Dubai Municipality's AI System to Approve Villa Permits in Minutes

Dubai Municipality is developing an artificial intelligence-powered system that will issue building permits for private and investment villas in minutes by automatically reviewing applications and determining whether they comply with technical requirements.

The system will initially be used for permit applications submitted by engineering consultancy firms across Dubai for all private and investment villas. It will analyse architectural drawings and supporting documents, verify compliance with the Dubai Building Code, and make permit decisions without human intervention.

According to the municipality, the AI will assess plot planning requirements, architectural designs, structural safety, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. It will also cross-check information across submitted documents, generate building card information automatically, and allow applicants to carry out compliance checks before submitting their applications. Where revisions are needed, the system will provide guidance on the required changes.

The rollout will take place over 26 weeks in three phases. The first phase will focus on developing and testing the AI system across multiple engineering disciplines, followed by a pilot with selected engineering consultancy firms. The final phase will expand the service to all eligible villa permit applications and integrate it with the Build in Dubai platform.