A clearer starting point.
Answers to common questions about engineering, approvals and getting your project started in Dubai.
Planning your project
What information is useful for an initial enquiry?
Start with the location, property type and a short description of the proposed work. Include your budget range, any target dates and the drawings or approval records already available. These help establish the scope before a formal submission checklist is prepared.
When should engineering and approval requirements be considered?
At the planning stage, while the layout, budget and property decisions are still being developed. An early review can identify site constraints and the technical or approval work that needs to be allowed for.
How do design and engineering services work together?
Architecture and interiors shape the space; engineering develops the technical design and coordinates the relevant drawings and approvals. Gravity Design Studio is the design practice within Gravity Engineering. Explore the Design Studio or view engineering services.
What determines the scope, fee and timeline?
The property, proposed work, available information and level of support required. A proposal should identify the consultancy services, deliverables and programme assumptions, with authority, developer and third-party charges distinguished from the consultancy fee.
Authority approvals
How is the approval route for a property identified?
Start with the plot or unit reference and existing approval records, then check the proposed work. A building authority, developer, utility and specialist authority can each have a role. The authority directory explains their different responsibilities.
What does an Architect of Record do?
The appointed consultancy takes responsibility for the design and submission work defined in its appointment. The required applicant and responsibilities depend on the service and project. Explore authority approvals and Architect of Record support.
What affects the time needed for an approval?
Preparation, supporting permissions and responses to review comments all contribute to the overall programme. The processing period on an official service card relates to that application, rather than the complete project. Read about approval timelines.
Is a developer NOC the same as an authority permit?
No. A no-objection certificate addresses the issuer’s property or community requirements. The relevant authority permit addresses the work within its remit. Check the requirements and sequence for each application; one does not automatically replace the other.
Homes, alterations and pools
Do villa alterations follow the same approval route as a new build?
Maintenance, internal changes and extensions can fall under different services. The proposed scope and the authority responsible for the plot determine the application. Explore villa renovation and extension engineering.
What determines whether a villa can be extended?
The plot’s planning controls, existing approved building, structural condition and applicable developer requirements. These should be reviewed against the proposed extension before committing to a design or construction programme.
What needs to be considered when adding a pool to an existing villa?
The available space, ground and structural conditions, pool equipment and connections to the villa’s services. The technical approval and any developer permission should be confirmed for the property. Explore swimming pool design and approvals.
How are apartment alterations and interior design coordinated?
The proposed layout needs to be considered alongside the existing structure, services and building-management requirements. The design and engineering teams can develop the drawings together and identify the relevant permissions. Explore residential projects.
Have a question about your project?
Tell us where it is and what you have in mind. We’ll help you find the next step.