Dubai Engineering Consultancy Classification (DECC) is a system developed by the Dubai Municipality to categorise engineering consultancy firms based on their capabilities and experience. The DECC system is used by the Dubai Municipality to prequalify engineering consultancy firms for government projects in Dubai.

It uses the DECC system to classify engineering consultancy firms into six categories, based on their experience, qualifications, and track record. The categories range from Category A (the highest category for firms with extensive experience and a proven track record of successfully completing large and complex projects) to Category F (the lowest category for firms with limited experience and capabilities).

The DECC system helps the Dubai Municipality to identify and select engineering consultancy firms that have the necessary qualifications and experience to carry out government projects in Dubai. By prequalifying firms, the DECC system streamlines the procurement process and helps to ensure that only qualified firms with the necessary expertise to ensure the safety and sustainability of the projects they undertake are selected to work on government projects.

What is Dubai municipality’s role?

The Dubai Municipality, as the local government body, is responsible for a wide range of functions and services, including urban planning, public health and sanitation, environmental protection, road and transportation infrastructure, and public facilities.

It is also responsible for enforcing various laws and regulations related to building codes, health and safety standards, and environmental protection and plays a crucial role in the development and management of Dubai's infrastructure and public services.

In addition to enforcing laws and regulations, the Dubai Municipality is also responsible for monitoring compliance and taking action against violations. This includes conducting inspections, issuing warnings and fines, and ordering corrective actions where necessary.

Do I need to get classified for engineering consultancy in Dubai?

The Dubai Engineering Consultancy Categorisation (DECC) system applies to engineering consultancy firms and related professions that provide engineering services in Dubai. This includes:

1. Civil Engineers
2. Structural Engineers
3. Mechanical Engineers
4. Electrical Engineers
5. Environmental Engineers
6. Geotechnical Engineers
7. Transportation Engineers
8. Architectural Engineers
9. Project Management Consultants
10. Quantity Surveyors

What are the requirements for approval/classification with the DECC?

To obtain Dubai Engineering Consultancy Classification (DECC), engineering consultancy firms are required to meet the following requirements which are broadly similar for all professions irrespective of engineering discipline.

• Legal Entity: The engineering consultancy firm must be a legal entity registered in Dubai, with a valid trade licence and operating within the scope of its licence.
• Technical Staff: The engineering consultancy firm must have qualified technical staff with relevant academic qualifications and experience in their respective fields.
• Technical Capabilities: The engineering consultancy firm must demonstrate technical capabilities in providing engineering services in their respective fields of expertise.
• Quality Management: The engineering consultancy firm must have a quality management system in place that meets the requirements of international standards such as ISO 9001 ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001.
• Financial Capability: The engineering consultancy firm must have the financial capability to undertake engineering consultancy projects of a specific minimum value.
• Insurance: The engineering consultancy firm must have the necessary insurance coverage, including professional liability insurance.
• Health and Safety: The engineering consultancy firm must demonstrate compliance with health and safety regulations and have a health and safety management system in place.
• Environmental Compliance: The engineering consultancy firm must demonstrate compliance with environmental regulations and have an environmental management system in place.

How do I get classified for engineering consultancy in Dubai?

If you are an engineering consultancy firm operating in Dubai and wish to obtain Dubai Engineering Consultancy Classification (DECC), you will need to follow the following steps:

1. Registration: Register your company with the Dubai Municipality's e-services portal and create a user ID and password.
2. Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation, including proof of ownership or partnership, trade licence, tax certificate, insurance certificate, and any other relevant certificates.
3. Pre-qualification: Submit your company's application for pre-qualification to the Dubai Municipality. This will involve providing details about your company's experience, qualifications, and capabilities, as well as submitting the necessary documentation.
4. Evaluation: Your application will be evaluated by the Dubai Municipality based on its pre-determined criteria. The evaluation may involve a review of the firm's technical reports, project references, and other relevant documents to ensure that your company meets the requirements at which point, it will be pre-qualified for DECC.
5. Payment: Pay the required fees for DECC classification.
6. Classification: Once your application has been approved and the fees have been paid, your company will be classified under the appropriate category of DECC.
7. Renewal: DECC classification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed. You will need to submit a renewal application and undergo a new evaluation process.

What are the engineering consultancy classification categories?

There are three categories for the licensing of engineering consultancy firms. These are summarised below:

• First: This category enables participation in projects of any height. The company should employ a minimum of 5 engineers each of whom is permitted to cover an area of 9,000 m2. Licensing in this category also requires that the company operates from an office with a minimum area of 200m2.
• Second: This category enables participation in projects of up to 12 floors. The company should employ a minimum of 3 engineers each of whom is permitted to cover an area of 7,500 m2. Licensing in this category also requires that the company operates from an office with a minimum area of 150 m2.
• Third: This category enables participation in projects of up to 4 floors. The company should employ a minimum of 2 engineers each of whom is permitted to cover an area of 6,000 m2. Licensing in this category also requires that the company operates from an office with a minimum area of 100 m2.

How can PRO Partner Group help?

Setting up a business in Dubai to practise engineering consultancy can be a complex process with numerous licences, governmental approvals and documentation requirements.

PRO Partner can guide you through this process, helping you to obtain the necessary permits, assisting with employment visas and attestation of legal documents and liaising with government authorities on your behalf.

If you need assistance with this or any other related onshore or offshore company setup, restructuring, local partner or PRO services support in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the wider UAE, Oman, Qatar or KSA, then please do get in touch with us on +971 (0)4 456 1761 for Dubai or +971 (0)2 448 5120 for Abu Dhabi, email us at info@propartnergroup.com or complete the contact form below and we will be delighted to assist you.