Who approves MEP changes in a mall shop in Dubai?
MEP changes in a mall shop are approved by the mall, then by Civil Defence (DCD) for fire safety, and by DDA or Trakhees where the mall needs an authority permit.
The short answer
When a shop changes its AC, lighting, power, fire alarm or sprinklers, the MEP changes in a mall shop need stamped drawings. The mall fit-out team reviews them first. Civil Defence (DCD) approves the fire and life safety changes in every case, especially when partitions or ceilings move. Where the mall is under DDA or Trakhees, an authority permit may also be needed. DEWA is involved only in some cases, such as a load increase. Structural Solutions prepares, stamps and submits the drawings.
Official sites: Dubai Civil Defence · DEWA · Dubai Development Authority
MEP changes in a mall shop: what you need to know
- AC changes: Must suit the mall supply and the cooling load.
- Lighting and power: Load schedule and distribution board updated.
- Fire alarm and sprinklers: Moved to suit the new ceiling, approved by DCD.
- Partitions: Any layout change needs DCD approval.
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 MEP changes in a mall shop
Do small MEP changes need approval?
Yes. Changes to fire alarm, sprinklers or layout always need DCD approval.
Can the contractor submit directly?
Drawings need a consultant stamp; we submit them.
Is DEWA needed?
Usually not, except in cases such as a load increase.
Do I need as-built drawings after?
The mall usually asks for as-built drawings at handover.
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