Abu Dhabi streamlines construction procedures with digital approvals and clearer accountability

Urban Planning and Permits Centre (UPPC) at the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has issued Circular No. 9 of 2026 to streamline construction procedures and clarify the roles and responsibilities of supervision consultants and contractors across all stages of building projects.

The circular applies to new and ongoing construction projects in Abu Dhabi, covering structural, architectural and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works, alongside other scopes specified by the building control authority.

Eng. Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre, said, “Clear responsibilities and efficient procedures are essential to ensuring that construction projects across Abu Dhabi progress smoothly while meeting established quality and safety standards. Through this circular, we are strengthening accountability among supervision consultants and contractors while simplifying documentation and approval requirements at key stages of construction.”

Under the circular, supervision consultants must monitor construction works for compliance with approved drawings, technical specifications and building codes, while contractors must systematically document work throughout execution. Both parties share liability for non-compliance, defects and non-conforming works within their respective legal responsibilities.

Contractors must notify supervision consultants before major construction phases begin. Once a phase is completed, both parties must sign a certified technical report detailing the work undertaken, inspection results and corrective actions. The consultant must then submit the report through the Unified Permitting System.

The Centre will accept certified technical reports submitted digitally in place of traditional phase closure permits for designated project categories, helping accelerate construction workflows. However, mandatory physical inspections and external clearances, including those required by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, remain in place where applicable.

The circular also requires photographic evidence and visual technical reports to verify compliance with approved plans. UPPC will continue conducting unannounced site inspections to assess construction quality and verify submitted reports.

Consultants and contractors remain responsible for meeting their statutory obligations, with violations subject to applicable enforcement actions, fines and legal penalties.

UPPC has called on developers, consultancy firms and contractors to review the circular and ensure compliance, supporting more efficient project delivery while maintaining construction quality and safety standards across Abu Dhabi.

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