The Dubai Municipality has developed the Dubai Engineering Consultancy Classification (DECC) system to assess engineering consultancy firms based on their capabilities and experience. This classification helps the municipality prequalify firms for government projects in Dubai.
Using the DECC system, engineering consultancy firms are categorized into six groups, depending on their qualifications, experience, and track record. The classification ranges from Category A, representing firms with extensive experience and a proven track record in successfully handling large and complex projects, to Category F, comprising firms with limited experience and capabilities.
DECC enables the Dubai Municipality to efficiently identify and choose engineering consultancy firms with the necessary qualifications and experience to undertake government projects in Dubai. By prequalifying firms, the DECC system streamlines the procurement process, ensuring that only qualified firms with the expertise to ensure project safety and sustainability are selected for government assignments.
The Dubai Municipality serves as the local government body and holds responsibility for diverse functions and services, encompassing urban planning, public health and sanitation, environmental protection, road and transportation infrastructure, as well as the management of public facilities.
Furthermore, the municipality assumes the crucial role of enforcing various laws and regulations pertaining to building codes, health and safety standards, and environmental protection. This active involvement plays a vital part in the development and oversight of Dubai's infrastructure and public services.
Moreover, in addition to enforcing the aforementioned laws and regulations, the Dubai Municipality diligently monitors compliance and takes appropriate action against any violations. This includes conducting inspections, issuing warnings and fines, and mandating corrective measures when necessary.
The Dubai Engineering Consultancy Categorisation (DECC) system applies to engineering consultancy firms and related professions that provide engineering services in Dubai. This includes:
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.
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:
There are three categories for the licensing of engineering consultancy firms. These are summarised below:
The level of experience required depends on which consultancy classification the company is applying under. Below is a summary of requirements for each category:
Licence holder – 15 years or 10 years if local
Architects – 10 years
Structural engineers – 10 years
Engineers – any experience or specialty
Licence holder – 7 years or 5 years if local
Architects – 7 years
Structural engineers – 7 years
Engineers - any experience or specialty
Licence holder – 5 years or 3 years if local
Architects – 5 years
Structural engineers – 5 years
Engineers - any experience or specialty
At present no fees are required for the registration process. However, it should be noted, that for companies needing to demonstrate previous completed projects to obtain higher categories, collating project data may be costly and time consuming and if the projects were not completed in the UAE, it will be necessary to arrange attestations in the country of origin prior to arranging legal translations into Arabic and stamping by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE.
This depends on how quickly the applicant can gather and submit the required paperwork. It is advisable to start the process early, allowing sufficient time for the attestations, especially if overseas.
Yes, providing all relevant criteria are met.
Yes, the process is mandatory for any construction/engineering-related activities which DM are required to regulate.
a) Obtain a copy of your engineering degree certificate and transcript from your university.
b) Have your documents attested by the relevant authorities in your country. This may include the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and/or the UAE Embassy in your country.
c) Submit your attested documents to the Dubai Municipality's Building Department, which is responsible for the classification and registration of engineering consultants in Dubai.
d) The Building Department will evaluate your documents and may require additional information or documentation from you or your university.
e) If your qualifications are deemed equivalent to a UAE engineering degree and meet the DEC's requirements, you will be eligible to apply for DEC registration.
f) To apply for DEC registration, you will need to complete the online application form and provide supporting documents, including your degree certificate, transcript, and work experience certificates.
g) The DEC will evaluate your application and may require additional information or documentation from you or your employer.
h) If your application is approved, you will receive a DEC registration certificate, which will enable you to work as an engineering consultant in Dubai.
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 SovPPG@SovereignGroup.com or complete the contact form below and we will be delighted to assist you.