Abu Dhabi issues property modifications decree

Abu Dhabi: A new decree issued by the Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) entitles property owners in the emirate of Abu Dhabi who have multiple structures erected on the same plot of land to modify, expand or rebuild the units or their attachments as required.

In a statement sent on Wednesday, the DMA said that permissions for such modifications are subject to certain criteria which the property owner must have adhered to when the units were originally constructed. For example, the units and their attachments must have been constructed after receiving building permits issued by the local municipality prior to the Decree No 108 issued in 2010 regarding the regulation of residential buildings and the construction sector.

In addition, the purpose of the amendment has to be geared towards improving living conditions of the inhabitants. The modifications must also be supported by an alteration permit from the municipality, and follow current planning rules and regulations.

The DMA decree is designed to give more choice to residents to modify their homes according to their requirements, and to enhance their standard of living.