DDA Approvals for Interior Renovation — Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

If you’re planning any kind of interior renovation in Dubai, especially in zones under the Dubai Development Authority (DDA), it is mandatory to get official approval before starting the work. The approval process ensures safety, quality, compliance with UAE building regulations, and protects homeowners from fines or project shutdowns. In 2026, the process for getting DDA approval Dubai has become more structured, involving online submissions, professional drawings, and registered contractors. Whether you’re renovating a villa, apartment, townhouse, or commercial property, understanding the approval process helps avoid delays and unnecessary complications.

What Is DDA and Why Do You Need Their Approval?

The Dubai Development Authority (DDA) oversees construction, renovation, and fit-out work across specific free zone clusters. Any modification—small or large—must follow their regulations.

Renovation works requiring Dubai interior approval:

• Wall demolitions or new partitions

• Changing flooring or tiles

• Kitchen and bathroom renovation

• Electrical rewiring

• Plumbing or drainage changes

• AC ducting modifications

• Fire safety system changes

• Moving sinks, cooktops, or appliances

• Full interior fit-out

Even cosmetic updates like flooring or ceiling changes often require a Dubai renovation permit for compliance and safety.

Areas That Require DDA Fit-Out Approval (2026 Updated)

Your property likely needs DDA approval if it is located in:

• Dubai Internet City

• Dubai Media City

• Dubai Design District (D3)

• Dubai Knowledge Park

• Dubai Studio City

• Dubai Science Park

• TECOM free zone clusters

If your property falls under these areas, all renovation documents and drawings must be submitted to DDA before starting construction.

Villa renovations under DDA zones require proper planning and compliance. Our villa renovation services ensure full approvals and execution.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get DDA Approval (2026 Process)

Below is the complete, updated 2026 flow for obtaining DDA fit out approval.

Step 1: Appoint a DDA-Approved Contractor & Designer

DDA only accepts applications from registered companies.

The contractor should provide:

• Trade license

• DDA registration

• Insurance certificates

• Engineer approvals

Tip: Always verify the contractor’s registration to avoid rejection.

Our interior fit-out services include complete DDA documentation, contractor registration, and end-to-end permit management for residential projects.

Step 2: Site Visit & Assessment

Your contractor must inspect:

• Existing layout

• Electrical system

• Plumbing points

• AC ducts & load

• Fire safety system

This inspection forms the base of the renovation drawings.

Step 3: Prepare Technical Drawings & BOQ

Your interior company must submit:

Architectural Drawings

• Proposed layout plan

• Demolition plan

• Partition plan

• Joinery plan

• Finishes plan

MEP Drawings

• Electrical layout

• Power layout

• Lighting plan

• Plumbing plan

• HVAC/AC modification layout

• Fire alarm & firefighting layout

Required BOQ Documents

• Material BOQ

• MEP BOQ

• Fit-out BOQ

Before applying for DDA approval, it’s important to understand how a proper BOQ looks. You can refer to our detailed Kitchen Renovation BOQ guide for clarity on structure and pricing.

Step 4: Upload Submission on DDA Portal

The contractor uploads:

• Drawings (CAD + PDF)

• BOQ

• NOC from building management

• Contractor license copies

• Liability documents

Step 5: DDA Review

DDA checks:

• Safety compliance

• Structural modifications

• AC capacity and load

• Electrical points

• Fire system compatibility

• Plumbing connections

• Material specifications

Timeline:

• Normal = 5–10 working days

• With revisions = 2–4 extra days

• Fast-track = 2–3 days (extra cost)

Step 6: DDA Approval Issued

Once approved, you receive:

• Fit-out Permit

• Stamped drawings

• Work commencement approval

Your contractor can now begin the renovation work.

Step 7: Fire & Safety Approval (If Needed)

Some projects need:

• Firefighting approval

• Fire alarm modifications

• Fire rate doors / gypsum partitions

This step is mandatory for many commercial projects and some large residential renovations.

Bathroom remodeling also involves plumbing, drainage, and waterproofing checks as part of the approval process. Our bathroom renovation services
ensure your bathroom upgrades meet all DDA guidelines.

Step 8: Final Inspection & Completion Certificate

After renovation:

• Inspector visits the site

• Tests MEP systems

• Confirms everything is built as per approved drawings

Once passed, the project receives Final Completion Certificate.

Common Reasons for DDA Permit Rejection

Avoid these to prevent delays:

• Wrong or incomplete drawings

• Incorrect AC load calculation

• Unregistered contractor

• Missing BOQ

• No building NOC

• Structural changes without justification

• Fire code non-compliance

Working with an experienced interior company prevents these issues entirely.

Read more: Office Fit-Out Cost in Dubai (2026 Guide) – Complete Price Breakdown & Sq Ft Rates

How Much Does DDA Approval Cost?

Government fees vary depending on scope.

Final Thoughts — Interiofy® Makes DDA Approvals Easy

Navigating DDA approval Dubai can be confusing—but you don’t need to do it alone. Interiofy® handles everything from drawings to BOQs, submissions, approvals, and final inspections.

Our team manages:

• Full drawing preparation

• MEP layouts

• Fit-out BOQ

• Online DDA submissions

• NOCs and compliance

• Final handover

We ensure your renovation starts quickly, safely, and 100% legally.