Guide to Obtain a Construction License in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates has created a benchmark in every sector like tourism, business, architecture, state-of-art infrastructure; and many others. It has achieved a lot in very less time. Thanks to the pro-development policies and practices of the government. The Emirate’s charm lies in its pristine beaches, fancy buildings, stunning open spaces, rich culture, and top-notch flood  infrastructure. Its galloping GDP makes it a favourable destination to set up a business or seek a quality life.

These advantages have resulted in an increased demand for office and housing spaces coupled with sporadic triggers like the Expo 2020. Investors have realized the potential of starting a construction business in Dubai, resulting in a flood of applications to the Department of Economic Development (DED). This authority handles the new business setup application in the UAE. You must know that the formation of a construction company requires you to get approvals, permits, and licenses from various departmental authorities in Dubai. So, coming to the main topic, the construction license should be on the top of the list while getting the approvals.

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Construction License in Dubai- Things You Must Know

There is enormous competition in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region for skyscrapers, and Dubai has the upper hand. The city is a hub to the world’s highest building ‘Burj Khalifa’, assisting the rise of the tourism industry. No wonder investors are giving major priority to the construction sector in Dubai due to the increase in travel and tourism. To kick-start your construction business in Dubai, you will need a construction license apart from other permits.

Let us now understand the essential points to obtain a Construction License in Dubai.

• Construction License is a type of Professional License in Dubai. You need to apply for the same at the DED, the official authority for applying for licenses in the Dubai Mainland. But when it comes to business setup in Dubai free zones, you have to apply for the license at the relevant free zone authorities.
• You need to have a complete knowledge about the Building Law amended in the year 2013 before you start the company.
• If you want to be an engineering consultant, design as well as manage the project, you will need to apply for a Professional license.
• You must also hire consultants and engineers who can start their work after you obtain permits. The consultant must evaluate the soil of the construction site and determine its properties.
• After you get the approval from the DED for the construction license, you must also get special approvals from external departments.
• One of such approvals is to get a building permit which will allow you to start the construction activities.
• You must apply for a G+1 permit which the Dubai Municipality issues.

Once you get the construction license, you are allowed to do a range of diversified activities. You can be involved in many projects for several industries such as automobile, food processing, chemical plants, residential buildings, warehouses, and logistics.

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Different Activities for Construction in Dubai

There are different activities to start a construction business in Dubai. Each has different requirements and different regulations. They are as follows,

1. Construction of all types of buildings and facilities

Construction of residential buildings, villas, malls, production areas and warehouse premises and other types of buildings under a general license.

2. Maintenance of facilities on a turnkey basis

Supply of construction materials, furniture, equipment and decorative elements to already erected facilities, and facilities which are under construction.

3. Foundation and concrete works

Wall and foundation construction, the concrete casting of industrial and warehouse floors, reinforcement of cracks with concrete.

4. Construction of special purpose facilities

Construction of electric power substations, sewage disposal plants, pipelines, also for seaport and airport sites.

5. Construction of metal structures

Installation of frame structures, exhibition stands and/or pavilions, hangars, as well as steel and metal structures.

6. Facade and finishing works

Internal or external wall covering of commercial, industrial and residential premises with any materials.

7. Landscape Gardening

Development, improvement and organization of parks and gardens, arrangement of villa and cottage grounds.

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Special Approvals for Forming a Construction Company in Dubai

As mentioned above requires clearances and several special permits from environmental and civil works departments. Some of the necessary approvals from the Dubai authorities are mentioned below.

1. Water and Electricity Department

The clearance of these two authorities is mandatory as it provides the essential amenities to the occupants.

2. Drainage and Irrigation Department

This permit will typically provide liquid waste management and other disposable services.

3. Building Department and Dubai Civil Defense Authority

Both the authorities will keep check of whether the construction company adheres to the construction norms or not.

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Procedure to Obtain Construction License in Dubai

Listed below is the procedure for obtaining the construction license in Dubai.

1. To setup your construction company in the Dubai mainland, the Department of Economic Development will provide the license.
2. All aspects of construction activities are controlled by the Dubai Building Department. Obtaining individual licenses requires additional approvals from the Department of Road Transport and Highway, the Department of Civil Protection, and other authorities depending on the field of activity. To obtain some licenses for construction works in Dubai, you need to provide technical personnel and pass a number of procedures for the accreditation of experts.
3. Submit the documents to the mentioned authorities.
4. Pay fees and obtain the license.

The construction sector in Dubai has been at the top for the last two decades, and it will attain tremendous growth in upcoming years. And with the biggest possible event nearby, i.e., the Expo 2020, is offering a great opportunity to all the investors. If these reasons are not enough to kick-start your dream project today, then we at Commitbiz are here to give you all the help and information that you need. Feel free to Contact us regarding your business formation.

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