In Dubai, most interior modification works need some approval before work starts. In practice this usually means a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your landlord or building management, followed by a permit from the authority that covers your location.
Last updated: 28 October 2026
The usual order of approvals
- A landlord or building management NOC
- Drawings prepared for the works
- A fit-out or modification permit from the relevant authority
- Civil Defence and DEWA review where fire safety or utilities are affected
- Works, inspection and completion steps
Works that commonly need approval
- Partitions and suspended ceilings
- Flooring changes
- Electrical, air-conditioning and plumbing changes
- Kitchen layouts in food premises
- Changes to fire alarm or firefighting systems
Dubai Municipality has described unauthorised changes to building units as a violation that can attract penalties, so approvals come first.
Minor works
Not every small job needs a permit. The Dubai Development Authority, for example, has listed minor works such as internal painting, furniture replacement and flooring replacement with no structural effect as needing landlord permission rather than a DDA fit-out permit. Other authorities may differ and rules change, so confirm before you start.
How to get started
Gather your unit address, tenancy details, landlord requirements and a description of the works, then use our fit-out approval page and checker to see which approvals are typically involved. Contact us and we will confirm the route for your project.
Sources and notes
Based on: Dubai Development Authority fit-out permit service page and the Gulf News report on the Dubai Municipality self-decor permit. Authority rules and fees change, so confirm current requirements before you start works.