MEP design for a small boutique in a Dubai mall (up to 100 m²)
MEP design for a small boutique in a Dubai mall still needs HVAC, lighting and power, fire alarm and sprinkler drawings with calculations, approved by the mall and Civil Defence.
The short answer
Small boutiques of up to around 100 m² follow the same approval route as larger shops: MEP drawings and calculations to the mall tenant guide, the mall fit-out approval, Civil Defence (DCD) approval, and an authority permit where the mall needs one. The design is usually simpler: the AC connects to the mall supply, lighting and power follow the display layout, and fire alarm and sprinklers are adjusted to the new ceiling and partitions. Structural Solutions prepares and stamps the design and handles the submissions.
Official sites: Dubai Civil Defence · DEWA · Dubai Development Authority
MEP design for a small boutique: what you need to know
- Display lighting: Often the largest electrical load in a boutique.
- Partitions and ceilings: Any change needs DCD approval.
- AC: Connected to the mall chilled water or AC supply.
- Fitting rooms: Need ventilation, lighting and fire alarm coverage.
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 design for a small boutique
Does a small boutique need DCD approval?
Yes, every mall shop fit-out needs DCD approval.
Is DEWA approval needed?
Usually not, unless the case or area requires it, for example a load increase.
Do you prepare the BOQ?
No. We prepare the MEP design and calculations only.
Can you design several boutiques?
Yes; each is adapted to its mall tenant guide.
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