Tilal Al Ghaf wall removal: which walls you can take out
Tilal Al Ghaf wall removal: non-structural block walls can be removed with MAF approval, but structural walls cannot be changed. The works must not disturb the MEP and fire safety services. We check the wall, prepare the drawings and get the MAF NOC and the DDA permit.
The short answer
Under the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines, non-structural block walls in Tilal Al Ghaf homes can be removed subject to approval, and rooms and layouts can be reconfigured. Structural walls cannot be modified. Ceiling and wall works are subject to MAF and Dubai Civil Defence approval and must not disturb the MEP or fire safety services. Layout changes are major works: MAF NOC, then a DDA permit.
Official sources: Majid Al Futtaim · Tilal Al Ghaf · Dubai Development Authority · Dubai Municipality
What the submission needs
- Wall check: Confirm non-structural
- Layouts: Existing and proposed
- Ceilings: Areas affected
- Services: MEP and fire safety
- Scope of work: What is removed
- Contractor: Trade licence copy
Documents you will need
- Title deed and owner ID
- Sub-community and home type
- Plans from your handover documents (or we survey)
- Photos
- Contractor trade licence copy
- Scope of work and drawings (we prepare these)
By wall
Tilal Al Ghaf wall changes
From the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines.
| Change | Approval route | Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Remove a non-structural block wall MAF NOC → DDA permit | Subject to approval. | — |
| Change a structural wall Not permitted | Structural modifications are not allowed. | — |
| Open kitchen MAF NOC → DDA permit | If the wall is non-structural. | Interior works |
| Ceiling works MAF + DCD | No change to MEP or fire services. | — |
How it works
How to remove a wall with approval
1. Photos
Send photos and your idea.
2. Check
Against the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines.
3. Drawings
Scope of work, drawings, calculations.
4. MAF NOC
Submitted in the Belong app.
5. DDA permit
Building permit for major works.
6. Sign-off
Inspection, completion, deposit back.
Other questions Tilal Al Ghaf owners ask
Common reasons wall removals are refused
- The wall is structural
- Fire safety services affected
- No layout drawings
- Works started before the NOC
Want an open plan?
Send photos and the plan. We check the wall.
Send us three things on WhatsApp:
- Photos of the wall from both sides
- Your floor plan, if you have it
- Your sub-community and home type
We confirm whether the wall can go and get the approvals.
Questions
Tilal Al Ghaf wall removal questions
Can I remove a wall in my Tilal Al Ghaf home?
Non-structural block walls can be removed, subject to MAF approval. Structural walls cannot be changed: structural modifications are not permitted under the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines.
How do I know if a wall is structural?
From the structural drawings of your home or a site check by an engineer. We check the wall before any design, using your handover drawings or a survey.
Can I open my kitchen to the living room?
Yes, if the wall is a non-structural block wall and the works do not disturb the MEP and fire safety services. It needs the MAF NOC.
Do I need approval to remove an internal wall?
Yes. Reconfiguration of rooms and layouts needs prior approval from MAF. Layout changes are major works, so a DDA permit is also needed.
Can I widen a door or opening?
Only in a non-structural wall. Openings in structural walls are structural modifications, which are not permitted.
What about the ceilings, AC and sprinklers?
Ceiling and wall works are subject to MAF and Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) approval and must not disturb or modify the MEP and fire safety services.
What drawings are needed?
Existing and proposed layouts, confirmation that the wall is non-structural, the ceiling and services affected, and the scope of work. With your contractor's trade licence.
Can my contractor start before the approvals?
No. Every home improvement in Tilal Al Ghaf needs the MAF NOC before work starts, and major works also need the DDA permit. Works carried out without approval get a penalty from Majid Al Futtaim and may have to be removed.
When can the works be done?
Between 9am and 5pm, not on weekends or public holidays. A copy of the MAF NOC must be posted on the front door or wall during the works, and your contractor needs a contractor access permit from the Belong app.
How much does a wall removal cost in Tilal Al Ghaf?
It depends on the size and the scope. MAF charges an application fee and holds a refundable security deposit, confirmed when you apply. Send us photos and your idea, and we review and advise on our fee for the drawings and approvals.
What do you need from me to start?
Photos, your title deed, the sub-community and home type, and any plans from your handover documents. We tell you what the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines allow and what the submission needs.
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