Government of Ras Al Khaimah Ras Al Khaimah Municipality

3. The setback between specialized or public buildings or those which

have not been mentioned in this regulation, and between the plot edge
from all directions shall not be less than (3.00) m unless otherwise
specified by the planning requirements issued by the concerned
department.
4. The internal setback between any two main buildings shall be at least
(3.00) m.
5. Except for permitted projections according to Article (22) and Clause
(6-11) of Article (6) of this Regulation and the Articles which permitted
projections, and in accordance with the planning requirements, it is not
permitted to construct any aesthetic or utilized projections in the
setbacks.
6. The minimum setback for all buildings, regardless its heights, from the
cemetery side shall be at least (5.00) m.
7. When applying setbacks from the neighbors, routs, open areas and
streets, the structural design (Structural elements) and the different
service lines shall be considered.
8. The setbacks must be adhered to unless otherwise it contradicts with the
planning requirements of the Planning and Survey Department and the
classification and regulation of land use in the Emirate.

Article (23): Balconies and Projections.

1. It is permitted to construct a balcony along the whole or part of the
facade of the building which is built on the boundary of the plot
overlooking a road as per the following conditions:
a. The balcony shall be on the first floor and above.
b. The minimum net height of the balcony from the level of the paved
street curbstone shall be at least (3.00) m.
Taking into consideration that a balcony shall not project on a rout
or street which is less than (7.50) m wide. Also it is not permitted to
project within the minimum limits of the light wells, courtyards and
setbacks.
Also it is not permitted to construct structural projections for
retaining walls and foundations of buildings and fences outside the
boundaries of the plot
2. It is permitted to enclose and add projecting balconies from the limits
of the plot to the internal area of the building, according to the following
conditions:
a. The street width shall be at least (7.5) m.
b. The projections shall be on the first floor and above.
c. It is permitted to build projections according to the building
requirements issued by the Planning and Survey Department,

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however, if projections are not indicated, it is allowed to project

(1.50) m on the facades provided that the projection shall be on the
first floor and above, and not to exceed the required setback.
3. It is permitted to construct an aesthetic unutilized projection according
to the following conditions:
a. It is permitted to build an aesthetic unutilized projection of (0.30) m.
b. It is permitted to build an aesthetic unutilized projection with
maximum (0.20) m inside the courtyards and light wells which have
minimum dimensions of (4.60×4.60) sq. m.
c. It is permitted to construct an aesthetic unutilized projection within
arcades as per Article (36) of this Regulation.
d. It is permitted to build an aesthetic unutilized projection with
maximum (0.10) m for fences outside the plot.

Article (24): Pergolas

1. It is permitted to build pergolas around the buildings in the vacant areas
of the plot and in the setbacks given that the cut off percentage shall be
at least (50%) of the total area of the pergola and the height not to
exceed (3.00) m.
2. It is permitted to build pergolas to cover swimming pools on the roof,
provided that their setback shall be at least (1.50) m from the building
boundary and its projection shall not exceed (1.50) m from the pool
edge, and its height shall not exceed (3.00) m above the pool level.

Article (25): Basement Floor (Underground)

The general conditions for building a basement floor are as follows:

1. The minimum net height of the basement shall be at least (2.50) m
without adding the height of the service space.
2. It is permitted to build the basement on the whole plot area, except in
the case of residential plots and investment villas, it is permitted to build
as much as the ground floor area only.
3. The basement area shall not be included within the authorized Building
Coverage Percentage (BCP).
4. The basement floor shall not be used for residential purposes, offices or
commercial uses. Also the basement floor shall not be used separately

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from the main building, and its use shall be restricted to the following
purposes only:
a. Parking lots and services for the building (electricity and
communications room, water tanks, pumps and etc.).
b. Residents services (laundry room, clothes drying, swimming pool,
health club and its related services, children's playgrounds and
sports, etc.).
5. Provide lighting and ventilation in the basement floor according to the
requirements in Articles (26 & 27 & 28) of this regulation.
6. It is not permitted to project any part of the basement floor or its
foundations outside the boundaries of the plot.
7. When making excavation shoring, it is not permitted to use the
neighbor land unless after obtaining a written consent of the owner
(neighbor), also it shall not project outside the boundaries of the plot
in the streets, routs and open areas unless after submission of the
structural design to the Competent Department and get their approval.
All safety conditions for neighboring structures during the drilling and
pouring of basement floors, water drainage and concrete casting the
Pile foundations shall be provided as well as all safety conditions for
the neighboring buildings shall be provided.
The basement shall be insulated by the appropriate technical methods
to prevent the leakage of external water into it, whatever its source is,
and shall provide the means of discharging the water in compliance with
the approved technical specifications.

Article (26): The Roof

1. The roof shall be restricted to build elevator machine rooms, stairs,
water tanks, pump rooms, electricity rooms, communications rooms, air
conditioning equipment, aesthetic umbrellas (pergolas) and other
services approved by the Competent Department. It is not permitted to
build residential rooms except in private villas and investment villas.
2. The construction area shall not exceed 35% of the total area of the last
floor. This area shall include all structures on the roof and shall be made
of reinforced concrete.
3. The height of the parapet (parapet of the roof) in the buildings shall be
at least (1.00) m above final finishing and insulation layers with not
more than (1.80) m except architectural treatments or in some buildings

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whose requirements state otherwise in accordance with the approval of

the Competent Department in the Municipality.
4. The location of air conditioning equipment and tanks shall be
determined on the roof and the detailed facades shall be provided in a
manner that does not distort the general appearance. The appropriate
height of the parapet shall be determined in accordance with the
planning requirements.
5. It is permitted to fix billboards on the roof in accordance with the
conditions stipulated in the legislation of the billboards in the Emirate.
6. It is not permitted to use structures built on the roof for any commercial
purposes by any means.

Article (27): Natural Lighting and Ventilation

openings
27-1 Openings

27-1-1 Windows Requirements

1. A lighting and ventilation opening shall be provided in each room

(residential or non-residential), in each staircase, kitchen, hall or
corridor. The total area of lighting and ventilation opening shall be at
least (10%) of the floor area of the rooms allocated for accommodation
and at least (5%) of floor area of services (kitchens, bathrooms, toilets,
stores and stairs).
2. Ventilation and lighting openings may be made at the same proportions
as mentioned in the previous section in the ceiling, provided that these
openings are directly connected to the outside air. This space in which
the opening exists shall not be intended for sleeping. The openings shall
be mechanically opened at a height of (1.00) m from the room's floor.
3. Ventilation and lighting openings shall be provided in the main staircase
of the building on each floor from the first to the last, except for
residential villas, it is permitted to provide indirect ventilation and
lighting for the stair.
4. Natural ventilation and lighting openings shall be provided in industrial
facilities such as warehouses and workshops at least (5%) of the floor
area. Warehouse doors are part of this ventilation and lighting. If there
is an office (administrative) attached to the industrial facilities, the

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percentage of natural ventilation and lighting opening shall be at least

(10%) of the floor area of the office space.

27-1-2 Doors Requirements

The minimum width of doors shall be as shown in table No. (43):

Table (43) shows the minimum width of doors.

No. Architectural component The Minimum Width of the

Door.

1 Stairs (1.00) m.

2 Main door for Residential Units (1.20) m.

and Offices

3 Bedrooms and Offices (1.00) m.

4 kitchens (1.00) m.

5 Bathrooms – Toilets (Water (0.90) m.

closets)

6 Shops (1.10) m.

7 Workshops and Warehouses (3.00) m.

8 Patient Rooms in Healthcare (1.20) m.

Buildings

The minimum height of the door shall be (2.20) m.

27-1-3 General Requirements

1. All rooms, halls, corridors, stairs, kitchens and bathrooms shall be

equipped with any natural lighting and ventilation specified in the
following Article, as well as secondary ventilation or cross ventilation
when the length of the room is three times its width.
2. When lighting and ventilation is required for any entrance or corridor
through the connecting rooms, its area shall be added to the area of those
rooms to determine the amount of necessary ventilation.

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3. Natural lighting and ventilation can be substituted by artificial ones for

toilets, stairs, bathrooms and small pantries, if their area is less than the
minimum area of the kitchen, corridors, halls and rooms for specific
projects which may require that, if the terms of mechanical lighting and
ventilation are applied.
4. Kitchens can be part of the living room space provided that the required
ventilation is provided in accordance with the provisions of the
Regulation for the living room from the opposite side of the kitchen and
providing mechanical ventilation for the kitchen.
5. It is not permitted to make ventilation or lighting openings to the
neighbors unless the required setbacks are provided.
6. When making openings in buildings, the following shall be considered:
a. Provide falling protection (railing or parapet) in balconies and roofs
and at points of difference in level and heights that exceed (1.00) m.
b. External doors in typical floors shall not open directly to the outdoor
or staircase steps.
c. The height of window sills shall be at least (1.00) m unless there are
terraces or (balconies) in front of these windows from the outside or
if the falling protectors (railing) are provided at a height not less than
(1.00) m.
d. The consultant shall study the height of the falling protectors in a
manner proportionate to the type and height of the windows and
balconies.
7. Any part of a window that can be opened is a lighting and ventilation
opening, or any door designed to be kept open.

In all cases, the full opening shall be connected to the outside air.
Therefore, openings connected to air conditioning equipment are not
considered ventilation openings as per this Regulation.

Article (28): Light well (Shafts) and Courtyard

28-1 Light well (Shafts)

(As shown in table 44) the conditions of natural lighting and ventilation in
the functions opening to light well or internal courtyard are as follows:

1. Bathrooms
The area of the light well shall be at least (0.80) square meters and the
width shall be at least (0.80) meters. The conditions of natural lighting and
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ventilation may be waived if an integrated system for mechanical

ventilation and artificial lighting is provided in accordance with the
approved specifications.

2. Closed Kitchens
The area of the light well shall be at least (7.50) square meters and the
width shall be at least (2.50) meters regardless of the height of the building.
It is required to provide mechanical ventilation in accordance with the
approved specifications and conditions if the height of the building is more
than G+7 floors.

3. Open Kitchens
It is permitted to build open kitchens towards halls without providing
ventilation light wells for those kitchens regardless of the heights of
buildings, given that its location is facing the main ventilation and lighting
openings of the halls except in villas (if a main kitchen exists) with
providing mechanical ventilation in accordance with the approved
specifications.

4. Preparation Kitchens (Pantries)

The area of the light well shall be at least (0.80) square meters, and the
minimum width is (0.80) meters with providing mechanical ventilation in
accordance with the approved specifications.

28-2 Internal Courtyard

The area of internal courtyard varies according to the rooms or offices

overlooking onto it (As shown in table 44) and as follows:

1. If all rooms of the residential unit or office get its lighting and
ventilation from the courtyard itself, the area of the courtyard shall be
at least square the half of the total height of the floors in which these
rooms are located from the ground of the first floor with a minimum of
(4.50) meters for any of its sides and (20.25) square meters for the area.
2. If some of the rooms overlooking the courtyard are part of an office or
a residential unit while the rest of its rooms overlooking a road, rout,
courtyard or legal setback, the courtyard area shall be at least square the
third of the height of the floors in which these rooms are located with a
minimum of (3.00) m for any of its sides and the total area shall be at
least (9.00) square meters.

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3. If kitchen(s) of one or more residential units in one floor are

overlooking the courtyard, or office units with a view of a street, a
courtyard, a rout or a setback, the courtyard area shall be at least a (Half
the height X one-third the height) for the floors in which these rooms
are located, beginning from the ground of the first floor with a minimum
area of (3.00 × 4.50) square meters.
4. In apartments of more than 150 square meters, the natural ventilation
and lighting of the servants' rooms can be provided through the light
wells with dimensions not less than (3.00 × 3.00) square meters,
whatever the height of the building - with the condition of providing
mechanical ventilation in accordance with the specifications and
conditions approved by the Competent Department if the height
exceeds G+7 floors or from any other courtyard without affecting its
measurements.
5. If servants' rooms and kitchens are overlooking a light well, the
dimensions of the servant's room light well applies with at least (3.00 ×
3.00) square meters of any side and the total area shall be at least (9.00)
square meters, whatever the height of the building, provided that the
mechanical ventilation shall be provided if the height exceeds the G+7
floors in accordance with the specifications and conditions approved by
the Competent Department.
6. Each internal courtyard or light well in the building shall be provided
with a suitable entrance not less than 70 cm wide from its ground level
to ensure maintenance and cleaning. Light wells shall be covered in a
manner that provides access for maintenance in order to avoid insects
and dirt.
7. Each light well or courtyard shall be equipped with the necessary storm
drainage equipment.
8. The thickness of the light well walls which separate it from the rest of
the building spaces shall be 20 cm.
9. Taking into account that all light wells and courtyards are uncovered
from the top and in case of any roof or cover, the following terms and
conditions are applied:
a. If the roof is transparent, side openings to the outside shall be
provided with a total area for these openings at least equal to the area
of the courtyard or the light well.

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b. If the roof is not transparent, side openings to the outside shall be

provided with a total area for these openings at least one and a half
times the area of the courtyard or the light well.
c. The roof may extend beyond the area of the courtyard or the light
well to a distance not exceeding half the height of the side openings.
d. Side openings require appropriate opening and closing mechanism
and shall be covered with fly screens to prevent rodents and birds.

Table (44) shows the minimum dimensions and areas of shafts and
courtyards.

Shafts

Mechanical lighting
and ventilation shall
Mechanical ventilation Mechanical ventilation be provided in
shall be provided if the shall be provided if the bathrooms according
height of the building height of building exceeds to approved
exceeds G+7 floors. G+7 floors. specifications and
condition

Minimum area = 9.00 Minimum area = 0.64

Minimum area = 7.50 m2.
m2. m2.

Apartments
Servants'
above 150 Closed kitchens Pantries or Bathrooms
rooms
m2

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Courtyard

Minimum area = 20.25 Minimum area = 9.00 m2 Minimum area =

m2 13.50 m2

Area = (1/2 × h) 2 Area = (1/3 × h)2 Area = 1/3h ×1/2 h

Residential & Office Office Rooms +

Residential Rooms
Rooms Kitchens

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Article (29): Artificial Lighting, Mechanical

Ventilation and Central Air Conditioning
In the event that natural lighting and ventilation cannot be provided in some
buildings such as cinemas, halls, malls, restaurants, specialized buildings
and public and private buildings services, they may be replaced by artificial
lighting and mechanical ventilation provided that:

1. A central air conditioning system and electric lighting shall be provided

in all components of the building.
2. All air conditioning designs shall be prepared by ensuring that
temperatures, relative humidity, purity and quantity of air, balancing
pressure differences, acoustic and vibration insulation which are
recommended for places which needs air conditioning to comply with
codes and specifications of air conditioning system approved by the
Competent Department and international standards.
3. The external air inlet shall be sufficiently far away from any source of
pollution, with a protection net to hold insects at an appropriate height
from the surface of the ground.
4. Air filters of at least 99% efficiency shall be used in operating theaters,
serums laboratories, pharmaceutical plants, etc. The filter shall have an
appropriate warning mechanism to alert of the need to change it when
its filtration capacity reaches the maximum limits.
5. Sound bushings shall be used to isolate the noise created by air
conditioning equipment.
6. Necessary systems to isolate vibration shall be used so as not to affect
the structural safety of the building.
7. The area and specifications of the light well overlooked by kitchens
with mechanical ventilation shall be as in the previous article.
8. The specifications and conditions of thermal insulation approved by the
Competent Department shall be applied in the calculations of
ventilation, lighting and air conditioning.

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Article (30): Parking Lots

30-1 General Requirements

1. Parking lots (covered or uncovered) shall be provided within the boundaries of

the land on which the building is to be built.
2. Number, dimensions, specifications and design of the parking lots shall be in
accordance with the conditions and standard specifications stated in Clause (30-
2) of the Article.
3. No modifications may be made to the number, dimensions, specifications and
design of parking lots approved in the building permit before obtaining the
approval from the Competent Department. The Contractor and the Engineer shall
be responsible for any change that has not been approved by the Competent
Department in advance, even if such modifications are technically and
acceptable. The Owner shall be responsible for any modifications made after
issuing the building completion certificate that have not been approved by the
Competent Department.
4. The Competent Department may request traffic impact studies for the projects
which have significant impact on the traffic (projects with special approvals,
specialized projects, malls, complexes and educational facilities of all kinds such
as schools, universities, colleges, health facilities etc.).
5. The existence of public parking lots next to any plot does not exempt this land
from the condition of providing parking lots in accordance with the provisions of
this Regulation, except for the Central Commercial area (Al Nakheel) as stated
in Clause (30-2) of this Article.
6. The location of the entrances and exits of cars shall be adhered to in accordance
with the requirements of the Relevant Department and in accordance with the
planning conditions in case such places are defined on the planning map.
7. It is not permitted to make entrances or exits of cars on pedestrian routs or on the
plots designated for parking or public benefit, unless it is impossible to enter
through streets or for any technical reasons approved by the Relevant
Department.
8. It is permitted to exceed the maximum limit for the roof of the basement set in
accordance with the provisions of the Regulation in case both floors; basement
and ground floor are allocated for parking lots, provided that the height of the
ground floor does not exceed the height specified in the Regulation.
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9. The road works drawings attached to the application of the building permit shall
include the following drawings as a minimum:
a. Setting out plan shows the streets, routs, sidewalks and neighbors of the plot,
as well as the reference levels for the plot and the existing streets and routs,
the entrances and exits of the cars and the direction of the traffic in the streets
surrounding the plot and any traffic signs, intersections, curves or obstacles
affecting the entrances and exits of cars, as well as any street-lights.
b. Parking plans for all floors.
c. Conditions, specifications, traffic signs, signals and means of control.
d. Any other details requested by the Relevant Department.
e. Parking lots calculations.
f. Traffic impact Study (if requested).
[Link] natural lighting and ventilation shall be provided. In the event that this
is not possible, artificial lighting shall be provided with an effective mechanical
ventilation system in accordance with the standard specifications approved by the
Competent Department.
[Link] storm water drainage at the end of the slopes to entry and exit shall
be provided. The ground drains and the necessary slopes shall also be made on
the floor of the parking lot.
[Link] discovered after issuing the building permit that there is a contradiction
between the exits and entrances with the neighbors, the traffic or the surrounding
streets, the Competent Department shall have the right to request the alteration of
the entrances or exits in accordance with the existing situation.
[Link] floor of the parking lots shall be covered with a suitable concrete screed that
is easy to clean.
[Link] is required to submit drawings showing the method of protecting the
excavations to the Competent Department for approval in the case of excavation
works along the boundaries of the plot from the neighbors and to the Relevant
Department in the case of excavation works along the boundaries of the plot on
street and routs.
[Link] is required to submit a drawing for the external sidewalks surrounding the plot
indicating the dimensions and the reference levels for approval from the Relevant
Department, and taking into account that the routs surrounding the building shall
be paved up to a maximum of 0.15 meters above the street level. The tiles used

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in the pavements shall be determined in accordance with the conditions of the

Competent Department.

30-2 Technical Requirements

1. Different parking floors shall be marked with landmarks and traffic signs
installed in clear places indicating the direction of entry, exit and traffic
movement inside the parking lot, as well as installing reflective mirrors on places
where there are insufficient vision spots.
2. Parking lots shall be provided with concrete wheel stoppers to prevent crossing
the front boundaries of the parking space.
3. All columns and walls adjacent to vehicular traffic shall be protected by rubber
angles suitable for protection during vehicular traffic. These angles shall not be
provided in the case of pavements that prevent vehicular traffic.
4. Parking spaces and its numbers shall be determined in accordance with the plans
approved by the Competent Department.
5. The minimum number of parking lots to be available in specialized buildings not
mentioned in this Regulation shall be as follows:

Table (45) shows the minimum number of parking lots to be available in specialized
buildings.

Use Details The Minimum Number

of Parking Lots

1 Movie Theaters (Cinema) For each 3 seats 1

and Theaters.

2 Wedding and festival Halls One parking lot for each 20 m2.

3 Recreational, Specialized In accordance with the project studies.

and Public Buildings

6. The plots located in the central commercial area (Al Nakheel) shall be exempted
from providing parking lots in accordance with classification of the uses and in
accordance with the planning requirements issued by the relevant department for
the plot.

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7. If the plot in the central commercial area (Al Nakheel) is located on two streets:
Sub Street and Main Street, car entrances and exits shall be restricted to the sub
street only or as determined by the Competent Department.
8. When determining the location of entrances and exits of parking lots, the
following shall be considered:
a. Separate entrances and exits for cars (ramps) shall be provided to each floor
of the parking lot, the Relevant Department may approve the addition of
electric elevators for cars in the case of technical reasons that require this. The
Consultant shall submit a complete study of the elevators as stated in Article
(39-3) of Article (39) of this Regulation, provided that there is at least one
ramp for cars.
b. To be at a distance not less than (15.00) m from the corner of the land lot and
the Competent Department can reduce this distance to (9.00) meters in case
of technical reasons that require this.
c. To be far enough, in order to be approved by the building permits committee,
from any traffic intersections and not to be facing a (T) intersection in case of
single streets.
d. Not to conflict with the entrances and exits of neighboring buildings.
e. The locations of the entrances and exits of parking lots shall be chosen to
ensure the traffic safety in the streets surrounding the parking lot by placing
them as far as possible from intersections and highways.
9. The minimum width of parking lot entrances and internal roads shall be as
follows:
a. (3.00) m in one-way traffic only.
b. (6.00) m in two ways traffic.
c. In small plots or those with compelling technical conditions, the Competent
Department may accept one driveway with a width of (3.00) m for entry and
exit of cars after providing traffic lights and electronic system necessary to
control the movement and applying all the requirements of the Competent
Department in coordination with the Relevant Department.
d. The minimum dimension’s bus stops (4.00 x 12.00) m and the minimum width
of the traffic driveway in the bus stops (12) m if the street is only one way,
and (16) m if the street is two ways.
[Link] minimum dimensions and the minimum width of driveways in parking lots
for light vehicles shall be as follows (as shown in figure 5 & 6 & 7):
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1. In case of parking lots which are parallel to the road:

The minimum dimensions of parking lots shall be (2.50 x 6.00) m and the
minimum width of the street is (4.00) m.

2. In case of parking lots which are at 45 degrees angle to the direction of

the street.

The minimum dimensions of parking lots shall be (2.50 x 5.50) m and the
minimum width of the street is (4.00) m.

3. In case of parking lots which are at 60 degrees to the direction of the

street.

The minimum dimensions of parking lots shall be (2.50 x 5.50) m and the
minimum width of the street is (4.00) m.

4. In the case of parking lots which are vertical to the street

The minimum dimensions of parking lot shall be (2.50 x 5.50) m and the
minimum width of the street is (5.50) m if the street is one-way, and (6.00) m
if the street is two ways.

If the driveway of the parking lot has is dead end with (6.00) m or less width, a
turning bay shall be made at the end so that the cars can turn around and go back out
of the corridor without obstructing the road. (As in Figure 7).

a. The Competent Department may reduce the depth of the cars by not more than
40 cm in case there are compelling technical reasons and shall be approved by
the Building Permits Committee.
b. The minimum net height of the parking lot shall be (2.50) m and the maximum
height shall be (4.00) m. If the parking is part of a floor in which another activity
is carried out, the height of the floor shall be unified and as per the maximum
height permitted for that floor.

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Figure (5) shows the dimensions of perpendicular parking and driveways.

Figure (6) shows the dimensions of (45 & 60) degrees parking and driveways.

Figure (7) shows the Turning Bay at the end of the driveway of the parking lots
that have dead end and the parallel parking lots& Parallel Car Parking.

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Article (31): Pavement Works and Pedestrian Walkways for

Buildings
1. The owner of the completed building is committed to pave with interlock tiles
the entire area between the boundaries of the building (the fence / the gate) and
up to the edge of the asphalt (existing / proposed), including pedestrian walkways
and parking lots from all sides overlooking the streets or routs (half of the
common rout). Existing buildings can apply for paving permission to the
Competent Department in Municipality if adhered to the conditions and
specifications approved by the Relevant Department.
2. Pavement works shall include the connections with the entrances leading to the
inside of the plot in case of approved parking lots within the plot whether they
are uncovered or covered (multi floors) in accordance with the approved design
with providing signs and traffic plates for the entrances and exits of cars in
accordance with the design approved by the Planning Department in
Municipality.
3. The ends of the tiles with the adjacent plot (if not built) or the asphalt shall be
curbstone laid horizontally. However, if the neighboring plot is built then the
interlock tiles shall be merged and integrated.
4. The executed pedestrian walkways shall be considered an integral part of the right
of way and shall not be occupied or encroached upon. The parking lots shall be
similarly treated and prohibited to be blocked by posts or chains. It is not
permitted to damage the pavement or any of its elements. It is also prohibited to
keep or display any products or goods outside the boundaries of shops.
5. The completed building shall be awarded a completion certificate and an
approval of the delivery of services only after ensuring that parking lots and
pedestrian walkways have been executed in accordance with the designs
approved by the Planning Department of Municipality.

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Article (32): Special Requirements for People with Special

Needs ( people-of-determination )
32-1 General Requirements for Buildings

Buildings such as markets, malls, mosques, theaters, cinemas, stadiums, public parks
and governmental buildings which are visited frequently by the public shall meet the
following requirements as minimum:

1. Ramps
 Ramps exist on sidewalks, external stairs and areas of changing levels inside and
outside buildings with a slope not exceeding 1:12.
 The ramp width shall be at least (1.20) m.
 Ramps are designed either straight or at an angle of 90 degrees or 180 degrees as
shown in Figure (8).

Straight path Path with an angle of 90 Path with an angle of 180

degrees degrees

Figure (8) shows types and dimensions of ramps for people-of-determination.

2. Parking Lots for people-of-determination

 For parking lots that accommodate less than (50) cars, at least one parking space
shall be provided for the use of people-of-determination. Parking lots that can
accommodate up to (400) cars, the number of parking lots for people with special
needs is (1:50), and the parking lots that can accommodate more than (400) cars,
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a minimum of 8 parking lots shall be allocated for people with special needs, in
addition to 1 parking space for each additional 100 cars above 400.
 These parking spaces shall be as close as possible to elevators or main entrances
of buildings with direct access to them from the parking lots without obstacles
and at a distance not exceeding 60 m and its dimensions shall be in accordance
with the design standards approved by the Competent Department
 Suitable areas for loading and unloading shall be provided in accordance with the
design standards for people-of-determination at the main entrances.

3. Toilets
A toilet shall be provided for people-of-determination and equipped in accordance
with the design standards approved by the Competent Department, with the proper
guidelines provided wherever necessary. Internal barrier-free area shall be provided
for free movement of wheelchair with a diameter of not less than (1.50) m. It shall
be equipped with assistance and grab bars as in Figure (10).

Figure (9) shows internal dimensions of Figure (10) shows internal dimensions
bathroom for people-of-determination. of toilet for people-of-determination.

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4. Elevators
 One of the elevators shall have a capacity, specifications, dimensions and
equipment conforming to the international standards approved for people with
special needs. The elevator cabin shall be at least (1.00 × 1.30) m in case of one
wheelchair, and an internal handrail with height of (0.85) m.
 In public buildings and commercial centers that consist of more than one floor,
one elevator at least shall be provided in accordance with the standards approved
for people with special needs. Escalators are not a substitute to this elevator
unless it is equipped with the necessary equipment for people with special needs.

5. Corridors
The corridors dimensions shall be sufficient for people with special needs in
accordance with the approved standards. Accessibility to enter and exit from all
doors and accessibility to all internal and external components without obstructions
shall be guaranteed.
6. Security and safety measures for the different categories of people with special
needs shall be provided.

32-2 Investment Buildings Requirements

If the total area of the investment building exceeds (4650) square meters the
following shall be provided:

1. Ramps: Shall have a slope not to exceed ( 1:10) on sidewalks, external stairs and
areas of changing levels inside and outside building as in Figure No. (8).
2. Elevators and Corridors: One of the elevators and corridors in the floors, and
in the external and internal movement tracks and in parking lots shall have
specifications and dimensions to accommodate the movement of people with
special needs in accordance with approved standards.
3. Parking Lots for People of Determination:
- The number of cars allocated to People with special needs shall be determined
in accordance with Clause (32-1) of this Regulation.
- Instructions and guidelines for parking lots of people with special needs shall
be installed as needed and in accordance with approved standards.
4. Movement Tracks: Tracks for people with special needs shall be direct and
conforming to approved standards and free from any obstacles.

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5. Toilets: A toilet for people with special needs shall be provided in accordance
with Clause (32-1).

32-3 Requirements for Hotel Buildings classified 1 to 5 Stars

The following services are provided for people with special needs as a minimum:

1. One hotel room in the first floor if the number of rooms and suites are less than
100 rooms, and two hotel rooms in the first floor if the number exceeds 100
rooms.
2. This room shall be fully equipped in accordance with the international standards
approved for people with special needs in terms of room and door dimensions,
the areas around the bed, the barrier-free middle area with at least (1.50) m, the
window automatically opened, desk, chair, cupboard, switches, and alarm bell.
3. The bathroom shall be in accordance with the international standards approved
for people with special needs in terms of W.C seat, bathtub, washbasin,
surrounding spaces, cupboards, mirror, floor type, door sizes and movement,
bathroom accessories and grab bars locations as in Figure (9).
4. The room shall be having an emergency exit that leads directly outside the
building or to the balcony. Security and safety measures shall be provided for the
different categories of people with special needs in the hotel.
5. One of the elevators shall be fitted with specifications that match the international
standards approved for people with special needs in terms of dimensions,
measurements, the location and height of the control panel, the time of opening
and internal parapet.
6. The number of cars allocated for people with special needs shall be determined
in accordance with Clause (32-1) of this Regulation, and shall be close to the
elevators or the main entrance of the hotel, provided with the necessary
directions, sizes shall be in accordance with the international standards approved
for people with special needs.
7. Drop off areas at the main entrance of the hotel in accordance with the
international standards approved for people with special needs.
8. Ramps with slopes not more than 1:10 on sidewalks, external stairs and areas of
changing levels inside and outside buildings with the necessary warning
instructions.

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9. Direct and unobstructed access from parking to elevators or to the main entrance
of the hotel. The corridors shall have adequate widths for the movement of people
with special needs in accordance with the approved standards. Accessibility
through all doors and accessibility to all internal and external elements shall be
provided without any Obstacles that hinder movement.

32-4 General Requirements

The following conditions shall be provided in ramps and corridors for people with
special needs:

1. The width of the ramp shall be at least (1.20) m or the slope shall not exceed 1:12.
The Competent Department may change the ratio to 1:10 in case of technical
reasons.
2. The ramps on sidewalks shall be within the sidewalk itself.
3. In case of two successive ramps, a landing shall be made between the two ramps
in accordance with the standards approved by the Competent Department.
4. All ramps, corridors and stairs shall be equipped with the necessary warning signs
(roughening, colors) at the beginning and the end and when reaching the streets.
5. It is forbidden to provide parking in front of ramps, the minimum width of the
parking space shall be (3.60) m and it is preferable to provide access of not less
than (1.20) m among parking spaces for the passing of people with special needs.
6. The ramps shall be in the same direction of pedestrian traffic on the sidewalk.
7. The surface of the ramp shall be flat and free of punctures.
8. Ramps shall be provided with side solid protective parapet if its height is more
than (0.50) m.
9. It is not permitted to locate manholes and drainage openings in the ramp and
corridors of people with special needs.
[Link] corridors and ramps shall be provided with way finding signage.
[Link] corridors and ramps shall be equipped with solid and barriers to protect from
falling at the turning points.
[Link] handrail of ramps and stairs for people with special needs shall extend 30 cm
at the end and beginning of the ramp and the stair, as well as around the pillars.
13.A suitable landing in front of the entrance to facilitate wheelchair maneuver with
a minimum width of (1.20) as in Figures. (11) and (12).

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Figure (11) shows the relationship of the Figure (12) shows diminutions of the
entrance with the stairs and corridor of outdoor entrance for ease of movement
the entrance for ease of movement of the of the wheelchair.
wheelchair.

Article (33): Environmental Conditions and Energy control

33-1 Environmental requirements to be considered in the design of
buildings

1. The various environmental effects (such as weather conditions, sunlight, earth

nature, neighborhood, noise level, environmental pollutants and other
environmental effects) shall be observed. The conditions and specifications of
thermal insulation regulations shall be adopted when designing the various
buildings.
2. The Consultant shall obtain the approval of the Environmental Protection and
Industrial Development Authority in the Emirate for projects that cause, directly
or indirectly, environmental pollution of any kind. The consultant shall apply all
conditions related to environmental protection approved by the Competent
Department.
3. The Competent Department shall take into account the environmental impact,
including the modification or cancellation of any issued building permit if it is
found that the building or the use therein causes environmental hazards.

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4. The use of thermal and sound insulation in ceilings and walls for the purpose of
rationalizing energy consumption and resistance to environmental factors in
accordance with the technical specifications of thermal insulation and approved
by the Competent Department.
5. The consultant should study the orientation of the building against sun and use
the architectural elements to reduce the negative effects and study the prevailing
winds directions and work to employ them in favor of the building.
6. The Consultant shall select the materials that do not cause damage to the
environment and public health or to distort the general view of the city, such as
temporary facilities, whether during use or after completion of their use, as
determined by the Competent Department.
7. It is not permitted to license any buildings with asbestos roofs according to the
Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. (39) of 2006, as well as any material
that proves its harm to public health. Undertakings to remove these roofs from
existing buildings shall not be accepted for licensing purposes and the owner shall
be obliged to remove and replace these materials by safer materials.
8. The Consultant shall take into consideration the public health conditions inside
and outside the building in terms of studying the movement and quantity of
ventilation, lighting, sunlight, shadows, selection of materials, dyes etc.
9. The Consultant shall take into consideration the privacy and segregation when
preparing the designs of the different buildings. The fences shall be constructed
with appropriate heights and designs approved by the Competent Department to
separate between various plots.

33-2 Environmental Requirements to be considered in Construction

1. The Consultant and Contractor shall use the insecticides approved for insect
control including termites on the ground floor and wherever necessary.
2. The Consultant and the Contractor shall abide by the provisions of the
Environment Protection & Development Authority legislation in the Emirate in
all matters related to the reuse and disposal of wastewater, controlling air,
occupational health, swimming pools, safety of children's toys available in
buildings, noise control and nature reserve systems.
3. It is not permitted to remove or cut the permanent trees existed within the
boundaries of the plot without written consent of Environment Protection and
Development Authority.

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4. The maximum noise level resulting from any equipment or construction work
shall not exceed (55) dB during the period from 7 am to 8 pm and shall not exceed
(45) dB during the period from 8 pm to 7 am.
5. It is not permitted to demolish, remove or modify buildings and architectural
elements of historical value and considered as Heritage. The concerned
administration must be referred to before any construction works may be carried
out in these buildings. The approval of the Competent Department must also be
obtained.
6. The Contractor shall suspend work and inform the Municipality immediately
when any monuments or archaeological sites are found or any damage to service
lines, buildings, streets or the surrounding environment.
7. The Consultant and the Contractor shall ensure that the necessary conditions to
reduce harmful environmental impacts during the stages of execution of the
works in the Site have been fulfilled in terms of:
a. Abide by work schedules as determined by the competent authorities.
b. Work is not permitted at construction sites after 8:00 pm. Work is not
permitted before 6:00 am in the populated areas. The Competent Department
may give exemptions to this rule if there are reasons to do so.
c. Taking the necessary and required measures to reduce the level of noise
caused by equipment on-site machines and to comply with the permitted level
of sound.
d. Taking the necessary and required measures to reduce the emission of dust
and dirt through the following means:

- Spraying dust and sites with water when they are exposed to dust.
- Covering the entrances and tracks of movement with appropriate materials
or spray them with water to prevent dust emissions.
- Preventing the disposal of debris from the upper floors directly without using
protective barriers.
-Taking the necessary precautions during loading and unloading of
Construction material.
8. Taking the necessary and required measures to reduce the emission of gases and
smoke from the equipment and machinery used in the work sites and to ensure
that they are maintained at the authorized level.

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9. Taking the necessary precautions in the workplaces to maintain the cleanliness

of the site and the safety of the surrounding environment from neighboring
buildings, streets, service lines, pavements, agriculture ...... etc.
[Link] and storing the construction materials in the site in proportion to its
area and in a manner that does not distort the general view. The need to store
petroleum and chemical materials in places confined to and away from direct
daily movement and under constant supervision and in small quantities.
[Link] the appropriate measures and to put in place nondestructive programs to
collect, sort and store waste and rubble at the work sites and then transfer them
to the places designated for throwing the debris in a way that prevents it from
accumulating in the site or polluting the surrounding environment.
[Link] following thermal insulation specifications shall be observed regarding:
a. The heat transfer coefficient (U) of the surfaces and walls shall not exceed
what is stated in the thermal insulation list regulation approved by the
Competent Department.
b. The different types of glass (normal, double and reflective glass) should be
used in all windows of the building with their various uses according to the
thermal insulation regulations approved by the Competent Department.
c. The thermal insulation regulations approved by the Competent Department
shall be guided by the details of thermal insulation works.
33-3 Requirements to be considered during Operation

a. Buildings with more than two-floors (G + 1) and include large areas of glass
on the facades must be equipped with the necessary appliances and equipment
to clean the outside glass according to the decision of the Building Permits
Committee. When the height of the building is more than one ground floor
and six upper floors, the consultant must submit a study or a diagram
indicating how these equipment and devices are used to clean, move and store
the glass.
b. The material used in facades shall resist falling down. Its installation should
follow the specifications and conditions approved by the competent
Department.

Article (34): Prevention and Fire Safety

1. The standards and requirements for all buildings approved by the Civil Defense
Department shall be the primary reference for all matters related to security,
safety, prevention and firefighting.
2. All stairs and corridors shall be provided with mechanical ventilation according
to the requirements of the Civil Defense.

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3. The walls of the staircase and the pump room must be approved within the
architectural drawings submitted to the civil defense, due to their variant areas
according to the requirements.
4. The exterior Claddings of the buildings must be approved according to the
requirements of the civil defense.
5. The landlord is responsible for maintaining fire alarm and fire alarm equipment
and systems inside the building. The tenant is responsible for removing the
obstacles from the escape corridors and maintaining the fire alarm equipment and
systems in the leased part, with the necessity of checking the validity of the
devices and not disconnecting the electricity at any time.
6. No barriers or obstructions should be installed directly on the exterior windows
of the facades on the floors following the ground floor of the building unless they
are easy to open.
7. All requirements, conditions and regulations for the general safety of buildings
set out in the environmental, public health, safety and occupational legislation
and fire protection regulations applicable in the Emirate shall be complied with.
8. The minimum number and width of the exits and entrances of buildings shall be
determined according to the number and area of the floors and the use of the
building and the standards approved by the Competent Department.
9. The doors of staircase, apartments, offices, and all accessories and their hardware
shall be fire resistant according to the approved rates of the competent
administration, non-permeable to smoke and self-closing.
[Link] buildings shall be provided with self-illuminated signs and billboards in all
corridors, ladders and inner courtyards of the building to clearly indicate the
stairs, ramps, exit and escape points of the building.
[Link] buildings with a height exceeding 20 floors shall be provided with a Helipad
in accordance with the standard specifications approved by the Competent
Department.
[Link] corridors leading to the escape exits themselves must be free of all obstacles
to freedom of movement and exit from the building at all times.
Article (35): Thermal and Heat Insulation Materials
The following provisions shall apply to moisture and heat insulation materials:
1. Moisture protection layers must be applied to the floors of bathrooms, kitchens
and toilets.
2. Moisture and heat insulation layers shall be applied on the last roof of the building
to protect the roof of the last floor from leakage of rainwater and heat, and the
roofs shall be insulated (a layer of insulation against moisture, a layer of
insulation against heat) according to the design proposed by the consultant and
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approved by the competent authority according to the standard technical

specifications.
3. Insulation layers shall be applied around the foundations of the building up to a
height of (30) cm above the normal ground level.
4. All types of metal shall be painted and protected with insulating materials and
maintained periodically, in particular drainage and feeding pipes.
5. The materials used in exterior walls and roofs shall be homogenous, non-
absorbent of water and moisture and steam, long-lasting high-efficiency,
corrosion-resistant and prevailing environmental conditions resistant, with fixed
dimensions, low- extensibility or shrink-resistant Thermal Shock resistant, with
durability against rapid temperature changes Without being subjected to physical
damage, resistant to fire in the walls and fire resistance if installed directly in the
form to be exposed to fire, anti-fungal and non- multipliable of microorganisms
or rodents or insects and resistance to chemical reactions or chemical Change.
6. All conditions and specifications stipulated in the thermal insulation regulations
approved by the Competent Department shall be applied when designing,
implementing and calculating the thermal and electrical works of the buildings
including (roofs, walls, windows, doors, building orientation, coordinating the
landscaping, Electrical lighting, Mechanical ventilation and air conditioning
devices.....etc.)

Seventh: Requirements for horizontal

and vertical circulation elements

Article (36): corridors
36-1 Public Corridors

a. The minimum net width of public corridors in the specialized buildings shall be
according to the nature of the use with at least (2.40) m.
b. The minimum width of the corridor in front of the elevators depends on the width
of the main corridor leading to it and the elevator places on one side or two sides
and the dimensions of the corridors should not be less than the elevators as shown
in figure (13).
c. It is allowed by the competent authority to reduce the width of the corridors where
the form or dimensions of the plot do not allow constructing public corridors with
the required width according to the above mentioned Articles.

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Figure (13) shows the minimum width of the elevators halls

36-2 Internal Corridors

The minimum width of the internal corridors between different units shall be at least
(1.20) m.

Article (37): Arcades (Liwan)

In buildings overlooking the streets, in which corridors are to be constructed, they
must be provided with arcades in front of the facades of these buildings, subject to
conditions as follows:

1. The design and construction of the arcades shall be according to the nature, shape
and height determined by the Competent Department.
2. It is allowed to construct an untapped aesthetic projection Within the corridors
according to conditions as follows:
a. Ornaments and decorative elements shall be at a height of (0.30) m and at a
height not less than (3.00) m from the floor of the hallway.
b. The endings, window sills and the shoulders of the columns of the ground
arcades shall not exceed (0.15) m.
c. The installation of billboards in the district shall be subject to the regulating
laws in the Emirate.

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