Is mall approval enough for a shop fit-out in Dubai?
No. Mall approval for a shop fit-out is only one step: Civil Defence (DCD) approval is needed in every case, and some malls also need a DDA or Trakhees permit.
The short answer
The mall approves the design first, but mall approval for a shop fit-out is not enough on its own. Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) must approve the fire and life safety design for every mall shop fit-out, especially when the layout or partitions change, and carries out a final inspection before opening. Depending on the mall, an authority permit may also be needed: for example Dubai Hills Mall goes through DDA, and Nakheel malls and Atlantis through Trakhees. DEWA approval is usually not needed, except in some cases such as a load increase.
Official sites: Dubai Civil Defence · DEWA · Dubai Development Authority
Mall approval for a shop fit-out: what you need to know
- Mall first: The mall fit-out team reviews the stamped drawings.
- DCD always: Fire and life safety approval and final inspection.
- DDA or Trakhees: Where the mall sits in their area, a permit may be needed.
- DEWA: Usually not needed, except for cases like a load increase.
What to send us
- Mall unit drawings and the tenant fit-out guide
- Interior design layout and reflected ceiling plan
- Lease, offer letter or tenancy contract
- Trade licence of the tenant or brand
- Mall fit-out application forms, if already issued
Who does what
From design to opening
We confirm the exact route for your mall.
| Step | Approval route | Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Brief and mall rules You and us | The unit drawings, the mall tenant fit-out guide and the services the mall provides to the unit. | Documents for mall fit-out approval |
| MEP design and calculations Structural Solutions | HVAC, power and lighting, fire alarm, sprinklers, plumbing and drainage, with the design calculations. | MEP drawings for malls |
| Mall approval Consultant → mall | Stamped drawings submitted to the mall fit-out team for review. | Consultant stamp |
| Authority permit, where the mall needs one Consultant → DDA or Trakhees | For example Dubai Hills Mall goes to DDA; Nakheel malls and Atlantis go to Trakhees. | Authority permit |
| Civil Defence (DCD) Structural Solutions → DCD | Fire and life safety approval, needed for every mall shop fit-out, especially when the layout or partitions change. | DCD approval |
| Final inspection Mall, authority and DCD | DCD final inspection and completion before the shop opens. | Shop fit-out sign-off |
Questions
More questions about mall approval for a shop fit-out
Can I start works after mall approval?
Not before DCD and any authority approval the mall needs are in place.
Does every mall shop need DCD?
Yes, every mall shop fit-out needs DCD approval.
Who submits to DCD?
We do, as consultant.
What about signage?
Shop signage has its own approval.
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