You might assume that adding a mezzanine floor inside your facility is a simple internal modification. However, in Dubai, the reality is different. Every additional square meter is subject to rigorous engineering review and official clearance before it can become a reality.
Obtaining a Mezzanine approval is not just about designing a split-level floor; it relies on compliance with structural and fire safety requirements, load-bearing capacity, and the submission of accurate documentation to competent authorities like Dubai Municipality and Civil Defence.
In this article, we will define the mezzanine definition as a licensed structure, explain why this approval is mandatory, detail the required documents, list the responsible government entities, cover the essential engineering requirements, outline the application steps, and highlight common mistakesand how to avoid them to ensure your project gets approved on the first submission.
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Table of Contents
What is Mezzanine Approval in Dubai?
A Mezzanine Approval is the official license granted by regulatory bodies, such as Dubai Municipality, to add a split-level floor (whose area is typically one-third of the existing floor area or less) within an established building, such as a warehouse or residential structure.
The process of securing Mezzanine floor approvals in Dubai requires appointing an accredited contractor to prepare all necessary legal and engineering documents for submission to the relevant authority for final clearance.
This added-floor permit guarantees full adherence to the Dubai Building Code and the fire safety solutions mandated by the competent authorities, ensuring the addition has proper Structural stability for mezzanine extensions and is fully compliant with UAE law.
Why is a Mezzanine License Mandatory in Dubai?
A mezzanine license is compulsory in the Emirate of Dubai because it ensures the safety of its occupants by complying with building requirements (ensuring the added floor does not compromise the existing structure) and fire safety regulations (such as installing a suitable fire suppression system).
A licensed mezzanine also protects the owner from potential fines resulting from unauthorized modifications and ensures the optimal, legally compliant use of the added space.
Here is a list outlining the importance of obtaining approval for a mezzanine floor in Dubai:
Legal Compliance: Approved mezzanines guarantee adherence to the Dubai Building Code and confirm the structure’s capacity to handle new loads (i.e., the proper support for the mezzanine’s foundations and base).
Fire Fighting Requirements: A licensed mezzanine must provide an appropriate fire alarm system and sprinkler systems tailored to the mezzanine’s intended use.
Protecting Owner and Tenant Rights: The permit confirms the legality of utilizing the added space and facilitates future operational approvals or licenses, such as obtaining Dubai Municipality approval for opening an office.
Steps to Obtain a Mezzanine License in Dubai
The process of securing a mezzanine approval starts by reviewing the regulatory standards to confirm that the proposed design is compliant with the Dubai Building Code and the permissible load requirements (a minimum of Mezzanine load 5 kN/m² requirement for live loads).
Next, you must contract with an accredited consultant, such as DAEM CONTRACTING, to prepare the required documents, including architectural drawings and structural calculations.
This consultant will then submit the mezzanine license application electronically via the official portal of the responsible authority, such as Dubai Municipality, which reviews the documents and grants initial approval, allowing the on-site construction of the mezzanine to commence.
Upon completion of the construction work, a technical review request is submitted. After passing this inspection, the final approval is granted, enabling the mezzanine to operate legally.
Here is a summary of the steps to obtain mezzanine approval:
Verify Regulatory Requirements: Check the applicable regulations for mezzanine floors within the Dubai Building Code and their feasibility (mezzanine height must be no less than $2.2\text{ m}$).
Appoint an Approved Consultant: To correctly prepare all required legal and engineering documents, such as a load calculation report, in compliance with the Dubai Building Code requirements.
Prepare Engineering Drawings: The consultant prepares the architectural, electromechanical, and structural documents, specifying the finishing materials to be used. This involves securing the Mezzanine architectural drawings approval.
Submit the Application: The consultant submits the initial license request electronically through the entity regulating the property’s location.
Execution of Works: The initial permit legally allows the construction of the mezzanine to begin on site, according to the submitted drawings.
Inspection and Issuance of Completion Certificate: Upon completion of all construction works, the regulatory body inspects the site and issues the final Completion Certificate.
Documents Required to Obtain Approval for Adding a Mezzanine Floor in Dubai
The required documents for obtaining a mezzanine license in Dubai include the following:
A copy of the facility owner’s trade license.
The Ejari-registered tenancy contract or the title deed.
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the building owner for the mezzanine addition.
A site plan for the proposed mezzanine within the building.
Architectural and structural drawings detailing the construction, such as foundations and the structure.
Load calculation report to ensure the mezzanine can withstand the intended use (industrial-residential).
Fire safety drawings approved by Civil Defence showing the alarm and suppression systems used.
An appointment letter for the contracting company and the engineering consultant from the owner or tenant.
A No Objection Certificate from service authorities like DEWA if the plan affects the building’s electricity or water systems.
Authorities Granting Licenses for Mezzanine Floors in Dubai
The entities involved in the process of approving a mezzanine floor addition in Dubai include the Civil Defence and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), in addition to government bodies like Dubai Municipality or DDA, depending on the facility’s location.
Here is a list of some government entities whose approval is required based on the property’s location:
Mezzanine in Dubai Municipality areas (e.g., Downtown) ➔ DM Approval.
Mezzanine location in DDA areas (e.g., Dubai Design District) ➔ DDA Approval.
Mezzanine in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area ➔ CONCORDIA Approval.
Engineering Requirements for Mezzanine Approval
The essential engineering requirements for obtaining the Mezzanine Permit involve proving the intermediate floor’s capacity to handle operational loads of no less than 5 kN/m².
This must be supported by a structural analysis signed by a certified engineer, which confirms the adequacy of the existing columns and foundations to accommodate the new added loads.
Furthermore, the engineering stipulations mandate specific minimum mezzanine heights (no less than 2.2m, the updating of Electromechanical (MEP) drawings to ensure appropriate ventilation and lighting for the mezzanine location, and the provision of safe exit routes to mitigate fire hazards.
Below is a list of some of the critical engineering requirements necessary for the certification of a mezzanine floor:
Operational Load Value: The minimum operational load value for the added floor must be 5 kN/m² .
Minimum Height: The minimum clearance height beneath and above the mezzanine must be 2.2m.
Fire Safety Systems: Provision of advanced fire-fighting systems, such as fire addressable systems, and adequate evacuation routes.
Updated MEP Drawings: Submission of revised MEP drawings that incorporate all the new modifications.
Common Mistakes When Applying for Mezzanine Approval and How to Avoid Them
The most common mistakes when applying for mezzanine approval involve submitting incomplete documents or files that do not comply with the Dubai Building Code, such as failing to adhere to the required heights.
Furthermore, the absence of Civil Defence approval for fire safety plans or the selection of an unaccredited contractor may lead to delays or even rejection of the mezzanine approval.
Here are the key errors in applying for a mezzanine license and how to avoid them:
| Common Mistake (❌) | How to Avoid (✔️) |
| ❌ Missing documents or files that do not comply with the Building Code requirements. | ✔️ Prepare a pre-submission checklist, ensure all architectural and structural documents are complete, and have them reviewed by an accredited engineer. |
| ❌ Failure to meet structural requirements, such as mandated heights or design loads. | ✔️ Conduct a precise structural analysis beforehand to ensure the design complies with the minimum loads and heights specified in the Dubai Building Code. |
| ❌ Absence of Civil Defence approval. | ✔️ Prepare fire-fighting plans signed by a licensed engineer and upload them via the Civil Defence electronic portal. |
| ❌ Appointing an unlicensed contractor. | ✔️ Ensure that the contractor and consultant are registered with the regulating body, such as Dubai Municipality or DDA. |
| ❌ Failure to verify the regulating authority for the property’s location. | ✔️ Identify the responsible authority for the area (e.g., JAFZA or Emaar) and adhere to their specific requirements from the project’s inception. |
The Mezzanine License: A Small Step That Transforms Your Workspace
Understanding the requirements for Mezzanine Approval in Dubai is the crucial step that differentiates a successful, legally compliant addition from a project hampered by violations or missing documentation.
This approval is not merely an administrative procedure; it is a guarantee of structural integrity, efficient evacuation, fire-fighting system readiness, and protection for the owner against fines or delays. With multiple authorities involved, such as Dubai Municipality, DDA, and Civil Defence, partnering with an approved contractor is essential to ensure the correct submission of documents and to pass the reviews on the first attempt.
Discover how DAEM Contracting LLC can accelerate your project clearance through precise procedures and $100\%$ compliant execution.
Contact DAEM today for reliable Mezzanine approval services in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1- What Safety Standards Define the Fire Fighting System Requirements for Mezzanine Floors in Dubai?
2- WHAT IS Engineering Requirements for Mezzanine Approval in Dubai?
3-Importance of Store Mezzanine Floor Approval in Dubai
store mezzanine floor approval in Dubai is crucial to ensure structural safety, compliance with building codes, and adherence to fire safety regulations.
It guarantees that the mezzanine can safely support its intended load while maintaining functional and aesthetic standards for retail spaces. Additionally, having an approved mezzanine enhances property value and is required for obtaining or renewing the business license.
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