Dubai Municipality has issued formal warnings to several engineering consultancy offices after uncovering inflated structural designs for citizens’ villas. These violations, which go against the Dubai Building Code, have led to unnecessary increases in construction costs and prompted a renewed push by authorities to enforce compliance, ensure cost-efficiency, and protect stakeholders across the emirate’s construction sector.
Warnings issued over code violations in villa designs
On August 26, 2025, Dubai Municipality confirmed that it has officially warned a number of engineering consultancy offices found to be engaging in professional practices involving exaggerated structural designs for citizens’ villas. These practices resulted in unjustified cost escalations without any engineering justification, directly violating the Dubai Building Code. This enforcement move aligns with the Municipality’s broader commitment to regulate Dubai’s construction sector and reinforce adherence to approved engineering standards. The violations were detected during ongoing monitoring efforts and follow earlier circulars sent to all engineering consultancy offices in the emirate, reminding them of their obligation to comply with the code and avoid inflating structural elements.“Compliance with the Dubai Building Code is a professional and ethical responsibility before being a regulatory obligation. Its objective is to strike a balance between construction quality and reduced costs,” said Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Buildings Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality.She added that the Municipality remains vigilant in monitoring consultancy offices and contractors to ensure compliance with approved practices, particularly concerning the use of construction materials such as steel, and to prevent property owners from incurring unjustified expenses.“This ensures structural efficiency, reduces expenses without compromising safety and quality, and applies best practices to guarantee a safe and sustainable construction environment,” Al Muhairi emphasized. Dubai Municipality also stated that repeat violations will impact the annual evaluation of engineering offices, with potential disciplinary actions taken in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations. Earlier in 2025, the Municipality had already suspended two engineering consultancy offices and barred them from licensing new projects for six months, after identifying professional misconduct that breached engineering regulations and professional ethics. These actions were deemed harmful to both property owners and developers. Through these steps, the Municipality aims to strengthen adherence to regulatory frameworks, enhance the competitiveness of the construction sector, and reduce unnecessary costs, all while promoting a sustainable urban development model in line with Dubai’s strategic goals.
Dubai Building Code – framework, purpose, and compliance
At the core of this enforcement drive is the Dubai Building Code (DBC), a unified framework introduced in 2021 to consolidate and streamline over 60 previously separate construction regulations into one coherent, accessible system. The DBC was developed by the Dubai Building Code Committee, in collaboration with leading international engineering and planning firms, and serves as a cornerstone in Dubai’s urban planning under Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The code outlines minimum mandatory requirements in several key areas:
- Health, safety, welfare, and convenience of building occupants and those nearby
- Design practices that minimize environmental impact
- Standards promoting sustainability in building development
The DBC covers a wide scope through dedicated sections for general regulations, structure, architecture, utilities, accessibility, indoor environment, transportation, and more. It draws from globally recognized standards including the International Building Code (IBC), ASHRAE, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), while being customized to suit the UAE’s climate and regulatory landscape. Importantly, the DBC permits alternative design solutions where justified, ensuring flexibility without compromising compliance. The DBC applies to all key players in Dubai’s built environment, including:
- Architects and master planners
- Developers and real estate entities
- Engineering and sustainability consultants
- Contractors and facilities management companies
- Public sector and infrastructure stakeholders
These stakeholders are expected to adhere strictly to the code, balancing construction quality with cost efficiency, and contributing to Dubai’s vision of sustainable, high-quality urban development.
Dubai Municipality – roles, oversight, and city-building mandate
Established in 1954 by His Highness Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Municipality is the oldest government entity in the emirate and plays a central role in shaping the city’s daily life and long-term growth. Dubai Municipality operates through 2 sectors, 4 agencies, and 37 departments, overseeing more than 800 daily operations and delivering over 150 services. Its areas of influence span urban development, infrastructure management, public health, and environmental sustainability. Among its many responsibilities, the Municipality is charged with:
- Urban Planning and Related Legislation
- Developing policies for the emirate’s building and construction sector, and ensuring their implementation.
- Managing geographic information systems and solutions.
- Establishing, maintaining, and managing markets, slaughterhouses, public parks, public beaches, and recreational facilities.
- Managing, preserving, and sustaining urban heritage.
- Promoting and developing green spaces, and beautifying the city.
- Managing the wastewater and irrigation systems, including sewage networks, stations, and treatment plants.
- Implementing integrated waste management.
- Monitoring activities related to public health within the emirate.
- Monitoring food-related activities to ensure food safety.
Dubai Municipality’s overarching goal is to make the emirate more sustainable, liveable, and efficient, aligning with the leadership’s vision to place Dubai at the forefront of urban innovation and global competitiveness.