As-Built Drawings Dubai for DM, DDA, Nakheel & Trakhees
By Eng Amjed / August 3, 2025
As-Built Drawings Dubai are a critical requirement for obtaining approvals from Dubai authorities such as Dubai Municipality (DM), Dubai Development Authority (DDA), Nakheel, and Trakhees. These drawings document the final built condition of a project, reflecting every change made during construction. Whether you are a villa owner applying for retrospective approvals or a contractor closing a permit, properly prepared as-built drawings ensure compliance and prevent costly delays. In this guide, we cover requirements, tips, and common pitfalls for smooth as-built submissions across Dubai’s key authorities.
Table of Contents
What Are As-Built Drawings and Why Are They Important?
As-built drawings are updated plans that represent the actual construction of a property, including any modifications made during execution.
Why they matter:
- Regulatory compliance – Mandatory for DM, DDA, Nakheel & Trakhees approvals.
- Permit closure – Required for final inspections and completion certificates.
- Future planning – Essential for maintenance, resale, or additional modifications.
- Legal protection – Prove what was actually built in case of disputes.
As-Built Drawings Dubai Requirements by Authority
1. Dubai Municipality (DM)
- Required for villa extensions, wall removals, and renovations.
- Must include architectural and structural changes.
- Submissions need to be prepared and stamped by a licensed consultant.
2. Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
- Mandatory for fit-outs and interior modifications in free zone areas.
- Must comply with DDA’s drawing standards and include MEP changes.
3. Nakheel Communities
- Covers Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Park, and other master developments.
- Required for landscaping, pergolas, shaded structures, and villa modifications.
- Needed for retrospective NOCs if modifications were done without prior approvals.
4. Trakhees
- Applies to industrial, free zone, and custom-built projects.
- Must align with Trakhees’ Grey Code (structural and architectural guidelines).
- Submissions require detailed CAD plans and consultant endorsement.
Comparison Table – Authority Requirements
| Authority | Scope | Focus | Common Submissions |
|---|---|---|---|
| DM | Villas, apartments | Architectural & structural | Wall removals, extensions |
| DDA | Free zones, design district | Fit-outs & MEP modifications | Interior layouts, fit-out plans |
| Nakheel | Master communities | Community design guidelines | Pergolas, villa modifications |
| Trakhees | Free zone & custom projects | Grey Code & structural design | Industrial & commercial changes |
7 Tips for Successful As-Built Drawing Submissions
- Engage a Licensed Consultant – Submissions must be stamped by an authorized architect or engineer.
- Follow Authority Templates – Each authority has its own CAD standards and formats.
- Document All Changes – Even minor changes must be reflected in the drawings.
- Coordinate with Contractors – Verify site conditions before finalizing as-builts.
- Attach Supporting Documentation – Structural reports, NOCs, and site photos strengthen submissions.
- Plan for Retrospective Approvals – If modifications were done without permits, include justifications.
- Double-Check Before Submission – Authorities often reject incomplete or inaccurate drawings.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
- Submitting design drawings instead of actual as-builts.
- Ignoring structural changes such as removed or added walls.
- Not using updated CAD standards required by authorities.
- Submitting unstamped or unsigned drawings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are as-built drawings required for minor modifications?
A: Yes. Even small changes, like adding a pergola or removing a partition, require updated as-built drawings for approval.
Q2: How long does the as-built approval process take?
A: On average, 1–3 weeks depending on the authority and completeness of the submission.
Q3: Can I prepare as-built drawings myself?
A: No. Only licensed consultants can prepare and stamp these drawings for authority submissions.
Q4: What is the difference between design drawings and as-built drawings?
A: Design drawings show the planned structure as-built drawings reflect the actual completed construction.
Q5: Why hire Structural Solutions for as-built drawings?
A: We ensure compliance with DM, DDA, Nakheel, and Trakhees guidelines, reducing approval delays and avoiding rejections.
Final Call to Action
if you need expert assistance with civil engineering, structural design, or building permit approvals in Dubai, the team at Structural Solutions is ready to help. Contact us on WhatsApp or email us at: info@structuralsolutions.ae We’ll ensure your project meets all Dubai Municipality standards with precision and professionalism.