design and installation of all air conditioning and ventilation systems
shall
be in accordance with current guidelines of ASHRAE.
21.6.11 Architectural features should be introduced in the elevations/facades
in order to conceal the air conditioning equipment from the public
eye. The minimum distance between any air conditioning unit and the
neighbors boundary shall be 0.9 meter.

21.7

Electricity

21.7.1 A Terminal Point of allotted capacity will be installed by Dubai Electricity


and Water Authority (DEWA) at each leased site. Where applicable,
a gated and segregated reserve of appropriate area is to be provided
by the Tenant within the boundary of his legal property for locating the
Terminal Point. This enclosure shall be recessed into and alongside
the outer periphery of the leased property and its exact location and
size shall be determined by DEWA.
21.7.2 Electricity supply will be provided either at 11000 volts, 50 HZ or 380
Volts, 50 HZ at the discretion of DEWA.
21.7.3 Metering and Isolation facilities will form part of the Terminal Point
equipment and access to these facilities will be strictly at the control of
DEWA.
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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.7.4 The developer will be responsible for terminating all his power off take
cables at this Terminal Point. He will be further responsible for all the
electrical works within the leased property.
21.7.5 Due to administrative, technical and safety reasons, only one power
connection will be provided per lease agreement unless special
arrangements have been agreed with DEWA.
21.7.6 Capacities greater than 1500 KVA are generally provided only through
dedicated feeders. Necessary special arrangements for the provision
of dedicated feeders shall be agreed with DEWA.
21.7.7 Electrical rooms in buildings shall satisfy the following requirements:

1) Proposed location and dimensions of the electrical room shall be


subject to approval by DEWA.

2) Meters room shall have fire resistant doors and shall be provided
with ventilation openings. An extract fan shall be fitted in one of its
walls.

3) Electrical transformer room may be situated in the setback area as


such transformer provides a public service to the buildings in the
area.

4) Electrical Substation shall be provided (if required) as per DEWA


approval.

21.8

Lighting

21.8.1 Emergency, battery operated lighting shall be provided at entrances,


escape stairways and lobbies. Emergency power supply for these
areas shall be independent of other lighting and power sources.


Emergency lights shall also be provided to give sufficient illumination
on essential control stations for the safe operation or shut down of
plant and machinery so as to avert danger in the event of a power
failure.

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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


21.9

Telephone Installations

21.9.1 The following requirements shall be complied by the developer for the
provision of a satisfactory cabling access and distribution system.

1)

2 X 100 dia. PVC underground lead in ducts with draw rope at


a minimum depth of 750 mm from finished ground level shall
be provided. The duct including draw rope shall extend to a
position not less than 0.5 meter outside the plot boundary. Any
intermediate jointing/inspection chambers shall be provided as
per the requirements and to the approval of the service provider.

2) An appropriate area or areas to be set aside for the location of


termination boxes, distribution frames, or P.A.B.X. equipment etc.
This may vary from a vacant wall in a secure room to a complete
room depending on the telephone requirements of the building.

3) A comprehensive system of horizontal and vertical cable trays and/


or conduits from the external cable termination point to telephone
points throughout the building shall be provided. Flush fitting
telephone outlet sockets of an approved type shall be provided
in appropriate locations. The cable trays or conduits are to be for
the exclusive use of the service provider and are to be designed
within guidelines set out by the service provider.

21.9.2 If any underground telephone plant exists it shall be protected.

21.10 Irrigation
21.10.1 All landscaped areas are to be provided with a permanent irrigation
system supplied by either high quality (human contact standard)
treated sewerage effluent, or relegated reverse osmosis water, and
protected by a back-flow system.
21.10.2 Irrigation water demand calculations shall include the followings:

1) The Peak Daily Plant Water Consumption figure presented in liters


per day calculated on the irrigation needs in the peak season (the
peak being an average day in July).

2) Monthly Projected Irrigation Water Consumption figures covering


the effect of leaching and other off-season practices.
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Section 21: UTILITY SERVICES


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3) The location and capacity of the irrigation water storage tanks and
the incoming and outgoing connections thereto.

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Section 22: INSULATION REQUIREMENTS


1)

Water proofing and heat resistant material shall be subject to the


following conditions:
a) Bathroom, toilets and kitchen flooring shall be provided with
insulated material.
b) Water proofing and heat resistant material shall be fitted on the
roof top in order to protect it from water leak and solar effects.

c) Insulation layers shall be put around the building sub structures up


to 0.3 meter height above the earth level.

d) All categories of metals that can become rusty shall be protected


by insulation and paint. They shall be maintained on regular basis,
with particular reference to drainage and water supply pipes.

2)

The block works shall comply with the thermal insulation standards
and guidelines of Dubai Municipality.

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Section 23: POWERS OF THE AUTHORITY


1)

At the discretion of the Authority the BUILDING PERMIT may be


cancelled or suspended if:

1) Work was carried out in contravention of the conditions of the


BUILDING PERMIT or of any regulations issued by the Authority.

2) It is subsequently revealed that the BUILDING PERMIT was issued


on the basis of erroneous information supplied by the developer or
his agent.

2)

BUILDING PERMITS will not be withheld unreasonably, but the


Authority shall have the discretionary power, when issuing a BUILDING
PERMIT, to attach such special conditions thereto as related to all or
any of the following matters:

1) Filling or excavation within the plot.

2) Construction of boundary walls or fences.

3) Construction of the external appearance of the building, in relation


to fitness for its intended purpose and location.

4) Disposal of soil, waste and rain water.

5) Health and safety of personnel and environmental conditions of


the workplace and surroundings.

6) The engineering standards to which any process installation is


constructed.

3)

The Authority is empowered to change, amend, replace and/or update


the regulations without notice. It is the developers responsibility to
obtain updated regulations and ensure compliance.

4)

It is the responsibility of the developer to apply the up-to-date


regulations, CED Notices, etc. that may supersede ones mentioned in
these regulations.

5)

The Authority reserves the right to reject the appointment of consultants


or contractors for particular jobs if they are not deemed competent
enough to fulfill the related responsibilities.

6)

The Authority reserves the right to suspend a consultant or a contractor


for non compliance with the regulations.
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Section 24: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DISPUTES


1)

Neither the checking of the drawings, nor the checking of the


structural calculations, nor inspection of the work during the progress
of construction, shall be construed in any way to impose responsibility
and/or liability on the Authority or their agents. The developer and his
agents shall remain entirely responsible for all errors in the design and
execution of the project and for the stability and safety of construction
during the progress of the works and after completion.

2)

All complaints and disputes concerning BUILDING PERMITS and the


erection of buildings shall be referred to the Authority. Any financial
disputes shall be referred to Dubai Courts

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Section 25: CED STRUCTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES BUILDING STRUCTURES


Structural guidelines listed below apply to all building structures. Please refer
to applicable codes for detailed technical guidance and requirements.
1.

Design Outcome.

The design shall meet all relevant standards for safety, durability, fire
resistance and serviceability. The designer shall investigate alternative
systems and shall achieve optimized economical and constructible
solution.

2.

Applicable Codes.

The following codes with listed parameters shall be permitted for


the purpose of structural design. Technical codes not listed in this
document shall be submitted for review prior to adopting in the
design.

2.1

Dead and Live Loads.

1) BS 6399:1996 Part 1 Loading For Buildings: Code of Practice for


Dead and Imposed Loads.

2) BS 6399:1988 Part 3 Loading For Buildings: Code of Practice for


Imposed Roof Loads

3) ASCE 7:2002 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other


Structures, Chapter 3 Dead Loads and Chapter 4 Live Loads

4) Adopted dead and live loads shall satisfy recommendations


of the Dubai Municipality, JAFZA and other relevant statutory
authorities.

2.2

Seismic Loads.

1) UBC 1997, Volume 2, Structural Engineering Design Provisions,


Division IV Earthquake Design

2) Zone 2A shall be adopted for all structures.

2.3

Wind Load.

1) ASCE 7:2002 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other


Structures, Chapter 6.

2) AS 1170.2-1989 Loading Code: Wind Loads


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3) Design shall be based on basic wind velocity of 45 m/s.

4) Wind loads derived from the above codes shall be permitted in BS


codes load combinations.

5) Reliable wind tunnel study reflecting climatic site conditions shall


be permitted as an alternative method of estimating wind loads.

2.4

Design Codes

1) BS 8110:1997 Structural Use Of Concrete

2) ACI 318:2005 Building Code Requirements for Structural


Concrete

3) ACI Manual of Concrete Practice the latest edition.

4) UBC 1997, Volume 2, Structural Engineering Design Provisions

5) BS 5950:2000 Structural Use of Steelwork In Building

6) BS 8004:1986 Foundations

7) BS 8007:1987 Design of concrete structures for retaining


aqueous liquids

8) BS 5628:1992 Code of Practice for Use of Masonry

Performance Criteria.

The following modeling, design and testing criteria shall be


followed.

3.1

Design Life

1) Unless otherwise specified, 50 year design life of the structure


shall be adopted.

3.2

Computer Models, Structural Analysis and Design.

1) Computer models shall include effects of shrinkage, creep,


non-linear behavior of concrete in tension and compression as
specified in UBC 1997 cl.1910.11.
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Section 25: CED STRUCTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES BUILDING STRUCTURES


2) Iterative method of estimating P- effects shall be used in the


analysis of buildings of more than 12 storeys in height.

3) All structures and buildings exceeding 12 storeys in height shall be


analyzed by employing Response Spectrum Analysis.

4) Effects of axial long term shortening due to elastic, shrinkage


and creep effects shall be investigated and accounted for in the
design.

5) Tall buildings and other structures with structural system sensitive


to construction sequence shall be investigated for the effects of
construction sequence on internal load distribution.

6) The design seismic case shall consist of combination of two


orthogonal excitation directions combined on the SRSS basis.

7) Thermal effects shall be evaluated based on realistic temperature


distribution. Seasonal temperature change shall not be less than
25 deg C.

8) Design shall be carried out in accordance with code the governing


load combination was derived from.

9) Calculation of effects of accidental eccentricities and load


reductions shall be consistent with the code used for the structural
design.

3.3

Serviceability Limits.

1) All buildings shall be designed to limit maximum drift under 50


year wind load to 1/500 of building height.

2) All buildings shall be designed to limit inter-story drift to 1/500


of the story height and no more than 10mm under serviceability
10 year wind. If no wind tunnel test results are available, 20 year
serviceability wind speed of 38 m/s can be adopted in Dubai for
inter-story drift calculations.

3) Adequate provisions shall be adopted to eliminate risk of damage


to non-structural elements due to inter-story drift.

4) Wind induced vibration due to 10 year wind shall be limited to


15 mg for residential and hotel buildings and 20 mg for office
towers.
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3.4

Foundations.

The following are requirements for pile foundations in addition to the


applicable codes:

1) Pile testing shall


requirements:

conform

with

the

following

minimum

a) 1% of total number of working piles shall be statically tested to


not less than 150% of the piles working load.

b) 5% of the total number of working piles shall be tested using


high strain dynamic method to not less than 150% of the piles
working load.

c) 10% of the total number of working piles shall be tested using


cross-sonic core testing method.

d) All non-load tested piles shall be integrity tested by using low


strain dynamic test.

e) At least one non-working pile shall be tested to 200% of the


maximum working pile load.

2) Piles shall be designed with a minimum safety factor of 2.5.

4.0

Software.

The following commercial structural software packages are commonly


used structural design tools and are accepted by CED for structural
analysis and design. Computer software not listed below shall be
submitted for review prior to adopting in the design.

Acceptable popular commercial structural software packages:


ETABS, SAFE, SAP2000, ROBOT, STRAND, STAAD, PROKON.

5.0

Unit System.

All structural calculations, computer output, technical reports, specialist


consultant recommendations and drawings shall be presented in SI
unit system.
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Section 25: CED STRUCTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES BUILDING STRUCTURES


6.0

Geotechnical guidelines for developers for plots on Palm Jumeirah

1) The contractors should undertake a site investigation programme


appropriate to their development, and propose measures to deal
with issues identified therein, particularly ground settlement.

2) The engineering properties of the reclaimed ground have been


improved using vibro treatment in some areas. The developer must
satisfy himself on the extent and effectiveness of this treatment
for their plot, and if appropriate, undertake further treatment to
support their development.

3) Any further ground treatment must ensure that the integrity of the
adjacent plots, and infrastructure already installed, is maintained.

4) Design of the foundations, sub-structure and super-structure


should undertake both a wind loading and a seismic response,
and adopt the one more onerous for design.

5) Developers should note that for seismic design a horizontal


bedrock acceleration of 0.15g has been estimated for a 50 year
design life, with a 10% probability of exceedance during the life of
the facility. A ground acceleration of 0.2g has been estimated in
the reclaimed soils to account for soil amplification.

6) A site specific response spectra should be developed for buildings


with either a slenderness ratio >4 or a height of >15 storeys high.
Other structures may be designed to UBC Zone 2A as required by
Dubai Municipality.

7) The liquefaction potential of the reclaimed materials should be


ascertained and, if necessary, treatment should be carried out to
minimize this risk.

8) Pile foundations should be designed to account for negative skin


friction + lateral spreading of the fill material. Both shallow and
deep foundations should be designed for aggressive ground
conditions.

9) Owners of plots on the crescent should satisfy themselves that


the as built breakwater slope is stable under (a) wave loading (b)
static loading and (c) dynamic loading.
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10. No dredging or disposal of materials is permitted inside the


crescent.

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