DDA — Dubai Development Authority logo

DDA runs a structured, portal-based process: a Fit-Out Permit to start works, followed by a Fit-Out Completion Certificate once works are finished. The permit is valid for six months from issuance — if your works run longer, a straightforward renewal is available. Any structural change, use change, or increase in gross floor area during the fit-out requires a separate Building Modification application, and fit-out fees already paid are not refunded if your project gets reclassified this way.

Application procedure

  1. Create a Fit-Out project. Log in to the DDA Zoning e-Services portal and create a new project under "Fit-Out".
  2. Submit the Fit-Out Permit application. Complete the application form and upload the required documents and drawings.
  3. Pay applicable fees. Submit payment; you'll receive an acknowledgment of your application.
  4. Receive DDA feedback. DDA typically responds within 2 working days if the submission is compliant.
  5. Permit issued. The Fit-Out Permit is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
  6. Complete fit-out works. Carry out the approved works on site.
  7. Obtain Dubai Civil Defence completion certificate. DCD sign-off is required before DDA will issue its own completion certificate.
  8. Apply for Fit-Out Completion Certificate. Submit the completion application with supporting documents; DDA responds within 2 working days.

Documents required

  • Fit-Out Permit Request form
  • Contractor Appointment Letter issued by the tenant
  • Copy of Ejari (tenancy contract registration)
  • NOC from the building owner/landlord
  • NOCs per DDA's Fit-Out NOC Matrix (varies by scope)
  • Approved and proposed fit-out drawings per DDA Circular No. 400 drawing standards
  • For completion: tenant's trade licence for the unit and the Dubai Civil Defence Completion Certificate

Fees & payments

DDA publishes its fit-out fee schedule: the Fit-Out Permit costs AED 0.90 per sq ft (minimum AED 200, maximum AED 10,000), plus a AED 10 Knowledge Dirham and AED 10 Innovation Dirham per transaction. Renewal is a flat AED 200 (covers up to 3 months, within 1 year of original issuance) plus the same dirham fees. The Fit-Out Completion Certificate carries no fee.

Note: Fees are set by DDA and may be updated — verify the current schedule on the Zoning e-Services portal before submitting.

How SMB Design & Build helps

Our approvals team is in-house — the same people preparing your design and MEP drawings submit and follow up directly with DDA — Dubai Development Authority. We manage this alongside every other authority your project touches, so nothing falls between two consultants. See the full Authority Approval overview, or read our complete approvals guide for how these authorities interact on a typical project.

Official resource: DDA — Fit-Out Permit