What Is an Architecture of Record in Dubai
What Is an Architecture of Record in Dubai Introduction What Is an Architecture of Record in Dubai? If you’re planning a construction project in Dubai — whether it’s a villa extension, a commercial fit-out, or a new development — you’ll likely come across the term “Architecture of Record” (AOR). But what exactly is an AOR?Is it mandatory for your project?Can you work with a freelance architect or do you need a licensed consultancy? In this comprehensive guide, we break down what an AOR is, what they do, when you need one, and how Structural Solutions helps you move forward — whether or not you require a formal AOR. What Is an Architecture of Record (AOR)? An Architecture of Record (AOR) is a Dubai-licensed architectural consultancy responsible for submitting, signing, and taking legal accountability for architectural works in a construction project. The AOR must: The AOR is legally recognized by Dubai authorities as the party in charge of architectural design and regulatory conformity. When Is an Architecture of Record in Dubai Required? You need an AOR if your project involves architectural works that require government permits, such as: Project Type AOR Required? New villa or building construction ✅ Yes Villa extension (room or level) ✅ Yes Façade modifications ✅ Yes Internal layout changes (commercial units) ✅ Usually Minor structural-only work (e.g., slab check) ❌ Not always Pergola/canopy in villa garden ❌ Not required if structural only Fit-out without architectural layout change ❌ Usually not If your scope changes anything in the built form, affects floor area, or modifies external elevations, you’ll need an AOR to lead and sign off on the architectural submission. What Are the Responsibilities of an AOR? An Architecture of Record (AOR) is responsible for much more than drawing walls and windows. Here’s what they actually do: ✅ 1. Authority Coordination & Submissions The AOR acts as the liaison with: They prepare and submit drawings via online portals, including: ✅ 2. Code Compliance The AOR must ensure: ✅ 3. Design Review & StampingAll final architectural drawings must be: ✅ 4. Interface with Structural, MEP, and Fire Consultants The AOR coordinates with: ✅ 5. Legal Responsibility The AOR bears legal accountability for the submitted architectural design — if a violation, error, or accident occurs due to architectural non-compliance, the AOR is liable. AOR vs. Freelance Architect – What’s the Difference? Role Freelance Architect Architecture of Record (AOR) License Required ❌ Not mandatory ✅ Must be a registered firm Can Submit to Authority ❌ No ✅ Yes Can Stamp Drawings ❌ No ✅ Yes Handles Compliance ⚠️ Informal only ✅ Mandatory responsibility Cost 💰 Lower 💰💰 Medium to high Ideal For Concept design, sketches Permit-ready drawings, approvals If you only need ideas, sketches, or conceptual layouts — a freelance architect may be fine.If you need to get a permit, you’ll need an AOR. How Structural Solutions Supports AOR Services At Structural Solutions, we help clients in two ways: 1. Structural-Only Services If your project is minor and doesn’t involve layout/floor area changes, we offer: 2. Full AOR Services via Licensed Partner For architectural submissions, we partner with Nirvana AEC, a licensed consultancy in Dubai. They act as the AOR for: We coordinate: Common Projects That Require an AOR Villa Extension Façade Modification Commercial Fit-Out New Construction Developers That Require AOR Submissions Developer Requires AOR for Permits? Nakheel ✅ Yes EMAAR ✅ Yes DAMAC ✅ Yes Meydan Sobha ✅ Yes Dubai Properties ✅ Yes Meraas ✅ Yes Most developer communities route permit requests through Dubai authorities, but they still require that the drawings and applications be stamped and submitted by a licensed AOR. FAQs Conclusion The Architecture of Record (AOR) is essential to any approved construction project in Dubai — from a villa upgrade to a new building. If you’re: Let Structural Solutions and our licensed AOR partner guide your project to approval — quickly, compliantly, and cost-effectively. 📩 Need an AOR or structural calculation support?Get in touch now for a free quote. 🌐 www.structuralsolutions.ae📧 info@structuralsolutions.ae📞 Call or WhatsApp today Architectural compliance — made simple.