REALWorld Law

Sale and purchase

Planning/zoning issues

How can a buyer ascertain the permitted uses of a parcel of real estate under the applicable zoning or planning law in this country?

United Arab Emirates - Dubai

United Arab Emirates - Dubai

Dubai Municipality is responsible for zoning in the Emirate of Dubai. For each plot of land, Dubai Municipality will issue an 'affection plan' which shows the land and states the permitted use of it (for example, industrial or hotel). Any application for a change of use must be approved by Dubai Municipality in advance.