Warehouse Establishment and Fit-out Approval in Dubai – Complete Guide

Setting up or modifying a warehouse in Dubai requires strict adherence to Dubai Municipality (DM), Dubai Civil Defense, or Trakhees regulations, depending on your warehouse’s location. Whether you are planning a new facility in Al Quoz, Ras Al Khor, Dubai Investment Park, or within JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone), securing the right approvals is essential to operate legally and efficiently.

This guide explains the warehouse approval process in Dubai, covering building regulations, fit-out guidelines, and compliance requirements.

Key Guidelines for Warehouse Establishment in Dubai

Location Selection

  • Select locations designated for industrial activities as per Dubai’s Land Use and Classification Regulations.

  • Ensure the site complies with zoning rules before applying for approval.

Skylight Openings

  • At least 5% of the total floor area should include skylight openings for natural ventilation and lighting.

Internal Height Requirements

  • Storage areas must maintain a net internal height of 4–9 meters, unless otherwise specified by the regulating authority.

Commercial Activity Limits

  • Only 20% of the warehouse area can be used for commercial activities.

  • No trading activity is permitted beyond this allocation.

Employee Facilities

  • Provide essential staff amenities, including:

    • Pantry / Canteen

    • Changing rooms with lockers

    • Accessibility features for people with disabilities

Parking Provisions

  • 1 parking space per 50 sqm of office space.

  • Bus and heavy vehicle parking depends on operations and workforce.

  • 10% of total staff parking should be allocated for visitors.

Construction & Design Regulations

  • Perimeter fencing must be within property limits and not exceed 2.4 meters.

  • Minimum warehouse door width: 3 meters.

Mezzanine Floors

  • Permitted for parking or building extensions only.

  • Balconies and terraces are strictly prohibited.

  • Internal height limits apply based on mezzanine usage.

Fire Safety Provisions

  • Install smoke detectors in every partitioned space, tested by EHS-approved contractors.

  • Provide fire extinguishers (water/CO2) as per DM standards.

  • Sprinkler systems required for hazardous material storage.

Warehouse Fit-out & Interior Approval in Dubai

Beyond construction, warehouses must also meet fit-out and interior design approval requirements, including:

  • Optimized interior layouts for safe operations

  • Compliance with fire and safety codes

  • Efficient storage, lighting, and accessibility planning

At IR Interiors, we handle the entire approval process, from architectural and MEP drawings to securing clearance from Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, or Trakhees, depending on your jurisdiction.

Why Choose IR Interiors for Warehouse Approval in Dubai?

-Expertise in Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense & Trakhees approvals
-End-to-end support – design, engineering & compliance
-Faster approval timelines and hassle-free documentation
-Tailored fit-out solutions for industrial needs

Contact us at +971 4 548 1265 or Email info@irinterior.com to book a free consultation with our approval specialists.

Explore more services: Modification Approval in Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Warehouse Approval in Dubai

1. Do I need Dubai Municipality approval to build a warehouse?

Yes. If your warehouse is in Al Quoz, Ras Al Khor, or Dubai Investment Park, you must obtain approval from the Dubai Municipality (DM) and Dubai Civil Defense before construction or modification.

2. Who approves warehouses in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)?

For warehouses in JAFZA, approvals are managed by Trakhees – Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) Authority instead of Dubai Municipality.

3. What documents are required for warehouse approval in Dubai?

Common documents include:

  • Site plan & plot details

  • Architectural & structural drawings

  • MEP layouts

  • Fire safety plans

  • NOC from property owner or master developer

4. How long does it take to get warehouse approval in Dubai?

On average, approvals can take 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the jurisdiction, project complexity, and completeness of your documents.

5. What are the height requirements for warehouses in Dubai?

Warehouses must maintain a net internal height between 4 and 9 meters, unless otherwise specified by the authorities.

6. Can I add a mezzanine floor to my warehouse?

Yes, but mezzanine floors in Dubai warehouses can only be used for parking or building extensions. Balconies and terraces are not allowed.

7. Who can help me get warehouse approval in Dubai?

A licensed consultant or DM/Trakhees-approved contractor like IR Interiors can manage the process, prepare compliant drawings, and handle approvals with Dubai authorities on your behalf.

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