PLRDC 20140420 AA Development Code 2014 English

Abu Dhabi Capital Development Code
Official Version 1.0

April 2013
Mandate of the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council was created by Law no. 23 of 2007
and is the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi’s urban and
regional environments and the expert authority behind the visionary Abu
Dhabi Vision 2030 Urban Structure Framework Plan published September
2007 and now referred to as Plan Capital 2030. Chaired by His Highness
General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi,
Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the
Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council defines
the shape of human settlements in the Emirate, ensuring factors such as
sustainability, infrastructure capacity, community planning and quality of
life, by overseeing development in the cities and in the Emirate as a whole.
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council ensures best practice in planning for
both new and existing settlements.
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council’s primary purpose is to deliver upon
the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President
of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, for the continued
fulfilment of the grand design envisaged by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan
Al Nahyan, Father of the Nation and the ongoing evolution of the Emirate
of Abu Dhabi. By drawing on urban planning expertise from local Emiratis,
throughout the Arab States of the Gulf and around the world, the Abu Dhabi
Urban Planning Council strives to be a global authority on the future of
urban planning and design.
Table of Contents Page
100 INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS 11

200 BASE DISTRICTS 15
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
INDUSTRIAL
CIVIC
OASIS/AGRICULTURAL
OTHER
300 OVERLAY DISTRICTS 77

OVERLAY DISTRICTS
AIRPORT ENVIRONS
MAJOR CORRIDOR
URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY
HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
OASIS OVERLAY
Table of Contents Page
400 PLAN DISTRICTS 95

400 Plan District 97
98
500 ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 107
501 Additional Development Regulations 109
502 Nonconforming Uses, Structures And Plots 113
600 CODE PROCEDURES 115
601 Planning Authorities 117
602 Amendment to Development Code Map And Text 119
603 Variance Review 120
700 DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF INTERPRETATION 121
701 Use Categories and Definitions 123
702 Rules for Interpretation of Language and Code Map Boundaries 136
703 Rules of Measurement 137
100 INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS
100 INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS
Sections and development regulations and guidelines that apply to areas with
100.01 Title and Authority special conditions or areas that have been subject to detailed master
planning, are referred to in the 400 Series of the Code.
100.02 The Al Ain Capital Development Code
The Code also includes additional development regulations in the 500
100.03 Purpose Series. Procedural and administrative regulations, amendments to
the Code and Code Map, are included in the 600 Series. Definitions,
100.04 Content and Organisation
rules for interpretation of language and boundaries, and rules for
100.05 Applicability measurement are contained in the 700 Series.
100.06 Relationship to other Plans, Policies and Regulations
100.05 Applicability
100.07 Interpretation
The Code applies to all land (above and below water) and water
100.08 How to Use the Code within the Al Ain urban area boundary.
This includes all uses, structures, land and water owned by any
100.01 Title and Authority private person, firm, corporation or organisation, the Emirate of Abu
The Al Ain Capital Development Code shall be known and cited as the Dhabi, AAM or other external agencies.
‘Development Code’ and/or ‘Code’. The Code is adopted pursuant to
No development (as defined in Section 701), including the formation
Abu Dhabi Law No. 23 of 2007.
or reclamation of land, or the use, construction, occupation,
enlargement or alteration of structures or land, shall occur except in
100.02 The Al Ain compliance with the Code.
Development Code
Land or buildings lawfully developed prior to the adoption of the
The Al Ain Development Code is a simple regulatory tool, developed
Code, together with any lawful alterations or changes in use that are
from the Al Ain City’s Urban Structure Framework Plan, which is
subsequently contrary to the Code, can continue to be used subject
now referred to as Plan Capital 2030, to provide initial development
to the non-conformity regulations in the Code.
and use regulations for planning proposals within the boundaries of
Al Ain area. It is developed from Policy F3 in Plan Al Ain2030. Development, for which decisions and/or building permits have been
lawfully granted before the adoption of the Code (or subsequent
The Code is to be used by the review teams within both the Al Ain
applicable amendments), can proceed until the expiration of such
City Municipality (AAM) and the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
decisions or permits.
(UPC), where it will assist in the assessment of planning proposals.
Development applications submitted, but not approved prior to the
The Code is a straightforward, plot-based regulatory tool, which
adoption of the Code to the reviewing authority, shall be determined
will be utilised within the existing application processes of both
in line with any previous regulations, unless specifically requested
reviewing authorities; UPC/AAM.
by the UPC to be considered against the requirements of the Code.
While the Code has the central purpose of regulating land use and
development, its broader mission is as one of the initial and key 100.06 Relationship to other Plans, Policies
implementation tools for Plan Al Ain 2030. and Regulations
The Code shall also be used by other relevant agencies in the The Code will generally conform to Plan Al Ain 2030. In cases where
assessment of proposals submitted to them. there is a conflict between the Code and Plan Al Ain 2030, the Code
governs.
100.03 Purpose Outside of plan districts, when there are two Code regulations on the
The purpose of the Code is to implement one of the UPC’s main same subject, the more restrictive governs.
aims, to produce development regulations that govern Abu Dhabi’s
When a plan district regulation and a Code regulation address the
physical environment and ensure that development in Abu Dhabi is
same topic, the plan district regulation governs.
generally consistent with Plan Al Ain 2030, the long-term vision for
the City. When there is no regulation in a plan district to address an issue but
there is an appropriate regulation in the Code, the Code governs.
100.04 Content and Organisation In the case of a conflict between the Code and the Building Code,
The Code comprises a written document and maps, which show the Code will govern except in the case of a conflict directly related
how the following districts are applied to all land and water within to a fire or life safety concern. In these cases, the Building Code
the Al Ain city boundary: governs.
Base Districts, which set out the use, height and specific The Code may also refer to plans, policies and guidelines, created by
development regulations, are in the 200 Series of the Code. the UPC, the AAM or other Government agencies that supplement
Overlay Districts, which supplement Base District or Plan District regulations in the Code.
regulations in special or sensitive areas (e.g. waterfronts and
airports), are in the 300 Series of the Code.
Plan Districts, which contain the geographically-specific land use
Al Ain Development Code

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council 8 Draft Version 1.0 July2013
INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS 100
100.07 Interpretation 100.08 How to Use the Code

The UPC shall provide interpretations on any provision within the
Code.
An up-to-date, legal affection plan is needed

for the plot. The affection plan will give the plot
information required, such as the sector number
and plot number.
Using the plot details from the affection plan, the

plot can be viewed on the online Code Map to
find out the allocated base district.
The information on the Code Map will show the

appropriate base district or plan district, but will
also advise of any overlay districts which may
apply, such as for airports.
Once the relevant base district is established,

go to the appropriate section in the 200 Series
of the Code, which will show the development
and use regulations which apply to that base
district. In the case of plan districts, these can be
referred to in the 400 Series.
The development regulations will give the

parameters for building on the plot, such as FAR,
height (metres/storeys), setbacks, top permitted
floor coverage, plot coverage permitted and the
minimum landscaped area required for the plot.
The use regulations table will show the

permitted uses for the base district in which the
plot is located and accordingly for the individual
plot.
This information can now be used to help design

the plot and to complete a compliant planning
submission to the permitting authority (UPC/
ADM) in advance of development.

Draft Version 1.0 July 2013 9 Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
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Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council 10 Draft Version 1.0 July 2013
200 BASE DISTRICTS
200 BASE DISTRICTS
Sections D. Basements
200.01 Purpose and Applicability In terms of the regulation tables, basements are not considered to
constitute a floor or a storey for the purposes of determining the
200.02 Use and Development Regulation Tables overall permitted height of the building using these parameters.
200.03 Relationship to Legal Affection Plans However, that part of any basement which projects above-grade
level shall be counted in the overall permitted maximum height of
200.04 Development Review the building in metres (refer to Section 703.01).
200.05 Associated Review Documents Any habitable space within a basement shall count towards the
overall allowable Gross Floor Area (GFA) for the building.
200.01 Purpose and Applicability Basements are primarily considered appropriate to provide below-
A. Purpose grade parking and to accommodate non-habitable operations, in
terms of the Code.
The Development Code comprises a series of base districts, which
provide the development and use regulations within defined areas of
Al Ain and reflect the predominant character of built form and usage 200.03 Relationship to Legal Affection Plans
within each base district. The base districts in the Code generally The ‘Allocated Use’ on any current and legal affection plan must
reflect the overall character and composition of the City. accord with one of the uses, either permitted or subject to
B. Applicability limitations, within the Use Regulations table for the base district in
which the plot is located.
The base districts reflect the predominant use within each district
and overall, the base districts implement the applicable policy
statements of Plan Al Ain 2030. 200.04 Development Review
All development, as defined by the Code, is subject to review against
200.02 Use and Development Regulation Tables the appropriate regulations in the Code, by the appropriate reviewing
authority.
A. Meaning of letters and numbers within the tables
The tables regulate principal uses and development regulations 200.05 Associated Review Documents
within each applicable base district. Uses and their definitions are
The following are examples of documents that should be considered
detailed in Section 701,01. Uses are permitted, not permitted or
by all developers and reviewers in the preparation and determination
limited, as follows:
of planning reviews, in line with the Code.
1. Where a use is permitted (P), it is permitted subject to
meeting all other applicable regulations within the Code. 1. Community facilities shall be planned in accordance with
the Abu Dhabi Community Facility Planning Standards and
2. Where a use is listed with a limitation (e.g. L-1), the use is
in compliance with the requirements of the relevant public
permitted subject to the limitations in the table and subject
to meeting all other applicable regulations within the Code. agency.
3. Where a use is not shown in the table or is designated as not
permitted (NP), the use is not permitted.
4. Where base district development regulations are subject
to a number, the regulations shall indicate the minimum or
maximum allowed.
5. Where base district development regulations are subject to a
development note (e.g. N-1), the applicant/developer shall
follow the information in the development note as it relates
to any proposal.
B. Use interpretations
If a use is interpreted to be within one of the uses in Section
701.01, then the use is considered as addressed within the table,
and a determination of it being permitted, limited or not permitted is
made accordingly.
C. Distribution of permitted uses within a building
No non-residential permitted uses are allowed to occupy any floor/
storey above a permitted residential use.

BASE DISTRICTS 200
2. All proposals relating to the development of mosques,

shall be planned in accordance with the Abu Dhabi Mosque
Development Regulations and in compliance with all
requirements of the relevant public agency.
3. All open spaces shall be planned in line with the relevant

requirements of the Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual.
All relevant documents, laws, etc. must be taken into account

in the assessment and preparation of all development
reviews.

200 BASE DISTRICTS
Designation Name Page

RESIDENTIAL
VR VILLA RESIDENTIAL
R8 LOW RESIDENTIAL
R12A LOW RESIDENTIAL
R12B LOW RESIDENTIAL
R12C LOW RESIDENTIAL
R16A RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
R16B RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
PL PALACE
COMMERCIAL
MU-12 MIXED-USE BUILDING
12
RE-1 RETAIL-1
RE-2 RETAIL-2
RE-3 RETAIL-3
RE-4 RETAIL-4
SC SERVICE COMMERCIAL
HR HOTEL RESORT
EC ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
INDUSTRIAL
GI GENERAL INDUSTRIAL
LI LIGHT INDUSTRIAL
CIVIC
CI-1 CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL
CI-2 CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL
POS PARKS AND OPEN SPACES
Oasis/Agricultural
HAG HISTORIC AGRICULTURAL
UAG URBAN AGRICULTURAL
RAG RURAL AGRICULTURAL
OTHER
GR GOVERNMENT RESERVE
RFD RESERVED FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
UI UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

VR
VILLA RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description Illustrative Example

VR identifies areas for single unit detached villa accommodation for
Emirati family living.
Development Regulations
Maximum FAR 1
Maximum Height (Roof Line) - Plot Line
Metres 15 m
Floors/Storeys 3
Maximum Height for Accessory Buildings - Detached - Top Floor/3rd Storey
Metres 6m
1st Floor
12 Floors/Storeys 1
Ground Floor
60% of the
floor area of
Top Permitted Floor Habitable Space
the floor/storey
below.
Maximum Plot Coverage 70%
Minimum Building Setbacks -
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line 1.5 m
Plot Line Maximum Top Permitted Floor Habitable Space 60%
Non-street Side - Separated Plot Line, 2 m or
0m
More
Non-street Side - With Sikka Less Than 2 m 1.5 m
Maximum Height 15 m
Development Notes:
N-1 Refer to current Emirati Housing Regulations in relation to all
villa development in this base district.
Note: Compliance with the Code does not negate the need to comply with all other regulatory, statutory and permitting
requirements within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

VR
RESIDENTIAL VILLA RESIDENTIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Use Regulations
Regulations
Use Status Key: Use Status Key:
Permitted
P = Permitted P = Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Limitations Table Limitations Table
Residential Governance and Institutional P
Household Living - - Social and Cultural Services P
Single-unit Detached L-16, L-17 G-2 Petrol Station L-1
Commercial Healthcare P
General Sales and Services - - Religious P
Personal Services L-1, L-17 G-2 Open Space P
Social and Cultural Services Recreational P
Community Centre - - Infrastructure P
Ladies Club/Women’s Centre L-1, L-17 G-2
Daycare Facility L-1, L-17 G-2
Educational
All Uses L-1, L-17 G-2
Healthcare Limitations
Clinic L-1, L-17 G-2
L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Medical Office L-1, L-17 G-2 Section 701.02 of the Code.
L-16 Subject to a maximum of one (1) single unit detached/villa

per plot, or whatever number of villas are allowed under the
Emirati Housing Regulations, on the date of the planning
review being undertaken.
L-17 Only one (1) allowed use can be accommodated on any plot.
The mixing of residential and non-residential uses is not
allowed on the same plot.
Note: The Allocated Use on any current affection plan must accord with one of the permitted or limited uses within the Use
Regulations table above.

R8
LOW RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
R8 identifies areas where most of the investment residential
plots are allocated in Al Ain and municipal regulations are applied
historically .These areas are primarily characterised as two storey
multi-unit and/or single unit residential buildings.
Maximum FAR 2
Maximum Height (Roof Line) -
Metres 8m
Floors/Storeys 2
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line 1.5m
Non-street Side - Separated Plot Line 2m or more 0m
Minimum Landscaped Area -

R8
RESIDENTIAL LOW RESIDENTIAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Single-unit Detached L-17 G-1 Petrol Station L-1
Multi-unit Attached L-17 G-1 Healthcare P
Commercial Religious P
General Sales and Services - - Open Space P
Personal Services L-1, L-17 G-1 Recreational P
Social and Cultural Services Infrastructure P
Community Centre - -
Educational
All Uses L-1, L-17 G-1 Limitations
Healthcare L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Clinic L-1, L-17 G-1 Section 701.02 of the Code.
Medical Office L-1, L-17 G-1

R12A
BASE DISTRICT

R12 identifies areas with multi-unit residential uses.The primary
character is low rise buildings of 12m high with open court and/or
mushtarak space in the Center of the plot.
Maximum FAR 2
90 units/
Maximum Residential Density
hectare
Metres 12m
Floors/Storeys 3
Minimum plot percentage for open central court and/
30%
or Mushtarak
Minimum Landscaped Area 5%
Non-Street Side - Joined /Shared Plot Line 1.5m
All Other Sides 0m
See chapter
Minimum Architectural Design Regulations
500

R12A
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Single-unit Residential L-17 G-2 Petrol Station L-1
Multi-unit Residential L-17 G-2 Healthcare P
Personal Services L-1, L-17 G-2 Recreational P
Social and Cultural Services Infrastructure P
Healthcare
Clinic L-1, L-17 G-2 Limitations
Section 701.02 of the Code.

R12B
BASE DISTRICT

R12B identifies areas for multi-unit residential uses with
commercial uses on the ground floor.The primary character is low
rise buildings12m high with a colonnade on the ground floor fronting
the main street.
Plot Line
Maximum FAR 1.75
Second Floor
Metres 12 m
Floors/Storeys 3
First Floor
Maximum Ground Floor plot coverage 50% Ground Floor
Required for •
Ground Floor
fronting main
Colonnade street. Please colonnade
refer to map
over the
page.
Minimum Building Setbacks - Plot Line
Non-Street Side - Joined /Shared Plot Line 1.5 m
All Other Sides 0m
Maximum Height 12 m
•
colonnade

R12B
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Multi-unit Residential P G-2 Healthcare P
Walk-in-office AAL-1 G Recreational P
Business Services AAL-1 G Infrastructure P
Personal Services AAL-1 G
Convenience Retail AAL-1 G
Social and Cultural Services

Ladies Club/Women’s Centre P G-2
Daycare Facility P G-2 Limitations

Educational
AAL-1 Public access to the ground floor commercial units shall only
All Uses P G-2 be taken from the colonnade entrance.
Healthcare
Clinic P G-2
Medical Office P G-2

R12C
BASE DISTRICT

R12C identifies areas with multi-unit residential uses.The primary
character is low rise buildings of 12m high.
Maximum FAR 2.1
Metres 12m
Floors/Storeys 3
All Other Sides 0m
See chapter
500

R12C
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Single-unitResidential
Multi-unit Residential L-17 G-2 Petrol Station L-1
Commercial
Multi-unit Residential L-17 G-2 Healthcare P
Commercial
Personal
General Services
Sales and Services L-1, -L-17 G-2
- Open Space P
Social and Cultural
Personal ServicesServices L-1, L-17 G-2 Recreational P
Social and Cultural
Community CentreServices - - Infrastructure P
Ladies Club/Women’s
Community Centre Centre L-1, -L-17 G-2
-
Daycare
Ladies Club/Women’s
Facility Centre L-1, L-17 G-2
Healthcare
Healthcare
Clinic L-1, L-17 G-2
Medical
Clinic Office L-1, L-17 G-2 Limitations

R16A
BASE DISTRICT

R16A identifies areas for multi unit residential uses with supportive
neighborhood commercial uses on the ground floor. The primary
character for this area is buildings of 16m high with maximum four
floors including ground, mezzanine and roof floors.
Maximum FAR 3.5
400 units/
Maximum Residential Density
hectare
Metres 16m
Floors/Storeys 4
Non-Street Side - Joined Plot Line 1.5m
All Other Sides 0m
See chapter
Colonnade Provision
300 and Map X
See chapter
500
Minimum Architectural Recess (Centered to the
respective facade)
4m wide
Primary street facade per every floor (except
and 3m
ground)
deep
4m wide
Secondary street facade per every floor and 3m
deep
2m wide
Non-Street facade per every floor (except ground) and 1m
deep

R16A
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Multi-unit Residential P G-3 Petrol Station L-1
Walk-in-office L-1 G Open Space P
Business Services L-1 G Recreational P
Personal Services L-1 G Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail L-1 G

Daycare Facility L-1, L-2 G-3 Limitations

Educational L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
All Uses L-1, L-2 G-3 Section 701.02 of the Code.
Healthcare L-2 Non-residential uses cannot be located above or on the same
Clinic L-1, L-2 G-3 floor as a residential use in a building.

R16B
BASE DISTRICT

R16B identifies areas for multi unit residential uses. The primary
character for this area is low rise buildings 16m high.
Maximum FAR 3
Metres 16m
Floors/Storeys 4
Minimum Building Setbacks
All Other Sides 0m
Build-to-Line for street facing facade 75%
Build-to-Line for non-street facing facade 50%
Seechapter 300
Minimum Colonade Provision
and Map X
See chapter
500

R16B
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Single-unit Detached P G-3 Petrol Station L-1
Multi-unit Residential P G-3 Educational P
Walk-in Office P G Open Space P
Business Services P G Recreational P
Personal Services P G Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail P G
Ladies Club/Women’s Centre L-1, L-2 G-3 Limitations
L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenue.
Educational
All Uses L-1, L-2 G-3
L-2 Non-residential uses cannot be located above or on the same
Healthcare floor as a residential use in a building.
Clinic L-1, L-2 G-3

PL
PALACE RESIDENTIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
The Palace base district is Abu Dhabi’s lowest density residential
area. It is characterised by large plots, grand palaces, accessory
buildings, broad open areas and security facilities that ensure the
privacy and safety of residents.
The development regulations for the Palace base district shall be
established through the development review process.
Use Regulations No Illustrative Example Included.
Use Status Key:

P = Permitted
Uses
L = See
Limitations Table
Residential
Household Living -
Single-unit Detached P
Employee Housing -
All Uses P
Governance and Institutional
Government Services -
Government Office P
Diplomatic Services/Offices P
Safety and Security -
Police Facilities L-14
Civil Defence Facilities L-14
Limitations
L-14 Subject to scale/size review for compatibility with the
surrounding area.


MU12
COMMERCIAL BUILDING COMMERCIAL
BASE DISTRICT

MU-12 identifies areas for various low rise types of compatible
mixed uses. The buildings are 12m high with maximum of three
floors including ground,mezzanine and roof floors.
Maximum FAR 2.9
Maximum Height (Roof Line)
Metres 12m
Floors/Storeys 3
Accessory Buildings
Mandatory Projection over plot line for floors above
0.75m
ground (as given below)
For corner plots -
2/3 of the
Width of the primary facade projection
facade length
1/2 of the
Width of the secondary facade projection
facade length
For all other plots -
1/2 of the
facade length
See chapter
Colonnade Provision
300 and Map X
See chapter
500

MU12
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL BUILDING
BASE DISTRICT
Use Regulations Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Household Living - -
Social and Cultural Services P
Multi-unit Residential P G-2
Petrol Station L-1
Institutional Living - -
Educational P
Student Housing P G-2
Healthcare P
Assisted Living (Residential Care) P G-2
Religious P
Employee Housing - -
Open Space P
All Uses P G-2
Recreational P
Commercial
General Sales and Services - -
Walk-in Office P G-2
Business Services P G-2
Personal Services P G-2
Convenience Retail P G Limitations
General Retail P G L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Office - - Section 701.02 of the Code.
General Office P G-2 L-2 No non-residential uses can be located above or on the same
Hotel - - floor as a residential use in a building.
All Uses L-2 G-2 L-6 Subject to compatibility with residential uses, hours of
Industrial operation and usage restrictions may be imposed.
City-serving Industrial - -
Artist Studio/Workshop L-6 G
Community Centre P G-2
Cultural Institutions P G-2
Community Support Services P G-2
Daycare Facility P G-2
Library P G-2
Post Office P G-2
Educational
All Uses P G-2
Healthcare
Clinic P G-2
Hospital L-2 G-2
Veterinary - Clinic and/or Hospital P G-2
Recreational
Indoor Recreational - -
All Uses P G-2

MU16
BASE DISTRICT

MU-16 identifies areas for various low rise types of compatible
mixed uses. The buildings are 16m high with maximum of four
floors including ground,mezzanine and roof floors.
Maximum FAR 3.9
Metres 16m
Floors/Storeys 4
Accessory Buildings
0.75m
For corner plots -
2/3 of the
facade length
1/2 of the
facade length
1/2 of the
facade length
See chapter
Colonnade Provision
300 and Map X
See chapter
500

MU16
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL BUILDING
BASE DISTRICT

Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Household Living - -
Social and Cultural Services P
Multi-unit Residential P G-3
Petrol Station L-1
Institutional Living - -
Educational P
Student Housing P G-3
Healthcare P
Assisted Living (Residential Care) P G-3
Religious P
Employee Housing - -
Open Space P
All Uses P G-3
Recreational P
Commercial
Library P G-3
Post Office P G-3
Educational
All Uses P G-3
Healthcare
Clinic P G-3
Hospital L-2 G-3
Recreational
All Uses P G-3

MU20
BASE DISTRICT

MU-20 identifies areas for various types of compatible mixed uses in
the high streets of Wasat Al Madina area of Al Ain.The buildings are
20 m highwith maximum of five floors including ground, mezzanine
and roof floors.
Maximum FAR 6
Metres 20m
Floors/Storeys 5
0.75m
For corner plots -
2/3 of the
facade length
1/2 the
facade length
Half of the
facade length
See chapter
Minimum Colonnade Provision
300 and Map X
See chapter
500
Maximum building projection over plot line except 1.5m for floors
when facing interior side and primary street 1,2 and 3

MU20
COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
BASE DISTRICT

Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Multi-unit Residential P G-4 Petrol Station L-1
Institutional Living - - Educational P
Student Housing P G-4 Healthcare P
Assisted Living (Residential Care) P G-4 Religious P
Employee Housing - - Open Space P
All Uses P G-4 Recreational P
Commercial Infrastructure P
Library P G-4
Post Office P G-4
Educational
All Uses P G-4
Healthcare
Clinic P G-4
Hospital L-2 G-4
Recreational
All Uses P G

RE-1
RETAIL-1 RETAIL
BASE DISTRICT

R-1 is intended as a mixed-use neighbourhood centre to provide for
convenience retail and services to serve the needs of the immediate
surrounding area. These serve as a focus for the surrounding area
and are often co-located with community and religious uses serving
the same community.
Maximum FAR -
For plots less than 400 sq m 1
For plots more than 400 sq m 0.6
Metres 5m
Floors/Storeys 1
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line m
Non-street Side - Separated Plot Line m
Maximum Plot Coverage -
For plots less than 400 sq m 100%
For plots more than 400 sq m 60%

RE-1
RETAIL RETAIL-1
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Commercial Governance and Institutional P
General Sales and Services - - Social and Cultural Services P
Walk-in Office P G Petrol Station L-1
Business Services P G Educational P
Personal Services P G Healthcare P
Convenience Retail P G Religious P
General Retail P G Open Space P
Office - - Recreational P
General Office P G Infrastructure P
Commercial Recreational - -
All Uses P G
Community Centre P G
Limitations
Cultural Institution P G
Community Support Services P G L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Library P G
Post Office P G
Industrial
Artist Studio/Workshop P G
Maintenance and Repair - -
Car Wash P G
Recreational
Gymnasium P G
Fitness Centre P G

RE-2
RETAIL-2 RETAIL
BASE DISTRICT

R-2 identifies areas for mixed-use community markets to provide
retail, services and other facilities to meet the needs of the wider
community.
Maximum FAR -
Metres 12m
Floors/Storeys 2
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line 2m
Non-street Side - Separated Plot Line 2m
Plot Line
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line
Maximum Hieght 10 m

RE-2
RETAIL RETAIL-2
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Employee Housing - - Social and Cultural Services P
All Uses P 1 Petrol Station L-1
Commercial Educational P
General Sales and Services - - Healthcare P
Automobile/Vehicle Sales P G-1 Religious P
Walk-in Office P G-1 Open Space P
Business Services P G-1 Recreational P
Personal Services P G-1 Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail P G-1
General Retail P G-1
Office - -
General Office P 1
Social and Cultural Services Limitations
Community Centre P G-1 L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Post Office - - Section 701.02 of the Code.
Distribution Centre P G-1

Customer Service Centre P G-1
Industrial
Car Wash P G
Educational
Vocational Training P G-1
Healthcare
All Uses P G-1
Recreational
Gymnasium P G-1
Fitness Centre P G-1

RE-3
RETAIL-3 RETAIL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
R-3 identifies areas for mixed-use markets to provide retail, services Development Regulations
and other facilities to meet the needs of the wider community.
Maximum FAR -
Metres 14m
Floors/Storeys 3
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line m
Non-street Side - Separated Plot Line m
Minimum Landscaped Area
Illustrative Example
Plot Line
2nd Floor
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line
Maximum Hieght 14 m

RE-3
RETAIL RETAIL-3
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
All Uses P 1-2 Petrol Station L-1
Automobile/Vehicle Sales P G-2 Religious P
Walk-in Office P G-2 Open Space P
Business Services P G-2 Recreational P
Personal Services P G-2 Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail P G-2
General Retail P G-2
Office - -
General Office P 1-2
Social and Cultural Services Limitations
Community Centre P G-2 L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Post Office - - Section 701.02 of the Code.

Industrial
Car Wash P G
Educational
Healthcare
All Uses P G-2
Recreational
Gymnasium P G-2

RE-4
RETAIL-4 RETAIL
BASE DITRICT
Description
R-4 identifies areas for community and regional scale shopping Development Regulations
malls. Community facilities and cultural institutions are also
permitted if integrated into the overall design of the mall. Maximum FAR 1.5
Metres 22 m
Floors/Storeys 3
Street Side 0m
Refer to Section 703:Table 703-A
Plot Line
Build Limit
2nd Floor/3rd Storey

1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line Build Limit
Maximum Height 22 m

RR
COMMERCIAL REGIONAL RETAIL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
General Sales and Services - - Social and Cultural Services P
Automobile/Vehicle Sales P G-2 Petrol Station L-1
Walk-in Office P G-2 Educational P
Business Services P G-2 Healthcare P
Personal Services P G-2 Religious P
Convenience Retail P G-2 Open Space P
General Retail P G-2 Recreational P
Office - - Infrastructure P
General Office P 1-2
Commercial Recreation - -
All Uses P G-2
Limitations
Post Office - - L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Educational
Higher Educational P G-2
Healthcare
All Uses P G-2
Recreational
Gymnasium P G-2

SC
SERVICE COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
SC identifies areas for a broad range of city serving industrial Development Regulations
commercial, office to support the economy of Al Ain and provide
Maximum FAR 1.4
a variety of services. These areas are intended for retail and
service uses, offices, and other similar uses, which serve multiple Maximum Height (Roof Line) -
neighbourhoods. Metres 10 m
Floors/Storeys 2
Street Side 0m
Non-street Side - Joined Plot Line 1.5 m
Refer to Section 703: Table 703-A Plot Line

Build Limit
3rd Storey / 2nd Floor
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Build Limit Plot Line
Maximum Height 15 m

SC
COMMERCIAL SERVICE COMMERCIAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
All Uses L-10 1-2 Petrol Station L-1
Automobile/Vehicle Sales L-2 G-2 Religious P
Walk-in Office L-2 G-2 Open Space P
Business Services L-2 G-2 Recreational P
Personal Services L-2 G-2 Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail L-2 G-2
General Retail L-2 G-2
Office - -
General Office L-2 G-2
Limitations
All Uses L-2 G-2 L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Industrial Section 701.02 of the Code.
City-serving Industrial - - L-2 Non-residential uses cannot be located above or on the same
All Uses L-2 G-2 floor as a residential use in a building.
Social and Cultural Services L-10 Not allowed within the ground floor.
Community Centre L-2 G-2
Post Office - -
Distribution Centre L-2 G-2
Customer Service Centre L-2 G-2
Educational
Vocational Training L-2 G-2
Higher Educational L-2 G-2
Healthcare
All Uses L-2 G-2
Recreational
Gymnasium L-2 G-2
Fitness Centre L-2 G-2

HR
HOTEL RESORT COMMERCIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
HR identifies areas for major visitor facilities in a resort setting Development Regulations
to accommodate tourism and business needs. HR areas are used
for hotels, conference facilities and other daytime and overnight Maximum FAR 1.4
visitor-orientated uses, and can include major open space amenities. Maximum Height (Roof Line) -
Typical land uses include international hotels and resorts, boutiques, Metres 20 m
restaurants, retail stores, recreational clubs and other uses that serve
visitor, business and residents’ needs for conference space. Floors/Storeys 5
Street Side 3m
Build Line Plot Line
Plot Line
Maximum Height 20 m

HR
COMMERCIAL HOTEL RESORT
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
All Uses P 1-2 Petrol Station L-1
Walk-in Office L-15 G-M Religious P
Business Services L-15 G-M Open Space P
Personal Services L-15 G-M Infrastructure P
Convenience Retail L-15 G-M
General Retail L-15 G-M
Office - -
General Office P G-M
Commercial Recreation - - Limitations
All Uses P G-4
Hotel - - Section 701.02 of the Code.
All Uses P G-4
L-15 Less than 40,000 sqm.
Industrial
Water Dependent Industries - -
Marine Sales and Service P G-M
Post Office - -
Customer Service Centre P G-M
P.O. Box P G-M
Recreational
All Uses P G-4

EC
ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COMMERCIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
EC identifies areas for large-scale entertainment, recreation,
nightlife, theatres, cinemas, performing arts centres, sports venues
and an array of cultural and family attractions. They are often
complemented by convention centres, offices, hotels and cultural
destinations.
Maximum FAR N-3
Metres N-3
Floors/Storeys N-3
No Illustrative Example Included.
Street Side 3m
Development Notes:
N-3 This regulation shall be established during planning review
based on the facility, scale and context.

EC
COMMERCIAL ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Uses Uses
L = See L = See
General Sales and Services - Social and Cultural Services P
Walk-in Office L-15 Petrol Station L-1
Business Services L-15 Educational P
Personal Services L-15 Healthcare P
Convenience Retail L-15 Religious P
General Retail L-15 Open Space P
Commercial Recreation - Recreational P
All Uses P Infrastructure P
Hotel -
All Uses P
Industrial
Water Dependent Industrial -
Marine Sales and Service P Limitations
Government Office L-13 Section 701.02 of the Code.
L-13 Not to exceed 25% of the total GFA.
L-15 Less than 1,000 sqm.
Community Centre P
Cultural Institutions P
Library P
Post Office P
Open Space
All Uses P
Recreational
All Uses P

GI
GENERAL INDUSTRIAL INDUSTRIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
GI identifies areas for a wide variety of businesses and industrial Development Regulations
operations, which have the potential to create adverse visual, noise
or other impacts if they were otherwise located close to or adjoining Maximum FAR 1.4
residential areas or certain other base districts. Maximum Height (Roof Line) -
Metres 15 m
Floors/Storeys 2
All Sides 3m
Plot Line
Build Limit
2nd Floor/3rd Storey
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line
Build Limit
Maximum Height 22 m

GI
INDUSTRIAL GENERAL INDUSTRIAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Guest Worker Housing P G-1 Social and Cultural Services P
Commercial Petrol Station L-1
General Sales and Services - - Educational P
Automobile/Vehicle Sales, Healthcare P
L-18 G-1
Leasing and Rentals
Religious P
Business Services L-18 G-1
Open Space P
Personal Services L-18 G-1
Recreational P
Infrastructure P
Industrial
All Uses P G-1
General Industrial - - Limitations
All Uses P G-1
Water Dependent Industries - - Section 701.02 of the Code.
All Uses P G-1
L-18 The allowed use shall not exceed 500 sqm of GFA per plot.
Post Office P G-1
Healthcare
Clinic P G
Recreational
Gymnasium P G-1

LI
LIGHT INDUSTRIAL INDUSTRIAL
BASE DISTRICT
Description
LI identifies areas for city serving and light industrial uses that are Development Regulations
usually at the edges of neighborhoods and do not occur in large
groupings of plots. Maximum FAR 1
Metres 9m
Floors/Storeys 2
All Sides 3m
Plot Line
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line
Maximum Hieght 9 m

LI
INDUSTRIAL LIGHT INDUSTRIAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
All Uses L-10 1 Petrol Station L-1
Automobile/Vehicle Sales L-2 G-1 Religious P
Walk-in Office L-2 G-1 Open Space P
Business Services L-2 G-1 Recreational P
Personal Services L-2 G-1 Infrastructure P
Office - -
General Office L-2 G-1
Limitations
All Uses L-2 G-1 L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
Industrial Section 701.02 of the Code.
City-serving Industrial - - L-2 Non-residential uses cannot be located above or on the same
All Uses L-2 G-1 floor as a residential use in a building.
Social and Cultural Services L-10 Not allowed within the ground floor.
Community Centre L-2 G-1
Post Office - -
Distribution Centre L-2 G-1
Customer Service Centre L-2 G-1
Educational
Vocational Training L-2 G-1
Higher Educational L-2 G-1
Healthcare
All Uses L-2 G-1
Recreational
Gymnasium L-2 G-1
Fitness Centre L-2 G-1

CI-1
CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL CIVIC
BASE DISTRICT
Description
C-1 identifies areas that are primarily for clustered, low-density Development Regulations
community facilities which serve local needs.
Maximum FAR 1.2
Metres 10 m
Floors/Storeys 2
Street Side 0m
Maximum Height 10m

Plot Line
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Maximum Height 10m
Plot Line


CI-1
CIVIC CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Institutional Living - - Social and Cultural Services P
Student Housing P G-1 Petrol Station L-1
Employee Housing - - Religious P
All Uses P G-1 Open Space P
All Uses Except Petrol Station P G-1 Infrastructure P
Educational
All Uses P G-1
Healthcare
All Uses P G-1
Recreational Limitations
Indoor Recreational - - L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
All Uses except Shooting Ranges P G-1 Section 701.02 of the Code.

CI-2
CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL CIVIC
BASE DISTRICT
Description
C-2 identifies areas in the City for public or semi-public uses that Development Regulations
serve large population catchments, generally 40,000 people or
Maximum FAR 2.4
more. Uses may include national institutions, Government buildings,
general institutional uses, hospitals and college campuses. Private Maximum Height (Roof Line) -
institutions such as private colleges and medical clinics are also Metres 18m, N-4
permitted. DI areas are typically where there is convenient access to
Floors/Storeys 4
transit.
Minimum Building Setback -
Street Side 0m
Development Notes: Maximum Plot Coverage 60%

N-4 Hospitals shall be permitted to extend up to 20 m, subject to
complying with all other Code requirements.
Plot Line
3rd Floor
2nd Floor
1st Floor
Ground Floor
Plot Line
Maximum Hieght 18 m

CI-2
CIVIC CIVIC INSTITUTIONAL
BASE DISTRICT

Use Regulations
Regulations
Permitted
Uses only on Uses
L = See L = See
Floors
Institutional Living - - Social and Cultural Services P
Student Housing P 1-3 Petrol Station L-1
Employee Housing - - Religious P
All Uses P 1-3 Open Space P
All Uses Except Petrol Station L-2 G-3 Infrastructure P
Educational
All Uses L-2 G-3
Healthcare
All Uses L-2 G-3
Recreational Limitations
Indoor Recreational - - L-1 Only if located next to boulevards or avenues, as defined in
All Uses Except Shooting Ranges L-2 G-3 Section 701.02 of the Code.
L-2 Non-residential uses cannot be located above or on the same

floor as a residential use in a building.

POS
PARKS AND OPEN SPACES CIVIC
BASE DISTRICT
Description
POS identifies areas of protected space within the City for a variety Use Regulations
of open space uses that serve the citizens of Abu Dhabi. These can
vary from public parks, playgrounds, golf courses and other outdoor Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
recreational activities, through to cemeteries and prayer grounds; all Uses
L = See
of which are important uses that require space in the City. Limitations Table
This base district is intended to protect the openness of these areas, Social and Cultural Services
but it is recognised that there will be a need for limited, small-scale
Public Toilets P
development to serve the needs of the public visiting these spaces.
Development should be designed as an integral part of the open Commercial
space and be of a size and scale that will not dominate the main General Sales and Service -
permitted use and openness in the area.
Convenience Retail P
All Uses Except Correctional Facilities L-14
Religious
Masjed P
Maximum FAR N-3 Cemetery P
Maximum Height (Roof Line) N-3 Recreational
Minimum Building Setbacks - All Uses Except Shooting Ranges P
Street Side N-3 Infrastructure
All Other Sides N-3 All Uses L-14
Public Space N-3
Private Space N-3
Minimum Landscaped Area -
Public Space N-3 Limitations
Private Space N-3 L-14 Subject to scale/size review for compatibility with the
surrounding area.
Development Notes: No Illustrative Example Included.

N-3 This regulation shall be established during planning review
based on the facility, scale and context.

HAG
OTHER HISTORIC AGRICULTRE
BASE DISTRICT
Description
HAG identifies areas of historically allocated agricultural and oasis Use Regulations
land to protect, and conserve to prevent the encroachment of
inappropriate uses onto this land. Permitted uses in these areas are Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
limited. Uses
L = See
Limitations Table
Residential
Household Living -
The development regulations for farms are contained within Single-unit Detached L-5
section 501.09 of the Code. Any additional regulations for the AG
Open Spaces
base district shall be established in consultation with the main
relevant regulatory/licensing authorities through the planning All Uses P
review process, based on the operational requirements of the Healthcare
proposal.
Veterinary - Clinic and/or Hospital P
Religious
Masjed P
Infrastructure
All Uses P
Agricultural
Farming Activities L-8
Dairy/Livestock Facilities P
Animal Husbandry P
Limitations
L-3 Development is generally not allowed. Limited development
may be allowed on a case-by-case basis.
L-5 Only a single storey house is permitted or whatever height is
allowed under the Farm and Related Operations Regulations as
defined in Section 501.09.
L-8 Shall be in compliance with the Farm and Related Operations
Regulations as defined in Section 501.09.
L-20 Related to agriculture.

GR
GOVERNMENT RESERVE OTHER
BASE DISTRICT
Description
GR identifies areas for future public facilities, including but not Use Regulations
limited to, recycling centres, sewage treatment ponds, airport
related uses, military facilities, Government offices and other public Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
facilities. This designation is intended for all land and waters owned Uses
L = See
by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UPC, ADM and other Government Limitations Table
agencies. GR protects these areas for future public use.
Residential
Employee Housing -
All Uses L-3
Development Regulations Petrol Station P

Religious
The development regulations for the GR base district shall be Eid Prayer Ground P
established in consultation with the main relevant regulatory/
licensing authorities through the planning review process, based Masjed P
on the operational requirements of the proposal. Cemetery P
Open Spaces
All Uses P
Government Services -
All Uses P
Military Facilities P
Police P
Civil Defence P
Correctional Institution P
Infrastructure
No Illustrative Example Included. All Uses P
Agricultural
Farm Activities L-8, L-20
Dairy/Livestock Facilities L-20
Animal Husbandry L-20
Limitations
shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
requirements within the Emirates of Abu Dhabi.

RFD
RESERVED FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OTHER
BASE DISTRICT
Description
RFD identifies areas of land within the Urban Growth Boundary
where the surrounding areas of land have either already been
developed, or have been subject to planning approvals. These open
areas are designated in order to highlight that while planning has
not been finalised in the area, any development proposals will
need to be considered carefully with regard to the size and scale of
any surrounding existing and/or planned development during the
planning review process, prior to any final decision being taken.
Development Regulations No Illustrative Example Included.

The development regulations for the RFD base district shall be
established in consultation with the main relevant regulatory/
licensing authorities through the planning review process, based
on the operational requirements of the proposal. No Use Regulations Table Included.

UAG
OTHER URBAN AGRICULTURE
BASE DISTRICT
Description
UAG identifies areas of existing agricultural land witihin urbanised Use Regulations
ares of Al Ain that need to be protected conserved to prevent the
encroachment of inappropriate uses. Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
Uses
L = See
Limitations Table
Residential
Household Living -
Single-unit Detached L-5
Employee Housing -
All Uses L-20
The development regulations for farms are contained within Guest Worker Housing -
section 501.09 of the Code. Any additional regulations for the AG All Uses L-3
relevant regulatory/licensing authorities through the planning Open Spaces
review process, based on the operational requirements of the All Uses P
proposal.
Healthcare
Religious
Mosque P
Infrastructure
All Uses P
Agricultural
Poultry/Broiler Operations P
Animal Husbandry P
Limitations

RAG
RURAL AGRICULTURE OTHER
BASE DISTRICT
Description
RAG identifies areas of existing agricultural land to be protected, Use Regulations
and conserves other areas suitable for agriculture within the Urban
Growth Boundary to prevent the encroachment of inappropriate uses Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
onto the land. Other permitted uses in these areas must be directly Uses
L = See
related to agriculture. Limitations Table
Residential
Household Living -
Single-unit Detached L-5
Employee Housing -
All Uses L-20
The development regulations for farms are contained within Guest Worker Housing -
section 501.09 of the Code. Any additional regulations for the AG All Uses L-3
relevant regulatory/licensing authorities through the planning Open Spaces
review process, based on the operational requirements of the All Uses P
proposal.
Healthcare
Religious
Mosque P
Infrastructure
All Uses P
Agricultural
Poultry/Broiler Operations P
Animal Husbandry P
Limitations

UI
OTHER UTILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
BASE DISTRICT
Description
UI identifies areas that are appropriate for public and private utilities Use Regulations
(e.g. electricity, gas, water and telecommunications), and other
related infrastructure requirements. Use Status Key:
P = Permitted
Uses
L = See
Limitations Table
Community/Social Services
Petrol Station P
Development Regulations Religious
Eid Prayer Ground P
The development regulations for the UI base district shall be
established in consultation with the main relevant regulatory/ Masjed P
licensing authorities through the planning review process, based Open Spaces
on the operational requirements of the proposal.
All Uses P
Military Facilities L-7
Infrastructure
All Uses P
Limitations
No Illustrative Example Included. L-3 Development is generally not allowed. Limited development
L-7 Related to military installations and facilities.


300 OVERLAY DISTRICTS
OVERLAY DISTRICTS 300
Sections: 300.04 Overlay Districts

300.01 Purpose Table 300-A lists the overlay districts in the Code.
300.03 Use and Development Regulation Tables
300.04 Overlay Districts Table 300-A: OVERLAY DISTRICTS
300.01 Purpose Section Designator Full Name Page

Overlay districts are zoning districts established to carry out specific
purposes. They are governed by a set of regulations that address
301 AE Airport Environs 80
subjects such as airport environs or waterfront areas or impose
regulations on plan districts.
302 MC Major Corridor 83
The provisions of the overlay district apply to all land and waters 303 UGB Urban Growth Boundary 84
delineated on the Code Map. While the provisions of the overlay
district are combined with the provisions of the base district or plan
district for the plot to which the overlay district applies, the more 304 HCR Historic and Cultural Resources 85
restrictive provisions shall govern.
305 OO Oasis Overlay 87
300.03 Use and Development Regulations Tables
A. Meaning of letters and numbers within the Tables
The tables regulate principal uses and regulations within each
applicable overlay district. Uses and their definitions are detailed
in Section 701.01. Uses are permitted, not permitted or limited, as
follows:
meeting all other applicable regulations within the Code.
2. Where a use is listed with a limitation (e.g. CL-1,CSL-1), the
use is permitted subject to the limitations in the table and
subject to meeting all other applicable regulations within the
Code.
4. Where overlay district development regulations are subject
to a number, the regulations shall indicate the minimum or
maximum allowed.
B. Use interpretations
If a use is interpreted to be within one of the uses in Section
and a determination of it being permitted, limited or not permitted is
made accordingly.

AE
OVERLAY 301-AIRPORT ENVIRONS
DISTRICT
Sections: 301.05 Development Regulations

301.01 Purpose The following sections prescribe the development regulations for all
301.02 Applicability development within the Obstacle Limitation Zones as shown on Map
1, for Al Ain International Airport, as well as more general regulations
301.03 General Regulations
relating to the Code.
301.04 Land Use Regulations
A. Abu Dhabi Airports Company - notification and consultation
301.05 Development Regulations
Any person proposing development within the AE overlay district
301.01 Purpose shall submit notification of the proposal to ADAC. All development
occurring within the AE overlay district for Al Ain International
The Airport Environs (AE) overlay district is established to:
Airport shall require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from ADAC. The
• Protect land uses around Al Ain International Airport from the UPC or AAM must consider ADAC’s comments in its decision-making.
potential hazards of airport operations;
B. Height Limitations
• Prohibit the development of incompatible uses that are
The criteria for determining the acceptability of a project with
detrimental to the general health, safety and welfare of airport
respect to height should be based upon the regulations set forth by
users, and to existing and future airport operations; and
ICAO in ICAO Annex 14 and GCAA CAR Part IX. Additionally, where an
• Comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) ICAO aeronautical study of a proposed object/structure is required,
Obstacle Limitation Zones and General Civil Aviation Authority the results of that study shall be taken into account by the UPC/AAM
(GCAA) Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) Part IX requirements. prior to determining any submission.
301.02 Applicability 1. Maximum Height
The regulations of this section apply to all lands and waters within No object, structure or building, including a mobile or
the AE overlay district mapped on the Code Map, as indicated with temporary object such as a construction crane, shall have
the AE designator, as well as more general regulations across the a height that would result in penetration of any airspace
entire Code area. protection surface/height limitation.
301.03 General Regulations C. Aviation Regulations Throughout the Entire Development Code
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section, no Area
development shall occur on land or in water anywhere within the AE In terms of Regulations 1, 3, 4 and 5 below, in all circumstances any
overlay district in such a manner that would: resulting application must be accompanied, on submission, with an
• Air Navigation NOC from ADAC.
Create an obstacle or hazard to air navigation. 1. All proposed construction or erection of buildings,
• Glare structures, towers, etc. over 150 m anywhere within the
Result in light or glare in the eyes of pilots using these airports that Code area shall require a Special Aeronautical Study to be
would affect their navigational abilities or make it difficult for pilots undertaken and approved in writing by ADAC, prior to the
to distinguish between airport lights and others. submission of any application for development review to
the UPC or AAM;
• Emissions
Create steam or other emissions that cause thermal plumes or other 2. All buildings, structures, towers, etc. over 45 m anywhere
forms of unstable air. within the Code area shall provide details, including the
number, type, style, candela and position on the building/
• Electrical Interference
structure of all aircraft warning lights, to the UPC or AAM
Create electrical interference with navigation signals or radio
prior to the determination of any related development
communication between the airport and aircraft.
review;
• Bird Strike Hazard
3. Helicopter landing facilities anywhere within the Code area
Create an increased attraction for large flocks of birds which pose
are required to be approved in writing by ADAC, prior to the
a bird strike hazard to aircraft in flight or otherwise endanger
submission of any development review to the UPC or AAM;
or interfere with the landing, takeoff or manoeuvring of aircraft
intending to use these airports. 4. Development proposals for landfill operations and/or
any processes involving the use of chimneys or which
301.04 Land Use Regulations result in the discharge of smoke, steam or other gaseous
In the AE overlay district, land use regulations in the underlying substances anywhere within the Code area are required to
base district or plan district, noise exposure zones and the obstacle be approved in writing by ADAC, prior to the submission of
limitation zones shown on Maps 301-1 and 301-2 shall apply. All any development review to the UPC or AAM; and
development occurring within the AE overlay district shown on Maps 5. Proposed developments involving sky trackers, laser light
301-1 and 301-2 shall require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from displays, balloon advertisements or any similar special
Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) prior to any submission to the displays anywhere in the Code area are required to be
UPC/AAM. In terms of a determination as to the appropriateness of approved in writing by ADAC, prior to the submission of any
a land use or the possible implications of the height limitations, the application to the UPC or AAM.
UPC/ADM shall consult ADAC on all such proposals and receive the
necessary NOC prior to determination.

Map 1: Al Ain Airports, Environs Overlay District
Al Ain International Airport (AIA)

MC
302-MAJOR CORRIDOR OVERLAY
DISTRICT
Sections:
302.01 Purpose
302.03 Regulations
302.01 Purpose
The Major Corridor (MC) reservation overlay district is intended
to reserve land and coordinate development for major transport
infrastructure and utility extensions planned for Al Ain. Where
possible, such infrastructure should be located in existing rights-
of-way. In some cases, it is necessary for infrastructure to be
constructed on, above or below a privately owned plot. Where the
exact alignment of infrastructure is still to be determined, limits of
deviation are defined. The MC overlay district provides guidance for
development within the corridors so that options are preserved for
providing major future infrastructure that benefits the citizens of Al
Ain.
The MC overlay district is also intended to identify and reserve
land for future streetscape planning and improvements, consistent
with the policies of Plan Al Ain 2030 for streetscapes and the Abu
Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual (USDM). Many of Abu Dhabi’s
major transportation corridors have large landscaped areas and/or
undeveloped areas at the outer edge of the wide rights-of-way.
These areas have potential for streetscape improvements that will,
over time, transform them into beautiful boulevards, avenues,
parkways, ceremonial routes and/or pedestrian-friendly corridors,
depending on their setting and land use context. The MC overlay
district identifies areas where such streetscape planning shall be
considered during development review and in the course of planning
studies, so that options are considered and preserved.
The regulations of this section apply to all lands within the MC
overlay district mapped on the Code Map.
302.03 Regulations
Land use and development regulations in the applicable base
district or plan district apply within the MC overlay district, except
as modified by the UPC to reserve land and/or limit or guide
development in keeping with the purpose of the MC overlay district.
These regulations shall be established in consultation with the main
regulatory authority (e.g. DoT) during development review, based on
the operational requirements of the proposal.

UGB
OVERLAY 303-URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY
DISTRICT
Sections:
303.01 Purpose
303.03 Regulations
303.04 Changes to the UGB
303.01 Purpose
The Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) is intended to delineate the areas
within which urban development may occur in order to prevent
urban sprawl into the desert and other environmentally sensitive
areas within the Municipality. For the purposes of this requirement,
‘urban development’ means development requiring one (1) or
more basic municipal services, including but not limited to, potable
water, wastewater, storm drainage facilities, fire hydrants and other
physical public facilities and services. This boundary is a line beyond
which urban development shall not be allowed, with the exception
of uses or development in the form of appropriate permitted uses
within the DZ base district.
The UGB is applied as shown on the Code Map.
303.03 Regulations
The development regulations shall be those of the base districts
shown on the Code Map outside the UGB. No infrastructure (water,
power, etc.) services shall be extended beyond the UGB to enable
any urban development outside the UGB. Suitable locations for
permitted development outside of the UGB will be identified by the
UPC.
303.04 Changes to the UGB

The UPC, at its sole discretion, may initiate a change to the UGB to
benefit the public, consistent with the guiding principles of Plan
Capital 2030.

HCR
304-HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES OVERLAY
DISTRICT
Sections: 304.03 Land Use and Development Regulations and

304.01 Purpose Guidelines
304.02 Applicability The regulations and guidelines applicable to a structure, building or
area, subject to an HCR overlay district, are those which apply in the
304.03 Land Use and Development Regulations and Guidelines applicable base district or plan district within which it is combined,
unless modified by specific regulations and guidelines established in
304.04 Procedure
the Conservation Management Plan for the HCR overlay district.
304.05 Amendments to HCR Overlay Districts
304.06 Development Review 304.04 Procedure
A. General
304.01 Purpose An application for an amendment to the Code Map for an HCR
The Historic and Cultural Resources (HCR) overlay district is overlay district designation shall be processed pursuant to the
intended to protect, conserve and enhance Abu Dhabi’s cultural and requirements of the criteria of Section 601.
historic resources, including designated historic and architecturally B. Conservation Management Plan
significant buildings, landmarks and archaeologically sensitive sites. In addition to the requirements for an amendment to the Code Map,
The HCR overlay district is intended to: an amendment to the Code for an HCR overlay district designation
• Promote the conservation, preservation, protection and shall include a Conservation Management Plan. The extent and
enhancement of buildings and landmarks significant in history, level of detail of the Conservation Management Plan may vary
architecture and culture, which impart a distinct character to depending on the size and individual characteristics of the proposed
the City and serve as visible reminders of Abu Dhabi’s culture HCR overlay district. The Conservation Management Plan shall be
and heritage; prepared by the TCA or its appointed consultant in coordination with
the UPC/AAM, as follows:
• Deter demolition, destruction, alteration, misuse or neglect of
1. A map and description of the proposed HCR overlay district
historically, culturally or architecturally significant buildings and
and of the resources in the district, including the setting,
landmarks that form an important link to the City’s past;
character and architectural or historical significance of
• Encourage development, tailored to the character and buildings and landmarks in the proposed HCR overlay
significance of each historical and cultural district or landmark, district.
through a Conservation Management Plan that includes goals, 2. A statement of the architectural, historical, cultural or
objectives, design guidelines and consideration of Estidama archaeological significance related to the site of the
principles and strategies; and proposed HCR overlay district, and a description of the
• Promote maintenance of a harmonious outward appearance of resources to be preserved.
both historic and modern structures through complementary 3. A set of design and performance guidelines for reviewing
scale, form, colour, proportion, texture and materials. applications for development that shall preserve the
integrity of the proposed HCR overlay district. These may be
304.02 Applicability applied to individual HCR districts established by the UPC/
AAM.
A. Establishment
4. A set of specific categories of interventions that require a
An HCR overlay district may be combined with any base
planning review decision to preserve the integrity of the
district or plan district. An HCR overlay district shall be adopted
proposed HCR overlay district.
only through an amendment to the Code Map pursuant to the
requirements of Section 601.
304.05 Amendments to HCR Overlay Districts
B. Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) Regulations and
Guidelines Any amendment to an HCR overlay district shall only be approved
through an amendment review to the Code Map pursuant to the
All developments must comply with TCA regulations and
requirements of Section 601, by the UPC.
guidelines.
C. Outside the HCR Overlay District
All development must comply with the regulations and
guidelines of the TCA. In the event that any historic or
significant features are discovered during the course of
development, the developer must immediately contact the TCA.

HCR
OVERLAY 304-HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
DISTRICT
304.06 Development Review 7. Whether additions or alterations to buildings or landmarks will

The completion of the planning review in line with the procedures be done in a manner that, if such additions or alterations were
and criteria of the Code shall be required prior to development to be removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of
of any structure or plot in an HCR overlay district. The purpose the building or landmark would be unimpaired.
of this regulation is to ensure the integrity and general character 8. Whether the applicant has demonstrated that important views
of designated historic and cultural resources are protected and within, into and out of the area will be protected.
enhanced. 9. Whether trees and other landscape features contributing to the
A. Exemptions character or the appearance of the area will be protected.
No planning review is required for maintenance or any 10. Whether the applicant has produced a high-quality design,
development, alteration, restoration, rehabilitation or relocation which is sympathetic to and respects and/or enhances the
that is specifically described as critical to maintaining the particular qualities of the area.
integrity of the resource. 11. Whether the proposed development offers benefits such as
tourism or educational amenities (including the interpretation
B. Criteria and presentation of the resource for the local community and
In addition to the review criteria pursuant to Section 601, the for visitors).
UPC, or the AAM if no UPC review is required, shall consider 12. Whether mitigation measures are being offered as part of the
the following criteria in making a decision on a proposed proposal.
development:
1. Whether the proposed construction, reconstruction or relocation
is appropriate and consistent with this section and the
Conservation Management Plan for the district.
2. Whether the applicant has demonstrated that every reasonable
effort will be made to protect, restore and enhance identified
significant resources and preserve their integrity.
3. Whether the distinguishing original qualities or character of the
resource and its environment will not be destroyed, and the
removal or alteration of any resource or distinctive feature will
be avoided.
4. Whether changes, which may have taken place over the course
of time are evidence of the history and development of a
building or landmark and its environment, and that such changes
which may have acquired significance in their own right, will be
recognised and respected.
5. Whether distinctive stylistic features or examples of skilled
craftsmanship, which characterise a building or landmark, will
be kept, to the extent reasonably possible.
6. Whether any proposed contemporary design for alterations
and additions will destroy significant historical or architectural
materials, and whether such design will be compatible with the
size, scale, colour, materials, and character of the property, the
neighbourhood or the environment.

OO
Oasis Overlay OVERLAY
DISTRICT

OO
OVERLAY Oasis Overlay
DISTRICT

OO
Oasis Overlay OVERLAY
DISTRICT

400 PLAN DISTRICTS
PLAN DISTRICTS 400
Sections:
400 Plan District
400.01 Purpose
400.03 Use Regulation Tables

Sections: B. Use Interpretations
400.01 Purpose If a use is interpreted to be within one of the uses in Section
400.02 Applicability and a determination of it being permitted, limited or not permitted is
400.03 Use Regulation Tables made accordingly.
C. Basements
400.01 Purpose In terms of the regulation tables, basements are not considered to
Plan districts are areas of Al Ain designated or approved, sometimes constitute a floor or a storey for the purposes of determining the
by the UPC, which have geographically-specific land use regulations overall permitted height of the building using these parameters.
or areas that have been subject to detailed master planning. They However, that part of any basement which projects above-grade
provide a means to modify Code regulations to address the unique level, shall be counted in the overall permitted maximum height of
needs of an area, foster innovative planning and design, and provide the building in metres (refer to Section 702.01).
public improvements and benefits. They are intended to:
Any habitable space within a basement shall count towards the
• Streamline implementation of Plan Al Ain 2030 for master overall allowable GFA for the building.
planned areas and other areas where additional flexibility in In terms of the Code, basements are primarily considered appropriate
development is needed and demonstrable public benefits can be to provide below-grade parking and to accommodate non-habitable
achieved; operations.
• Provide a method whereby land may be developed as complete
communities, thereby resulting in a more efficient use of land,
a better living environment and excellence in the design and
coordination of public improvements and community facilities;
• Provide open space, address recreational needs and preserve
and enhance environmental resources;
• Ensure the development integrates Estidama principles and
sustainable development practices into detailed planning for
these areas;
• Incorporate infrastructure and community facilities and public
amenities (e.g. public open space, public art, improvements to
existing public facilities) into development plans for these areas;
and
• Establish detailed architectural and urban design regulations
and/or guidelines appropriate for these areas.
A plan district may be established by the UPC for any combination of
uses and development that is consistent with and implements Plan Al
Ain 2030. Plan districts may also be established for coastal villages,
consistent with the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines.
400.03 Use Regulation Tables

A. Meaning of letters within the tables
The tables regulate principal uses within this plan district. Uses and
their definitions are detailed in Section 701,01:Use Categories and
Definitions. Uses are permitted or limited, as follows:
meeting all other applicable regulations within the Code.
2. Where a use is listed with a limitation (e.g. WML-1), the
use is permitted subject to the limitations in the table and
subject to meeting all other applicable regulations within the
Code.

500 ADDITIONAL
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
Sections:
501 Additional Development Regulations
501.01 Purpose and Applicability
501.02 Detached Villa Regulations

501.03 Traffic and Parking Regulations
501.04 Landscape Regulations
501.05 Open Space Regulations
501.06 Projections into Setbacks Regulations
501.07 Farm and Related Operations Regulations
501.08 Storage and Screening Regulations
501.09 Plot Development Potential Regulations
502 Non-conforming Uses, Structures And Plots
502.01 Purpose
502.02 Establishment of Lawful Non-conforming Uses,
Structures and Plots
502.03 Continuation and Maintenance of Non-
conforming Structures
502.04 Alterations and Enlargements to Non-conforming
Structures
502.05 Classification of Non-conforming Uses
502.06 Changes and Substitutions of Non-conforming
Uses
502.07 Expansion of Non-conforming Uses

ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 501
Sections 501.03 Traffic and Parking Regulations

501.01 Purpose and Applicability A. General
501.02 Detached Villa Regulations 2. All development shall provide parking, pursuant to the
regulations established by the Department of Transport
501.03 Traffic and Parking Regulations
(DoT).
501.04 Landscape Regulations
3. All development proposals shall require submission of a
501.05 Open Space Regulations Transportation Impact Study (TIS) acceptable to and agreed
in an NOC from the DoT, prior to final determination of any
development review.
B. Public Pedestrian Sidewalk/Through Zones
3. Public pedestrian sidewalks/through zones shall be provided
501.09 Plot Development Potential Regulations in accordance with the requirements of the USDM.
4. All public sidewalks shall be provided to, at least, meet
501.01 Purpose and Applicability the minimum standards of the DoT. All sidewalks shall be
The purpose of this section is to establish additional regulations graded across their entire width and shall be provided and
that generally apply across the Al Ain City Municipality area. When maintained free from any obstructions or obstacles.
a regulation of this section addresses the same subject as another
5. Plot owners shall ensure that their building’s entrances,
Code regulation, the more restrictive governs.
exits, ramps and any other features do not interfere with or
obstruct the public sidewalk.
501.02 Detached Villa Regulations
A. Perimeter walls 501.04 Landscape Regulations
2. Footings for perimeter walls and fences shall not encroach A. General
beyond the plot line.
2. All development must provide landscaped areas, in line
3. Perimeter walls are permitted only when using durable with the minimum areas established in the base districts or
construction materials, such as concrete or block, which applicable plan districts, as well as in respect of any master
are architecturally compatible with the surrounding plan.
neighbourhood.
3. The plot owner shall be responsible for maintaining or
4. The maximum height of the concrete or block portion of a ensuring the ongoing maintenance of installed landscape
perimeter wall is 2.5 m. materials so that the all planting continues to thrive.
5. A 1.0 m vertical, semi-transparent decorative structure B. Installation of Required Landscape Materials
made of high-quality, visually compatible material is
permitted above the concrete or block portion of the 1. All required landscape materials, including irrigation pipes,
perimeter wall. must be in-ground, except when raised planters are allowed
as an integral part of the landscape plan. Plant materials
6. Ornamental objects mounted on the perimeter wall, must be installed to current landscape best practices at the
such as vases, urns, lights, sculptural elements or other time of planting. Plant materials must be properly supported
embellishments, are allowed to project vertically to a to ensure survival. Support devices, such as guy wires or
maximum of 0.5 m above the height of the decorative stakes, must not interfere with any vehicular or pedestrian
structure, with a further horizontal projection of up to 0.3 movement.
m beyond the wall being permitted.
C. Required Irrigation
7. Common walls between adjoining plots are permitted.
1. All landscape materials must be installed with an irrigation
8. An entry projection or shading device is allowed for the system that is designed to eliminate any water run-off into
main entrance with a maximum projection of 2.0 m. the public right-of-way.
B. Garages
3. Garages shall not dominate the streetscape. They shall be
501.05 Open Space Regulations
recessed or aligned with front walls and other treatments to A. General
ensure the dwelling/villa (including courtyards and entries) There shall be no net loss of existing parks, designated habitat or other
is the dominant visual feature, not the garage; and designated open space areas within the same and/or immediately
4. Garage entries and driveways shall not exceed 6.0 m in adjoining base districts.
width, sufficient for two (2) vehicles to access. Only one (1)
driveway per plot..
The projections listed in Table 501-A may extend into the required
setbacks, subject to the regulations stated in the table. No

501 ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
projections shall extend closer than 1.0 m to a non-street side plot industrial, governance and institutional, social and cultural
line unless so permitted in the table. Projections not listed within services, educational, healthcare, developed open space and
this table may be permitted if referenced elsewhere in the Code. outdoor recreational uses. Other uses shall be evaluated on a
case-by-case basis.
REGULATIONS FOR ALLOWED PROJECTIONS INTO 2. Outside storage
SETBACKS WITHIN A PLOT - Table 501-A Open storage of goods, materials, machines, equipment,
vehicle parts and vehicles outside of a building for more
Maximum Projection into than 72 hours shall conform to the screening regulations of
Setback (Metres) this section. These regulations do not apply to temporary
Type of Projection
Front Side Rear storage of construction materials reasonably required for
Setback Setback Setback construction work on the premises, pursuant to a valid
building permit.
Architectural projections, including
cantilevered bay windows, 3. Refuse storage
No closer than 1 m
cornices, canopies, eaves, sills, 1m d. Refuse and recyclable material storage areas shall be
from the plot line
buttresses or similar architectural screened from view, ventilated, designed as integral
features and planting boxes elements of the building and suitably located for easy
Stairways, stair landings and access and emptying from vehicular routes;
balconies that service above the
first floor level of the building,
e. No storage to take place within 2.0 m of a public
provided that all such structures footpath/sidewalk; and
shall be open, unenclosed and 1m 1m 1m f. Any such storage shall not exceed 4.0 m in height.
without roofs, except for lattice-
type guard railings. Structural 7. Permitted Locations
supports for stairways and Table 501-B states the base districts where outdoor
landings may be enclosed storage is permitted and not permitted.
Decks, porches and stairs which
do not extend above the first floor 2m 1.5 m 1.5 m
level of the building
Depressed ramps or stairways
and supporting structures, when
1m 1m 1m
designed to permit access to parts
of buildings below grade level
Ramps and similar structures for a Up to the entire setback
disabled person’s accommodation area, where it is the only
feasible location to provide
access to a disabled person’s
accommodation

A. General
Farm and related operations regulations are covered by the following
agencies:
2. Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
3. Department of Economic Development
4. Abu Dhabi Food Contol Authority
5. Environment Authority-Abu Dhabi
All develpment shall require a NOC from the relevant agency prior to
final determination of any development review.

A. Storage
1. Recycling and waste collection areas
Solid waste, composting (if applicable) and recycling bins
shall be provided for new dwelling groups consisting of four
(4) or more dwelling units on a plot, and for all commercial,

ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 501
with an approval that is acceptable to the UPC.

REGULATIONS FOR OPEN STORAGE BY DISTRICT AND
2. The built extent of the added area of the new plot, created as
LOCATION - Table 501-B a result of any merger or expansion, shall reflect the existing
base district parameters of the original plot in terms of the
Base Districts Permissibility of Open Storage maximum plot coverage and the minimum landscaped area
requirements. With regard to the FAR for the added area, this
Not permitted. [All storage should
Residential and Civic Districts shall be calculated in agreement with the UPC based on the
be within an enclosed building.]
new plot base district.
Not permitted in front or 3. In the event of two (2) or more existing plots comprising
street-side setbacks. Permitted different base districts being merged or expanded, the base
in interior side and non-street district with the more restrictive requirements shall apply to
Commercial Districts the new plot.
setback or outside of required
setbacks, subject to the screening C. Sub-division of existing plot
regulations of this section.
1. Prior to the sub-division of any plot, details of the proposed
Permitted anywhere on a plot new base district (if applicable), land use (if applicable),
Industrial Districts subject to the screening and building footprint, plot coverage and minimum landscaped
regulations of this section. area shall be submitted to the ADM in writing. The ADM
shall review the development potential of the proposed sub-
division against all applicable regulations in the Code and
notify the UPC of any conflicts.
B. Screening
3. Service Areas 2. The new sub-divided plot shall be subject to all the parameters
of the associated base district in the Code.
Truck docks and loading and service areas located in any base
district shall be screened so as not to be visible from any D. Shared use of waterways
adjacent public rights-of-way, except within industrial base 1. Waterways are not to be privatised. The extension of affection
districts. plans into the waterways below Highest Astronomical
Tide (HAT) mark shall only be permitted by the UPC under
4. Equipment
exceptional circumstances.
All mechanical and electrical equipment shall be screened or
incorporated into the design of the building so as not to be
visible from a street or adjacent residential base district. Such
equipment includes, but is not limited to, all roof-mounted
equipment, utility meters, cable equipment, telephone entry
boxes, backflow prevention devices, irrigation control valves,
electrical transformers and pull boxes. Screening devices
should be consistent with the exterior colours and materials
of the building to which they are attached.
5. Open Storage
The open storage of goods, materials, machines, equipment
and vehicles for more than 72 hours must take place within a
pre-agreed, designated area on plot.
501.09 Plot Development Potential Regulations
A. General
The ADM shall review the development potential for all mergers or
expansions of existing plots on the basis of all applicable development
regulations in the Code and notify the UPC of any conflicts.
B. Mergers and expansions of existing plots
1. Plots may not be expanded or merged into any land or water
body that is considered by the UPC/AAM to be beyond the
historic shoreline, in a sensitive environmental area or created
beyond the Urban Growth Boundary, except in accordance

501 ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

NONCONFORMING USES, STRUCTURES AND PLOTS 502
Sections 3. Non-conforming plots

502.01 Purpose Any plot that is less than the minimum plot size, or does not
meet any of the applicable dimensional requirements of the
502.02 Establishment of Lawful Non-conforming Uses, Structures, Code, may be used as a building plot if it is described in an
and Plots affection plan that has been recorded with the AAM prior to
502.03 Continuation and Maintenance of Non-conforming the adoption of the Code.
Structures 4. Airport Hazards
502.04 Alterations and Enlargements to Non-conforming No permit or development approval shall be granted that
Structures would allow an existing non-conforming structure or non-
conforming use to become a greater hazard to air navigation
502.05 Classification of Non-conforming Uses
than it was when the previous regulation was adopted, or
502.06 Changes and Substitutions of Non-conforming Uses than it is when any new application is made.
502.07 Expansion of Non-conforming Uses 502.03 Continuation and Maintenance of Non-
502.01 Purpose Lawful non-conforming structures may be continued and maintained
This section is intended to permit the continuation and occupancy in compliance with the requirements of this section, unless deemed
of specified uses and maintenance of specified structures that were to be a public nuisance for public health and safety reasons, as
legally established but do not conform to the current applicable determined by the UPC/AAM.
regulations of the Code. The regulations apply to structures, land and
uses that have become non-conforming as a result of the adoption Maintenance and non-structural repairs and non-structural interior
of the Code, as well as to structures, land and uses that become alterations are permitted to a non-conforming structure or to a
non-conforming due to any amendments to the Code. structure occupied by a non-conforming use, so long as the changes
and improvements do not enlarge or extend the structure.
502.02 Establishment of Lawful Non-conforming Uses, Structural repairs that do not enlarge or extend the structure shall
Structures and Plots be permitted when the relevant authority determines that such
A. Regulations modifications or repairs are necessary to protect public health
Any lawfully established use, structure or plot that is in existence and safety of the occupants of the non-conforming structure, or
on the effective date of the Code, or the date of any subsequent occupants of an adjacent property. Examples of structural repairs
amendment, shall be considered non-conforming if it does not include modification or repair of bearing walls, columns, beams or
conform to the applicable regulations of the Code. Non-conforming girders.
uses and structures may only be continued subject to the regulations
in this section.
502.04 Alterations and Enlargements to Non-
1. Non-conformity with development regulations A. General
While a non-conformity may result from any inconsistency Where the conforming use of a non-conforming structure complies
with the requirements of the Code, such as location, FAR with the Code, the non-conforming structure may be enlarged,
or height, a use or structure shall not be deemed non- extended, structurally altered or repaired to allow the conforming
conforming solely because it does not conform with the use to continue. The enlargement, extension, alteration or repair shall
parking standards, loading, landscaped area or screening comply with all applicable regulations in the Code.
requirements of the base district in which it is located.
1. Non-conforming Setbacks
2. Right to continue non-conforming uses and structures
Additions or enlargements that maintain the width of an
Any non-conforming use or structure may only be continued existing non-conforming setback and do not result in a
and maintained if it has remained in continuous existence decreased width are permitted.
prior to the adoption of the Code, and in compliance with
the requirements of this section. The right to continue a 2. Deteriorating or Dilapidated Structures
non-conforming use or structure shall become ineffective A non-conforming structure that is deteriorating, dilapidated
if the non-conforming use or structure is abandoned or and/or nearing the end of its useful life shall not be altered
vacated for a period of six (6) months or more. The right or enlarged.
to continue a non-conforming use or structure is attached
to the land/plot only, and shall not be affected by a change
in ownership. No substitution, expansion or other change
in use, and no alteration or other change in structure is
permitted, except as otherwise permitted in this section.

502 NON-CONFORMING USES, STRUCTURES AND PLOTS
502.05 Classification of Non-conforming Uses c. Substitutions

A. Classifications In exceptional circumstances, the UPC/AAM may allow
substitution of a Class II non-conforming use with a Class
2. The relevant authority shall classify lawfully established non- I non-conforming use, or substitution of a Class I non-
conforming uses for the purpose of determining whether to conforming use with another Class I non-conforming use,
permit substitution or expansion, subject to the requirements subject to written approval. The UPC/AAM may consider the
of the Code. The classification of any use or structure shall be following:
optional and shall be based on an application. The application
shall include information necessary to determine that the use i. The proposed new non-conforming use shall be
was lawfully established and to gather any other findings more compatible with the purposes of the base
that may be required. district than the non-conforming use it replaces;
and
a. Class I.
ii. The proposed new non-conforming use shall
Class I non-conforming uses are classified by the comply with all relevant regulations or shall
relevant authority after determining that: obtain a variance to the regulations, consistent
i. The existing non-conforming use was legally with the requirements of the Code.
established;
ii. The proposed expansion or substitution of the
502.07 Expansion of Non-conforming Uses
non-conforming use would not be detrimental to A. Regulations
public health, safety or welfare;
2. Within a structure that conforms to the development
iii. The proposed expansion or substitution would regulations of the Code
not be inconsistent with the objectives of Plan A Class I non-conforming use in a conforming structure
Al Ain 2030 and would not preclude or interfere may expand the floor area that it occupies on the plot,
with the implementation of any applicable plan provided that the purpose of the expansion is to allow the
district; and continued operation of the use in a safe and secure manner
iv. No useful purpose would be served by strict and that no structural alteration is proposed for the purpose
application of regulations with which the use or of the expansion, subject to approval from the UPC/AAM.
structure does not conform. a. A non-conforming use may not be expanded to occupy
b. Class II all or a part of another structure or another plot that it
did not occupy on the effective date of the Code.
Class II non-conforming uses include any lawfully
established non-residential use that involves the b. The expansion of the non-conforming use shall not
storage, use or generation of hazardous materials, exceed 50% of the area that the non-conforming use
processes, products, wastes or other activity that may legally occupied on the effective date of the Code, or
be detrimental to public health and safety because of its when it was first declared a non-conforming use.
potential to create dust, glare, heat, noise, noxious gases, 2. Within a structure that does not conform to the
odours, smoke, vibration or other conditions that would development regulations of the Code
be incompatible with surrounding uses.
A non-conforming use in a non-conforming structure
502.06 Changes and Substitutions of Non-conforming may expand its occupancy and floor area subject to the
Uses requirements of Section 502 and subject to approval from
A. Regulations the UPC/AAM.
2. No lawful non-conforming use shall be substantially

expanded or changed in character without the approval of
the relevant authority. This requirement shall not apply to
a change of ownership, tenancy or management where the
new use is in the same classification as the previous use, as
defined in the Code, and the use is not expanded.
a. Change from non-conforming to permitted use
Any non-conforming use may be changed to a use that
is permitted in the base district in which it is located and
complies with all applicable standards for such a use.
b. UPC development approval/AAM permit to legalise use
Any use that has not been classified, and does not have a
UPC/AAM approval, may be permitted by applying for, and
obtaining the required approval.

600 CODE PROCEDURES
CODE PROCEDURES
Sections:
601 Planning Authorities
601.01 Purpose
601.02 General Mandate for Coordinated Code
Implementation
601.03 Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
601.04 Municipality of Al Ain City
601.05 Common Procedures
601.06 Development Review
601.07 Development Review - Criteria
601.08 Development Review - Code Compliance
601.09 Planning Interventions - Off-plot
601.10 Other Government Agencies
602 Amendments to the Development Code Map And Text
602.01 Purpose and Applicability

602.02 Initiation of Amendment
602.03 Types of Amendments
602.04 Effective Date and Notifications
602.05 Incorporation of Amendments into the Code
603 Variance Review
603.01 Purpose
603.02 Ineligible Variance Requests
603.03 Approval Criteria
603.04 Variance Submission
603.05 Re-submission of a Variance Request

PLANNING AUTHORITIES 601
Sections: 601.04 Al Ain City Municipality

601.01 Purpose The AAM has the following duties and responsibilities under its
legislative powers and the Code:
601.02 General Mandate for Coordinated Code Implementation
• Review licence and permit applications and make
determinations of conformance in line with the provisions of
601.04 Abu Dhabi City Municipality the Code;
601.05 Common Procedures • Apply the Code regulations, as relevant, for all projects for
which the AAM has review responsibility;
601.06 Development Review
• Review construction documents and monitor construction
601.07 Development Review - Criteria
within the Municipality boundary to ensure compliance with
601.08 Development Review - Code Compliance the Code and all conditions of approval;
601.09 Planning Interventions - Off-plot • Monitor developments, during both the construction
phase and following construction, and take the necessary
601.10 Other Government Agencies enforcement action to deal with non-compliance with any
conditions attached to the planning decision, building permit
601.01 Purpose or other planning agreement related to the development; and
This section identifies the general authorities and their
responsibilities for administration of the Code by various officials, • Maintain a record of all Municipality-issued permits,
bodies and agencies to promote coordination and clarity of roles. decisions, inspections and enforcement actions for all
development subject to the Code.
601.02 General Mandate for Coordinated Code
Implementation 601.05 Common Procedures
When carrying out their assigned duties and responsibilities, all The UPC/AAM shall work closely to manage the assessment of
bodies, administrators and officials shall interpret and apply the development against the parameters of the Code, through their
regulations of the Code to implement the policies and achieve the respective development review/control processes.
objectives of Plan Capital 2030, and other plans and policies adopted Requests for interpretations on aspects of the Code, or those related
by the UPC/ADM. to permits issued prior to it coming into force, may be made in
writing to the UPC. The UPC’s decision on any such request is final.
The UPC was established under Abu Dhabi Law No. 23 of 2007 to 601.06 Development Review
develop and implement plans for AAM, and the Emirate as a whole.
The UPC may call up for review, any project being reviewed by the
The UPC, on its own initiative, may call up any matter for review, AAM, for any reason. The UPC’s decision on such a review shall be
including any development reviews being considered by the UPC/ final.
AAM prior to determination of any development review. The UPC
has, at its discretion, the following roles and responsibilities related 601.07 Development Review - Criteria
to the Code: The UPC, or the Municipality if no UPC review is required, shall
• Administer the Code and the Code Map. This authority consider the following in making a decision on a proposed
includes revisions, updates and interpretations of the Code development review:
and Code Map; A. The applicable principles and requirements of the Code
• Review and act on proposed development, including and any applicable supplementary development review and
decisions to approve, conditionally approve, modify, deny Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS) requirements;
or provide advice regarding applications for development
B. The policies of Plan Capital 2030;
review;
• Consult with other Government agencies about planning C. The following criteria;
development; • Whether the overall design of the project, including
• Act on other policy matters presented for the UPC’s its scale, massing, plot plan, exterior design and
consideration; landscaping, will enhance the appearance of the
• Conduct or require special planning studies and review surrounding environment;
planning studies prepared by others for consistency with the • Whether the development is determined to have an
Code; and adverse impact on any adjacent critical asset. In the
• Undertake other actions that implement PlanAl Ainl 2030. event that the proposed development does create
an adverse impact on a critical asset, the reviewing
authority shall deny, amend or impose conditions on
the proposed development so that the impacts are
mitigated;

601 PLANNING AUTHORITIES
• Whether the project plot plan is appropriate to the 601.10 Other Government Agencies
function of the project and will provide an attractive and Other Government agencies have the following duties and
comfortable environment for occupants, visitors and the responsibilities under the Code:
general community;
• Ensure that their plans, policies and programmes are
• Whether the proposed open space plan is suitable for the consistent with and implement Plan Al Ain2030 and the
type of project and is connected to any planned public Code; and
open space system;
• Review and provide comments on technical aspects of
• Whether the project has been designed to be resource development proposals for Code conformity and advise the
efficient, such as the use of overall energy and water UPC/AAM accordingly.
demand reduction strategies, with an emphasis on
conservation measures and strategies to reduce overall
urban heat island effects; and/or
• The overall quality of development is acceptable and will
be of benefit to the residents of Abu Dhabi.
601.08 Development Review - Code Compliance

In order to achieve a Code compliant development review, the
development must adhere to the following requirements.
1. The ground floor of the proposed building(s) shall be located
entirely within the defined plot line.
2. The development shall be in line with the development and
use regulations within the appropriate base or plan district.
3. The development shall be in line with the requirements of
any related overlay district and/or any additional relevant
regulations in the 500 Series.
4. The development should be in line with the landscaping,
traffic and parking regulations within the Code and have the
relevant NOCs.
601.09 Planning Interventions - Off-plot

These planning interventions are considered applicable in certain
situations to mitigate any possible adverse effect from on-plot
related development.
Although not covered specifically by the regulatory framework of
the Code, in some circumstances such situations are considered
to be legitimate planning concerns, which shall result in a planning
intervention. The planning intervention shall take the form of
appropriate planning conditions that are incorporated into the
approvals given by the relevant authorities.
The phasing and implementation of any such intervention can be
readily incorporated through the imposition of conditions through
the planning review process.
These interventions may also relate to the provision of public
facilities arising from within a proposal. In such cases, they would
be considered to be ‘public benefits’ arising as a result of the
development.
It is not envisaged that these interventions will be used often in
relation to development review against the Code.

AMENDMENTS TO THE DEVELOPMENT CODE MAP AND TEXT 602
Sections: 602.04 Effective Date and Notifications

602.01 Purpose and Applicability The UPC may approve, modify or deny the proposed amendment.
An approved amendment becomes effective immediately. Following
approval, the UPC shall make the notification of the amendment to
602.03 Types of Amendments the Code, including any diagrams and/or text, available to the public,
AAM and other Government agencies within five (5) working days.
602.04 Effective Date and Notifications
The Development Code will be updated to incorporate approved
602.01 Purpose and Applicability amendments within five (5) working days of a UPC decision.
This section establishes procedures for making changes to the text
of the Code and the Code Map. The procedures in this section shall
apply to all proposals to change the text of the Code or to revise a
district classification or boundary line shown on the Code Map.

An amendment may be initiated by the UPC, AAM or by another
Government agency. The UPC has the sole authority to determine
whether to accept an AAM or Government agency-initiated
application based on whether it will provide public benefits. The
UPC shall determine whether consultation shall occur with external
agencies with regard to whether the proposed amendment will be
beneficial or detrimental to public interests.
602.03 Types of Amendments

There are two (2) types of Development Code amendments:
A. Technical Amendments
These include UPC initiated changes to clarify regulations or make
minor corrections to the Code Map. These technical amendments will
be considered periodically, according to a timetable established by
the UPC; and
B. Substantive Amendments
These include amendments to implement new Government policies
or directives, UPC prepared master plans or area plans, updates of
UPC planning documents or other Governmental initiatives. They
may also include amendments to the Code Map that would change
base district or overlay district designations or provide for new plan
districts. Substantive amendments may be considered by the UPC at
any time, at its discretion.

603 VARIANCE REVIEW
Section: 603.04 Variance Submission

603.01 Purpose The applicant shall submit a formal request, in writing, with all the
necessary supporting information for consideration of their variance
request.
The applicant shall inform the appropriate reviewing authority, either
603.04 Variance Submission the UPC or the AAM, of their intention to seek a variance and request
that their application be placed on hold for the period necessary to
603.05 Re-submission of a Variance Request
determine the variance.
603.01 Purpose The applicant shall further agree/accept that the variance time
period for determination shall not be deemed part of the overall
This section provides a mechanism by which the regulations in
review timescale for their application submitted to the relevant
the Code may be administratively varied so long as the proposed
reviewing authority.
development continues to meet the intended purpose of the Code.
Variances may also be used when strict application of the Code’s
regulations would preclude all or partial use of a site. Variance 603.05 Re-submission of a Variance Request
reviews provide flexibility for unusual situations. They also allow for Following denial of any variance request, the applicant shall not
alternative ways to meet the purpose of the Code, while allowing submit a similar application containing the same variance to any
the Code to continue to provide certainty for land development in Al reviewing authority, within a period of six (6) months from the date
Ain City Municipality Area. The UPC may negotiate public benefits of the denial issued by the variance review authority (UPC), unless
and/or private mitigation measures related to the variance in otherwise agreed to in writing by the UPC.
exchange for the approval of the variance.

Variances are NOT permitted for the following points, unless
otherwise agreed in writing by the UPC:
• To increase any of the approved FARs in the Code; and/or
• To allow a use that is not permitted by the Code.

The applicant has to show that all of the applicable criteria have
been satisfied. The UPC may determine, at its sole discretion, that
certain criteria do not apply.
A. Review Criteria
• Granting the variance will equally or better meet the
purpose of the regulation to be modified;
• The variance maintains the basic intent and purpose of the
zoning district in which the site is located;
• The variance is generally consistent with the guiding
principles of Plan Al Ain 2030;
• In a residential or mixed-use zoning district, the proposed
variance will not significantly detract from the liveability or
desired character of the residential area;
• Designated scenic, cultural, historic and environmental
resources are preserved;
• Detrimental impacts resulting from the variance are
mitigated to the extent practical;
• In a coastal or desert base district, or an overlay district
which applies to environmental resources, the proposal has
as few significant detrimental environmental impacts on the
resource and resource values as is practicable; and
• If the variance is related to building design, the proposed
variance will allow consistency with the existing structural
typology of adjacent structures and/or will provide for
development reflecting traditional Emirati or Arabic style
architecture.

700 DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF
INTERPRETATION
DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF INTERPRETATION
Sections:
701 Use Categories and Definitions
701.01 Use Categories and Use Definitions

701.02 General Definitions
702 Rules for Interpretation of Language and Code

Map Boundaries
702.01 Rules for Interpretation of Language

702.02 Rules for Interpretation of Code Map Boundaries
703 Rules of Measurement
703.01 Measuring Height
703.02 Determining Gross Floor Area
703.03 Determining Floor Area Ratio
703.04 Measuring Distances
703.05 Measuring Plot Width and Depth
703.06 Determining Plot Coverage
703.07 Determining Setbacks

USE CATEGORIES AND DEFINITIONS 701
Sections: 5. Interpretation of Uses

701.01 Use Categories and Use Definitions When the category or specific definition of a use is not
clearly identifiable, the following criteria may be used
701.02 General Definitions to determine if a use is within a category or specific
definition of this section, otherwise the UPC may make an
701.01 Use Categories and Use Definitions interpretation on the use, as allowed in Section 601.03:
A. Classification of Uses a. The type and amount of activity;
1. Purpose b. The type of customers or residents;

This section defines uses that are utilised in the Code. The c. How goods or services are sold or delivered;
use categories and definitions generally follow the hierarchy d. Building and site arrangement;
of terms established by the UPC, which are published
separately from the Code. e. Scale of the activity relative to other uses and within
the applicable base or overlay district;
2. Use Categories and Definitions
Uses are divided into twelve broad categories (Residential, f. Transportation impact and type of vehicles involved;
Commercial, Industrial, Governance and Institutional, Social and
and Cultural Services, Educational, Healthcare, Religious, g. Other considerations at the discretion of the UPC.
Open Space, Recreational, Infrastructure and Agricultural).
Within each broad category, uses are classified into more 6. Interpretation of Uses within Base and Overlay Districts
specific categories, for example, in Residential: Household If needed, the UPC may also determine whether or not the
Living. use is permitted, limited or not permitted within a base
district and applicable overlay districts based upon the
Use definitions are also provided for individual uses within extent of similar uses.
a specific category, for example Single-unit Detached
residential (refer to Table 701.01-A to illustrate this 7. Developments with Multiple Principal Uses
hierarchy). The Use Definitions are intended to be used in When all principal uses for a development fall within one
conjunction with the General Definitions in Section 701.02. (1) use category, then the development is assigned to that
use category. For example, a development that contains an
3. Categorisation arcade, bowling centre and cinema would be classified in
Uses are assigned to the specific category whose the Commercial Recreation specific category because all the
description most closely describes the nature of the principal uses are in that category. When the principal uses
principal use. Developments may have more than one (1) of a development fall within different use categories, each
principal use. Developments may also have one (1) or more principal use is classified in the applicable category and is
accessory uses. subject to the regulations for that category.
4. Examples B. Residential Use Categories
Examples are listed within specific categories and for Residential uses include:
individual uses to further clarify the definitions. They are
based on the common meaning of the terms. Some of the 1. Household Living
examples are defined so their meaning is clear (refer to Household living is characterised by the residential
Table 701.01-A). occupancy of a dwelling unit by a family and includes, but
is not limited to, single-unit residential villas, multi-unit
residential villas, residential apartments and residential
complexes.
TABLE 701.01-A HIERARCHY OF USE CATEGORIES a. Single-unit Detached
AND DEFINITIONS A building containing one (1) dwelling unit, designed for
use by a single household and detached from any other
Broad Specific villa. Example uses include single-unit residential villas,
Examples Government villas and public houses.
Categories Categories
b. Multi-unit Residential
Residential Household Single-unit Detached
A building containing more than one (1) dwelling unit
Living Multi-unit Residential that are designed for use by single households. It
Institutional Student Housing includes serviced apartments that are not part of a hotel
Living establishment. Examples include multi-unit commercial
Assisted Living (Residential Care) villas, residential apartments and residential complexes
Employee Mu’athen’s Residence
Housing Imam’s Residence

701 USE CATEGORIES AND DEFINITIONS
2. Institutional Living C. Commercial Use Categories

Institutional Living is characterised by facilities provided
Commercial uses include:
by a business or organisation for long-term housing of
individuals whose reason for shared residence is their 1. General Sales and Services
association with the business or organisation. Such uses Includes uses that provide a broad range of commercial
commonly have both individual and group living spaces, activities operating out of a permanent structure or plot, and
and the business or organisation is responsible for some includes the following:
aspects of resident life beyond the simple provision of living
a. Automobile/Vehicle Sales, Leasing and Rental
quarters. Institutional living includes, but is not limited to,
The use of any building or land for a business involving
student housing for both males and females and assisted
the sale, leasing or rental of new or used motor vehicles
living facilities.
and recreational vehicles. Such establishments may
a. Student Housing. include office space, outside parking areas for the
A use that is dedicated to the shared or individual display and storage of vehicles available for sale, and
housing of individuals enrolled in a college, vocational parking areas for customers and employees. Examples
school or other educational institution. Example uses include new and used vehicle sales, automobile rentals,
include male and/or female dormitories. and showrooms for new and used vehicle sales.
b. Assisted Living (Residential Care). i. Automobile Rentals
A facility which provides living quarters for persons Rental of automobiles, including storage and
requiring assisted care. Facilities usually have common incidental maintenance.
dining and cooking facilities and/or individual kitchens ii. Automobile Showrooms
in each living unit. A residential care facility may Sales and/or leasing of new or used vehicles,
include limited nursing care, but is not intended to be a including storage and incidental maintenance.
hospital.
b. Walk-in Office
3. Employee Housing A commercial use that involves transactions between
Accommodation providing either long or short-term the general public and professional service providers. A
provision of housing for employees. Employee housing walk-in office is different from a conventional office in
is typically located within a group of buildings and is that there is expected to be a higher amount of public
provided either at a subsidised cost or free to employees traffic. Examples include banks and other financial
of a business. Examples of employee housing include a institutions, real estate offices, travel agencies and
Mu’athen’s residence, an Imam’s residence and housing for financial services.
hotel employees.
c. Business Services
4. Guest Worker (Labour) Housing Establishments that primarily provide goods and
Facilities such as labour camps that provide housing for a services to other businesses on a fee or contract basis.
migrant or temporary workforce, often working on large Examples include printing and copying, blueprint
construction projects, and includes permanent or temporary services, advertising and mailing, and office equipment
housing for individuals. rental and leasing.
a. Guest Worker Permanent Housing d. Personal Services
Guest worker housing which is used by workers on a Provision of non-medical services of a personal nature
permanent basis. or instructional services or related facilities, including
b. Guest Worker Temporary Housing tailors, dry cleaning agents (excluding large-scale bulk
Guest worker housing which is dismantled or removed cleaning facilities), shoe repair shops and laundries,
after a temporary period of time. photography, dance or music studios, driving schools
and single-purpose fitness studios such as yoga studios
5. Palace or aerobics studios. This classification is intended for
The official residence of a dignitary, royal personage or small-scale storefront locations and is distinct from
similar person of prominence. commercial recreational uses that tend to occupy larger
sites and generate more noise.
i. Salon/Spa
A use or facility that provides hair, nail, massage
and other similar personal services on a walk-in or
appointment basis.

e. Convenience Retail 3. Commercial Recreation

Facilities that are generally limited in size and scope Provision of participant or spectator-related recreational
and are primarily used for the retail sale of merchandise establishments for the general public, excluding public parks.
for on or off-site consumption, including pre-
a. Games/Arcade/Entertainment
packaged food products, sundries, household items
A use that provides indoor amusement and
and similar consumer items to the public. Examples
entertainment services for a fee including video games,
include restaurants, cafes, fast-food establishments,
pinball machines and other similar types of amusement.
pharmacies, audio/video sales and/or rentals, and food
These uses may include small-scale restaurants, snack
and beverage sales (supermarket, grocery store, bakery,
bars and other incidental food and beverage services as
butcher and catering services).
accessory uses.
i. Grocery Store b. Cinema
A store established primarily for the retailing Facility for showing films. This use may include small-
of food, beverages and day-to-day consumer scale restaurants, snack bars and other incidental food
products and foodstuffs such as soap, toothpaste and beverage services as accessory uses.
and/or milk and bread. Such establishments are
c. Bowling Centre
popularly known as grocery stores, foodstuff
An indoor entertainment facility provided primarily for
establishments, vegetable and fruit markets, etc.
the purpose of bowling, but may include video games,
in Abu Dhabi. Stores attached to petrol stations are
small-scale restaurants, snack bars and other incidental
not considered to fall under this definition.
food and beverage services as accessory uses.
ii. Restaurant, Cafe and Fast-food Establishment.
A use in which food and/or beverage preparation Note: Refer to Recreational Use Categories for golf
and service is provided for individual consumption and country clubs, boating and fishing facilities, zoos,
either on or off the premises. private athletic clubs, etc.
iii. Pharmacy 4. Hotel
A use in which prescribed or over the counter Establishments offering lodging and accommodation to
drugs are dispensed by a pharmacist. transient patrons. These establishments may provide
additional services such as conference and meeting rooms,
f. General Retail
restaurants, bars or recreational facilities that are available
The retail sale and/or rental of merchandise not
to guests and to the general public. Hotels include short and
specifically listed under another use classification. This
long (up to six (6) months) stays, and may include hotel
classification includes, but is not limited to, department
apartments as part of the operation.
stores, clothing stores, hardware stores, furniture
stores and businesses retailing the following goods: a. Hotel Apartment.
toys, hobby materials, handcrafted items, cameras, A use for extended stays consisting of units or suites
photographic supplies and services, medical supplies with a kitchen suitable for long-term occupancy.
and equipment, electronic equipment, sporting goods, Customary hotel services such as linen, maid service,
kitchen utensils, appliances, antiques, art sales and telephone and upkeep of furniture, and optional
supplies, office supplies, bicycles and new automotive resident and guest amenities such as meeting rooms
parts and accessories (excluding vehicle service and and recreational facilities, are provided.
installation).
D. Industrial Use Categories
2. Office
Industrial uses include:
Offices of firms or organisations providing professional,
executive, management, research or administrative services. 1. City-serving Industrial
A use in which goods that primarily require delivery or
a. Business Park
pick up by truck are sold. Examples include large vehicle
A development which contains a number of separate
and boat sales, service and rental, maintenance and repair,
buildings, accessory and supporting uses and open
construction material sales, printing, warehousing and
space, and which is designed, planned, constructed and
storage, and wholesale distribution. Sales can be retail and/
managed on an integrated and coordinated basis.
or wholesale and are made primarily to businesses rather
b. General Office than to the general public, or primarily delivered directly
A building used primarily for conducting the affairs of to households without customers visiting the business
a business, profession, service or industry and which premises.
may include ancillary services for office workers, such
as restaurants, news stands or other minor commercial a. Large Vehicle Sales, Service and Rental
establishments. A facility or use for the sale, service and/or rental of
large vehicles such as tractors, boats and trucks.
c. Medical Office
Refer to Healthcare Use Category.

b. Maintenance and Repair h. Logistics

A facility for contracting services such as building A use which involves the storage and movement of
repair and maintenance, the installation of plumbing, items from the point of origin to the end user.
electrical, air conditioning and heating equipment, 2. General Industrial
janitorial services and extermination services. Also Uses that process, manufacture and/or compound materials
includes the repair of automobiles, trucks and or products predominantly from raw materials. Industrial
motorcycles, including the sale, installation and uses may include the storage of large volumes of highly
servicing of related equipment and parts. Examples flammable or toxic materials and generally require large land
include car wash facilities, vehicle body repairs, areas. The manufacturing may involve outdoor operations as
transmission repairs, wheel and brake services and auto part of the manufacturing process.
glass services.
a. Abattoir
c. Construction Material Sales A slaughterhouse.
Sales, rental and related services of plumbing, electrical,
b. Contractor’s Yard
heating, air conditioning, building supplies, lumber, tools
A facility or area for the storage and maintenance of
and equipment, plants and garden products, swimming
contractor’s supplies and operational equipment. Offices
pools, spas and hot tubs, lighting fixtures, kitchen and
are considered an accessory use.
bathroom fixtures and cabinets, paint, carpeting, floor
coverings or wallpaper. Sales and services are primarily c. General Manufacturing and Processing
for customers in the building trades, construction A use in which articles are produced by hand or by
businesses and/or industrial sectors. machinery from raw or prepared materials by giving to
those materials new forms, qualities or properties in a
d. Printing
process characterised by the repetitive production of
An establishment engaged in printing by letterpress,
items made to the same or similar specifications. Items
lithography, screen, offset or other common processes
produced are generally sold directly to other businesses
including electrostatic (xerographic) copying and other
or are sold at wholesale.
services.
d. Metal Fabrication and Engineering
An establishment serving the printing trade with
A use that involves the design and processing of metals
services such as bookbinding, typesetting, engraving,
to create new products that are used individually or
photo-engraving and electro-typing. Uses may include
together with other products.
establishments that publish newspapers, books and
periodicals. e. Food and Beverage Packaging and Processing
A use that involves the processing and packaging of
e. Warehousing and Storage
food and/or beverages for human consumption in their
A use in which space is provided in an enclosed
final form. Typically, the food/beverage is distributed to
structure for the storage of goods produced off-site for
retailers or wholesalers for resale.
distribution or transfer to another location.
f. Research and Development
i. Personal Storage
Establishments primarily engaged in the research,
Uses that provide separate storage areas for
development and controlled production of high
individual or business uses. The storage areas are
technology electronic, industrial or scientific products
designed to allow private access by the owner for
or commodities for sale. This classification includes
storing or removing personal property, such as
biotechnology firms.
individual storage areas for rent.
3. Heavy Industrial
ii. Commercial/Wholesale Storage
Uses that manufacture, process and assemble semi-finished
Uses that provide large storage areas for
or finished products from raw materials. A substantial
commercial and wholesale businesses (indoor or
portion of activities and storage may be undertaken
outdoor) that are designed to be secure and are
outdoors with resulting noise, glare, vibration and other
not usually open to the general public.
potentially adverse impacts.
iii. Vehicle/Boat Storage
a. Noxious/Hazardous Industries
Uses that provide storage areas for automobiles,
Uses that, through processing, manufacturing and/or
boats, recreational vehicles and other similar
storing, create products or by-products which have the
items, usually within an outdoor setting.
potential to be dangerous, extremely noxious or cause
f. Wholesale Distribution substantial environmental impacts on or beyond the
A use that includes facilities for the storage, distribution boundaries of the plot on which the activity or use is
and sale of goods to other retailers and the general conducted.
public.
b. Intense Manufacturing and Processing
g. Artist Studio/Workshop A use that includes facilities for the general mass
Uses where custom or craft fabrication and production of goods, which are usually for sale to
construction by artists takes place. Studios may include wholesalers or other industries/manufacturers. These
areas for the sale of art as an accessory use to the types of uses usually demand high amounts of energy
production space. and may emit odours and/or noise.

c. Mineral and Chemical Processing/Refining c. Civil Defence Facilities

Uses that are associated with the processing, refining Uses that provide public safety and emergency
and manufacture of inanimate constituents of the earth response services. They often need to be located in or
in a solid, liquid and/or gaseous state which, when near the area where the service is required. Employees
extracted from the earth are usable in their natural form are regularly present on-site. Examples include civil
or are capable of conversion into a usable form as a defence headquarters, fire stations, training facilities
metal, metallic compound, chemical, energy source or and emergency operation centres.
as raw materials for manufacturing or construction. d. Correctional Institution
d. Petroleum Industries A facility that provides support for the detainment and/
Uses that are typically associated with the retrieval, or incarceration of prisoners of the Government of Abu
refinement and distribution of petroleum products. Dhabi. Correctional institutions include prisons.
4. Water Dependent Industries F. Social and Cultural Services Use Categories
A use which can only exist where an interface with a body
of water or waterway is necessary. Social and Cultural Services uses include:
a. Ship Building. 1. Community Centre

Facilities associated with the construction of sea-going An institution used for athletic, social, civic or recreational
vessels. purposes and open to the general public. Activities in
a community centre may include classes and events
b. Marine Sales and Service
sponsored by non-profit organisations, community
Establishments engaged in the sale and service of
programmes for the elderly and other similar activities.
marine equipment, boats and recreational watercraft
Examples include a women’s association, women’s centre/
with corresponding trailer and accessory parts and
ladies club, men’s centre, youth centre, senior centre,
supplies. Accessory uses include, but are not limited to,
wedding hall, celebration ground, Government club and club.
towing and/or minor vessel repair.
E. Governance and Institutional Use Categories 2. Cultural Institution
Uses that are public or non-profit institutions within Abu
Governance and Institutional uses include: Dhabi Emirate, which engage in the cultural, intellectual,
1. Government Services scientific, environmental, educational or artistic enrichment
Uses that provide for the everyday operations of the of the people of Abu Dhabi. Examples include a museum,
Government of Abu Dhabi, including Government offices, cultural foundation, cultural centre, performing arts theatre,
courts and diplomatic services/offices. auditorium, gallery and amphitheatre.
a. Government Office 3. Community Support Services

Facilities that house the administrative functions of the Uses that are local non-profit, Governmental or community-
Government of Abu Dhabi. Government offices include based organisations, designed to improve the quality of life
ministry, directorate, agency, authority, Presidential for residents or to solve particular problems related to their
Court, Crown Prince Court, council, department, needs. Examples include a handicapped centre and orphan’s
secretariat, quasi-Governmental and/or private and house.
municipal uses. 4. Daycare Facility
b. Courts A facility that provides care, services and supervision for
Uses that are associated with housing the less than 24 hours a day to any number of children.
administrative and legal functions of the judicial division
5. Library
of the Government of Abu Dhabi.
A publicly or privately operated facility used for the housing
c. Diplomatic Services/Offices of a collection of books, magazines, audio and video tapes
Facilities that house the services and administrative or other material for borrowing and use by the general
functions of a foreign or the national Government. public.
2. Safety and Security 6. Petrol Station
a. Military Facilities Any building or premises used for the dispensing and sale
Uses and facilities associated with the national defence of fuels, oils and accessories for the motor vehicle trade,
activities of the UAE Military. Examples include airbase, together with any incidental minor automotive repair or
airstrip, military land base and coastguard facility. automatic car wash facility.
b. Police Facilities
7. Post Office
Uses and facilities associated with the police force of
A facility of the Postal Service (Empost) that receives and
Abu Dhabi. Examples include police stations, police
distributes mail. Examples include a distribution centre,
headquarters, immigration facilities, traffic police
customer service centre and P.O. Box facilities.
facilities, checkpoint and training facilities.
8. Public Toilets
A small building containing one (1) or more toilets which
is available for use by the general public and separated by
gender into male and female facilities.

G. Educational Use Categories H. Healthcare Use Categories

Educational uses include: Healthcare uses include:
1. School 1. Clinic
A facility which is occupied and used for the purpose of
a. A public school is an institution providing instruction
providing dental or medical care on an outpatient basis. The
which secures the major part of its funding from the
term does not include a hospital or a facility which provides
Government of Abu Dhabi. Schools can be male only,
for the overnight care or overnight stay of patients. Clinics
female only or mixed gender.
include general and speciality practices and outpatient
b. A private school is an institution providing instruction surgery centres.
which secures the major part of its funding from
2. Hospital
sources such as tuition and donations and not from the
An institution that provides accommodation, facilities and
Government of Abu Dhabi. Schools can be male only,
services over a continuous period of 24 hours or more
female only or mixed gender.
for observation, diagnosis and care of individuals who are
i. Kindergarten suffering from illness, injury, deformity, abnormality or
Sometimes referred to as pre-schools, from any condition requiring medical, maternity or surgical
kindergarten uses are public or private institutions services. Hospitals include general and speciality practices.
for the education of children not old enough to
3. Veterinary - Clinic and/or Hospital
enter primary schools (ages 4-6 years old).
A facility that provides medical or surgical treatment for
ii. Primary School (C1) animals, as well as shelter and care during the time of such
An institution that provides kindergarten level treatment. Such a facility may, but does not necessarily,
to 5th grade education (ages 6-10 years old) include the use of outdoor pens in providing such shelter
and is supported by a public, religious or private and care.
organisation.
4. Medical Office
iii. Intermediate School (C2)
A professional office for the administration of professional
An institution that provides 6th to 9th grade level
medical or dental care, including examinations, laboratory
education (ages 11-14 years old) and is supported
services, screenings and minor outpatient surgical
by a public, religious or private organisation.
procedures.
iv. Secondary School (C3)
An institution that provides 10th to 12th grade 5. Blood Bank
level education (ages 15-18 years old) and A facility that is used for the collection of human blood and
is supported by a public, religious or private plasma from donors. The term does not include a facility for
organisation. the provision of medical care or treatment.
v. Mixed Level 6. Ambulance Station
Educational institutions comprised of A facility which may include a structure or other area set
Kindergarten, Primary School, Intermediate School aside for storage of ambulance vehicles, medical equipment,
and/or Secondary School levels. personal protective equipment and other medical supplies.
2. Vocational Training Most stations are made up of garage bays and parking areas.
An institution which teaches trades, business courses, I. Religious Use Categories
hairdressing, culinary classes and similar skills at a post-
Religious uses include:
secondary school level.
3. Higher Educational 1. Religious Facilities
An establishment providing higher education beyond Uses that support the religious practices and beliefs of
secondary school level, which offers advanced degrees in organised religions.
specific disciplines. a. Masjed
a. College A building where Muslim prayers, educational and
A post-secondary school level educational institution religious activities and programmes occur.
that grants associate, bachelor and/or graduate b. Eid Prayer Ground
degrees. A generally large open area used for Islamic religious
b. University purposes.
An accredited post-secondary school level educational
c. Cemetery
institution that grants associate and/or graduate
A place dedicated and used, or intended to be used, as a
degrees. The institution may also carry out research
burial ground.
and other activities related to its educational
programmes. d. Church.
A location where Christian religious worship,
4. Special Educational Facility
educational and fellowship activities and programmes
An institution that is associated with providing education to
occur.
people who have special educational requirements.

J. Open Space Use Categories L. Infrastructure Use Categories

Open Space uses include: Infrastructure uses include:
1. Transportation
1. Developed Open Space
A use that supports or provides a means of transporting
A use in which an area is permanently dedicated to a
people and/or goods from one (1) location to another.
recreational, aesthetic, educational or cultural use and
is generally characterised by its natural and landscape a. Airport/Airport Facility
features. A park and open space use may be used for both Any area of land designated and set aside for the
passive and active forms of recreation. landing and taking off of any aircraft together with
related refuelling and terminal facilities. Examples
a. Park/Public Garden include facilities for passengers, cargo, military, royal
Any area of land or water essentially set aside, and private users.
dedicated, designated or reserved for public use or
enjoyment or for the use and enjoyment of owners b. Transport Facilities (Land-based)
and occupants of the adjoining or neighbouring land. A public right-of-way used for the purpose of
Examples include pocket parks, neighbourhood parks, transportation. Includes corridors (e.g. roadways,
district parks, precinct parks, regional parks, urban pedestrian sidewalks, bikeways and tram/Metro/rail
green/open spaces, plazas, linear trails and beaches. corridors), taxi stands, bus stops, bus stations, transit
Parks may be designed for women and children only or stations and depots (tram/Metro/rail) and control
for mixed genders. centres.
i. Taxi Stand
2. Natural Open Space A designated location often within the public
Land that is protected or restored to a natural state, realm for taxis to pick-up and drop-off
providing habitat for plants and wildlife. passengers.
3. Archaeological/Paleontological ii. Bus Stop
Uses that have yielded, or exhibit the promise of yielding, A designated location within the public realm for
fossils or information important in the understanding of buses to pick-up and drop-off passengers.
early civilisations. Such information may consist of evidence iii. Bus Station
of past human life, habitation or activity, as well as material A transportation facility where passengers
remains. Examples of archaeological sites include graves, embark or disembark from buses that provide
castles, forts, ruins and caves that have been historically transportation to passengers for hire. Bus stations
used by man, as well as tomb sites and archaeological typically include ticket counters, waiting areas,
excavation sites. management offices, baggage handling facilities,
K. Recreational Use Categories restroom facilities and/or shops as accessory
uses.
Recreational uses include:
iv. Parking Facility
1. Indoor Recreation Surface plots and structures offering car parking
This includes indoor facilities such as a gymnasium, to the public, when such a use is not incidental to
fitness centre, sports club (male, female or mixed gender), another use.
swimming pool and/or indoor shooting range. It may also v. Transit Station
include a restaurant, snack bar and other incidental food and A transit facility, whether at grade, above-grade
beverage services for visitors. or below-grade, that provides pedestrian access
2. Outdoor Recreation to transit vehicles and facilitates transfer from
This includes outdoor facilities such as a playground, one (1) mode to other modes of transportation.
shooting range, zoo, race track (motorsport, horse or camel), A transit station may also include such passenger
country club, golf course, resort, golf driving range, riding amenities such as informational signage, seating,
arena, yacht club/marina, boat and fishing facility (including weather protection, fountains, artwork or
boat rental/tour operations, recreational boat storage, concessions.
marine services and fishing trips), sports stadium and/or vi. Depot
theme park/water park. This may also include a restaurant, A facility where buses,trains and trams are
snack bar and other incidental food and beverage services parked, stored and maintained.
for visitors.
a. Yacht Club
A building or place associated with marinas and boating
activities including associated facilities such as meeting
spaces, restaurants, cafés, gym, changing rooms,
retail, administrative services, boat storage, minor
maintenance and parking.

c. Transport Facilities (Water-based). ii. Water Pump Station

A use or activity which can only be carried out on, in or A utility which involves the pumping and
adjacent to water areas because the use requires access conveyance of potable water through a system of
to the water for water-borne transportation such as pipes.
a harbour, port, marina, ferry station, jetty, water taxi iii. Reservoir
stand, wharf or other similar use. A utility where potable water is stored prior to
i. Harbour/Port distribution through a system of pipes.
A sheltered location where ships take on and off- iv. Elevated Water Tank
load cargo and passengers. A water reservoir that is raised on stilts or a
ii. Marina platform for the purposes of distributing water by
A sheltered harbour, jetty, group of pontoons gravity through a system of pipes.
or piers where boats and yachts are kept in the b. Power
water and where services geared to the needs of A utility for the conveyance and transmission of
recreational boating, including berthing, mooring, electricity. Power-related utility uses include
storage, etc. are provided. Marinas also include power stations, primary stations, substations and
floating structures or dock space within artificially transformers.
constructed facilities protected by a breakwater or i. Power Station
naturally protected regions. A utility use in which power in the form of
iii. Ferry Station electricity is produced by wind, solar or water
A transportation facility where passengers forces or the combustion of materials such as
embark or disembark from ferries that provide coal, oil or gas in which steam is produced by
transportation to passengers for a fee. Ferry combustion to generate electricity.
stations generally include ticket counters, waiting ii. Primary Substation
areas, management offices, baggage handling A facility for transforming electricity from primary
facilities, toilet facilities, shops and restaurants. distribution networks to secondary distribution
A ferry station use on the waterfront may also networks.
include moorage for cruise ships and/or vessels
iii. Secondary Substation.
engaged in transporting passengers for hire.
A facility for transforming electricity from
iv. Jetty secondary distribution networks to the end users.
A structure extending into the sea or internal
c. Sewerage
waterway to facilitate vessel moorings.
Sewerage-related utility uses include sewerage
v. Water Taxi Stand treatment plants and pump stations.
A designated location where small vessels,
operated as taxis, can pick-up and drop-off i. Sewerage Treatment Plant
passengers. A facility in which sanitary or combined sewage
is received, treated and discharged, but does
vi. Commercial Port Facility
not include conveyance lines and associated
Any structure used in connection with the
underground storage facilities, pumping stations or
carrying of goods or persons by water, from one
commercial or industrial facilities for pretreatment
(1) port to another, for business or commercial
of sewage prior to discharge into the sewerage
purposes and which has a direct structural
system.
connection between the foreshore and the
waterway. ii. Sewerage Pump Station
A facility which involves the pumping and
vii. Wharf
conveyance of effluent through a system of pipes
A structure built along the shore where ships may
to a sewerage treatment plant.
berth to load or unload cargo, or allow the fitting
and refitting of ships. d. Waste Management
An activity in which solid waste other than recyclable
2. Utilities
materials are collected, buried, stored, processed or
a. Potable Water incinerated. Waste management-related utility uses
A utility that conveys water that has been treated or include waste disposal facilities, recycling facilities,
processed for consumption and daily use by humans. transfer stations and landfills.
Potable water facilities include, but are not limited to,
i. Waste Disposal Facility
the following uses:
A facility that involves a location where solid
i. Desalination Plant waste is disposed of by burial, processing or
A utility where water is drawn from the Arabian incineration.
Gulf and processed to produce potable water.

ii. Recycling Facility M. Agricultural Use Categories

A facility that involves a location where
Agricultural uses include:
recyclables are collected, sorted, stored and/or
processed for future reuse. 1. Farming Activities
Note: A facility that uses recyclable materials to A parcel of land that is used to produce agricultural products
manufacture an end product that does not require that originate from the land’s productivity.
further processing is a manufacturing facility, not a. Palm Garden
a recycling facility. A parcel of land that is used to produce palm dates and
iii. Solid Waste Transfer Station. palm fronds.
A facility in which discarded materials are b. Fruit Orchard
collected for transfer to another location for A tract of land that is used to produce fruits.
disposal by compaction, shredding or separation. c. Grazing
iv. Landfill A tract of land where livestock roam and feed.
An operation which includes the disposal of solid d. Nursery
waste by covering and burying it within the earth A facility for the growing, display or sale of plant stock,
for eventual decomposition. seeds or other horticultural items. This use may include
e. Irrigation - Treated Sewerage Effluent (TSE) raising plants outdoors or in greenhouses.
A utility that supplies treated water to dry areas in e. Vegetable Farm
order to help vegetation grow. Irrigation TSE-related A parcel of land that is used to produce vegetables.
utility uses include water pump stations, reservoirs,
f. Fodder Farm
elevated water tanks and irrigation lines.
A parcel of land that is used to produce grasses for feed.
f. Stormwater
2. Poultry/Broiler Operation
A utility that captures and conveys water generated
A commercial farming and food processing operation which
by storms to alternative locations in order to minimise
raises and prepares poultry for commercial distribution.
flooding and property damage. Stormwater-related
utility uses include surface pump stations, reservoirs, 3. Dairy/Livestock Facility
elevated water tanks, surface water outfall, drainage A commercial farming operation that is used for keeping
and mainlines. livestock for the purposes of dairy or meat production.
g. Natural Gas 4. Animal Husbandry
A utility which provides natural gas for cooking, heating A large tract of land and associated facilities for raising,
or other processes that require the provision of heat by breeding and selling livestock, such as camels, horses, cattle
the combustion of gas. Natural gas-related utility uses and goats.
include natural gas stations, reservoirs, meter rooms,
distribution lines and transmission lines.
h. Cooling
A utility that provides cool air or water. Cooling-related
utility uses include cooling stations, reservoirs, meter
rooms and distribution lines.
i. Communication
Utilities used for the broadcasting and or recording of
radio and television channels such as satellite stations,
GSM towers, TV stations, radio stations and navigation
stations. Communication utilities include satellite
stations, telephone exchanges, GSM towers, mono
transmission poles, fibre optic rooms, TV stations,
radio stations, navigation stations, control centres and
intelligent traffic systems.
j. Oil
A facility which includes tanks, piping or equipment (or
any combination thereof) and is used or intended to be
used for the storage, dispensing or other utilisation of
petroleum products. Oil utilities may include pumping
stations, control centres, oil wells, oil rigs, storage
tanks, processing facilities and oil lines.

701.02 General Definitions Architectural Projection: An architectural feature such as a cornice,

bay window or other similar feature that protrudes from the exterior
Abu Dhabi Island: That portion of land within the boundaries of Abu wall or roof of a building.
Dhabi City Municipality, which is located west and north of ‘Khor Al
Maqta’ waterway. Atrium: An open space or hallway within a building that extends the
full height or several storeys of a building.
Abu Dhabi Mainland: That portion of land within the boundaries of
Abu Dhabi City Municipality that is not part of Abu Dhabi Island, and Authorised Agent: A person authorised by the property owner or
located generally east of the ‘Khor Al Maqta’ waterway. other legal entity that has a legal or equitable title to land that is the
subject of a development proposal, or otherwise has an enforceable
Abatement: Action taken to alleviate, mitigate or end a nuisance, proprietary interest in such land to act on their behalf.
emergency or non-conformance.
Ancillary Structure: A structure on the same plot related to the
Accessory Structure: A structure of secondary importance or principal use on the plot and generally of a lesser size and scale, and
function on a plot. In general, the principal use of the plot is not subordinate to the main structure.
performed in an accessory structure. Accessory structures may
be attached or detached from the principal structure. Examples of Avenue: A medium vehicle priority 2+2 street. (Refer to the USDM.)
accessory structures include: garages, majilis and kitchen. Balcony: A platform that projects from the wall of a building and is
Accessory Use: A use or activity which is clearly incidental to the enclosed by a parapet or railing.
principal use on a plot. Base District: Base districts are zones shown on the Code Map and
Active Frontage: Allocation of a minimum length of the ground floor described in Section 200 of the Code. They set out the use, height
portion of any building that is fronting or orientated towards a public and specific development regulations for different districts.
street or public space to active uses such as retail, restaurants and Base Reference Plane: A reference plane used for measuring building
other walk-in public uses. height and GFA, representing the midpoint between the physical
Adjacent: Near or close to, neighbouring, or nearest in position to. elevation of the single highest point along the existing plot perimeter
and the physical elevation of the single lowest point along the
ADD: Abu Dhabi Datum. existing plot perimeter.
ADM: Refer to Abu Dhabi City Municipality. Basement: An area equivalent to the ground floor/first storey, which
is mostly located below grade level, and generally does not project
ADM Decision: A permit or letter of decision issued by Abu Dhabi
more than 1.0 m above-grade. Commonly used for parking or for
City Municipality.
other non-habitable uses.
Affection Plan: A graphic illustration showing the exact coordinated
Below Grade: Refer to Grade-related terms.
location of a plot issued and approved by the Government of Abu
Dhabi that includes the following information. Boating and Fishing Facility: Businesses providing water-related
• Name of owner; recreational services such as boat storage, marinas, boat tours, boat
• Plot size; rentals, marine services and fishing trips.
• Allocated use; and Boulevard: A high vehicle priority 3+3 street. (Refer to the USDM.)
• Sector and plot numbers.
Building: Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering
Agricultural Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01. any use or occupancy.
Allocated Use: The use which is specified on a legal affection plan. Building Code: The Building Regulations as adopted by Abu Dhabi
Alteration: Any change, addition or modification of any of the City Municipality.
supporting components of a structure, such as load-bearing walls, Plan Capital 2030: Plan Capital 2030: Urban Structure Framework
columns, beams or girders, which changes the exterior architectural Plan, including any approved amendments.
appearance or materials of a structure or object. Alteration includes
changes in exterior surfaces, changes in materials, additions Commercial Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
(horizontal or vertical), demolitions and relocation of buildings or Community Facilities: Are inclusive of the following land use
structures, but excludes ordinary maintenance and repairs. categories: Social and Culture Services, Educational, Healthcare,
Amenity, Private: A feature or use of a development designed for Religious, Governance and Institutional, Recreational and any
the exclusive enjoyment of occupants and their guests. other land use that furthers a Governmental objective of providing
essential services to the general public.
Amenity, Public: A feature or use that enhances the use for the
wider general public. Examples include plazas, public seating, public Convention Centre: Facilities that are associated with large
art and landscaping. gatherings of public or private organisations for the purposes of
meetings, conferences and exhibitions.
Apartment: A dwelling unit in a multi-unit residential structure
normally split horizontally and occupied for shelter or sleeping Demolition: The intentional destruction and removal of any structure
accommodation on a long-term basis. or portion thereof.

Development: Any change to land or waterways including: Frontage, Street (Frontage, Plot): All property fronting on one (1)
• The division or amalgamation of a plot of land into two (2) or side of a street or between intersecting streets, or the end of a
more plots; dead-end street. (Refer to Section 703.05.)
• Filling, excavation, clearing of vegetation, mining or drilling on
Frontage Zone: An area of the pedestrian realm that is the distance
land or water;
between the through zone and the building front or private plot
• The construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural line which is used to buffer pedestrians from window shoppers,
alteration, relocation or enlargement of any structure, transport appurtenances and doorways.
infrastructure or utility; and/or
• Use or the extension of use of land. Golf and Country Club: A privately owned facility offering sporting
opportunities to members or the public for a fee.
Development Regulation: A rule establishing a limitation or
prohibition of development such as building height limits, required Governance and Institutional Use Categories: Refer to Section
setbacks and the maximum GFA that can be built under a FAR. 701.01.
Development Review: An assessment of a planning submission, or Grade-Related Terms:

the planning merits of a building permit submission, undertaken by Grade, Existing: Existing elevation of the ground at the time an
the relevant reviewing authorities utilising the Code, and any other application is submitted for UPC/ADM review, prior to any grading or
relevant planning documents. development.
Dock: A marine floating structure used for building and/or repairing, Grade, Finished: Final level/elevation of the ground after approved
or loading and unloading boats, ships, ferries, etc. grading and development. When the finished ground surface slopes
Dredging: Removal of material from the seabed or waterway where away from exterior walls, the final elevation shall be established by
the activity is for the purpose of constructing a deeper area or the lowest points within the area between the building and the plot
navigational channel. line or, where the plot line is more than 2.0 m from the building,
between the building and a 2.0 m point from the building.
Dwelling Unit: A building, or a portion of a building, that is designed
for residential occupancy and has independent living facilities Grade, Below: Any subsurface area that is underneath the elevation
including provisions for sleeping, sanitation and cooking. of the ground.
Educational Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01. Gross Floor Area (GFA): The sum of all horizontal areas of each floor
of a building or structure, measured from the exterior wall faces of
Effective Date: The date on which a permit or approval of a Code the exterior walls or from the centreline of walls separating two (2)
decision becomes enforceable or otherwise takes effect, rather than buildings subject to the rules of measurement for determining gross
the date it was signed or circulated. floor area. (Refer to Section 702.02.)
Environment: The physical factors of the surroundings, including Habitable Space: A space in a building intended to be occupied for
land, water, atmosphere, climate, sound, odours, tastes and living the purposes of living, sleeping, eating, cooking or working.
things, and the social effects of aesthetics.
Hardscape: Areas such as patios, decks, driveways, paved plazas,
Estidama: The established designation for sustainability of projects paths and sidewalks that do not require irrigation but are used in the
within Abu Dhabi through the Pearl Rating System (PRS). overall improvement of a site’s landscape.
Exterior Wall Face: The outermost surface of the wall, bearing or Healthcare Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
non-bearing, which encloses the interior of the building.
Height: The vertical distance measured in metres (not storeys or
Facade: The exterior wall of a building exposed to public view. That floors) from: 1. The highest elevation of the highest adjacent public
portion of any exterior elevation of a building extending vertically sidewalk or street curb elevation if no portion of the exterior or walls
from the grade to the top of a parapet wall or eave, and horizontally of a building (the building footprint) is not more than 2.0 m from the
across the entire width of the building elevation. right-of-way, or 2. From the base reference plane to the highest
FAR: Refer to Floor Area Ratio. occupiable point.
Financial Services: Any use whose primary service is the sale and Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT): The level of the highest predicted
purchase of stocks, bonds and other financial instruments. astronomical tide at a specific locality.
Floating Jetty: A marine floating structure for mooring or tying of Highest Occupiable Point: The top of the highest roof surface/roof
watercraft. slab of the highest enclosed space safely and legally occupied by
residents, workers or other users on a consistent basis, including
Floor Area Ratio (FAR, also known as floor space or plot ratio): The conference rooms, penthouses and/or restaurants, but not
ratio of the GFA of all buildings to the total area of the plot upon mechanical spaces which require occasional maintenance access or
which such buildings are located, where total GFA is expressed in a otherwise, and excluding the parapet wall.
decimal form and plot area is always 1.0, e.g. 10.5 to 1.
Industrial Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
Frontage, Building: The exterior building wall of a ground floor
business establishment on the side or sides of the building fronting Infrastructure Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
and/or oriented towards a public or private street.

Labour camp: A compound, generally located away from other Plan District: Plan districts are areas of Abu Dhabi that have
residential areas and close to industrial/work locations, to provide geographically-specific land use regulations, or areas that have
accommodation and facilities for guest workers either on a been subject to detailed master planning approved by the UPC.
permanent or temporary basis. They provide a means to modify Code regulations and guidelines
to address the unique needs of an area or site, foster innovative
Landscape: The planting, configuration and maintenance of trees,
planning and design, and provide public improvements and benefits.
ground cover, shrubbery and other plant material, decorative, natural
and structural features (walls, fences, hedges, trellises, fountains, Playground: A tract of land developed with equipment and facilities
sculptures, etc.), earth patterning and bedding materials, and other designed to provide recreational activities.
similar site improvements that are accessible to residents and serve
Plot: A legally-defined parcel of land, normally created through an
an aesthetic or functional purpose, excluding on-plot parking areas.
affection plan.
Logistics: The management of services and the flow of goods from
Plot Coverage (also known as Building Coverage): That portion of
the point of origin to the end user to satisfy customer requirements.
a plot or building site that is occupied by any building or structure,
Loading Area: A designated and delineated area on a plot or site for regardless of whether said building or structure is intended for
the temporary parking of commercial vehicles for the purposes of human occupancy, typically expressed as a percentage of occupied
loading and/or unloading goods. footprint area to total plot area. (Refer to Section 703.06.)
MSL: Mean Sea Level (average). Plot Line (also known as Property Line): A line of record bounding
a plot that divides one (1) plot from another or from a street or any
Mezzanine: Although it may be related to the floor below, it
public space.
is considered to be a separate floor/storey for the purposes of
calculating the storey/floor height of buildings under the Code. Pontoon: Multipurpose floating structure usually used for access and
berthing of vessels in marinas.
Mixed-Use Development: Development that includes more than one
(1) class of use-such as residential, commercial, industrial or public Principal Structure: A structure in which a principal use of the plot
and semi-public uses-within the same building, project, or plot. The on which the structure is located is conducted.
most common examples are a project with both commercial and
Principal Use: The primary use(s) for which land or a building is or
residential uses, or commercial and industrial uses.
may be intended, occupied, maintained, arranged or designed.
Mushtarak: Arabic word for shared street. A common space shared
Project: Any proposal for a new or changed use or for new
by multiple modes, including pedestrians, bicyclists and low-speed
construction, alteration or enlargement of any structure that is
motor vehicles. Abbreviation of sharah mushtarak.
subject to the provisions of the Code.
Non-conforming Building or Structure: Refer to Section 501.
Public Parking: Parking areas and parking spaces that are accessible
Non-conforming Plot: Refer to Section 501. to the public, subject to such restrictions as determined by the
relevant Government authority. Public parking may include on-
Non-conforming Use: Refer to Section 501.
street parking and parking located in above or below ground parking
Office Equipment Sales and Leasing: A use that sells and leases structures.
office equipment.
Public Realm: Publicly used land or right-of-way.
Open Space Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
Publicly Accessible: Physically approachable by the general public
Public Open Space: Parks, plazas and similar open space areas that from a public street or right-of-way.
are reserved and dedicated for public access and use. Publicly owned
Reclamation Work: Any work that involves:
spaces and publicly accessible, privately owned spaces for active and
passive recreation that is publicly accessible for human experiences • The filling or draining of submerged land for the purpose of
of urban nature, as well as for resource conservation. reclaiming the land, or
On-street Parking: Parking areas and parking spaces that are located • The filling of submerged land for the purpose of supporting a
on the street and/or in areas adjacent to the street within a right-of- building or structure (such as a bridge) being erected over the
way. water.
Outdoor Storage: The keeping, in an unroofed area, of any goods, Recreational Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
junk, material, merchandise or vehicles in the same place for more
Relevant Authority: The planning permitting and approval sections
than 24 hours.
of UPC, ADM and DoT, respectively.
Parapet Wall: A low wall, up to 1.5 m high, guarding the edge of a
Religious Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
roof, bridge, balcony or other structure that part of the external wall
of the building which passes above the roof slab and is exposed on Residential Use Categories: Refer to Section 701.01.
its face, back and top to the weather.
Roof Line: The ridge of the roof or the top of the parapet, whichever
Parking Area: An area specifically designated for vehicle parking. forms the top line of the building silhouette.
Permit: Any permit, licence, certificate, letter of decision or other Screening: Screening refers to a wall, fence, hedge, informal planting
entitlement for development and/or use of property as required by or berm provided for the purpose of buffering a building or activity
any public agency. from neighbouring areas or from the street.

Sea Wall: A structure separating land and water areas, primarily Transport Infrastructure: Paving, curbing, tracks and other
designed to prevent erosion damage due to wave and current action. infrastructure that provides for the movement of people and goods.
Semi-detached: Two (2) residential units linked by a single adjoining Universally Accessible: Sufficient in design and space to be utilised
wall, into a single residential structure, normally located within a or accessed by all persons, including those with disabilities.
plot. Unlawful Use: Any use of land or a building that does not have the
Serviced Apartments: Refer also to Hotel and Hotel Apartment. currently required permits and was originally constructed and/or
established without permits required for the use at the time it was
Setback: The minimum horizontal distance between a plot line and brought into existence.
the nearest point of a building or structure on a plot. The setback
shall not include the eaves of a building. Urban Area: The land and water area within the Urban Growth
Boundary.
Sidewalk: A paved, surfaced or levelled area, paralleling and usually
separated from the street, used as a pedestrian walkway. Urban Growth Boundary (UGB): Defines the limit of growth/
development until a given date (e.g. 2030).
Single-Purpose Fitness: An establishment that operates single
purpose physical fitness facilities such as a yoga studio, aerobics UPC: The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council.
studio or similar activity. UPC Decision: A written determination by the UPC that an
Site: A single plot or a combination of plots that are under single application for planning permission has been granted, conditionally
ownership or unified control, and together form the boundaries of granted or denied in line with the relevant provisions of the Code.
the area to be developed. Use: The purpose for which land or a building is arranged, designed
Site Plan: Refer to Affection Plan. or intended, or for which either land or a building is or may be
occupied or maintained.
Social and Cultural Services Use Categories: Refer to Section
701.01. Visible: Capable of being seen (whether or not legible) by a person
of normal height and visual sharpness, walking or driving on a public
Standalone Community Facility: A building intended to provide road.
public services by the Government and developed by the relevant
Government agency in line with their standards and requirements to Walking Distance: A defined distance that is generally considered
fulfil their obligations. walkable by a person. In the Code, ‘walking distance’ varies
depending upon the context of the pedestrian experience. In
Storey: A space in a building between the surface of any floor and locations where there are a lot of pedestrian amenities, the
the surface of the next floor above, or if there is no floor above, then acceptable walking distance will be longer than in an area not
the space between such floor and the ceiling or roof above. conducive to pedestrian travel.
Street: A public or private right-of-way, other than a major or Walkways: Concrete or asphalt surface or continuous blocks of
secondary highway, whose function is to carry vehicular traffic or pavers for pedestrian travel.
provide vehicular access to adjacent property. This definition is used
for the generic use of the term street, as distinguished from the Abu Wall, Permanent: Any physical structure forming a physical barrier
Dhabi Urban Street Design Manual street family term Street. As used and composed of materials that are of a permanent nature and
in the Code, the generic form is lower case street and the Urban which require little maintenance. This includes solid masonry,
Street Design Manual form is capitalised (Street). concrete slab, concrete block and other materials.
Street, Side: That part of the street bounding a corner plot and which Waterfront: Land within 300 m of all urban shorelines or between
extends in the same general direction as the line determining the the shoreline and the first major right-of-way, as determined by the
depth of the plot. UPC. Includes land with a water frontage and land that is separated
from the waterfront by a public reserve, right-of-way or open
Structure: Anything constructed or erected which requires a fixed space.
location on the ground, or is attached to a building or other structure
having fixed location on the ground. Waterways: The waterways encompass all water bodies such
as tidal bays, tributaries and beaches along the City’s coastline,
Temporary Uses: Uses that are not operated for a continuous period including navigation channels and other vessel permitted routes
of more than 30 days, including but not limited to carnivals, festivals, (natural and man-made) between the islands that may be used for
fairs, temporary outdoor sales, mobile food vending, seasonal sales public transport, commerce, and recreation except the waters under
and temporary trailer homes. the responsibility of Supreme Petroleum Council and the Armed
Townhouse: A residential unit, generally up to three (3) storeys high Forces.
and linked to adjoining similar properties on plot. Yard: An open space on a plot that is unoccupied and unobstructed
Tram: A type of lightweight, street-running passenger train. from the ground upward, except as otherwise permitted by the Code
(refer to Section 703.04 and Section 703.05.)
Transit: Any type of transport shared by the public in large numbers,
including bus, light rail, tram, or Metro.
Transparency: The physical property of allowing light to pass
through a material. Transparency in the Code is measured by the
amount of light allowed to pass through a material such as glass.

702 RULES FOR INTERPRETATION OF LANGUAGE AND CODE MAP
BOUNDARIES
Sections: 702.02 Rules for Interpretation of Code Map Boundaries

702.01 Rules for Interpretation of Language Where uncertainty exists at the boundaries of any base district,
702.02 Rules for Interpretation of Code Map Boundaries overlay district or plan district shown on the Code Map, the UPC shall
determine the location of the boundary. The following guidelines and
criteria shall be used in making these determinations:
702.01 Rules for Interpretation of Language
A. Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centrelines
In interpreting the various provisions of the Code, the following rules
of alleys, streets, highways or drainage courses should be
of construction and interpretation of language apply:
construed to follow such centrelines.
A. The particular controls the general.
B. Boundaries indicated as approximately following plot lines, or
B. Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, the following Governmental boundary lines should be construed as following
conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows: such lines.
1. ‘And’ indicates that all connected words or 1. In the case of property, or where a district boundary
provisions shall apply. divides a plot and no dimensions are indicated, the
districts may be scaled; and
2. ‘And/or’ indicates that the connected words or
provisions may apply singly or in any combination. 2. In the case of any remaining uncertainty, the UPC
shall determine the location of boundaries.
3. ‘Or’ indicates that the connected words or provisions
may apply singly or in any combination. C. Where any public street or alley is officially vacated or
abandoned, the UPC shall determine the applicable Code Map
4. ‘Either . . . or’ indicates that the connected words or designations.
provisions shall apply singly but not in combination.
D. Where any private right-of-way or easement of the ADM or
C. In case of conflict between the text and a diagram or graphic, any external agency is vacated or abandoned and said property
the text controls. is unclassified, said property shall be automatically classified
D. All references to the UPC shall include designated officers. as being in the Utility Infrastructure (UI) use until otherwise
designated.
E. All references to days are working days. The end of a time
period shall be the close of business on the last working day of
that period.
F. The words ‘shall’, ‘will’, ‘must’ and ‘is to’ are always mandatory
and not discretionary. The words ‘should’ or ‘may’ are
permissive.
G. The UPC may make an interpretation for any definition not
expressly identified in this section.

RULES OF MEASUREMENT 703
Sections: B. Sloping Site
703.01 Measuring Heights Building height calculated from a sloping site is measured as the
vertical distance, in metres from the point where the base reference
703.02 Determining Gross Floor Area plane intersects with the sloping grade level.
703.03 Determining Floor Area Ratio In terms of the number of floors/storeys, these are calculated as
the number of floors/storeys, excluding any basement projections
703.04 Measuring Distances above the grade level, from where the grade level intersects with the
703.05 Measuring Plot Length and Width lowest plot level point.
703.06 Determining Plot Coverage

703.07 Determining Setbacks
Parapet wall Highest occupiable point
703.01 Measuring Heights Maximum height 1.5 m
A. Level Site
4th Floor
Building height calculated from a level site is measured as the
3rd Floor
vertical distance in metres, floors and storey taken from the grade
2nd Floor
level, shown on the figure below, to the highest occupiable point. 1st Floor
Highest
Plot limit Mezzanine
plot point
Ground Floor
Grade level
cm Basement 1
cm Basement 2
Grade level
Basement 3
Lowest plot point
Base reference
plane
Figure No:703.B: Sloping Site
Architectural features
and elements as Maximum height
regulated by the Code. Highest occupiable point C. Height Exceptions
(Refer to Table 703-A) The structures listed in Table 703-A may exceed the maximum
proposed building height for the district in which they are located,
Parapet wall
Maximum height 1.5 m subject to the limitations stated in the table and provided that no
3rd Floor portion of a structure in excess of the building height limit may
2nd Floor contain habitable areas or outdoor advertising. Any airport, military
16m or superseding Government authorised height limits shall supersede
1st Floor these maximums and the lower shall prevail.
Mezzanine
D. Basements
Plot limit Ground Floor In terms of the regulation tables, basements are not considered to
Grade level
Basement 1
constitute a floor or a storey for the purposes of determining the
overall permitted height of the building using these parameters.
Figure No:703.A: Level Site. However, that part of any basement which projects above grade
level, shall be counted in the overall permitted maximum height of
the building in metres.
Any habitable space within a basement shall count towards the
overall allowable GFA for the building.
Basements are primarily considered appropriate to provide below
grade parking and to accommodate non-habitable operations, in
terms of the Code.

703 RULES OF MEASUREMENT
TABLE 703-A: PERMITTED PROJECTIONS ABOVE PROPOSED HEIGHT LIMITS

Structures Permitted Above the Height Limit Maximum Plot Maximum Vertical Projection Example
Coverage, Locational Above the Highest Occupiable
Restrictions Point (metres)
Skylights consistent with the PRS for new buildings No limitation 1
Rooftop open space features such as sunshade and No limitation 4

windscreen devices, open trellises, flagpoles and
landscaping
Elevator housing, stair towers and mechanical 25% of roof area. Elevator 5
equipment housing and mechanical
equipment should be
located at least 1.0 m from
any parapet wall or line
Decorative features such as bell towers, domes, All other features are 10% Refer to the Abu Dhabi Mosque
cupolas, obelisks, and minarets of roof area. Development Regulations
Domes – 50% of roof area (ADMDR)
Non-occupied architectural features such as fins,
masts and finials
All other uses – 10% of actual
building height
Fire escapes and open railings required by law, solar No restriction 4

panels and other energy production facilities located
on a rooftop
Distribution and transmission towers, lines and poles 25% of the roof area. They 4
should also be located
Water tanks
at least 2.0 m from any
Windmills and microturbines parapet wall or line
Radio towers
Industrial structures where the process requires a Industrial Structures can project
greater height up to 6.0 m above the GI
maximum height
Building-mounted telecommunications facilities, 25% of the roof area. They 3

antennae and microwave equipment should also be located
at least 1.0 m from any
parapet wall or line
Windtowers To be considered on a Dependent on the operational

case-by-case basis requirements

703.02 Determining Gross Floor Area 703.03 Determining Floor Area Ratio
GFA is the sum of the horizontal areas of each floor of a building or Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is the ratio of the gross floor area of all buildings
structure, measured from the exterior faces of the exterior walls or on a plot to the total plot area of the plot upon which such buildings
from the centreline of a wall separating two (2) buildings, according are located. To calculate FAR, gross floor area is divided by net plot
to the following rules: area, and typically expressed as a decimal. For example, if the gross
floor area of all buildings on a plot totals 200 sqm and the net plot area
A. Included in Gross Floor Area
is 100 sqm, the FAR is expressed as 2.0.
As defined above, GFA is deemed to include:
1. The floor area of atriums, shafts, elevator shafts and other open
areas are only counted once.
2. Stairwells at each floor level.
3. Storage and equipment spaces.
Roof terraces and roof
4. Any covered space having a headroom of 2.1 m or more. equipment are not
counted.
5. Half of the floor area of any floor split by the base reference Balcony area that is
plane. enclosed on three sides
is counted.
6. Covered balconies enclosed on three (3) sides. Balcony area that is
enclosed on two sides
7. Habitable enclosed area on a rooftop, such as a penthouse and exterior open-sided
balconies are not
dwelling unit, community room or similar enclosed space, used counted.
by residents, customers or employees. Shafts and other interior
open areas are counted
8. All at above and below-grade habitable space. only once.
9. All at and above grade parking structures. Stairwells, storage and

equipment areas are
counted.
B. Excluded from Gross Floor Area
Gross floor area is
GFA does not include: measured from the
exterior face of exterior
walls or from the
1. Standalone district cooling plants. centreline of a wall
separating two buildings.
2. Any space permanently open to the sky; including semi-open
fabric shading devices no closer than 0.5 m to the highest part Areas below grade are
not counted except for
of the building to which it is attached. habitable space.
3. Projecting portions of balconies. Figure 703.C: Determining Gross Floor Area.

4. Below grade parking, loading and access;.
5. Elevated public walkways/skybridges connecting two (2) areas
permanently accessible to the public.
6. Covered rooftop terraces and rooftop equipment enclosures to a
maximum of 25% of the floor area of the roof level.
7. Uncovered rooftop terraces and rooftop equipment enclosures.
8. Statutory authority required spaces such as Transformer LV/HV
rooms
9. Mechanical floors that are used solely for mechanical and/or
electrical services.

703 RULES OF MEASUREMENT
703.04 Measuring Distances 703.05 Measuring Plot Length and Width

A. Shortest Distance A. Plot Length
When measuring a required distance, such as the minimum Plot length is the horizontal distance between the side property
distance between a structure and a plot line, the measurement lines, measured at right angles to the plot width at a point
is made at the closest or shortest distance between the two (2) midway between the front and rear property lines.
objects. B. Plot Width
B. Distances are Measured Horizontally Plot width is measured along an imaginary straight line drawn
When determining distances for setbacks and structure from the midpoint of the front property line of the plot to the
dimensions, all distances are measured along a horizontal midpoint of the rear property line or to the most distant point
plane from the appropriate line, edge of the building, structure, on any other property line where there is no rear property line.
parking area or other object. These distances are not measured
by following the topography or slope of the land.
Midpoint of front
Plot Line Midpoint of front
C. Measurements Involving a Structure Front Plot Line Fr ont Plot Line Plot Line
Measurements involving a structure are made to the closest

support wall of the structure. Structures or portions of
structures that are entirely underground are not included in
Plot Depth
th
measuring required distances.
Dep
Midpoint of
Plot
plot depth line Midpoint of
Plot depthline
Measuring Distances Plot Width Plot
Widt
h
Side Plot Line
Side Plot Line

Plot Line
Plot Line
ine
tL
P lo
Street
e
Sid
Distances are measured horizontally.
Rear Plot Line

Shortest Midpointof rear
distance
Plot Line
Most distant point
(when no rear Plot Line)
Shortest distance
Figure 703.E: Measuring Plot Length and Width.
Shortest distance
Shortest
distance Shortest
distance
Measurement is taken from the shortest distance between the objects.
Figure 703.D: Measuring Methodology.
D. Measurement of Vehicle Stacking or Travel Areas

Measurement of a minimum travel distance for vehicles, such
as garage entrance setbacks and stacking lane distances, are
measured down the centre of the vehicle travel area. For
example, curving driveways and travel lanes are measured
along the centre arc of the driveway or traffic lane.
E. Measuring Radius
When a specified land use is required to be located a minimum
distance from another land use, the minimum distance is
measured in a straight line from all points along the property
line of the subject plot.

703.06 Determining Plot Coverage 703.07 Determining Setbacks

Plot coverage is the ratio of the total footprint area of all structures A setback line defining a required yard is parallel to and at the
on a plot to the plot area, typically expressed as a percentage. The specified distance from the corresponding front, side or rear plot
footprints of all principal and accessory structures, including garages, line. Setbacks are expressed in distance from the exterior wall of the
carports, covered balconies and roofed porches, shall be summed in building to the corresponding plot line.
order to calculate plot coverage.
Street Side Plot

Include footprints of all principal and accessory Street side yard setback
structures, including garages and carports (corner plot)
Rear Front yard setback

yard
Front Plot
setbac
Rear Plot
Property Line
Exclude eaves and roof

overhangs projecting up to
one meter from a building.
Interior side yard setback

Interior Side Plot
Exclude unenclosed, unroofed balconies and porches.
Figure 703.F: Determining Plot Coverage. Figure 703.G: Determining Setbacks.
703.08 Measuring Shading

A. Exclusions Shading is the ratio of the total shaded area, measured at 1 p.m.
on the Equinox, to the total area required to have shading, typically
The following structures or portions of structures shall be excluded
expressed as a percentage. Shaded areas include areas completely
from the calculation:
cast in shadow and areas with dappled shade where a minimum of
1. Unenclosed and unroofed balconies and porches. 60% of the dappled shade area is cast in shadow. In calculating the
shaded area cast by a tree, the tree canopy at three-years growth is
2. Eaves and roof overhangs projecting up to 1.0 m from a
used.
wall.
A. Perimeter Walkways
3. Trellises and similar structures that do not have solid roofs.
Shading of walkways along a block face is the ratio of the
4. Swimming pools and hot tubs that are not enclosed in roof total shaded area of the perimeter walkway to the total
structures or decks. area of the perimeter walkway.


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Abu Dhabi Capital Development Code

Official Version 1.0

100 INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS 11

300 OVERLAY DISTRICTS 77

400 PLAN DISTRICTS 95

Al Ain Development Code

100.07 Interpretation 100.08 How to Use the Code

An up-to-date, legal affection plan is needed

Using the plot details from the affection plan, the

The information on the Code Map will show the

Once the relevant base district is established,

The development regulations will give the

The use regulations table will show the

This information can now be used to help design

Al Ain Development Code

Al Ain Development Code

Al Ain Development Code

2. All proposals relating to the development of mosques,

3. All open spaces shall be planned in line with the relevant

All relevant documents, laws, etc. must be taken into account

Al Ain Development Code

Designation Name Page

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Maximum Plot Coverage 70%

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Daycare Facility L-1, L-17 G-2

L-16 Subject to a maximum of one (1) single unit detached/villa

Al Ain Development Code

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Daycare Facility L-1, L-17 G-1

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Daycare Facility L-1, L-17 G-2

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Convenience Retail AAL-1 G

Social and Cultural Services

Daycare Facility P G-2 Limitations

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Al Ain Development Code

Standalone Government Community Facilities - Use

Social and Cultural Services

Daycare Facility L-1, L-2 G-3 Limitations

Al Ain Development Code

Description Illustrative Example

Al Ain Development Code