Dubai Building Code (2021)

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 78

750-1,200

≥

400

C.8.7

Drinking fountains

For drinking fountains in urban spaces and buildings the following and Figure C.106

apply.
a) Two fountains with different heights shall be provided: one between 750 mm and

1,200 mm above the ground or FFL and an accessible fountain between 750 mm

and 900 mm above the ground or FFL.

b) Drinking fountains shall allow a frontal approach and provide the knee and toe

clearance specified in C.5.6.2.

c) If the push button is manual, it shall be an accessible mechanism that is easy

to operate. It shall be positioned between 700 mm and 1,200 mm above FFL or

ground level.

Water shall be attainable at a height of between 750 mm and 900 mm above FFL,

and near to the approaching space (see Figure C.106). The design should prevent

the user from getting wet during use.

e) The spout shall be located a minimum 400 mm from the back vertical support and

a maximum 125 mm from the front edge of the fountain unit, including bumpers.

Drinking fountains should be provided with bottle fillers.

g) Where possible, drinking fountains should be located in an alcove to avoid a

protrusion hazard.

h) Drinking fountains should be installed against a visually contrasting background

to increase their visibility.

Figure C.106

Drinking fountain dimensions

Key

01: Bottle filler

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 79

C.9 Accessibility features in buildings

C.9.1

Hearing enhancement systems

Hearing enhancement systems that operate using induction loops, infrared or radio

frequency are commonly used to provide enhanced levels of sound. They enable

sound signals to be transmitted to persons using hearing aids without interference

from background noise or excessive reverberation levels.
A hearing enhancement system shall be provided in the following building types and

occupancies:
a) public use reception areas;

b) meeting rooms and waiting areas for more than 25 people;

c) auditoriums;

d) accessible service counters;

e) theatres;

f)  mosques;
g)  cinemas; and
h)  concert halls.
Expert advice should be sought when selecting a hearing enhancement system

appropriate for the situation and purpose.
The guidance on the provision of hearing enhancement systems given in BS 8300

should be followed.

Hearing enhancement systems are compatible with language translation systems.

A sign should be posted indicating that an enhancement system is available. Where

a hearing enhancement system is provided, the accessibility symbol for hearing

impairment shall be provided.
To aid the effectiveness of a hearing enhancement system, rooms shall be designed

with sound absorbing surfaces to reduce the transference of noise (see

Part H

Assistive listening receivers for a hearing enhancement system shall be provided

in accordance with Table C.24. For induction loop systems, it is not mandatory to

provide hearing aid compatible receivers.

Number of occupants

Minimum number of receivers

to be hearing aid compatible

50 or less

51 to 500

2 plus 1 per 25 over 50

1 per 4 receivers

501 to 1,000

20 plus 1 per 50 over 500

1 per 4 receivers

1,001 and above

40 plus 1 per 100 over 1,000

1 per 4 receivers

Table C.24 Minimum number of receivers

C.9.2

Provisions for service animals

In theatres, cinemas, conference rooms, auditoriums and facilities where people are

expected to sit or wait, some seats should have a space for a service animal near their

owner.
In large buildings, such as shopping malls, leisure or entertainment facilities, and

mass transport facilities, it is recommended that a relief facility is provided for

assistance animals.
The following requirements and recommendations apply to the design of relief

facilities.
a) They shall not connect directly to spaces used by persons but shall be connected

to an accessible route.

They should have a minimum area of 3,000 mm × 4,000 mm and be surrounded

by a 1,200 mm high fence. The entrance should be easy to find and operate by a

visually impaired person. The surface should be cleanable, with a smooth finish

and a slope for drainage.

c) A waste bin and a supply of plastic bags should be provided close to the entrance.
d)

Relief facilities should have an accessible sign stating, “For service animals only”.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 80

C.10

Accessibility requirements for specific building types and occupancies

C.10.1

General

This section specifies requirements for specific building types and occupancies.

The requirements of C.4 to C.9 and C.11 shall be met in addition to the requirements

of C.10.

C.10.2

Assembly buildings and spaces

C.10.2.1

Cultural buildings, libraries, museums and exhibition rooms

The following requirements and recommendations apply to cultural buildings,

libraries, museums and exhibition rooms.
a) Exhibitions should be designed to allow exploration, discovery and enjoyment of

different sensorial experiences by different abled people. Different users perceive

information using different senses. Lights, smells, sounds, colours and other

multi-sensorial elements can be used to assist visitors.

b) Audio guides should be provided for exhibitions to explain, guide and assist the

visitors. Induction loops shall be provided when acoustic information is provided.

c) Visual displays shall conform to C.11.5.

C.10.2.2 Theatres, cinemas, conference rooms and auditoriums

Theatres, cinemas, conference rooms and auditoriums shall conform to the following

requirements.
a) Venues shall have the capability to support subtitles, sign language and audio

description where performances offer them.

b) Stages shall be accessible (see C.10.2.4).
c) Accessible toilets shall be located in proximity to seating areas, and not more than

150 m away.

C.10.2.3 Accessible auditorium seating spaces

C.10.2.3.1 General

The following requirements and recommendations apply to auditorium seating.
a) It shall be connected by an accessible route to the seating area, and an access

aisle to the designated wheelchair spaces.

b) Accessible seating may be provided with either designated wheelchair spaces or

removable seating that can be converted to wheelchair spaces.

Wheelchair spaces shall be provided according to Table C.25 and Figure C.107.

Criteria

Minimum dimensions (mm)

Width – single space

900

Width – two adjacent spaces

850

Length – front or rear approach

1,300

Length – side approach

1,500

Manoeuvring space

1,500 x 1,500

Seating access aisle

1,000

Table C.25 Wheelchair space requirements for auditoriums

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 81

Figure C.107

Wheelchair space for auditoriums

(d) Side entry

(a) Single space

(b) Two spaces

≥

900

≥

850

≥

850

≥

1,300

≥

1,500

A variety of seating locations shall be provided for

wheelchair users and their companions, to allow choice

of seating levels and comfortable line of sight. An

example is shown in Figure C.108.

≥

1,300

≥

1,000

≥

1,000

≥

1,000

Ø1,500

≥

1,300

≥

1,000

≥

1,000

≥

1,000

Ø1,500

Figure C.108

Example of reserved seating spaces in an auditorium

Key

01: Front seating

02: Aisle seating

03: Rear seating

04: Removable seats

05: Companion seat

06: Accessible aisle

07: Rear wall

08: Steps

09: Guard

10: Wheelchair space

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 82

The number of wheelchair spaces shall conform to Table C.26.

Number of wheelchair spaces

One reserved wheelchair space

For every 50 seats or fraction thereof up to 500 seats

One reserved wheelchair space

For every 100 seats or fraction thereof above first 500

Table C.26 Required number of wheelchair spaces

Wheelchair sitting spaces shall not overlap the accessible aisle minimum width.

For facilities with fixed seats, it is recommended that wheelchair spaces are arranged

into groups of a maximum two for 50% of the accessible seating capacity. Each

group of wheelchair spaces can have at least an equal number of fixed seats, to allow

a person accompanying a wheelchair user to be seated next to them.

Companion seats conforming to the following should be provided for 50% of

wheelchair spaces.
1) In row seating, companion seats shall be located to provide shoulder alignment

with adjacent wheelchair spaces.

The floor surface of the companion seats shall be at the same elevation as the

floor surface of the wheelchair space.

3) Companion seats shall be equivalent in size, quality, comfort and amenities to

the seating in the immediate area. Companion seats can be movable.

For removable or foldable seats provided in the designated wheelchair spaces, the

conversion process shall be quick and easy.
Both the surface of wheelchair spaces and the clear manoeuvring space shall be level,

having a maximum longitudinal gradient of 2%.

Aisle seats shall have foldable or retractable armrests.

In auditoriums with raked floors, wheelchair spaces should have a handrail and

guardrails located at any change of level where no barrier is provided by other means.
A space at the front of the hall or room where a sign language interpreter can easily

be seen shall have an independent overhead light.

A sufficient number of designated accessible seats for people with hearing

impairments should be provided in front of the sign language interpreter.
Wheelchair designated sitting spaces shall be marked with the symbol for people of

determination.

C.10.2.3.2 Lines of sight over seated spectators

Where spectators are expected to remain seated during events, spectators in

wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight as shown in Figure C.109 and

Figure C.110.

Figure C.109 Line of sight over the heads of seated

spectators (modified figure based on 2010 ADA

Standards for Accessible Design, US Department of

Justice 2010. Figure 802.2.1.1.)

Figure C.110 Lines of sight between the heads

of seated spectators (modified figure based on

2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, US

Department of Justice 2010, Figure 802.2.1.2.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 83

C.10.2.3.3 Lines of sight over standing spectators

Where spectators are expected to stand during events, spectators in wheelchair

spaces shall be afforded lines of sight as shown in Figure C.111 and Figure C.112.

Figure C.111 Lines of sight over the heads

of standing spectators (modified figure based on

2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, US

Department of Justice 2010, Figure 802.2.2.2.1.)

Figure C.112 Lines of sight between the heads of

standing spectators (modified figure based on

2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, US

Department of Justice 2010, Figure 802.2.2.2.)

C.10.2.4 Stages and backstage

Stages shall be accessible to everyone via a ramp or lift. In an exceptional case a lift

platform can be provided to make a stage accessible. The lift platform shall conform

to C.5.9.4.
All controls to be operated by a speaker/performer shall be operable by a seated

person.
It should be possible to use the assistive listening system on the stage.
The stage area shall contain space for wheelchair manoeuvring clearances.
Buildings for public events with a capacity of more than 300 spectators should have

an accessible backstage area with an accessible toilet, including a shower, a changing

room and a space with an accessible mirror.
The route between the backstage and the stage shall be an accessible route.

C.10.2.5 Libraries and reading

areas

Seating allocated to people of

determination should be on a direct

route, which is free of obstructions and

located so that it is easily identifiable

by visually impaired people. The aisle

spacing for accessing the seating area

shall be minimum of 1,000 mm

(see Figure C.113).

Space should be provided nearby for

storage of a wheelchair, to allow a

wheelchair user to transfer from their

wheelchair to a seat.
Seating designated for people of

determination should not obstruct

other users.

≥

1,000

Ø1,500

≥

1,500

≥

1,500

≥

1,000

Figure C.113

Circulation spaces between study tables/desks (© British

Standards Institute. Figure extracted from BS 8300:2018. Permission to

reproduce extracts from British Standards is granted by BSI Standards Limited

(BSI). No other use of this material is permitted).

Key

01: Double side desk

02: Single side desk

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 84

C.10.2.6 Mosques and prayer rooms

Mosques and prayer rooms shall conform to the following requirements.
a) In addition to the clear area provided at the entrance in accordance with C.5.6.1,

a “KEEP CLEAR” mat shall be provided if the clear entrance is not guaranteed.

b) Seating shall be provided at entrances and at other locations where people are

required to remove their shoes.

c) Seating should be provided within the prayer hall to accommodate people who

cannot bend to pray.

d) The route to the designated area crossing the prayer hall’s carpeting shall have

low pile carpeting or be level with circulation area (see C.7.2.1).

e) The accessible sanitary provision shall be a minimum of one accessible toilet and

one accessible ablution space within each prayer room for each gender.

C.10.2.7 Public spaces

C.10.2.7.1 General

The following requirements and recommendations apply to public spaces, such as

parks, beaches and open spaces for public use, including their facilities, services and

urban furniture.
a) All urban furniture and signage shall not interfere with the accessible route.
b) Where a public space is designed exclusively or mainly for pedestrians, all areas

between buildings or lots shall be as level as possible. A physical speed-calming

element shall be installed at all entrances to the area to limit vehicles to 10 km/h.

c) In outdoor spaces it is recommended that resting places are located at maximum

intervals of 100 m. Benches with and without arms should be provided to

accommodate people of various sizes.

d) Publicly accessible toilets shall be installed near the accessible route (see C.8.1).

It is recommended that they are located on the same level as the accessible

entrance.

e) Electric mobility device chargers with an interaction space shall be installed in the

following locations:
1)  accessible routes in the vicinity of park entrances;
2)  along public beaches;
3)  near tourist attractions;
4)  in shopping malls; and
5)  in other places as appropriate.

f) The provision of continuous shaded paths is encouraged. Shaded areas should be

provided at minimum intervals of 50 m in streets and squares. Each second area

should be provided with seating places and space for wheelchair users without

invading the accessible route.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 85

C.10.2.7.2 Parks, beaches and natural spaces

Information about the nearest publicly accessible toilets and interest points within a

park or beach shall as a minimum be installed at every route intersection.
Supplementary routes can be provided at beaches and natural landscape areas where

walking would be difficult.

A supplementary route shall conform to the following.
a) It shall have a minimum clear width of 1,500 mm and be free of obstacles.
b) Where the natural slope of the terrain allows it, the route’s running gradient shall

be not greater than 5% and the crossfall gradients shall be a maximum of 2%.

c) It shall reach as close as possible to the water’s edge or natural landscape area

(see Figure C.114).

d) There should be a minimum of one accessible unit of each utility (such as toilets,

lounges, beach cafes and restaurants, showers, changing rooms, furniture and

emergency services).

e) The utilities should be installed as close as possible to each other and shall be

connected by an accessible route. Access to the utilities shall be via an accessible

route from access point and from the accessible route to the water's edge or

natural landscape area (see Figure C.114).

≤

1,500

≥

1,500

≥

1,500

Figure C.114

Accessible route at a beach

Key

01: Sign

02: Accessible route

03: Water closet

04: Shower

05: Café

06: Awnings area

07: Rope

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 86

C.10.2.7.3 Access to lakes and seas

An orientation rope shall be provided at the point of access into the water. This rope

shall remain floating and its length be adapted to the specific conditions of each

swimming area (see Figure C.115).

Figure C.115

Orientation rope

Key

01: Approx. 400 mm diameter buoy every 10 m

02: Acoustic information point in the first buoy

03: Approx. 200 mm diameter buoy every 10 m

04: Rope

C.10.2.7.4 Outdoor showers

Outdoor accessible showers shall be provided at accessible beaches and swimming

pools. A minimum of one shower shall be provided for every 150 m of beach length.
These showers shall be linked via an accessible route and interaction space. They shall

be a minimum 1,800 mm in width and shall be provided with an accessible bench (see

Figure C.116). The bench should be bolted to the floor to prevent overturning.

Each shower shall be controlled by a button placed between 700 mm and 1,200 mm

above the floor surface. The button shall be operable with an elbow or a closed fist

(see Figure C.116).

700-1,200

Figure C.116

Outdoor shower

Key

01: Shower jet

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 87

C.10.2.7.5 Playgrounds

Playgrounds that offer a variety of play options (visual, auditory and tactile) are

preferred. To be accessible, a playground shall conform to the following requirements.
a)

Each playground shall conform to the basic requirements for accessibility of fixed

accessible furniture (see C.7.3).

b) Playground surfaces shall consist of rubber or compacted sand.
c)

The surfaces shall be smooth, firm and free of any sharp objects or projections, in

order to avoid injuries.

d) Playgrounds shall be designed to allow all children, regardless of their functional

limitations, and according to the age group for which the playgrounds are

intended, to enjoy and use a minimum of 50% of individual and group expected

activities.

e) All materials exposed to sun radiation shall not reach temperatures that can harm

the users.

f) Materials used to construct children's games (especially sliding ones) shall

not contain plastics or metals that produce electrostatic discharges that can

deprogram hearing aids. Any existing playground that produces this effect shall be

marked with a magnetic warning sign (see Figure C.117).

The provisions of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)

[Ref. C.2]

should

be followed.

Figure C.117

Example of ISO and ANSI

magnetic warning signs

C.10.2.8 Swimming pools

C.10.2.8.1 General

For a public use swimming pool, an accessible deck shall be provided on at least two

sides of the pool. An accessible route shall link the pool with facilities and common

areas.

For a residential pool serving multiple units, the pool deck and amenities should

be accessible. Other private use swimming pool accessibility provisions should be

according to operation and users’ needs.
Public use swimming pools longer than 25 m, and other bathing pools, shall have a

minimum of one accessible means of entering the water.
Access to the water shall be by sloped entry or assisted elevation chair if the pool

length exceeds 25 m.
Communication shall be provided in visual and audio format simultaneously.
The ADA

[Ref. C.2]

requirements for accessible swimming pools should be followed.

The following accessibility features shall also be provided:
a)  a safety ladder;
b)  underwater illumination if the pool will be used at night; and
c)  connection of the swimming pool to an accessible changing room for each gender

in accordance with C.7.6.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 88

C.10.2.8.2 Sloped entries

Sloped entries shall extend to a depth of not less than 600 mm and not more than

750 mm below the stationary water level (Figure C.118).
Handrails shall be provided on the sloped entry.

C.10.2.8.3 Pool chair lifts

Pool chair lifts shall be located where the water level does not exceed 1,200 mm

within the swimming pool area.
Pool chair lifts shall be located over the deck and at a minimum of 400 mm from the

edge of the pool.

A clear deck space of 1,500 mm × 1,500 mm shall be provided parallel to the seat

(see Figure C.119).

The height of the chair lift seat shall be between 400 mm and 500 mm from the pool

deck level when in the raised position.
Seat width shall be a minimum of 400 mm.
Seats shall be at a minimum depth of 450 mm below the stationary water level when

submerged.

≥

1,500

≥

1,500

Figure C.119

Swimming pool chair lift

Key

01: Minimum required space

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 89

C.10.2.9 Recreational buildings and amusement parks

The following requirements and recommendations apply to recreational buildings and

amusements parks.
a) When the nature of the facility requires auditorium seating places, accessible

seating spaces shall be provided. These seating spaces shall conform to the

requirements for auditorium seating spaces in C.10.2.3.

b) Amusement facilities should provide equal use for people of determination.
c) Where providing different amusement facilities in the same recreational building

or amusement park, at least 50% of them should be accessible.

d) Amusement facilities shall have wheelchairs or other personal mobility devices

available for users.

The ADA

[Ref. C.2]

requirements for the provision of recreational facilities, including

amusement rides, boating facilities, fishing piers, golf facilities and spas, should be

followed.

C.10.2.10 Dining spaces

The following requirements and recommendations apply to dining rooms.

NOTE: An example accessible dining room is shown in Figure C.120.

a) An accessible route shall be provided to at least half of the dining areas.
b)

Illumination of a minimum 100 lux shall be provided in at least 10% of the dining

room.

c) Acoustic treatment should be incorporated into dining rooms.
d)

At least 10% of the tables shall conform to C.7.3.3 and shall be connected by an

accessible route.

e) An accessible route with a minimum clear width of 1,000 mm shall be provided to

reach the accessible tables, all food service areas, condiments and utensils.

f) Where self-service aisles or counters are provided, all food, condiments and

cutlery shall be within the reach ranges specified in C.5.7. Counters shall conform

to C.7.3.5.

For heavy traffic areas and expected two-way passage, a minimum clear passage

of 1,500 mm should be maintained.

h) Space for children strollers and mobility devices shall be provided.
i)

A minimum of 10% of seats shall be movable.

Figure C.120

Example of an accessible dining space

≥

1,000

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 90

C.10.2.11 Kitchen and kitchenettes

C.10.2.11.1 General

Kitchen work surface shall have sections of a maximum depth of 600 mm and

maximum height of 850 mm above finish floor for wheelchair users. These sections

shall be kept clear of floor-mounted cupboards, equipment or legs.
Kitchens shall conform to the clearances specified in either C.10.2.11.2 or

C.10.2.11.3.

C.10.2.11.2 Pass-through kitchen

In pass-through kitchens (see Figure C.121) a minimum clearance of 1,200 mm shall

be provided.

Figure C.121 Clearance for pass-through kitchens (modified figure based on 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible

Design, US Department of Justice 2010, Figure 804.2.1.)

≥

1,200

C.10.2.11.3 U-shaped kitchen

In U-shaped kitchens (see Figure C.122) a manoeuvring clearance of 1,500 mm shall

be provided.

Figure C.122 Manoeuvring clearance for U-shaped kitchens (modified figure based on 2010 ADA Standards for

Accessible Design, US Department of Justice 2010, Figure 804.2.2. )

Kitchens should be designed in accordance with the ADA

[Ref. C.2]

and BS 8300.

Ø1,500

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 91

C.10.2.12 Transport buildings, stations and terminals

C.10.2.12.1 General

This subsection specifies general accessibility requirements for transport related

buildings such as:
a)  railway and metro stations;
b)  underground railway and rapid transit stations;
c)  airports and terminals; and
d)  sea terminals.
All platforms and waiting areas shall be connected by accessible routes. Accessible

ticket sales and information counters and seating areas shall be provided. Audio and

visual communication systems shall be provided.
In addition, accessible transportation facilities should be designed in accordance with

the ADA

[Ref. C.2]

and BS 8300.

C.10.2.12.2 Bus shelters

A bus shelter shall conform to the following requirements.
a) The location of the shelter shall not encroach upon the accessible pedestrian

route, public space or transportation platform.

b) An accessible route shall be provided, free of protruding obstacles on both sides

and with a minimum clear height of 2,100 mm. The route shall have a minimum

clear width of 1,200 mm.

c) There shall be no obstacle between the space covered by the bus shelter and the

transport vehicle.

d) Any glazed walls shall be marked (see C.7.2.3).

e) A minimum of one fixed bench shall be provided.

f) A minimum of one standing support shall be provided, located at a height

between 700 mm and 750 mm above the floor surface and separated from the

wall or vertical enclosure by a minimum of 200 mm.

g) The bus shelter shall have a minimum average illumination of 50 lux, measured at

ground level, during off-service hours. The minimum average illumination shall be

100 lux at the boarding time.

h) The boarding area platform shall have a detectable warning surface.
i) Bus signposts shall not obstruct the accessible routes. No elements shall protrude

below the accessible route clear height requirement.

C.10.2.12.3 Gangways

A gangway shall be used for embarking and disembarking from a berth and to and

from a vessel.

A gangway shall have a maximum gradient of 8%, measured from the vessel or berth

surface to the gangway’s intersection with the berth surface or vessel landing deck

(see Figure C.123).

The width of the gangway should be appropriate to the vessel infrastructure, but

shall be not less than 1,000 mm. It is recommended that this is increased to

1,800 mm for vessels with high pedestrian traffic (see Figure C.124).

The gangway/ramp interface with the berth surface and the vessel landing deck

should be levelled and not exceed a vertical gap of 13 mm chamfered.
A gangway/ramp run with a rise greater than 150 mm should have handrails on both

sides and be of a uniform height above the floor.

The handrails should extend horizontally at least 300 mm beyond the top and

bottom of the gangway/ramp and return to the wall, or post.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 93

C.10.2.13

Sport buildings and exercise rooms

C.10.2.13.1 Exercise rooms

An accessible route shall be provided between equipment in sports and exercise

rooms.
Exercise machines and equipment shall have a clear interaction space. Interaction

spaces shall be provided on the access side of the equipment to allow transfer. One

interaction space can be shared between two pieces of equipment.

C.10.2.13.2 Sport buildings

Accessible sports facilities shall conform to the International Paralympics

Committee’s requirements

[Ref. C.3]

For sports facilities, an accessible route shall be provided to connect the boundary of

each activity area.

For court sports, at least one accessible route shall connect both sides of the court.
Where bowling lanes are provided, a minimum of 5%, but not less than 1, shall be on

an accessible route conforming to C.5.
Tiered auditorium seating for sports facilities shall conform to C.10.2.3.

C.10.3

Residential buildings

C.10.3.1 General

Apartment buildings, staff accommodation and labour accommodation buildings shall

have an accessible route for accessing the buildings and residential amenities.
A video doorbell should be provided to facilitate communication with residents for

people of determination.

C.10.3.2 Adaptable units in residential buildings

For new housing developments with more than ten units, a minimum of 2% of the

total units and all common spaces in the building should be adaptable to meet the

accessibility needs and conform to the accessibility requirements of this Part.
This allows low-cost conversion of a house to meet the accessibility needs of any

future residents who are persons of determination.
Volume 1, Section 2 of Approved Document M

[Ref C.4]

provides guidelines for

designing adaptable accessible units.
All adaptable accessible units in new housing buildings shall conform to the following

requirements.
a) The entrance and internals doors shall conform to C.5.8.
b) Wall-mounted switches and socket outlets shall conform to C.5.7.4.
c)

The bathroom shall contain sufficient space clearances to contain a minimum

of one accessible bathtub or shower, accessible sink and water closet with

appropriate space clearances.

d) All walls, ducts and boxings shall be strong enough to support grab rails, seats or

other adaptations that could impose a load up to 1.5 kN/m

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 94

e) In accessible residential units with more than one level, at least the kitchen, one

bathroom and one living room or bedroom shall be accessible from the entrance

door without any level changes.

f) Inside an adaptable accessible unit, manoeuvring space inside the kitchen shall be

a minimum 1,200 mm free of door openings and fixed elements, and 1,500 mm

where turning is required as shown in Figure C.125.

Figure C.125

Manoeuvring space in an adaptable kitchen

Inside an adaptable accessible unit, at

least one bedroom shall conform to the

following requirements and

Figure C.126.

1) A clear access route of 1,000 mm

shall be provided from the doorway

to the window or balcony.

2) A clear access zone of 1,000 mm

shall be provided to one side and

the foot of the bed.

A clear space of 1,200 mm ×

1,200 mm shall be provided at

direction changes.

In duplexes and units of two or more

levels a lift platform may be provided.

on Diagram 3.9 of the Building Regulations (2010), Approved Document Part M, Volume 1, 2015 Edition with

2016 amendments. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0)

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 95

C.10.4

Hotel buildings

C.10.4.1 General

All common spaces in hotel establishment shall be accessible.
Accessible hotel rooms should be dispersed between different hotel room types as

necessary in accordance with C.10.4.2 and C.10.4.3.

C.10.4.2 Accessible guest room with mobility features

A minimum number of accessible guest room with mobility features shall be provided

in accordance with Table C.27.

Hotel rooms count

Accessible guest rooms with mobility features

50 to 500

2% of total number of rooms

Above 500

1% for additional rooms over 500

Table C.27 Number of accessible guest room with mobility features

Accessible rooms should be located at the lower levels of the hotel, preferably in the

first three guest room floors of the building.

An accessible toilet with grab bars, an accessible shower and a sink shall be provided

(see Figure C.127 and Figure C.128).
50% of the accessible hotel rooms shall contain roll-in showers. The other 50% shall

contain accessible bathtubs (see Figure C.129). An alarm string shall be provided at

the shower or tub.

The accessible rooms shall be provided with audible and visual fire alarms in

accordance with Ch. 8 of UAE FLSC

[Ref. C.1]

Controls shall be placed at a height of 400 mm to 1,200 mm, except for those to be

used from the bed. These should be placed within ready reach of occupants. Electric

outlets shall conform to the ranges and locations specified in C.5.7.

A clear route shall be provided to the bed with a minimum clear space of 1,500 mm

× 1,500 mm beside the bed not obstructed by any furniture (see Figure C.130).

The bed shall have a maximum height of 500 mm.

A dressing mirror shall be provided, in which the user can see their reflection from a

distance of 250 mm to 2,000 mm.
Shelves and drawers shall be provided between 700 mm and 1,200 mm from the

floor. Clothes hangers should be provided between 1,100 mm and 1,400 mm above

the floor.

A minimum illumination of 200 lux shall be provided in the guest room area.
Connecting rooms shall have accessible doors.
A viewing device should be provided in the door, with its bottom at a height of

between 900 mm and 1,200 mm.
Changes in level or lip in the washroom or shower area shall be limited to a maximum

5 mm.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 98

C.10.4.3 Accessible guest rooms with communication features

It is recommended that a minimum number of guest rooms with communication

features are provided in accordance with Table C.28. This provision can be separate

from that specified in C.10.4.2 and is not required to conform to C.10.4.2.

Hotel rooms count

Accessible guest rooms with communication features

50 to 500

4% of total number of rooms

Above 500 rooms

2% for additional rooms over 500

Table C.28 Number of accessible guest rooms with communication features

Where provided, such a guest room shall:
a) provide compatibility with adaptive equipment used by people with hearing

impairments;

b) contain telephone interface jacks that are compatible with both digital and

analogue signal use;

contain visible notification devices to alert room occupants of incoming telephone

calls and a door knock or bell; and

d) contain telephones with volume controls compatible with the telephone system.
The ADA

[Ref. C.2]

requirements for the provision of guest rooms with

communication features and telephones should be followed.

C.10.5

Education buildings

The following requirements and recommendations apply to education buildings, as

necessary.
a) At building entrances, an accessible route shall be provided, segregated from

vehicle circulation.

b) There should be an accessible route from the bus yard to the building entrance.
c) Seats with different characteristics should be provided dependent on the

students’ needs. Space flexibility shall be provided to guarantee that places can

be provided for wheelchair users, left-handed users, and people of large stature,

limited mobility or breathing, and their communication accessories.

d) Accessible seats at desks shall be removable and the dimensions of the desks

shall allow use by people in wheelchairs.

e) In children’s schools and nurseries, toilets and furniture of the appropriate height

shall be provided (see C.8.3.4.4).

f) Accessible toilets shall be provided for teachers, students and visitors.
g)

For students using assistive devices such as computers or optical character

recognition systems, electrical socket outlets should be provided as close as

possible to their seats. The cables between the devices and the socket outlets

shall not obstruct the circulation routes.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 99

C.10.6

Healthcare buildings

In addition to accessibility and design requirements imposed by DHA regulations and

guidelines

[Ref. C.5 to Ref. C.15]

, the following requirements and recommendations

apply to health and social care buildings.

a) Horizontal and vertical circulation should be designed to ease the movement of

beds and gurneys, particularly at changes of directions, at access to rooms from

corridors, and in the dimensions of elevator cabins.

b)  Corridors shall have handrails along their entire lengths.
c)  All private patient rooms shall be accessible.
d)  A minimum of one accessible toilet room for each gender shall be provided in each

department or area.

C.10.7

Business and industrial buildings

All offices, industrial and laboratory facilities including common areas shall be

accessible.
Accessible workstations shall be provided and adapted individually for employees

with functional limitation. Offices, industries and laboratory facilities shall conform to

the following requirements for accessible working areas.
a) The access aisles to workstations shall allow for an accessible route with a

minimum clear width of 1,000 mm.

b) Manoeuvring space shall be provided for persons in wheelchairs to approach the

accessible working area.

c) Work counters used by people of determination shall conform to C.7.3.5.
d)

Lighting levels at work areas shall be a minimum of 200 lux.

e) Information on visual displays shall be supplemented by tactile and/or auditory

information, colour contrasted, and located on a glare-free surface.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 100

C.11

Signage and wayfinding accessibility requirement

C.11.1

Wayfinding guidance for accessibility

Wayfinding can be particularly challenging for some people of determination.
EXAMPLE: Someone who has hearing impairment will rely on visual information but

might not be able to hear someone providing directions. Someone who is blind will

not be able to see a directory, but if it is in a predictable location and has information

in a tactile format, they can read it and use sound and even smell to gather more

information about their environment.

It is important to provide wayfinding information in a variety of different formats:

visual, auditory, olfactory and physical. All people use different forms of information

gathering to find their way to their destination, but this is especially important for

people of determination.
Depending on the diversity of the population, visual, acoustic and tactile references

shall be used to guide a person to avoid risks and to reduce confusion.

C.11.2

General requirements

Signs with texts and symbols, visual references and tactile information like high-

embossed characters or Braille text shall be provided.

Signs provided to assist a person in the wayfinding process shall conform to the

following requirements.
a) Colour coding shall be used to differentiate zones or hierarchies of text messages.

Colours that create confusion for the colour-blind should be avoided. For example,

red and green should not be used together where contrasting colours are

required.

b) Signage shall be positioned in a manner that wheelchair users or children can see

it easily.

Letters, numbers, symbols and pictographs shall be glare-free and presented in

high reflectance contrast.

d) Signage with text shall be provided in English and Arabic languages.
e) The colour contrast between text and its background shall have a minimum clear

reflectance contrast of 50 points LRV.

f) Accessibility pictograms shall conform to ISO 7000.
The ADA

[Ref. C.2]

requirements for accessible signage and wayfinding should be

followed.

C.11.3

Tactile maps and signage

C.11.3.1 General features

Tactile maps that offer embossed visual information and acoustic information should

be provided when possible.
Tactile maps should include only essential information: location of services and

routes, and position of elements such as information, main services and toilets.
Terms and concepts used should be easy to understand.

Graphic plane representation (lines, surfaces) should be defined through

embossment, textures and colour contrasts.
The signs and lettering of the map shall be represented through visual contrast

between fonts and background colours. The font size should be a minimum of 20 mm

in a sans serif type font. The information shall also be represented in Braille.

The maximum area of horizontal fixed tactile maps should be 800 mm × 450 mm.

The symbols used shall be clearly differentiated (by form, colour and texture) and

shall be easily associated with their representation.

For complex tactile maps, buttons for oral information shall be provided.

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 101

C.11.3.2 Location of tactile maps

When a tactile map is provided, it shall be located

within the accessible route and its location shall be

indicated with a tactile orientation and warning surface.

A map should be located in a well-lit area. Obstacles in

front of a tactile map, such as glass protections, shall

be avoided.
When mounted in a busy public place, a tactile map

shall include sound information.
In a large building or open space for public use (park,

beach), a tactile map shall be located in proximity to

the main entrance area. In a building with more than

one floor, it shall be located near the stairs or the

elevator.

When fixed to a vertical surface, a tactile map shall be

centred between 1,250 mm and 1,750 mm above the

floor. On horizontal or inclined surfaces, the height

shall be between 900 mm and 1,200 mm from the

floor and the inclination shall be between 30º and 45º

from the horizontal level.

C.11.3.3 Raised characters for tactile signage

Tactile signage should be provided. Letters, numbers,

symbols and pictographs should be raised a minimum

of 0.8 mm and should be between 16 mm and 50 mm

high. If a tactile sign is mounted on a wall, its centre

should be at a maximum height of 1,500 mm above the

floor.

Long messages should be avoided for letters and

symbols in high embossment.
Raised characters should be provided for rooms’

or spaces’ identification signage. This signage shall

preferably represent a single icon or character, for

example, the number of an elevator floor, restrooms

icon.

High embossment characters shall be sans serif upper

case.
The tactile signage shall be in high embossment and

not engraved.
Symbol height shall be not less than 30 mm. The

embossment thickness shall be between 2 mm and 5

mm for letters and 2 mm for symbols.

Tactile surfaces shall have a reflectance contrast with

the surrounding surfaces of a minimum 50 points LRV.

C.11.4

Braille

Braille dots shall have a domed or rounded shape (see

Figure C.131).

The indication of an upper case letter or letters shall

only be used before the first word of sentences, proper

nouns and names, individual letters of the alphabet,

initials and acronyms.
Braille characters should be located beneath the

corresponding text, at a minimum distance of 10 mm

from the edge of the sign.

Braille characters shall be separated 10 mm minimum

from any other tactile characters or borders.
The ADA

[Ref. C.2]

requirements for Braille signage

may be followed.

Figure C.131

Example of Braille characters

Top view

Side view

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 102

C.11.5

Position of signage

Signs shall be mounted outside the accessible route.
Signs shall be well illuminated at all times and be positioned such that lighting and

sunshine do not produce shadows or glare on the signs.

Backgrounds of signs in reflective or strong visual textures should be avoided.

Obstacles between signs and the observers shall be avoided.
Signs on walls should be centred at a height of 1.5 m. If this space is intended for use

mainly by children, the bottom edge of any sign should be at a maximum height of

1.25 m (see Figure C.132 and Figure C.133).

When the sign is mounted on a horizontal or inclined plane, inclination should be

between 30 º and 45 º from the horizontal level (see Figure C.134).

Interior signage at doors should be positioned at the latch side of the door.

Figure C.132 Vertical visual reach – Close distance

≤

1.25

Figure C.133 Vertical visual reach – Far distance

≤

1.5

Figure C.134

Inclined sign and tactile maps

Dubai Building Code

Part C: Accessibility

C 103

C.11.6

Accessibility signs and symbols

Signs to facilities should incorporate the approved accessibility symbols for people of

determination in UAE (see Figure C.135).

Signs should be provided to inform people who have hearing impairment of locations

in the building where hearing enhancement systems are installed, and where they can

obtain the necessary equipment for them.

Accessibility Symbol representing people of determination which is

to be used for any information and/or service for the group, including

wayfinding, and to indicate all accessibility in the built environment.

Visual impairment symbol to indicate services, aids and equipment

and facilities that support the specific group.

Hearing impairment symbol to indicate services, aids and equipment

and facilities that support the specific group, such as induction loops.

Permission to reproduce extracts from British Standards is granted by BSI Standards Limited (BSI). No other

use of this material is permitted).

C.11.7

Combination of communication processes

To ensure an accessible communication process, a combination of different

communication channels shall be provided depending on the building type or

occupancies. The communication shall include a minimum of two of the three

channels of communication: acoustic, visual and tactile.
Several possible valid combinations of an accessible communication process are

shown in Figure C.136.

Alphabetical and symbolic

writing

Tactile references/guiding tactile

pavement

Braille

Alphabetical and symbolic

writing

Alphabetical and symbolic

embossed writing

Alphabetical and symbolic

writing

Alphabetical and symbolic

embossed writing

Alphabetical and symbolic

writing

Oral information

Alphabetical writing

Braille

Light signal

Simultaneous sound signal

Oral communication

Sign language/written text

Figure C.136

Accessible communication combinations

Dubai Building Code

Part D: Vertical transportation

D 3

Door opening time:

Period of time (s) measured from

the instant the car doors start to open until they are

800 mm apart.

Door pre-opening time:

Time-saving feature allowing

the elevator doors to open in the safe zone while

arriving at landing within 200 mm from the landing

level.

Flight time:

Time between the instant the car doors are

locked and the time when the elevator is level at the

next adjacent floor.

Grouping:

Elevators in a common lobby serving all or

part of the floors as one group.

Gross area (GA):

Floor area within the inside perimeter

of the exterior 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.

Handling capacity (HC5):

Average number of

passengers that an elevator or group of elevators can

transport in a period of 5 min.

Handling capacity (HC5%):

Percentage of the

occupant load that an elevator group can transport in a

period of 5 min.

High depth:

A building more than 7 m below or more

than two basements below the level of exit discharge,

measured in accordance with the UAE FLSC

[Ref. D.1]

A more detailed definition is given in UAE FLSC.

D.2

Definitions

D.2.1

Terms

Acceleration:

Rate of change of speed or velocity of an

elevator (m/s

Arrival rate:

Rate at which passengers arrive for

service by an elevator system, in persons per 5 min or

percentage of building population per 5 min.

Average time to destination:

Average period of time (s)

from when a passenger either registers a landing call

or joins a queue until the responding elevator begins to

open its doors at the destination floor.

Average waiting time:

Average period of time (s) from

when a passenger either registers a landing call or joins

a queue until the responding elevator begins to open its

doors at the boarding floor.

Boarding floor:

Floor that provides entry into a

building, including ground floors, basements, parking,

podium parking, and connections between towers and

car parks at high level.

Capacity factor:

Filling rate of an elevator during each

trip, measured in percentage to rated load.

Door closing time:

Period of time (s) measured from

the instant the car doors start to close until the doors

are locked.

Door dwell time:

Period of time (s) the elevator doors

are open for a fixed length of time (dwell) after an

elevator arrives at a floor. Passengers can then alight or

board. These times are different to the landing calls and

car calls.

High-rise building:

Building height greater than or

equal to 23 m and up to 90 m, measured in accordance

with the UAE FLSC

[Ref. D.1]

. A more detailed

definition is given in UAE FLSC.

Jerk:

Rate of change of acceleration (m/s

Occupant load:

Total number of persons that might

occupy a building or portion thereof.

Occupiable floor:

Floor designed for human occupancy

in which individuals congregate for accommodation,

amusement, work, educational or similar purposes.

Rated capacity:

Load (kg and number of people) for

which an elevator has been built and at which it is

designed to operate.

Rated speed (v):

Speed (m/s) for which an elevator has

been built and at which it is designed to operate.

Super high-rise building:

Building height greater than

90 m, measured in accordance with the UAE FLSC

[Ref. D.1]

. A more detailed definition is given in

UAE FLSC.

Swing mode elevator:

Elevator that is used for multiple

purposes, e.g. passenger/service, passenger/fire/

service, or fire/service.

Zoning:

Virtual separation of the floors in the buildings

based on the elevator groups, such that the elevators

serving one zone do not serve the other zone.

Dubai Building Code

Part D: Vertical transportation

D 4

D.2.2

Acronyms and abbreviations

alternating current

ASME

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

BS EN

British Standard European Norm

Ch.

chapter

CSA

Canadian Standards Association

depth

DBC

Dubai Building Code

DCD

Dubai Civil Defence

DCS

destination control system

destination dispatch

gross area

height

handling capacity

HCDC

hall call destination control

RCC

reinforced concrete

seconds

UAE FLSC

United Arab Emirates Fire and Life Safety Code

of Practice

vertical transportation

VVVF

variable voltage and variable frequency

width

Dubai Building Code

Part D: Vertical transportation

D 5

D.3 References

ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Safety code for elevators and

escalators
ASME A17.2, Guide for inspection of elevators,

escalators and moving walks
ASME A17.3, Safety code for existing elevators and

escalators
ASME A17.4, Guide for emergency personnel
ASME A17.5/CSA B44.1, Elevator and escalator

electrical equipment
ASME A17.6, Standard for elevator suspension,

compensation and governor systems
ASME A17.7/B44.7, Performance-based safety code

for elevators and escalators
BS EN 81-20, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Lifts for the transport of persons

and goods – Part 20: Passenger and goods passenger

lifts
BS EN 81-21, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Lifts for the transport of persons

and goods – Part 21: New passenger and goods

passenger lifts in existing building
BS EN 81-22, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Lifts for the transport of persons

and goods – Part 22: Electric lifts with inclined path

BS EN 81-28, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Part 28: Remote alarm on

passenger and goods passenger lifts

BS EN 81-31, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Lifts for the transport of goods

only – Part 31: Accessible goods only lifts

BS EN 81-40, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Special lifts for the transport of

persons and goods – Part 40: Stairlifts and inclined

lifting platforms intended for persons with impaired

mobility
BS EN 81-41, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Special lifts for the transport of

persons and goods – Part 41: Vertical lifting platforms

intended for use by persons with impaired mobility
BS EN 81-50, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Examinations and tests – Part 50:

Design rules, calculations, examinations and tests of lift

components
BS EN 81-58, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Examination and tests – Part 58:

Landing doors fire resistance test

BS EN 81-70, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Particular applications

for passenger and goods passenger lifts – Part 70:

Accessibility to lifts for persons including persons with

disability
BS EN 81-71, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Particular applications to

passenger lifts and goods passenger lifts – Part 71:

Vandal resistant lifts

BS EN 81-72, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Particular applications

for passenger and goods passenger lifts – Part 72:

Firefighters lifts

BS EN 81-73, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Particular applications

for passenger and goods passenger lifts – Part 73:

Behaviour of lifts in the event of fire

BS EN 81-76, Safety rules for the construction

and installation of lifts – Particular applications for

passengers and goods passenger lifts – Part 76:

Evacuation of persons with disabilities using lifts
BS EN 81-77, Safety rules for the construction and

installations of lifts – Particular applications for

passenger and goods passenger lifts – Part 77: Lifts

subject to seismic conditions
BS EN 81-80, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Existing lifts – Part 80: Rules for

the improvement of safety of existing passenger and

goods passenger lifts
BS EN 81-82, Safety rules for the construction and

installation of lifts – Existing lifts – Part 82: Rules for

the improvement of the accessibility of existing lifts for

persons including persons with disability

BS EN 115-1, Safety of escalators and moving walks –

Part 1: Construction and installation

Dubai Building Code (2021) - page 10