Tilal Al Ghaf interior renovation: what needs approval
Tilal Al Ghaf interior renovation: kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, false ceilings, wardrobes and layout changes all need the MAF NOC before work starts. Layout changes are major works and also need a DDA permit. We prepare the scope and drawings and handle the approvals.
The short answer
Interior works in Tilal Al Ghaf need MAF approval. Minor works such as tiling, gypsum, cabinets, wardrobes and sanitary fixtures need the MAF NOC. Major works such as room remodelling and layout changes also need a DDA permit. Fixtures can be replaced in the same place, and moved only without disturbing walls and MEP. Ceiling works need MAF and Civil Defence approval. Waterproofing is the owner's responsibility, and additional electrical load is not permitted.
Official sources: Majid Al Futtaim · Tilal Al Ghaf · Dubai Development Authority · Dubai Municipality
Interior works that need approval
- Kitchen: Fixtures and floor tiles
- Bathroom: Sanitary ware and layout
- Flooring: Timber, vinyl, tiles
- False ceiling: With Civil Defence
- Wardrobes: Built-in cupboards
- Layout: Room reconfiguration
Documents you will need
- Title deed and owner ID
- Sub-community and home type
- Plans from your handover documents (or we survey)
- Photos
- Contractor trade licence copy
- Scope of work and drawings (we prepare these)
By work
Tilal Al Ghaf interior works and approvals
From the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines.
| Work | Approval route | Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Tiling, gypsum, wardrobes, sanitary MAF NOC (minor works) | Fixtures in the same location. | — |
| Room remodelling and layouts MAF NOC → DDA permit | Major works. | Wall removal |
| False ceiling MAF + Civil Defence | No change to MEP or fire services. | — |
| Extra electrical load Not permitted | Use the existing load. | — |
How it works
How to get interior works approved
1. Photos
Send photos and your idea.
2. Check
Against the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines.
3. Drawings
Scope of work and drawings.
4. MAF NOC
Submitted in the Belong app.
5. Works
9am to 5pm, NOC posted on the door.
6. Inspection
Booked in the Belong app, deposit back.
Other questions Tilal Al Ghaf owners ask
Common reasons interior works get comments
- Fixtures moved through walls or MEP
- Fire safety services affected
- Waterproofing not tested
- Extra electrical load
Renovating inside?
Send your plan. We prepare the NOC.
Send us three things on WhatsApp:
- What you want to change
- Photos of the rooms
- Your floor plan, if you have it
We tell you whether it is minor or major work and handle the approvals.
Questions
Tilal Al Ghaf interior renovation questions
Do I need approval for interior renovation in Tilal Al Ghaf?
Yes. MAF requires permission before any modification that affects the internal or external structure of the home. Internal changes, false ceilings, wardrobes, flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and layout changes are all listed as works that need prior approval.
What interior works need approval?
Internal changes to the home or its fixtures, replacing or enhancing the false ceiling, built-in cupboards and wardrobes, floor coverings including timber and vinyl, bathroom and kitchen modifications, and reconfiguring rooms and layouts.
Can I replace my bathroom or kitchen fittings?
Yes. Sanitary ware and kitchen fixtures can be replaced in the same location. Moving them is possible without disturbing the existing walls and MEP services, subject to approval.
Can I change my kitchen floor tiles?
Yes, if the existing screed is not damaged. Waterproofing must be applied and tested before the new tiles are laid.
Who is responsible for waterproofing?
The homeowner. You must make sure the existing waterproofing stays intact and new waterproofing is applied where needed.
Can I change the false ceiling?
Yes, with approval from MAF and Dubai Civil Defence. The works must not disturb or modify the MEP or fire safety services.
Is interior work minor or major?
Tiling, gypsum, cabinets, wardrobes and sanitary fixtures are minor works: MAF NOC. Room remodelling and layout changes are major works: MAF NOC and a DDA permit.
Can I add more electrical load for new appliances?
Additional electrical load is not permitted under the guidelines. Plan new equipment on the existing load.
What about Plagette 32 apartments?
Internal modifications in Plagette 32 need the MAF NOC and the DDA permit, even minor ones, and structural elements cannot be touched.
Can my contractor start before the approvals?
No. Every home improvement in Tilal Al Ghaf needs the MAF NOC before work starts, and major works also need the DDA permit. Works carried out without approval get a penalty from Majid Al Futtaim and may have to be removed.
When can the works be done?
Between 9am and 5pm, not on weekends or public holidays. A copy of the MAF NOC must be posted on the front door or wall during the works, and your contractor needs a contractor access permit from the Belong app.
How much does a interior renovation cost in Tilal Al Ghaf?
It depends on the size and the scope. MAF charges an application fee and holds a refundable security deposit, confirmed when you apply. Send us photos and your idea, and we review and advise on our fee for the drawings and approvals.
What do you need from me to start?
Photos, your title deed, the sub-community and home type, and any plans from your handover documents. We tell you what the MAF Home Improvement Guidelines allow and what the submission needs.
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