Dubai Building Code (2021)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 15

Ref. B.20

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Dubai hotel

classification – Budget hotel criteria. Dubai:

Department of Tourism and commerce marketing.

Ref. B.21

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel 1 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.22

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel 2 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.23

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel 3 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.24

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel 4 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.25

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel 5 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.26

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel apartment

standard criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and

commerce marketing.

Ref. B.27

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel apartment

deluxe criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and

commerce marketing.

Ref. B.28

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Hotel apartment

superior criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and

commerce marketing.

Ref. B.29

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Resort 3 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.30

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Resort 4 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.31

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Resort 5 star

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.32

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Guest house

“standard” criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and

commerce marketing.

Ref. B.33

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Guest house “deluxe”

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.12

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2013.

Regulation for renal dialysis services. Dubai: Dubai

Health Authority.

Ref. B.13

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. DHA

Health facility guidelines. Part A – Administrative

provisions. Dubai: Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.14

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. Health

facility guidelines. Part B – Health facility briefing and

design. Dubai: Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.15

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. Health

facility guidelines. Part C – Access, mobility, OH&S.

Dubai: Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.16

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. Health

facility guidelines. Part D – Infection prevention and

control. Dubai: Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.17

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. DHA

Health facility guidelines. Part E – Engineering. Dubai:

Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.18

DUBAI HEALTH AUTHORITY, 2019. Health

facility guidelines. Part F – Feasibility, planning and

costing. Dubai: Dubai Health Authority.

Ref. B.19

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2019, Hotel classification

criteria for hotels, guest houses and hotel apartments,

Dubai: DTCM. Available from:

www.dubaitourism.gov.ae/en/services

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 16

Ref. B.42

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2010. DM-PH&SD-P4-TG17 –

Guidelines for first aid requirement. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.43

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU81-PSPS2 –

Public swimming pools safety guidelines. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.44

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU80-PRSPS2 –

Private swimming pools safety guidelines. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.45

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2019. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG01 –

Guidelines for swimming pool safety. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.46

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, undated. Technical Guidelines. Dubai:

Public Health and Safety Department. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department. Available from:

www.dm.gov.ae/municipality-business/health-and-

safety/technical-guidelines-list/

Ref. B.47

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU13-FCC2 –

Technical guidelines for fitness centres compliance.

Dubai: Public Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.48

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-H & SD-GU02-SEPA –

Guideline for safety in events/play area. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.49

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU15-EIC2

–Technical guidelines for educational institutes

compliance.

Ref. B.50

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU19-CSMC2 –

Technical guidelines for compliance of spa and massage

centers. Dubai: Public Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.51

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-GU73-SUL2 –

Technical guideline on safe use of ladders. Dubai: Public

Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.52

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2020. DM-PH&SD-P4-TG26 – Safety

and health requirements for laundry operations. Dubai:

Public Health and Safety Department.

Ref. B.53

PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY

DEPARTMENT, 2018. DM-PH&SD-P7-WI06 – Health

requirements for health clubs. Dubai: Public Health and

Safety Department.

Ref. B.54

FOOD CONTROL DEPARTMENT, FOOD

STUDIES & PLANNING SECTION, 2015. The general

hygiene requirements of food establishments. Dubai:

Food Control Department.

Ref. B.34

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. Youth hostel

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.35

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2014. University campus

criteria. Dubai: Department of Tourism and commerce

marketing.

Ref. B.36

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND

COMMERCE MARKETING, 2019. Licensing and

classification manual for hotels, guest houses and

hotel apartments in the Emirate of Dubai. Dubai:

Department of Tourism and commerce marketing.

Ref. B.37

ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY.

Dubai Access management manual. Dubai: Roads and

Transport Authority.

Ref. B.38

ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY,

2017. Geometric design manual for Dubai Roads.

Dubai: Roads and Transport Authority.

Ref. B.39

International commission on illumination,

CIE 115:2010, Lighting of roads for motor and

pedestrian traffic

Ref. B.40

ROADS AND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY,

2013. Dubai trip generation and parking rates manual.

Dubai: Roads and Transport Authority.

Ref. B.41

INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, 2015.

International Building Code. Washington: International

Code Council.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 17

Ref. B.55

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY, 2019. Planning

guidelines for public amenities. Dubai: Dubai

Municipality.

Ref. B.56

FACILITY GUIDELINES INSTITUTE, 2014.

Guidelines for design and construction of hospitals

and outpatient facilities 2014. USA: American Hospital

Association.

Ref. B.57

GOVERNMENT OF DUBAI, 2003. Local

Order No. (11), Public health and safety of the society

in the Emirate of Dubai. Dubai: Dubai Municipality.

Ref. B.58

GOVERNMENT OF DUBAI, 2009.

Administrative resolution No. (29) prescribing the

adoption of “Manual of regulating smoking in public

places”. Dubai: Dubai Municipality.

B.3.2

Further reading

There is no further reading in this Part.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 18

B.4 General architectural provisions

B.4.1

General requirements

Buildings shall be designed according to the planning limitations and provisions

required by the Authorities, as stipulated in development control regulations (DCR)

and/or affection plans. Limitations on development include, but are not limited to:

a) authorized use of the building;
b) building setbacks;
c)

floor to area ratio;

d)  access locations;
e)  the gate level;
f)  building service lines.
Buildings located in heritage areas shall respect the identity of these areas and shall

adhere to any conservation requirements imposed by the Authorities.
The building or development should take the following into account:
1) Arabic and Islamic cultural identity;
2)

local architectural character, especially for buildings of cultural significance;

3) the building’s relationship with the surrounding environment;
4) the building’s compatibility with the planning limitations and urban planning

themes of surrounding developments.

The massing of the proposed building should take into account the visual privacy of

adjacent structures and buildings in the surrounding properties and neighbourhoods,

as well as the privacy of different uses and occupancies within the same development.

B.4.2

Development limitation

B.4.2.1

Gate level

The gate level is a defined height on the plot boundary at the vehicular or pedestrian

access point to the plot. It is an elevation difference between the road level (existing

or future) and the level of the plot’s access point.
The gate level of a plot shall be a minimum height of +300 mm from the edge of the

road or a slope of between 2-5% from the edge of the road to the plot’s access point.

The gate level, and the levels of the plot’s corners, are calculated based on Dubai

Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) standard cross-section of road right of way

(ROW), next to the plot.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 19

2%-5%

Figure B.6

Building height

Key

01: Plot limit

02: Roof level

03: Last floor

04: Total building height

05: Building height

B.4.2.2

Building height

Building heights shall follow the DCRs and affection plans.
Buildings plots located in areas requiring Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)

approval (as noted in the affection plan, DCR or DCAA map) shall meet the

Authority’s requirements and the height limitation imposed.
Building height shall be calculated from the approved road edge level at the main plot

access to the average finished floor level (FFL) of the roof as shown in Figure B.6.

The total building height is the vertical distance measured from the approved road

edge level at the main plot access to the highest roof surface or element.

Building ground should be elevated from adjacent roads to protect from flooding.

Elevated access points shall also meet the requirements in

C.5.

06: Gate level

07: Road edge level

08: Roof structure

09: Ground floor

10: Basement

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 20

≤

66 m

Figure B.7

Example of allowable building height calculation

Key

01: Maximum allowable total building height

To calculate the total allowable building height, the allowable number of floors,

as defined by the affection plan or DCR, shall be multiplied by 6 m per floor.

This does not impose restrictions on single floor heights.
Example: For a building with G+10 floors limit, the maximum allowable height shall be

calculated as 11 (the number of floors) × 6 m (the factor) = 66 m maximum building

height. See Figure B.7.

Parts of buildings and installations may exceed the maximum allowable height

provided that this increase does not conflict with DCAA or DCR requirements. These

parts include:
a) ornamental elements such as minarets, dome and towers that are embellished

in traditional and aesthetic patterns;

b) chimneys and smokestacks, water reservoirs, elevator shafts, stairways, radio

and television aerials, wind towers, pergolas, helipads and roof shading devices;

c) advertisement boards conforming to Authority regulations for advertising

(see

E.10.9

for restrictions on advertising within façades).

When helipads are provided on buildings, they shall conform to standard

specifications approved by DCAA.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 21

Table B.1 Setback calculation table

Building height by number

of floors

Setback from neighbour (X)

(see Figure B.8) (m)

Setback from road

(see Figure B.9) (m)

Basement

Ground (G)

G+1 to G+3

G+4

3.75

G+5

4.50

G+6

5.25

G+7

G+8

6.75

G+9

7.50

G+10 and above

7.50

B.4.2.3

Building setbacks

The building setback requirements in the affection plan or DCR shall take precedence

over the setback requirements in this section.

When setback limitations for the plot or development are not defined, setbacks shall

be calculated from the plot limit to the face of buildings in accordance with Table B.1.

Setbacks shall be calculated from ground floor and above.

Allowance for zero setback from neighbours shall be according to each affection plan

or development DCR. Zero setback between two neighbouring retail plots is allowed

unless otherwise defined in the affection plan or DCR. This only applies when both

plots have retail use classification and for dedicated retail occupancy floors.

Figure B.8

Setback from neighbours

Key

01: Plot

X: Setback from neighbour (see Table B.1)

Plot limit

x x

Figure B.9

Zero setback facing road

Key

01: Plot

Plot limit

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 22

Setbacks are shown in plan view in Figure B.10.

Setbacks shall also allow for fire separation between

buildings and fire truck access routes. To prevent

external fire spread, the building, shall be physically

separated from adjacent plots/buildings or external

walls and openings of the building shall be fire

resistance rated (see Sections 2.7 and 2.8, Ch. 1 of

UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Fire truck access shall be provided between buildings

and around buildings as required by Ch. 2 of UAE

FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

. This vehicle access might need to be

accommodated within the plot limits.
Where high-rise and super high-rise buildings (as

defined by UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

) are built on a podium

and the distance from fire truck accessway to the

façade of the high-rise/super high-rise exceeds 30 m,

fire truck access to the podium shall be provided as

required by Section 2.8, Ch. 2 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Setbacks from sikkas shall be calculated from the

centre of the sikka (see Figure B.11). When the sikka

width is more than 6 m, the maximum applicable width

from the centre of the sikka is 3 m. If the building

setback from the plot limit is found to be 1.5 m or less,

no setback is required.
Plots neighbouring cemeteries shall provide a minimum

setback of 3 m.
Plots adjacent to metro stations or metro

infrastructure shall conform to the RTA railway

protection code for the emirate of Dubai

[Ref. B.2]

Figure B.10

Setback plan

Key

01: Building footprint

02: Neighbour

03: Allowable projection

04: Road

X: Setback from neighbour (see Table B.1)

Y: Setback from centre of sikka

Plot limit

Setback line

Figure B.11

Setback from sikka

Key

01: Plot

Y: Setback from centre of sikka

Plot limit

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 23

Figure B.12

Setbacks between buildings in same plot

Key

01: Building footprint

02: Neighbour

03: Allowable projection

04: Road

X: Setback from neighbour, internal setback between buildings

Y: Setback from centre of sikka

Plot limit

Setback line

The distance between multiple buildings on the same plot shall be equal to the

setback required for both buildings from a neighbouring building plot, identified as (X)

in Figure B.12, measured from the least horizontal distance between buildings. This

distance shall be not less than 3 m between buildings height of ground floor only.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 24

Figure B.13

Allowed construction within setback

Key

01: Building footprint – above ground

02: Basement & building substructure

03: Sikka

04: Road

05: RMU rooms substations

06: Security or guard rooms

Plot limit

Setback line

The following structures shall be allowed within

setbacks up to the plot limit as shown in Figure B.13:

a)  plot boundary wall/fence;
b)  site enhancement landscape and hardscape;
c)  ring main unit (RMU) rooms and substations as

required by service Authorities;

d) basement and building substructure;
e) pergolas and light weight parking shading

structures;

f)  uncovered car parking and roadways;
g)  security and/or guard rooms;
h)  retail structures on plots where the neighbour is

also a retail occupancy.

Such arrangements shall not obstruct exit discharge to

fire vehicle access way/public road (if any).

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 25

B.4.2.4

Building areas

B.4.2.4.1 Gross area (GA)

Gross area (GA) is the floor area within the inside

perimeter of the external walls of a building. The

measurement excludes shafts and courtyards, but

includes corridors, stairways, ramps, closets, base of

atria (or similar voids) and the thickness of interior

walls, columns or other features.

GA is illustrated in Figure B.14. The highlighted areas

are those included in the definition.
GA is used for occupant load calculations as defined in

Table B.2, elevator exemptions in

Part C

, in addition to

other requirements in the DBC.

Figure B.14

GA plan

Key

01: Residential unit

02: Elevator lobby

03: Corridor

04: Balcony

05: Service room

06: Staircase

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 26

Figure B.15

Example of net area for different occupancies

Key

01: Meeting room 1

02: Lobby

03: Ballroom

04: Prayer room

05: Toilets

06: Meeting room 2

07: Restaurant

08: Kitchen

B.4.2.4.2 Net area (NA)

Net area (NA) is the actual occupied area, not

including unoccupied accessory areas such as corridors,

stairways, ramps, toilet rooms, mechanical rooms and

closets.

The calculation of NA is illustrated in the sample plan

shown in Figure B.15.
NA is used for occupant load calculations as defined

in Table B.2 and parking rates defined in B.7.2.6.1, in

addition to other requirements in the DBC.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 27

B.4.2.5

Balconies, building projections and terraces

B.4.2.5.1 Limitations

A balcony, building projection or terrace (see Figure B.16 and Figure B.17) can be

provided along the whole or part of the building façade constructed on the side of

the plot that overlooks a road or neighbours. Balconies, building projections and

terraces shall meet the following requirements and limitations.
a) The affection plan or DCR shall take precedence over the provisions in this

subclause.

b) A balcony or projecting building element shall be situated at an elevated level

from ground floor, not less than 3 m from FFL of sidewalks and footpaths as

shown in Figure B.16.

c) Projections from vehicle roads shall be set back a minimum of 0.6 m from

the edge of vehicle road, or a height clearance of not less than 5.5 m shall be

maintained from road level as shown in Figure B.16.

Projections above fire truck accessways shall be not less than 4.5 m in height from

road level in accordance with Section 2, Ch. 2 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

e) Projections outside the plot boundary are permitted on the road-facing side when

the width of road in which the balcony or projection protrudes exceeds 9 m.

Balconies and building projections shall be limited to 10% of the facing street

width beyond the plot limit and 1.8 m maximum projection into the ROW as

shown in Figure B.16.

g) The minimum horizontal distance of balconies and building projections from other

adjacent buildings, structures or neighbouring plots shall maintain the minimum

required setback (see Figure B.17).

Plots adjacent to metro stations or metro infrastructure shall conform to the RTA

railway protection code for the emirate of Dubai

[Ref. B.2]

Privacy of neighbouring plots should be taken into account when setting the location

and orientation of balconies.
A privacy partition shall be provided between connected balconies of different

residential units.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 29

Figure B.17

Projections within setbacks

Key

01: Plot limit, if applicable

02: Neighbour

03: Minimum required setback

04: Ground level

≥

3 m

B.4.2.5.2 Guardrails for fall protection

Guardrails are required for any space, walking or standing which is elevated 760 mm

above the FFL, with the exception of:

a) the loading side of loading docks;
b) the audience side of stages and raised platforms, including stairs leading up to the

stage and raised platforms;

raised stage and platform floor areas, such as runways, ramps and side stages;

d) vertical openings in the performance area of stages and platforms;
e) elevated walking surfaces associated with stages and platforms for access/use of

special lighting or equipment; and

f) along vehicle service pits not accessible to the public.

The guardrail height from FFL (or lowest stepping feature, A in Figure B.18) shall be

not less than 1,200 mm.

The separation distance between vertical posts or members (see Figure B.18), curved

frames or design features, of balcony, guardrail or handrail shall not allow the passage

of a 100 mm diameter sphere.

Horizontal climbable elements are not permitted within 865 mm height of the

bottom of the guardrail, i.e. (B) in Figure B.18.
If the design requires any gap between finished floor surface and the bottommost

horizontal component of the railing (see Figure B.18), the gap shall be not more than

100 mm.
The balcony, handrail, guardrail assembly shall be able to withstand the loads

specified in ASCE/SEI 7-16.

If the design demands usage of glass panels in the balcony construction, such glass

shall provide containment and withstand the loads specified in ASCE/SEI 7-16

(see

E.9.2

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 30

≤

100

≥

1,200

≥

865

≤

100

Figure B.18 Guardrail specifications

Key

01: Gaps more than 100 mm not acceptable

02: Stepping feature within 865 mm of base of guardrail not acceptable

≤

100

≤

100

≥

1,200

≥

865

≤

100

(a) Guardrail with stepping feature within 865 mm from FFL

(b) Guardrail without stepping feature within 865 mm from FFL

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 31

Figure B.19

Plot coverage

Key

01: Building

02: Pergola

03: Non-functional projection

04: Parking canopy

05: Parking

06: Annex building

07: Roof eaves

Plot limit

B.4.2.6

Plot coverage

Plot coverage shall be calculated as the horizontal area occupied by all main and

annex buildings on the same plot, calculated from the external surfaces of external

walls or useful roofed balconies in the ground or upper floors, whichever have more

floor projections.
The following shall be excluded (see Figure B.19):

a) lightweight structures such as a canopy, parking shade(s), pergola(s); and
b) ornamental and non-accessible building projections such as roof eaves, window

shades.

B.4.2.5.3 Access doors

Balconies and terraces shall not have self-closing, self-latching or self-locking doors,

which can accidentally lock people outside in the balcony or terrace.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 32

Figure B.20

Building exit separation

Key

A: Building diagonal distance

B: Direct distance between exit doors

NOTE:

B = 1/3 A for sprinklerled buildings

B = 1/2 A for unsprinklered buildings

B.4.3

Building floors general requirements

B.4.3.1

Ground floor

Ground floor use allowance shall conform to planning regulations. A building

or facility may have more than one ground floor where a split-level entrance

has been provided and where a building plot has significant level difference.
The ground floor shall be connected to the adjacent public ways by lobbies.

The number and location of exits discharging directly from the building to outside

shall conform to Section 3.10, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

. The points of exit

discharge shall be separated from each other on plan by one third (sprinklered

buildings) or one half (unsprinklered buildings) of the largest measurements

of the building diagonal distance (see Figure B.20).

An emergency command centre conforming to Table 1.9, Ch. 1 and Section 2.9,

Ch. 2 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

shall be provided in malls, amusement park, high-rise

and super high-rise buildings. The emergency command centre may be shared with

a security room, rest area or control room, provided that it meets emergency

command centre specifications.
The emergency command centre shall be at ground floor and separated from the

remainder of the building by a 1 h fire barrier constructed in accordance with Ch. 1

of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

. The entrance to the emergency command centre shall

be on the exterior of the building along the fire accessway or if this is not feasible,

at the main entrance lobby of the building. Emergency command centres shall meet

the minimum room sizes specified in B.5.2.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 33

≤

1.2 m

Figure B.21

Basement height from gate level

Key

01: Upper floor

02: Ground floor

03: Basement floor

04: Gate level

B.4.3.2

Basements

The space use shall conform to planning regulations.

Basement floors shall not extend beyond the plot limits.

The basement shall be connected to the building by means of vertical circulation

(staircases/elevators) in accordance with Ch. 1 to Ch. 10 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

The basement slab soffit level shall not extend 1.2 m above the building gate level as

shown in Figure B.21.

B.4.3.3

Podium

Building podiums shall conform to planning regulations.

When podium floors are used for habitable and occupiable spaces, these spaces

shall be designed as indoor spaces with building envelope, acoustic treatment

and ventilation/thermal comfort as required by

Part E

and

Part H

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 34

Figure B.22

Roof coverage and setback

Key

01: Staircase or elevator room

02: Roof structure not more than 50% of the roof area

03: Roof

≥

1.5 m

≥

1.5 m

≥

1.5 m

B.4.3.4

Roof

The space use shall conform to planning regulations.
Accessible roofs shall be provided with life safety

features such as fall protection and guardrails in

accordance with B.4.2.5.2.

Water proofing and thermal insulation material shall be

fitted on the roof deck in order to protect it from water

leaks (see

E.7.3.2

) and solar gain effects (see

E.5.2.3

Structures at roof level shall not exceed 50% of the

roof floor area as shown in Figure B.22.

Roof structures shall be set back a minimum of

1.5 m from the building envelope. Staircases and

elevator rooms are excluded from the 1.5 m setback

requirement, but they shall be calculated as part of the

50% construction area.
Roof structures occupying more than 50% of the roof

floor area or not provided with setback shall be treated

as a regular floor.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 35

B.5 Minimum space requirements

B.5.1

Occupant loads

Occupant load factors shall be determined in accordance with Table B.2.

Occupancy

Use

Occupant load factor

per person unless

otherwise stated)

Area used for

calculation

Assembly

Concentrated

– ballrooms,

multipurpose-

assembly halls

0.65

Net area

Mosques, prayer halls

and prayer rooms

0.9 for prayer area

Net area

Less concentrated

– outdoor buildings,

restaurants, dining

areas, seated waiting

areas

1.4

Net area

Conference rooms,

meeting rooms

1.4

Net area

Exhibition halls,

production studios

1.4

Net area

Bench seating

455 mm linear

Net area

Fixed seating spaces

(cinemas, theatres and

similar)

According to number of

fixed seats provided

Net area

Waiting areas –

standing

0.65

Net area

Kitchens (e.g. in

restaurants, not private

residential)

9.3

Library – reading areas

4.6

Net area

Library – stack areas

9.3

Occupancy

Use

Occupant load factor

per person unless

otherwise stated)

Area used for

calculation

Assembly

Swimming pools –

water surface

4.6

Swimming pools – deck

2.8

Exercise room –

without equipment

1.4

Exercise room – with

equipment

4.6

Stages

1.4

Net area

Gaming, amusement

arcades

1.0

Skating rinks

4.6

Food courts – seating

areas

1.4

Net area

Airport waiting areas

1.4

Airport baggage claim

1.9

Art galleries, museums 5.0

Business

Office – enclosed

offices, low

concentration

9.3

Office – open offices,

high concentration

4.6

Table B.2 Occupant load factor per person

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 36

Occupancy

Use

Occupant load factor

per person unless

otherwise stated)

Area used for

calculation

Retail

Retail shops

5.6

Department stores,

multi-level retail

3.7

Floors used for goods

not accessed by public

27.9

Mall

Mall – less than

14,000 m

in area

2.8

Gross leasable area in

accordance with UAE

FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Mall – more than

14,000 m

in area

3.3

Gross leasable area in

accordance with UAE

FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Industrial

Factories

9.3

Storage

Warehouse

27.9

Educational

Classrooms

1.9

Net area

Laboratories, vocational

4.6

Net area

Residential

Accommodation,

shared sleeping spaces

5.0

Net area

Labour accommodation

– sleeping spaces

3.7

Net area

Healthcare

Refer to DHA

regulations and

guidelines

[Ref. B.3 to

Ref. B.18]

The occupant load factors in Table B.2 generally align with UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

with

the exception of residential. However, exit widths and number of exits from a room,

space, floor and building shall be calculated using the occupant load factors in Table

3.13, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Any space or building not listed in Table B.2 above shall conform to the occupant load

factors noted in Table 3.13, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Table B.2 Occupant load factor per person (continued)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 37

Occupancy/use

Minimum area (m

)

Minimum dimension – length

and width of a room (m)

Residential living space

(bedroom, living room)

10.5

3 (See Figure B.23)

Residential studio (including

bathroom and kitchen space)

Housekeeper’s/guard rooms

(single occupancy only exclusive

of toilet area)

4.5

2.1

Retail shop

—

2.4

Retail showroom

—

Enclosed office

—

2.4

Enclosed kitchen

5.4

1.8

Bathroom and toilets

Shall meet fixture clearances noted in B.8.1.5

Toilet stalls

Shall conform to B.8.1.4

Hotel establishment

Refer to applicable DTCM classification criteria

[Ref. B.19 to Ref. B.36]

Healthcare facilities

Refer to DHA regulations and guidelines

[Ref. B.3 to Ref. B.18]

Fire pump rooms

Refer to Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

for minimum room

sizes dependent upon equipment selected and other requirements

such as proximity to exit stairways.

Emergency command centre

Table B.3 Minimum room sizes

≥

3.0 m

≥

3.0 m

≥

10.5 m2

Figure B.23

Minimum residential living space dimensions

B.5.2

Minimum room sizes

The net area and clear dimension of a room/space shall be not less than the

minimum sizes given in Table B.3. Minimum sizes for some other occupancies are

given in B.9.

Key

A: Room area

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 38

The manoeuvring space between kitchen counters or adjacent to a single-sided

kitchen counter shall be not less than 1.2 m, as shown in Figure B.24.

B.5.3

Minimum clear heights

The clear height of a space shall be not less than the minimum values given in

Table B.4.

The clear heights shall be calculated from FFL to any structural suspended element

or ceiling soffits, as shown in Figure B.25.

Occupancy

Use

Minimum clear heights (m)

Assembly

Awqat mosque prayer hall

3.8

Jumaa mosque prayer hall

5.0

Prayer rooms

2.7

Ballrooms, multipurpose assembly halls

2.7

Business

Offices

2.5

Retail, mall

Retail shops/stores, showrooms

2.5

Educational

Schools, nurseries and kindergartens –

classrooms

2.7

Healthcare

—

Refer to DHA regulations and

guidelines

[Ref. B.3 to Ref. B.18]

Residential,

hotel

Living and bedroom spaces

2.7

Table B.4 Minimum clear heights

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 39

Occupancy

Use

Minimum clear heights (m)

Industrial

Industrial equipment areas

Minimum headroom for industrial

equipment access shall conform to

Table 3.4, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Common

areas

Parking – for light vehicles

2.3

Corridors, passageways and elevator lobbies 2.3
Occupiable spaces (other than listed above) 2.3
Washrooms and toilets

2.3

Storage and utility space

2.3

Stairways

2.03 m above the stair treads and

2.3 m above the stair landings

(see B.6.4.1.15)

Means of egress

2.3

In not more than 50% of the ceiling

area, protruding objects may extend

below the minimum clear ceiling height,

where a minimum headroom of 2.03 m

from FFL shall be provided.

Fire pump room

2.5 (see Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

)

Table B.4 Minimum clear heights (continued)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 40

B.6 Circulation requirements and openings

B.6.1

Walking surfaces

All walking surfaces, including accessible routes, shall

conform to the requirements of

C.5

C.7.2

Changes in level in means of egress of more than 13

mm, but not more than 535 mm, shall be achieved

either by a ramp conforming to

C.5.9.1

or by a stair

conforming to B.6.4.1.

B.6.2

Corridors

B.6.2.1

Minimum clear widths

The clear width of corridors shall be not less than

the values given in Table B.5. Where a corridor forms

part of an accessible route, it shall also meet the

requirements specified in

C.5

Occupancy/use

Minimum clear corridor width (m)

Assembly, other public use buildings

1.5 for single loaded corridors
1.8 for double loaded corridors

Residential (common corridor)

1.5 for single sided residential units
1.8 for double sided residential units

(See Figure B.26 as example for corridor arrangement

in residential building)

Retail

1.8

Mall and retail areas > 3,600 m

GA per

floor (pedestrian way)

6 for double sided units
3 for single sided units

Healthcare

Refer to Dubai Health Authority’s (DHA) regulation and guidelines

[Ref. B.3 to Ref. B.18]

for

specific requirements and UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Educational

2.1 for single sided classroom
3 for double sided classroom

Business – Offices

1.5 for single loaded corridors
1.8 for double loaded corridors

Hotel establishment

(common corridor)

1.5 for single loaded corridors
1.8 for double loaded corridors

Refer to DTCM classification criteria

[Ref. B.19 to Ref. B.36]

for specific requirements.

Internal corridors inside residential and

hotel apartment units

1.0

(See Figure B.26 as example for corridor arrangement in residential building)

Service corridors

1.2

Corridors in all buildings

Section 5, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

mandates minimum clear corridor widths per

occupancy type.

Exit passageways

If applicable, Table 3.8, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

mandates minimum clear exit passageway

widths.

Table B.5 Minimum clear corridor widths

NOTE: Retail units under a single roof or not fire separated and having a ground floor GA of more than 3,600 m

, irrespective of the number of storeys,

are treated as a mall in accordance with Ch.1 of the UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 42

B.6.2.2

Fire resistance rating

Exit access corridors shall be 1 h fire resistance rated when required by Table 1.11a,

Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Exit passageways shall achieve the fire resistance rating and construction

requirements of Table 3.8, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

B.6.2.3

Kiosks in mall pedestrian ways

Kiosks are allowed along a mall pedestrian way under the following conditions

prescribed by Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

a) The minimum corridor width between the kiosks and the adjacent shop or

construction shall be 3 m as shown in Figure B.27.

b) The minimum horizontal separation distance between 2 adjacent kiosks shall be

not less than 6 m.

c) The maximum area of a single kiosks or group of kiosks shall be 18 m

collectively,

or 28 m

in an open mall.

Kiosks shall conform to the fire safety system provisions and construction

materials required of Table 1.9 and Section 7.1.40, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

B.6.3

Elevator lobbies

Elevator lobby design shall conform to

Part D

Figure B.27 Kiosk provision within malls

Key

01: Kiosk

02: Adjacent construction

03: Corridor width

≥

6 m

≥

3 m

≥

3 m

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 43

B.6.4

Vertical circulation in buildings

B.6.4.1

Stairways

B.6.4.1.1 General

The minimum number of exit stairways, stairway width, stairway separation,

exit discharge arrangements and fire resistance rating of the staircase shall

be determined in accordance with Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

The architectural requirements of a stairway design in this subsection align with

or exceed UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

At least one protected exit stairway shall extend to all roofs.

B.6.4.1.2 Exit staircase construction

Exit stairways shall be enclosed in fire resistance rated reinforced concrete (RCC)

staircase construction when required by Table 3.4, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

except staircases serving low-rise buildings or low-depth underground buildings

where 2 h fire resistance rated blockwork construction is permitted.

RCC staircases with separate cores but a common RCC divider are acceptable only

in low-rise and mid-rise buildings, provided that the whole staircase conforms

to building construction type and separation distance between exits.

B.6.4.1.3 Stairway width

All stairways shall have a clear width of not less than 1,200 mm. The minimum width

of an exit stair shall be determined in accordance with Section 4, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

depending upon the number of occupants it serves.

The required width of a stairway shall be measured from wall to the clear available

width of the step (see Figure B.28). The maximum projections of handrails allowed

in this required width is 100 mm on each side, at a height of 865 mm to 965 mm

(see Figure B.28).

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 44

B.6.4.1.4 Stair risers and treads

Stair riser height as measured in Figure B.29 shall be in the range 100 mm

to 180 mm.

Riser heights shall be as uniform as possible throughout each stair flight between

landings. Where riser heights are adjusted to meet acceptable stair treads, flights

and arrangements, there shall be no more than 10 mm difference in riser height

within a single flight.

Stair treads shall have a depth of not less than 280 mm.

The tread slope shall not exceed 21 mm/m (2% slope).

Tread depth shall be as uniform as possible throughout the stair. There shall be

no more than 10 mm difference in tread depth within a single flight.
Further recommendations on riser height and tread depth provided for regular use

stairs and external steps are given in B.6.4.1.6.

Figure B.29

Stair risers

Key

01: Stair risers = A – B

02: Stair risers = A + B

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 45

B.6.4.1.5 Landings

The height between landings shall be not more than

3,660 mm.
Every stair shall have a landing at the door opening.

The landing width shall be not less than the required

stairway width.
A staircase door shall not encroach in its swing into

more than one half of the landing width

(see Figure B.30).

The landing width shall not decrease in width along the

direction of egress travel.
The landing width is not required to exceed 1,200 mm

in the direction of travel, provided that the stairway has

a straight run.

The landing slope shall not exceed 21 mm/m 2% slope.

Key

01: Greater than or equal to tread depth

02: Finish wall

03: Intermediate landing

04: Dual guardrail

05: Continuous handrail

06: Top landing

07: Return of handrail to wall required

A: Minimum stairway width

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 46

B.6.4.1.6 Regular use and external stairs

The following requirements and recommendations apply to stairs used for daily

circulation and external stepping.
a) Building entrance steps, landscaping steps and external circulation shall meet the

requirements given in Table B.6.

For regular use stairs in buildings, where the stairs serve as a primary means of

vertical circulation, conformity to Table B.6 is recommended.

Table B.6

Stair flight and steps

Stair element

Requirement for stairs

Tread depth

≥300 mm

Riser height

150 mm to 165 mm (see Figure B.31)

Number of steps

2 steps min.
14 steps max.

The step edge shall present a slip-resistant surface with a minimum reflectance

contrast of 30 LRV points against the step surface (see Figure B.32).

It is recommended that a warning surface is provided at the descending edge of each

stair flight, in accordance with B.6.4.1.14 and as shown in Figure B.32. The warning

surface shall conform to the requirements in

Part C

Illumination along the whole flight of stairs should be not less than 200 lux.

Dubai Building Code (2021) - page 3