Dubai Building Code (2021)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 79

B.8 Communal provisions in buildings

B.8.1

Sanitary facilities

B.8.1.1

General

Every occupiable building shall include sanitary facilities.
The use of common sanitary facilities for both sexes is not allowed, except for family

and accessible toilets as specified in

C.8.3

and

Table C.20

Sanitary facilities for people of determination and children shall be provided in

accordance with

C.8

B.8.1.2

Sanitary finishes

Water closets, urinals, washbasins, showers and baths shall have a smooth and

readily cleanable non-absorbent surface.

All sanitary fixture finishing materials and fixed fittings shall be moisture-proof and

the floors of these fixtures shall be made of non-slip materials.
Walls, floors and partitions in sanitary facilities shall meet the following

requirements.
a)

In wet areas, floor finish material shall have a smooth, hard, non-absorbent and

non-slip surface.

Intersections of floors with walls shall have a smooth, hard, non-absorbent

vertical base that extents upward to the walls to a height of not less than 100

mm.

Walls and partitions within 600 mm of sanitary fixtures shall have a smooth, hard,

non-absorbent moisture-proof surface, up to a height of not less than 1,200 mm

above FFL.

Shower compartments, screens and walls around bathtubs shall be finished with a

smooth, non-absorbent surface to a height of not less than 1,800 mm above the

drain outlet.

Slip resistance shall conform to

C.7.2.1.2

B.8.1.3

Sanitary provisions and fixture calculations

B.8.1.3.1 Occupancy requirements

The minimum number of sanitary fixtures to be provided shall be calculated based

on the occupant load factors given in B.5.1 and Table B.18.
The number of occupants of each gender is calculated by halving the total number

of occupants and rounding up to the next whole number.

For calculations involving multiple occupancies, fractions of numbers for each

occupancy shall first be summed and then rounded up to the next whole number.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 80

Occupancy

Use

Water closets

Washbasins

Male

Female

Male

Female

Assembly

Restaurant, dining areas

1 per 75 for the first 300

occupants
1 per 200 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 300

1 per 50 for the first 200

occupants
1 per 75 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 200

1 per 75 for the first 300

occupants
1 per 200 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 300

1 per 50 for the first 200

occupants
1 per 75 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 200

Ball rooms, multipurpose assembly

hall, exhibition hall, production studios,

art gallery, museums, exercise rooms,

fitness centres, waiting areas

1 per 125 occupants

1 per 65 occupants

1 per 125 occupants

1 per 65 occupants

Fixed seating spaces (cinemas, theatres

and similar).
Conference room, meeting rooms,

library – reading area

1 per 125 occupants

1 per 65 occupants

1 per 125 occupants

1 per 65 occupants

Amusement parks, indoor play areas,

skating rinks

1 per 75 occupants for the first

1,500
1 per 120 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 1,500

1 per 40 occupants for the first

1,600
1 per 60 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 1,600

1 per 120 occupants

1 per 60 occupants

Business

Offices

1 per 20 occupants for the first 100

1 per 50 occupants for the remainder exceeding 100

1 per 20 occupants for the first 100

1 per 50 occupants for the remainder exceeding 100

Retail, mall

Retail shops and malls

1 per 200 occupants

1 per 100 for the first 500

occupants
1 per 200 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 500

1 per 200 occupants

1 per 100 for the first 500

occupants
1 per 200 occupants for the

remainder exceeding 500

Healthcare

Hospitals

Requirements to be based on DHA regulations and guidelines

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

Clinics and outpatients’ facilities

Requirements to be based on DHA regulations and guidelines

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

Industrial and

storage

Factories, workshops and warehouses

1 per 25 occupants

Table B.18

Minimum number of sanitary fixtures

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 81

Occupancy

Use

Water closets

Washbasins

Male

Female

Male

Female

Educational

Schools (students)

1 per one class, sized for children use

Schools (teachers and staff)

1 per 10 classes with minimum 2 for each gender

Kindergartens (students)

1 per one class with size suitable to children

Kindergartens (teachers and staff)

1 per 10 classes with minimum 2 for each gender

Nurseries (children)

1 per 1 baby room

Nurseries (teachers and staff)

1 per 10 rooms with minimum 2 for each gender

Hotels

Hotels, resorts and hotel apartments

Requirements to be based on DTCM regulations

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

Residential

Labour accommodation

1 per 10 occupants

Water closets shall be separated from wash basins and bathtubs for consolidated services.
Shower facility shall be provided at the rate of 1 per 10 occupants.

Student accommodation

1 per 10 occupants

1 shower facility per 8 occupants.

Fuel dispensing

facilities

Public and visitors

Minimum of 1 male and 1 female toilet with washbasin

Staff

1 per 20 occupants for the first 100

1 per 50 occupants for the remainder exceeding 100

1 per 20 occupants for the first 100

1 per 50 occupants for the remainder exceeding 100

Table B.18 Minimum number of sanitary fixtures (continued)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 82

In all occupancies expect residential, a maximum of 33% of the water closets in male

toilet facilities may be substituted for urinals.

For any occupancy or space not listed in Table B.18, the minimum number of sanitary

fixtures shall be determined in accordance with the IBC

[Ref. B.41]

Each residential unit in a building shall be provided with the necessary sanitary

facilities such as bathrooms, toilets, sinks, kitchen sinks. At least one bathroom shall

be provided for every residential unit.

B.8.1.3.2 Mosques and prayer rooms

Sanitary services shall be provided according to the number of worshippers, in

accordance with Table B.19.

Use

Water closets

Washbasins

Ablution

spaces

Male

Female

Male

Female

Mosques,

prayer rooms

1 per 100 worshippers

1 per 50

worshippers

Table B.19

Minimum number of sanitary fixtures for mosques and prayer rooms

B.8.1.3.3 Swimming pools

Sanitary services shall be provided in accordance with Table B.20, with the following

exception:

the number of showers in swimming pools intended for residents’ exclusive use in

residential buildings may be reduced by 50%, provided that there is at least one

shower for each gender.

Use

Water closets

Washbasins

Shower and tap for

washing feet

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

Swimming

pools

1 per 75

for the

first 1500

occupants
1 per 120

occupants

for the

remainder

exceeding

1,500

1 per 40

for the

first 1,600

occupants
1 per 60

occupants

for the

remainder

exceeding

1,600

1 per 200

occupants

1 per 150

occupants

1 per 10

occupants

1 per 10

occupants

Table B.20

Minimum number of sanitary fixtures for swimming pools

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 83

B.8.1.4

Public toilets requirements

B.8.1.4.1 Minimum space dimensions for toilet stalls

Toilet stalls in public toilet shall have the minimum dimensions shown in Table B.21

and Figure B.75. The internal corridors in a public toilet shall be not less than

1.05 m in width. If accessible stalls are provided inside the public toilet block, they

shall conform to

C.8.3

Door opening in stall

Width (mm)

Length (mm)

Inside

900

1,500

Outside

900

1,250

Table B.21 Minimum space dimensions

Figure B.75

Stall clearance dimensions

≥

900

≥

1,250

≥

1,050

≥

900

≥

1,500

≥

1,050

B.8.1.4.2 Privacy requirements for public toilets

The following requirements and recommendations apply to privacy for water closets

and urinals.
a) In public toilets, required wash basins shall be located in the same toilet block

as the required water closet.

b) Public toilets in buildings should not open directly to a ROW or sikka.
c) Public toilets, including their entry points and doors, should be designed

to provide privacy, especially between men’s and women’s bathrooms.

d) Individual toilet stalls and single-user toilets shall be provided with locking

or latching devices.

e) Stall partitions that are not the full height of the room shall meet the minimum

requirements in Table B.22.

f) Urinals for public toilets shall be provided with walls or partitions that meet

the minimum requirements in Table B.23.

Table B.22 Toilet stalls partitions

Dimension

Requirement (mm)

Minimum clearance of partition from FFL

100

Maximum clearance of partition from FFL (except accessible stalls)

150

Minimum height for partitions if terminating below ceiling

2,000

Table B.23 Urinal partitions

Dimension

Requirement (mm)

Maximum height from FFL to bottom of urinal partition

300

Minimum height from FFL to top of urinal partition

1,500

Minimum projection from wall surface

500

Minimum projection from outermost front lip of the urinal

1,500

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 84

B.8.1.5

Fixture clearances

Fixed fittings in sanitary facilities shall conform to the following requirements

and to Figure B.76.

a) The centres of water closets, urinals, wash basins and faucets shall be not less

than:
1) 400 mm from any side wall, partition, vanity or other obstruction; and
2)

750 mm from the centre of an adjacent fixture.

b) There shall be a 750 mm clearance in front of the water closet, urinal or wash

basin to any opposite wall or door leaf, and 600 mm clearance to any opposite

fixture.

Figure B.76 Fixture clearances

≥

400

≥

750

≥

400

≥

750

≥

750

≥

750

≥

400

≥

400

≥

600

≥

600

≥

750

≥

750

≥

400

≥

750

B.8.1.6

Cleaner’s room

Cleaner’s rooms shall be provided in all buildings exceeding 100 m

of GA.

Cleaner’s rooms shall have an area of not less than 1.5 m

. They shall include:

a)  a cleaner’s sink or a bucket sink;
b)  space for storage of cleaning appliances and materials; and
c)  adequate ventilation (see

H.4

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 85

Occupancy

Space type

No. drinking fountains per

occupant load

Assembly

Mosques and prayer rooms

As required by IACAD

Restaurant, dining areas (where water is served

in restaurants, drinking fountains are not

required)

1 per 1,000

Ballrooms, exhibition hall, multipurpose

assembly halls, production studios, art gallery,

museums

1 per 500

Fixed seating spaces (cinemas, theatres and

similar)

Conference room, meeting rooms, library –

reading areas

1 per 500

Amusement spaces, gaming

1 per 1,000

Swimming pools

1 per 1,000

Business

Offices

1 per 100

Retail, mall

Shops and malls

1 per 1,000

Industrial and storage

Factories, warehouse

1 per 500

Educational

Schools

1 per 100 students

Kindergartens

1 per 100 students

Nurseries

1 per 100 children

Residential

Labour accommodation

1 per 100

Student accommodation

1 per 100

B.8.2

Facilities for building occupants

B.8.2.1

Drinking fountains

Drinking fountains shall be provided as shown in Table B.24. They shall not be

installed in public restrooms. They shall be placed in safe and clean areas where they

will not obstruct building circulation.

Table B.24 Drinking fountain requirements

B.8.2.2

Feeding rooms (lactation rooms)

Feeding rooms shall be provided in all malls and amusement parks exceeding

1,000 m

of GA and/or designed for more than 250 occupants.

At least one feeding room shall be provided within 300 m of any part of the building.

It is recommended that one feeding room is provided for each block of public toilets.

Dual feeding rooms may be provided to account for up to 50% of the total number

of feeding rooms required in the building.
A feeding room shall meet the following requirements.
a)

Feeding rooms shall be designed to have sufficient space to facilitate ease

of movement with a pram and a child in the arms.

Feeding rooms shall be accessible.

Feeding rooms shall have an area of not less than 4.5 m

and a dimension

on both sides of not less than 2.1 m.

An example of an individual feeding room is given in Figure B.77 and a dual feeding

room in Figure B.78.

B.8.2.3

First aid facilities

Public and business buildings shall be provided with first aid storage cupboards and

first aid rooms in accordance with Dubai Municipality Health and Safety guidelines

for first aid requirements

[Ref. B.42]

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 86

Figure B.77

Example of individual feeding room (plan)

Key

01: Moveable desk

02: Curtain or lockable door

03: Paper towel dispenser

04: Wash basin

05: Dispenser for hot and cold water

06: Microwave

07: Diaper changing station

08: Breastfeeding cubicle

09: Power socket for breast pump

10: Seat for nursing mother

1,500

Figure B.78

Example of dual feeding room (plan)

Key

01: Power socket for breast pump

02: Foldable chair

03: Diaper changing station

04: Curtain

05: Microwave

06: Wash basin

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 87

B.8.3

Building amenities

B.8.3.1

Gymnasiums, exercise rooms and fitness centres

When fitness facilities are provided in buildings, they shall meet the following

requirements.
a)

Flooring and walls shall be acoustically insulated (see

H.10.3.3

), and if the

gymnasium space is located on the roof deck or above the apartments, their

floors and walls shall be treated with effective sound insulation materials.

Acoustic isolation from adjacent habitable spaces and occupiable spaces

shall be attained.

b) Exercise rooms which produce noises of vibrations (such as karate, weightlifting

gymnasiums and similar) should be situated at the lower building levels

or acoustically treated.

c) The number of changing rooms and lockers to be provided shall be determined

according to the expected number of users. At least one changing room/locker

shall be provided for both men and women.

B.8.3.2

Swimming pools

B.8.3.2.1 General requirements

Swimming pool designs shall conform to DM PH&SD guides

[Ref. B.43 to Ref. B.45]

Swimming pools and decks shall be constructed of non-toxic, inert, impervious

and durable materials.

A swimming pool shall be configured to be safely patrolled, maintained and cleaned

and to provide good circulation of water.
Swimming pools shall be provided with lighting, both above and under the water

surface in order to provide an adequate illumination for the overall area of the pool.
The design of outdoor swimming pools located at roof, podium roofs and other

elevated locations shall provide privacy to adjacent buildings and shall be provided

with fall protection in accordance with B.4.2.5.2.

Sanitary facilities should be provided in accordance with B.8.1. A minimum of one

from each fixture type and one changing room shall be provided for each gender.
In accordance with Ch.3. of the UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

, two exits shall be provided

from exterior swimming pool decks, jogging tracks and landscaping areas when

the distance to a single exit exceeds 30 m.

B.8.3.2.2 Safety requirements

A suitable place for the lifeguard’s highchair, and notice boards with the guidelines

and policies for the swimmers to follow, shall be provided. A signboard showing water

depth shall be fitted at the pool’s edge. The signboard shall mark the location of

slope changes showing the maximum and minimum depth.

Provide sufficient number of life saving devices (rings, etc.) in the area. All details

shall be in accordance with swimming pools safety guidelines

[Ref. B.43 to Ref. B.45]

The slope in the floor of the shallow area of the pool shall not exceed 10%.
The slip resistance of swimming pool floors shall conform to

C.7.2.1.2

Safety signage advising on the danger of diving into shallow areas and on the

prevention of drowning shall be provided as mandated by relevant Authority as

shown in Figure B.79.

Figure B.79 Safety sign (© International Code Council 2014. Figure based on diagram of the 2015 International

swimming pool and spa code. Washington, D.C.: International Code Council. Reproduced with permission. All

rights reserved.

www.ICCSAFE.org

)

WARNING

RESCUE:

NO DIVING!

PREVENT

DROWNING

You can be

permanently injured.

Shallow water.

Watch children

at all time.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 88

B.8.3.2.3 Swimming pool fences

Outdoor swimming pools shall be surrounded by a fence to protect against drowning.
The fence shall meet the following requirements:
a)

The top of the fence shall be not less than 1,200 mm above FFL.

The vertical clearance between FFL and the bottom of the fence shall not

exceed 50 mm.

c)  Openings in the fence shall not allow the passage of a 100 mm diameter sphere.
d)  The fence enclosure shall be equipped with self-closing and self-latching gates.
e)  Gates in fences shall be equipped with a locking device. Gates shall open away

from the pool.

The fence of a swimming pool shall be set back at least 1,200 mm from plot limits

and adjacent structures.
Swimming pool fences are not required in the following conditions.
1) A swimming pool fence is not required where the walls of adjacent structures

can perform as a fence or a protective barrier to the swimming pool. Doors with

direct access to the pool through the wall shall be equipped with an audio alarm

that provides an audio warning when the door is opened, or the door shall be

self-closing with self-latching devices.

A swimming pool that has a power safety cover conforming to ASTM F1346 is

not required to have a swimming pool fence.

3) Where the pool is adjacent to the edge of a natural body of water and public

access is not allowed along the shoreline, a barrier is not required between the

water body and the pool.

4) A swimming pool fence is not required where there are full-time lifeguards

patrolling the pool, together with pool supervision systems in accordance with

Public swimming pools safety guidelines

[Ref. B.43]

Swimming pools designated for children shall be separated from swimming pools

designated for adults with protective barriers.
Pools and their surroundings shall be free of any dangerous obstacles.
Operable windows adjacent to the pool shall have a sill height of not less than

1,200 mm above the indoor FFL.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 89

B.8.3.2.4 Decks and walkways

Swimming pools shall be surrounded by a continuous unobstructed deck or walkway.

It shall be not less than 1.2 m wide, excluding the width of the coping or the interior

portion of a gutter. The walkway or deck shall be immediately adjacent to the pool as

shown in Figure B.80.

The deck or walkway shall be constructed in impervious material with a smooth,

non-slip and easily cleanable surface.

All decks and walkways shall have a 2% slope, in order to drain the water effectively

to deck drains.

Allowance for infinity pools or non-fenced pools shall be made according

to permitting Authorities’ approval.

Figure B.80

Swimming pool setback and walkway requirements

≥

1.2 m

≥

1.2 m

≥

1.2

≥

1.2 m

Key

01: Swimming pool
02: Adjacent structure
03: Plot limit or adjacent obstruction

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 90

B.8.3.2.5 Ladders and steps

Pools shall have ladders or steps if the depth exceeds 600 mm.
At least one ladder shall be installed within each 30 m of the pool perimeter.

There shall be at least one ladder located at the deep end, and a ladder or steps

at the shallow end.
Material for the swimming pool ladder shall be corrosion-resistant and shall

be provided with a non-slip stepping surface.
The ladder shall be separated from the pool wall or boundary by at least 100 mm.
If the steps into a swimming pool are recessed, the steps shall:
a)  be anti-slip;
b)  be provided with a drain to the pool;
c)  be easily cleaned;
d)  have a tread depth of at least 150 mm;
e)  have a clear height between risers for each two recessed steps of not more

than 300 mm; and

f) have a width of at least 400 mm.
Swimming pools with regular steps are permitted only if the following conditions

are met:
1) the pool is shallow, with a depth not exceeding 1,000 mm at any point;
2) the steps are located at one of the corners of the pool, or within a special recess

outside the pool boundaries, and do not encroach into the net area of the pool;

and

3) each tread is not less than 250 mm in depth and not less than 600 mm in width.

The riser shall be not more than 300 mm in height.

Swimming pool ladders shall be provided with side handrails that extend around

the water surface on both sides of the ladder or the recessed wall steps.

Ladders and steps shall meet the requirements shown in Figure B.81.

≤

30.0 m

≥

250

≤

300

≤

1.0

≥

100

≤

30.0 m

Figure B.81 Ladders and steps

(a) Pool with regular steps

(b) Pool with ladder

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 91

B.8.3.2.6 Diving boards

A clear height of not less than 5 m shall be maintained above diving boards.

The depth of water below diving boards shall be not less than the minimum values

given in Table B.25.

Table B.25 Minimum depth of water below diving boards

Height of diving board above water surface (m)

Minimum water depth below diving board (m)

Less than or equal to 1

2.5

Greater than 1

2.5 + 0.3 for every additional 1 m of height

(or part thereof) the board is above the water

surface (see Figure B.82)

Diving boards shall be fully covered with anti-slip material. For diving boards more

than 1.5 m above the pool deck, guardrails shall be provided on both sides of the

diving board.
A horizontal space of at least 3 m shall separate adjacent diving boards, or diving

boards and the side wall of the pool.

≥

5 m

≥

2.5

≥

1.2 m

≤

1.0

Figure B.82

Diving board clearance

Key

01: Ceiling or roof

02: Diving board

Plot limit or adjacent construction

Setback

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 92

B.8.3.3

Prayer rooms

All public use buildings, business buildings and hotel establishments shall provide

prayer rooms for male and females with separate entrances and facilities. Labour

and staff accommodation buildings shall provide prayer rooms for the residents.

An example of a prayer room is shown in Figure B.83.

Figure B.83

Prayer room example

Key

01: Prayer room

02: Ablution

03: Shoe storage and bench

04: Prayer room lobby

The minimum capacity of prayer rooms shall be calculated using Table B.26.

The ratio of male to female prayer rooms shall be based on occupancy estimates.

Equal space shall be allowed for both genders (50% for each) unless otherwise

justified by the expected occupancy (for example, if the building is specifically

planned for a larger use of a single gender, such as single-gender schools).
Prayer rooms should conform to the mosque prayer hall requirements in B.9.4.4 in

terms of orientation, provisions and layout. When the prayer room layout cannot

be aligned to Qibla directions precisely, indication of Qibla through carpet lines and

ornamental Mihrab is acceptable, although not preferred.
Prayer rooms shall be provided with ablution spaces in accordance with B.9.4.7. The

number of ablutions spaces provided shall conform to B.8.1.3.2. Prayer rooms should

provide adequate space for shoe storage and lobby area for prayer room access.
Prayer rooms do not require separate toilet facilities if the building provides adequate

toilet facilities for the number of occupants as set in B.8.1.

Table B.26 Prayer room capacity

Building occupancy

Minimum prayer room capacity

Less than 300 occupants

300 or more occupants

5% (for all occupants exceeding the first 300 occupants)

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 93

Prayer rooms should be positioned in proximity to toilet facilities in the building to

minimize travel distance between both facilities. If toilet facilities are not available

nearby, additional toilet facilities may be provided that shall meet the following

requirements.
a) Toilets shall not be set or located toward Qibla direction of the prayer rooms,

according to the Islamic doctrine. No single praying space shall face toilet

facilities.

b) The location and entrance of toilet facilities shall be separated from the prayer

room and ablution areas.

B.8.3.4

Open spaces

When open spaces are provided, landscape species shall be selected in accordance

with B.10.5.
Shading calculations and shading provisions in public areas conform to B.10.5.

B.8.4

Service facilities

Service rooms in the basements of buildings shall meet all of the requirements

in Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

does not permit RMU rooms in the

basements of buildings.
Transformer rooms, low voltage switchgear rooms, high voltage rooms and generator

rooms are preferred at ground level, but are permitted in basements by Dubai

Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) provided

that the design conforms to

G.7.6

and Table 1.9, Ch. 1 of the UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Waste rooms are preferred at ground level, but are permitted in basements by DCD

provided that the design meets the following criteria.
a)

The room is 1 h fire resistance rated, including a 1 h fire door and fire resistance

rated opening protectives.

b) The room is no more than one level below ground level.
c) The room is provided with a dedicated mechanical ventilation system direct

to outside to achieve 10 air changes/h, in accordance with Section 2.17, Ch. 10

of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 94

B.8.5

Waste management

B.8.5.1

Waste management hierarchy

The waste management hierarchy (see Figure B.84) shall be followed when defining

waste storage and management within buildings. This shall include the facilitation

of material reuse, recycling and recovery wherever possible.

Figure B.84

Waste management hierarchy diagram

Prevention

Preparing for reuse

Recycling

Other Recovery

Disposal

Minimise the quantity of materials from
consumptions and those used in design
and manufacturing

Checking, cleaning, repairing or
refurbishing whole items or spare parts

Turning waste into a new substance or
product, including composting

Includes anaerobic digestion and
incineration/thermal treatment with energy
recovery

Landfill and incineration/thermal
treatment without energy recover

B.8.5.2

Waste storage rooms

B.8.5.2.1 General

All buildings shall be provided with suitable storage for general waste and recycling.

This shall include the provision of:
a)

Main waste storage room(s) for the final storage of waste and recycling prior

to its collection and transfer offsite to a suitable treatment and/or disposal

facility; and (if appropriate)

b) Interim waste storage room(s) which might be required for the temporary storage

of waste and recycling within the development, prior to transfer to main waste

storage room(s).

If it is not feasible to provide a waste storage room(s) inside the building,

a separate onsite storage area(s) may be provided. This shall meet the relevant

requirements for waste storage in B.8.5.2.2 and B.8.5.2.3 as well as the following

additional requirements.
1) It shall not impede access points to and from a building.
2) It shall not be located less than 2.5 m horizontally and 5 m vertically from

any openable windows of a living space such as a bedroom or living room.

It shall be located where interference with pedestrian traffic and other vehicle

access is minimal.

4) It shall be roofed and have a concrete pad designed to handle the load

of the bins.

NOTE: Separate onsite storage areas are generally only permitted when the GA

of the largest storey of the building is less than 250 m

, regardless of the height

of the building.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 95

B.8.5.2.2 Specification of waste storage rooms

Waste storage room(s) shall meet the following requirements.
a) Waste storage room(s) shall be situated within the boundary of the development

and be easily accessible for both residents and tenants alike. Where access

by a waste management contractor is required, suitable and unimpeded access

shall be provided for waste collection vehicles to allow the easy removal of waste

and recycling from the site. Where possible, the waste storage room(s) shall

be located away from the ingress and egress of the development so as not

to cause obstruction during times of collection.

If it is not possible to locate the waste storage room(s) at ground floor level,

they may be placed no more than one level down from the ground floor, at the

first basement level, and shall conform to DCD requirements as stated in B.8.4.

A service elevator shall be provided to transfer waste and recycling to the waste

storage rooms(s) as required. If waste collection occurs on the first basement

level, it shall be designed with suitable access and clearance for a waste collection

vehicle as appropriate.

Access to waste storage room(s) shall be sufficient to facilitate the easy entry,

exit and manoeuvring of waste and recycling containers and waste collection

operatives. Where a change in floor level exists, any longitudinal gradient falling

away from the storage location shall not exceed 8.33% (1:12). The width of any

passageway or access route which has to be passed through to reach the waste

storage room(s) should be of a suitable width to allow waste containers to pass

through easily, and not be less than 1.2 m. Access paths should be free of kerbs

and steps, and avoid difficult turns and bends. Drop kerbs shall be provided where

access paths meet roadways. Manual manoeuvring of waste containers from the

interim storage point to the collection point;
1) should be avoided for containers greater than 1,500 l in capacity;
2)

shall be limited to a step-free distance of 7 m and maximum slope of 8.33%

(1:12) for containers up to 1,000 l in capacity;

shall be limited to a step-free distance of 50 m and maximum slope of 8.33%

(1:12) for containers up to 360 l in capacity.

The floor and wall surfacing shall be finished with non-slip concrete, ceramic tiles,

or similar impervious and waterproof material to facilitate cleaning. Textured

finishes should be avoided, as they attract dirt and detritus. The walls, floors and

ceilings of the room shall be finished with a light colour.

e) A water supply and adequate drainage shall be provided to facilitate cleaning

of the waste storage room(s) and waste containers. This may be provided direct

from the water supply network or from a high-level tank. All drains and gullies

should be connected to the drainage pipes of the development and have cleanable

filters and/or grates to prevent blockages to the drainage system caused by waste

residue.

Lighting shall be provided with sealed (ingress protection rated) bulkhead fittings

to protect against water from cleaning and washdown.

An efficient ventilation system shall be provided to vent any odorous or dense

flammable gases that might escape from the waste. Any waste rooms that contain

organic waste shall be kept at a constant and cooled temperature,

not higher than 18 °C, to prevent waste decomposition and associated odour.

A lower temperature might be required depending upon the occupancy

of adjacent spaces and the frequency with which the waste room door(s) will

be accessed.

h) All windows shall be airtight and protected by a metal mesh wire screen in order

to prevent insects and rodents from accessing the waste storage room(s).

i) All doors shall be made of anti-rust metal (e.g. aluminium) construction and

provided with ventilation louvers or mechanical ventilation. Doors shall open

to the outside and be fitted with automatic door closers. They shall be of

a sufficient width to allow waste containers to pass into and out of the waste

storage room(s).

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 96

B.8.5.2.3 Dimensions of waste storage rooms

Suitable storage space for waste and recycling shall be calculated and determined

based on the type and number of containers required and the collection frequency.

The storage space provision shall be sized for two days of waste and recycling

generation as a minimum. This shall include an area appropriate for the storage

of bulky and special waste, sorting of recyclables and any other relevant facilities

or equipment which might be required.
Suitable clearance space shall be provided to enable manoeuvring of containers, easy

access and use of the waste room for residents, tenants, and waste management

contractors, as appropriate. Corridors and doors shall be wide enough to

accommodate waste container sizes.
The required number of containers shall be calculated based on estimates of the

potential waste and recycling quantity to be generated by the development, using

suitable metrics for estimating the waste and recycling produced. Suggested waste

generation rates for Dubai are as follows.
a)

Residential use – at the rate of 12 kg for each 100 m

of NA.

Commercial use – at the rate of 12 kg for each 100 m

of NA.

Office use – at the rate of 5 kg for each 100 m

of NA.

Hotels – at the rate of 3 kg for each room and 5 kg for each suite.

To quantify the number of containers required, the total mass of waste shall be

converted to volume using a waste density appropriate to the waste type being

considered. The total volume of waste shall be divided by the volume of the container

type selected to determine the number of containers.

In order to determine the area required for waste storage, the following requirements

shall be met:
a) In buildings with a total GA of more than 230 - 460 m

, a waste storage room of

1.2 m x 1.8 m shall be provided on the ground floor only.

b) In buildings with a total GA of more than 460 m

, waste storage room(s) shall

accommodate all required containers according to their standard size. The type

of container required shall be determined based on the quantity of waste and

recycling generated by the development, and the practicalities of access to the

development and removal of waste and recycling by the waste management

contractor.

c) Guideline dimensions and examples of typical containers are shown in

Table B.27, Table B.28 and Figure B.85. Container sizes vary by manufacturer.

Typical standards for waste containers are provided in BS EN 840-1 to BS

EN 840-4 and BS EN 12574-1 and these shall be taken into account when

determining the waste storage requirements.

d) Indicative waste storage rooms sizes are provided in Table B.29. The dimensions

of the waste storage room(s) shall allow for manoeuvring of the required

containers within the room so as to provide suitable access to the containers as

well as easy removal and return to the waste storage room(s). This shall include:
1) a minimum clearance of 150 mm between individual containers and between

containers and surrounding walls of the waste storage room(s);

2) a minimum clearance of 600 mm between individual containers and the front

façade of the room, where the door that leads to the waste room is situated;

3) a minimum door width of 1.2 m. Where utilized for movement of containers,

this shall be of an appropriate size to allow for the easy entry and exit of the

container type required;

4) a minimum clear room height of 2.4 m. In all cases, this shall permit the lids

of waste containers to be opened and closed in-situ.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 97

Capacity (litres)

Capacity (m

)

Width (W) (mm)

Length (L) (mm)

Height (H) (mm)

120

0.12

480

550

940

240

0.24

580

715

1,060

360

0.36

660

880

1,100

Table B.27 Wheeled bins

Capacity (litres)

Capacity (m

)

Width (W) (mm)

Length (L) (mm)

Height (H) (mm)

660

0.66

720

1,250

1,320

1,100

1.1

980

1,250

1,355

2,500

2.5

1,370

2,040

1,540

4,500

4.5

1,700

2,040

1,800

Weight of waste

Room should accommodate the following containers:

Up to 100 kg

1 x 1.1 m

Up to 250 kg

1 x 2.5 m

Up to 500 kg

2 x 2.5 m

Up to 750 kg

3 x 2.5 m

Up to 1,000 kg

4 x 2.5 m

> 1,000 kg

A waste management consultant should advise

NOTE: A single container with a capacity of 4.5 m

may be used instead of two containers with a

capacity of 2.5 m

, provided that the waste storage room is directly overlooking the street or it is

possible to easily transfer the 4.5 m

containers to the street.

Table B.28 Eurobins and bulk storage containers

(a) Wheeled bins

Figure B.85 Example containers and sizes in Table B.27 and Table B.28 (© British Standards Institute. Figures

extracted from BS EN 840-2:2020 and BS EN 12574-1:2017. Permission to reproduce extracts from British

Standards is granted by British Standards Institute (BSI). No other use of this material is permitted).

(b) Eurobins and bulk storage containers

Table B.29 Recommended dimensions of waste collection rooms

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 98

B.8.5.3

Recycling and segregation

A sorting area for recyclable waste shall be provided within the main waste

storage area(s). This shall facilitate sorting of recyclables where segregation is not

undertaken at source by a building’s tenants. It is recommended that the floor area

of the waste storage room(s) is increased by not less than 5 m², to allow for

additional space and manoeuvrability for sorting recyclable waste.

B.8.5.4

Special and bulky waste

An area shall be provided for special and bulky wastes such as hazardous wastes,

furniture and electrical appliances. This may be within the main waste storage

room(s) or in a separate location as appropriate. The area shall be appropriately

sized according to the size and type of the development and the expected quantities

of special and bulky waste. It is recommended that an area of not less than 5 m

provided. This storage area shall be easily accessible for residents, tenants and waste

collection contractors alike and shall not restrict access to the building.

B.8.5.5

Chemical and toxic waste

Chemical wastes, toxic substances, chemical/toxic liquids and other dangerous

materials shall not be disposed of in waste containers provided for general waste.

If such wastes arise, they shall be stored in appropriate and separate waste storage

containers, and removed from the development by an appointed and approved waste

management contractor authorized to deal with such wastes by the concerned

departments of the Authority.
If hazardous waste is to be stored, it might need to be separated from the rest

of the waste storage room(s) by walls and/or bunding as required, depending upon

the type and quantity of materials, materials composition and the waste container

to be utilized. DCD, DM Environment Department and DM Public Health and Safety

Department shall be consulted as necessary.

B.8.5.6

Hydraulic skip compactors

In all types of buildings and facilities, hydraulic skip compactors, either portable or

static, are permitted for waste storage in lieu of the number of traditional waste

containers, and where waste quantities are high enough to justify their use. Where

skip compactors are used, at least two shall be provided to ensure facilitation of

recycling; one for general waste and one for recyclables.
The type of compactor provided shall be suitable for the composition of waste and

the amount of waste generated by the development, and shall be in accordance with

the specifications of the Authority and DIN 30722-1 to DIN 30722-3 as appropriate.

The dimensions, manoeuvrability and collection methodology of skip compactors

shall be accounted for in the design of the waste storage room(s) or any provided

service bay(s) as well as the site access. Guideline dimensions and examples of typical

portable skip compactors are shown in Table B.30.

Capacity (litres)

Add capacity (m

) Width (W) (mm)

Length (L) (mm)

Height (H) (mm)

10,000

1,000

2,015

4,400

2,500

20,000

2,000

2,550

6,390

2,560

Table B.30 Portable skip compactors

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 99

B.8.5.7

Refuse chutes

For residential buildings, where building height exceeds G+3 and the floor area

of any storey exceeds 250 m

, a refuse chute shall be provided. For the purpose

of determining the number of floors, a mezzanine floor shall not be included where

its functional use is connected with the ground floor. Other occupancies may utilize

refuse chutes as appropriate.
In all cases where a refuse chute is required or provided, one of the following shall

be included to facilitate recycling:
a) a second chute, or suitable automated separation system such as a bi-separator

or tri-separator, to handle recyclable material. This shall discharge into a separate

receptacle within the waste management area; or

waste rooms provided on each floor, where recyclable waste can be stored.

The waste rooms shall comply with B.8.5.2.2 (d)-(g). The number of rooms

provided shall be appropriate to the size and occupancy of the building. These

shall have a floor area of not less than 2 m

. Recyclable waste shall be collected by

the building operator daily, transported in a service elevator and discharged into a

designated receptacle within the waste management area.

All refuse chutes shall conform to BS 1703. Refuse chutes for collecting waste

from floors to the collection room shall be not less than 600 mm in diameter.

The material used shall resist corrosion, prevent dampness, be non-combustible

and have a smooth inner surface. All refuse chutes shall be supplied with cleaning

and fire protection systems.
An area of not less than 900 mm × 1,000 mm shall be included on each floor in order

to provide access to the refuse chute. The door entrance shall be not less than

915 mm in width. Doors shall swing outwards and be fitted with automatic door

closing mechanisms. For ground floor residents, suitable access shall be provided to

the main waste storage room(s) or appropriate interim storage room(s) to facilitate

disposal of waste and recycling.

Where the refuse chute is situated at a distance from the roads that surround

the building, the main waste storage room(s) shall be situated near to the access

roads and shall facilitate easy access by waste management contractors for removal

of waste from the site.
Where suitable arrangements are in place for the transfer of waste to the main waste

storage area, service elevators may be used in lieu of refuse chutes. These shall

be located in an area that is isolated from the main passenger elevators and close

to the main waste storage area of the building. In some situations, the use

of passenger elevators is permissible for transfer of waste on a scheduled basis.

This is subject to the occupancy type of the development and other factors

including compliance with food safety regulations.
Interim waste storage rooms shall be provided as appropriate and conform

with the requirements of B.8.5.2.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 100

B.9

Architectural requirements for specific building types and spaces

B.9.1

General applicable requirements

This section details specific requirements for different building types.

These requirements shall be met in addition to all applicable requirements in the rest

of Part B.

The fire safety aspects of building design shall be in accordance with Ch. 1 to Ch.3

of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

, based on occupancy classification, building height and/

or building depth, together with the occupancy-specific fire separation and egress

requirements given in Section 5, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Building design shall also follow applicable health and safety requirements

[Ref. B.42 to Ref. B.54]

B.9.2

Fire separating construction

Fire separating construction shall be provided in accordance with Table 1.9,

Ch. 1 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

B.9.3

Cinemas, theatres and auditoria

The architectural design of mezzanines, balconies, aisles and seating arrangements

in cinemas, theatres and auditoria shall conform to the minimum requirements given

in Section 5.1, Ch. 3 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. B.1]

Where there is a well-defined main entrance or exit from cinemas, theatres and

auditoria, it shall be designed to accommodate two thirds of the total occupant load.

B.9.4

Mosques

B.9.4.1

General requirements

The following requirements and recommendations apply to the space planning

of mosques.
a)

The size of mosques should be sufficient for the population density they serve,

taking into account the number of mosques within proximate locations, as well

as the other plots reserved for mosque construction in the future.

Future expansions of mosque facilities should be taken into account.

c) Professionals involved in the design and construction of mosques shall have

knowledge and experience of Islamic architecture.

The direction of prayer and flow of movement inside the mosque shall be taken

into account.

e) Vehicular and pedestrian movement inside the mosque plot shall segregated

to avoid interference with the movement of worshippers to and from the

mosque’s buildings and service blocks.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 101

B.9.4.2

Mosque architecture

There are no restrictions on mosque design, provided that the following basic

requirements and recommendations are met.
a) The mosque design should respect Islamic architecture principles and should

be in harmony with local heritage and environment conditions of the region.

b) None of the design elements used shall contradict Islamic principles. This includes

proposed geometry, zoning of spaces to the interior finishes and calligraphy.

c) The architectural style used in mosque design should be implemented consistently

for all mosque elements including the dome and the minaret.

d) The mosque design shall include the aesthetic treatment of mosque spaces

and elements including the internal treatment of prayer halls.

e) The height of mosque elements such as domes and minarets, shall be

proportionate to the mosque general massing. The ratio of the minaret height

to the mosque should be 3:1.

Window openings shall be positioned carefully and treated to avoid distraction

of worshippers and sun glare effect, especially in the direction of prayer.

Examples of mosque design are given in Figure B.86. The mosque prayer hall shall be

provided with a Mihrab for Imam’s space and to indicate the direction of prayer.

Minbar for Friday prayers and Eid prayers shall be provided and should be

appropriately sized and positioned to avoid restricting prayer space in the front lines.

The minbar shall be positioned on the right side of the Mihrab as shown in

Figure B.87.

The minaret shall be provided with a permanent stair constructed from durable

materials, for access. As a minimum, the minaret shall have a spiral access stair from

ground level to the roof. The radius of the spiral stair shall be not less than 900 mm

and shall conform to the requirements for spiral stairs in B.6.4.1.12.
Minaret openings should be covered to reduce maintenance requirements.

Figure B.86

Mosque examples

Figure B.87

Mihrab and Minbar example

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 102

Implementation of green planted open spaces within the mosque plot is encouraged.
When the plot area allows, it is recommended that the mosque includes a library,

storage spaces and learning spaces.

The materials used (such as prayer hall carpets, floor finishes and ceiling materials)

shall have hygienic and eco-safety properties designed to prevent the accumulation

of dust, mould, etc. Materials shall be appropriate to the holy nature of the mosque.

Finishes shall be selected to withstand the high frequency of mosque space use.

Acoustic treatment shall be included in the design of the prayer hall to suit the space

and height (see

H.10.4.1

When the mosque requires fences for security or safety purposes, these fences

should allow visibility into the mosque plot. Mosques located in industrial areas

or areas under construction shall be provided with fences.
The mosque design should include courtyard spaces and an Iwan for prayer overspill

as needed.

B.9.4.3

Mosque access strategy

The number and size of entrances to mosques should be proportionate to the area

and expected number of worshippers, avoiding congestion that might occur during

the access and exit of worshippers.
The entrance doors to prayer halls shall be sized proportionately to the number of

worshippers and should be not less than 3 m in height.
Prayer hall door positions shall be carefully planned to avoid impacting prayer space

or creating queues during access or exit. Doors should always be located in the rear

of the prayer hall. Doors shall be provided with vision glass panels.
A separate entrance into the prayer area shall be provided for the Imam from the

Mihrab side. The entrance door shall open towards the direction of egress.
Roof access for maintenance shall be provided with protective ladders for ascending

heights of up to 6 m. If the required ascending height exceeds 6 m, an access stair

should be provided.

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 103

Figure B.88

Prayer hall general arrangement example

600

1,500

B.9.4.4

Mosque prayer hall arrangement

Prayer hall areas shall be planned to accommodate the total number of worshippers

in accordance with the occupant load factor in B.5.1.
Prayer lines shall be 1,330 mm in length, with each line indicated through carpet

patterns. Each person in the mosque is assumed to occupy 675 mm of the line width.
The prayer halls should be rectangular in shape, with the longest edge perpendicular

to the Qibla. Irregular angles, protrusions or recesses within the prayer halls should

be avoided. An example of a general prayer hall arrangement is shown in Figure B.88.

Intermediate structural elements inside prayer halls that impact the continuity of

prayer lines should be avoided.
A 600 mm space shall be provided on the sides of the prayer hall in Jumaa mosques

to facilitate movement and exit from prayer hall.
The net height of prayer halls shall be proportionate to the expected number of

worshippers and to the architectural style chosen. The height of the prayer hall shall

be not less than the minimum value given in B.5.3.
Space for shoe storage shall be provided prior to accessing the prayer hall. The space

shall be adequately sized to serve the expected number of worshippers and shall be

positioned so as not to conflict with prayer hall access.

Prayer halls lighting intensity and homogeneity should be taken into consideration.

Key

01: Prayer hall

02: Qibla Direction

03: Mihrab

04: Area for each worshipper

05: Clear entry

06: Racks for shoes

07: Door should be clear of

prayer space

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 104

B.9.4.5

Women’s prayer halls in mosques

All mosques (except for those located in industrial

areas) shall provide a women’s prayer hall with the

required number of sanitary facilities and ablution

spaces.

The area of women’s prayer halls shall be sufficient to

the expected number of female worshippers and shall

be sized to accommodate at least 20% of the total

planned number of worshippers.
The position of women’s prayer halls shall be planned

such that the Imam position is in front of all of the

praying group. The prayer hall shall not be adjacent to

men’s toilet blocks or located in a remote area of the

mosque (see Figure B.89).

Privacy of the women’s entrance and prayer hall shall

be taken into account. Provision shall be made for

direct and private circulation between the women’s

prayer hall and women’s facilities in the mosque

(see Figure B.89).

Figure B.89

Prayer hall general arrangement example

Key

01: Men main prayer hall

02: Men secondary prayer hall

03: Women prayer hall

04: Prayer prohibited in this area when the Imam is in the secondary prayer hall

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 105

The women’s prayer hall shall be located near to the

main road access and parking areas and shall not be

allocated in the mosque basement floor.

An indicative mihrab or wall recess should be provided

to inform Qibla direction.
Visual and audio connection between women’s and

men’s prayer halls shall be provided. Audio systems

shall provide appropriate sound levels into the women

prayer room.
The connection can be provided through perforated

screen or openings as shown in Figure B.90. The screen

or opening shall be placed at a minimum height of

2.1 m if both prayer halls are located on the ground

floor or at 1.2 m minimum when the female prayer hall

is on the upper level above the male prayer room and

overlooking it.

≥

1,200

≥

2,100

Figure B.90

Visual and audio connection between women's and men's prayer halls

(a) Screen

(b) 2.1 m high screen when both prayer halls are at ground floor

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 106

B.9.4.6

Specific requirements for mosque types

B.9.4.6.1 Awqat mosques (daily prayers mosque)

Awqat mosques shall:
a)

accommodate 100 to 300 male worshippers (assumed to be 80% of the total

number of planned worshippers);

provide prayer rooms for women accommodating 20% of the total number

of planned worshippers.

An example of Awqat mosque layout is provided in Figure B.91.

Figure B.91

Awqat mosque layout example

Key

01: Men prayer hall

02: Iwan

03: Women prayer hall

04: Minaret

05: Ablution

06: Toilet

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 107

B.9.4.6.2 Jumaa mosque (Friday prayer)

Jumaa mosques shall:
a)

accommodate more than 300 male worshippers (assumed to be 80% of the total

number of planned worshippers);

provide prayer rooms for women accommodating 20% of the total number of

worshippers.

Jumaa mosques accommodating more than 500 worshippers shall provide a

secondary prayer hall for the daily prayers. The following requirements and

recommendations apply to the secondary prayer hall.
1) The secondary prayer hall shall be one third of the overall men’s prayer hall area.
2) The secondary prayer hall should be provided with a Mihrab, as shown in

Figure B.88.

3) The division between the main and secondary prayer halls shall be through solid

construction that provides thermal separation properties for air-conditioning,

and maintains visual connection between the two halls when both spaces are

used. Glazed walls may be provided.

An example of Jumaa mosque layout is provided in Figure B.92.

B.9.4.6.3 Eid Mussalla

The space provided for performing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha prayers shall

be as required by IACAD.

Figure B.92

Jumaa mosque layout example

Key

01: Men main prayer hall

02: Men secondary prayer hall

03: Women prayer hall

04: Minaret

05: Iwan

06: Ablution

07: Toilet

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 108

B.9.4.7

Ablution spaces

Ablution spaces shall be well planned to avoid restriction of movement during

ablution. Fixture clearances shall conform to B.8.1.5.

Ablution spaces shall meet the following requirements.
a) The required number of ablution spaces (calculated in accordance with B.8.1.3.2)

shall be provided with fixed seats or height adjustable rotatable stools.

b) Accessible ablution spaces shall be provided in accordance with

C.8.6

The ablution areas shall be separated from the toilet blocks, see Figure B.93.

Figure B.93

Example of ablution area separation from toilets

1.5 m

Key

01: Ablution

02: Wash basins

03: Entrance lobby

04: Toilet

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 109

Ablution wash basins and standing ablution spaces with faucets are optional.
The convenience of users and comfortable reach ranges shall be taken into account when

determining the appropriate fixture heights according to the model of ablution chosen.

The clearances allowed shall be not less than the minimum values shown in Figure B.94.

Figure B.94

Ablution seat clearance section

400

≤

600

450

750

400

(a) Section

(b) Plan

800

400

600

Dubai Building Code

Part B: Architecture

B 110

B.9.4.8

Mosque accommodation

For a residence associated with a mosque, the area of a bedroom shall be not less

than 15 m

The location of accommodation shall provide privacy to the residents. The residence

block shall be separate from the mosque main mass and positioned away from heavy

mosque traffic.

Residence units should be adjacent to each other, in order to minimize impact on

mosque outdoor areas or any planned future expansion of the mosque.
An assigned parking bay for the mosque Imam and Moazen shall be provided with an

indicative designated parking board.
Mosque accommodation shall meet the following minimum requirements.
a) Awqat mosque.

1) Mosque cleaner/keeper: the accommodation shall consist of a studio unit with

kitchen and toilet. The unit shall be positioned in proximity to mosque service

blocks.

2) Imam residence: the accommodation shall consist of a minimum two-bedroom

unit with a living room, an enclosed kitchen and three toilets. One of the

bedrooms shall be an en-suite bedroom.

3) Imam residences shall be provided with dedicated outdoor open space or

courtyard.

b) Jumaa mosque.

1) Mosque cleaner/keeper: the accommodation shall consist of a studio unit with

kitchen and toilet. The unit shall be positioned in proximity to mosque service

blocks.

2) Imam residence: the accommodation shall consist of a minimum two-bedroom

unit with a living room, an enclosed kitchen and three toilets. One of the

bedrooms shall be an en-suite bedroom.

3) Moazen residence: the accommodation shall consist of a minimum one-

bedroom unit with a living room, an enclosed kitchen and a toilet.

4) Imam and Moazen residences shall each be provided with dedicated outdoor

open space or courtyard.

B.9.4.9

Mosque-specific sanitary requirements

The positioning of mosque toilets shall be planned carefully with cognisance of the

wind direction. Toilets shall not be positioned in front of or adjacent to the prayer hall.

The entrance of toilets shall be separated from ablution spaces to maintain purity

of ablution spaces.
Mosques shall be provided with a combination of western and eastern water closet.

At least 25% of the total number of male and female toilets shall be eastern style

water closet, or as requested by IACAD depending on the mosque location.
The cleaner’s room shall be provided in proximity to the toilet blocks.
Toilet compartments in a mosque shall be made of solid construction partitions.

Each compartment shall be not less than 1,100 mm × 1,500 mm.

Mosque sanitary provisions shall conform to B.8.1.

Dubai Building Code (2021) - page 5