• July 29, 2023

Unlocking Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Dubai Development Authority's Preliminary Design Approval

In Dubai, the process of engineering and architectural design involves a series of steps to create functional, versatile, and innovative buildings and infrastructure. One of the essential steps is to get the design review and approvals from the Dubai Development Authority (DDA), which is applicable for clusters under the DDA's jurisdiction. This guide will walk you through the process of applying for and acquiring preliminary design review and approval from the DDA.

What is DDA's Preliminary Design Approval?

The DDA's Building Services regulates several approval services, including Preliminary Design Approval, Final Design Approval, Design Revision, Building Permit, and more. These services aim for the overall development of all engineering projects under the DDA's jurisdiction.

The preliminary design process begins with a thorough evaluation of the project site or existing drawings, field measuring, and photographing of the existing structure or project site. The clients' input is crucial in determining project goals, budget, and design objectives. Additionally, it's important to develop a scale and illustrate the scope of the proposed project, the project's major spaces, and their connection to each other.

The preliminary design phase typically includes a floor plan, site plan, primary exterior elevation studies, preliminary construction cost estimate of the project, and other major emphases on civil, mechanical, and architectural design. Once the design concepts are ready, a set of drawings is completed to present them. The required drawings strictly depend on the size and complexity of the project.

DDA Approval Preliminary Design Review

The DDA, formerly known as Dubai Creative Cluster Authority (DCCA), is committed to directing engineering and construction developments that will benefit economic growth and set global standards on real estate development and urban planning. The DDA has broad control of the mandate of authority over selected free zones and other community clusters. The DDA Approval authorizes regulatory and licensing services governing all strategic projects and industries within its jurisdiction, including Preliminary Design Approval under Building Services.

Guide to Acquire Dubai Development Authority Preliminary Design Approval

To apply for Dubai Development Authority Preliminary Design Approval, you need to submit the following documents:
I. Preliminary Design Approval Request
II. Preliminary Architectural Design Drawings (as per Circular No. 229)

• Authority Cover Sheet
• Schedule of Drawings
• Project Documents
• Project Zoning Exceptions (if any)
• Perspectives
• Shaded Area Diagram (Built-Up Area calculation)
• Shaded Area Diagram (Gross Floor Area calculation)
• Required Calculations (Parking, Garbage, Plot coverage, Projection, etc.)
• Room Types & Layouts (Unit Matrix)
• Setting-out Plan
• Floor plans (from Basement to the Top Roof floor)
• Building Elevations (Front Elevation)
• Building Elevations (Rear Elevation)
• Building Elevations (Side-1 Elevation)
• Building Elevations (Side-2 Elevation)
• Building Sections (Section-AA)
• Building Sections (Section-BB)

III. Project Details Sheet stamped & signed by the Consultant.
IV. Gate Level Confirmation provided by Master Developer / Infrastructure Consultant / RTA.
V. Consultant Appointment Letter from the Owner.

Remember

• The request will be accepted only if the Site Plan is valid.
• The design must follow the "Accessibility Code for the Built Environment in the Clusters.
• The approved design is valid for 1 year only.

Fees

• Normal submission: Not applicable
• Renewal Fees: AED 2,000
• Additional fee:
• Knowledge Dirham: AED 10 per transaction
• Innovation Dirham: AED 10 per transaction

Turnaround Time

We aim to complete your application within 4 working days. Expert Team for DDA Design Approvals in Dubai.

DDA Dubai provides a range of approval and service categories, including Registration & Licensing Services and Zoning Services, accessible through the DDA E-service portal. While the approval process may involve various required documents, you can trust our engineering consultants in Dubai to be experienced in Dubai Development Authority requirements.

Our Dubai Authority Approvals Team has a track record of delivering DDA Approval services, particularly in Design approval under Building Services. We prioritize fast, quality, and accurate assistance for every client and project we handle. Our team is dedicated to providing accessible services for obtaining DDA Dubai approvals, and we guarantee the acquisition of any necessary requirements for project permits and licenses.