Does a shop in a Dubai mall need DEWA approval?
Usually not. DEWA approval for a mall shop is needed only in some cases, depending on the mall, the area and whether the electrical load increases.
The short answer
In most mall shop fit-outs, power comes from the mall distribution and the mall manages the connection, so separate DEWA approval for a mall shop is usually not needed. It can be needed in some cases, depending on the mall and the area, for example when the shop needs a load increase beyond what the unit was given. Our electrical design includes the load calculation, so we can tell you early whether DEWA is involved. Civil Defence (DCD) approval is needed in every case.
Official sites: Dubai Civil Defence · DEWA · Dubai Development Authority
DEWA approval for a mall shop: what you need to know
- Mall supply: Most mall shops are supplied through the mall distribution.
- Load increase: A higher load than allocated can involve DEWA.
- Load calculation: Part of our electrical design.
- DCD: Needed for every mall shop fit-out.
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 DEWA approval for a mall shop
How do I know if I need DEWA?
The load calculation in the electrical design shows whether the allocated load is enough.
Does a restaurant in a mall need DEWA?
Restaurants more often need a load increase; we check it in the design.
Who applies to DEWA if needed?
We prepare the electrical drawings and guide the application.
Is DCD needed?
Yes, in every case.
Related guides