The Authority Liaison Architect is responsible for managing and executing all architectural authority submissions and regulatory approval processes required for project execution in Dubai. This role ensures full compliance with Dubai Municipality (DM) regulations, Development Authorities (DDA, Trakhees, etc.), Civil Defense codes, and all applicable UAE building standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in coordinating with governmental bodies and delivering timely approvals for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
Responsibilities:
Authority Submissions & Permits:
- Prepare, review, and submit architectural drawings, technical documents, and application forms to Dubai Municipality (DM), DDA, Trakhees, Nakheel, RTA, Civil Defense, and other relevant authorities.
- Ensure all submissions comply with UAE Building Codes, Dubai Green Building Regulations (Al Sa'fat), Fire & Life Safety Codes, and authority-specific guidelines.
- Manage the full approval cycle including Concept Design, Schematic Design, Detailed Design, Building Permit, Structural Permit, Shoring Permit, and Completion Certificate submissions.
- Address authority comments, coordinate required revisions, and resubmit within required timeframes to prevent project delays.
Cross-Disciplinary Coordination:
- Collaborate closely with architectural, structural, and MEP teams to ensure drawings meet all approval standards before submission.
- Coordinate with external stakeholders (consultants, contractors, and clients) to collect required documentation and ensure approval readiness.
- Liaise with authorities for NOC issuance (DEWA, Etisalat, DU, Civil Defense, RTA, Sewage, Irrigation, and others).
- Participate in meetings with government officials to clarify design details when required.
Regulatory Compliance & Documentation :
- Maintain updated knowledge of all local regulations, authority standards, and submission platform requirements (e.g., DM Portal, DDA E-Services, Trakhees E-Permit System).
- Conduct compliance checks on architectural drawings to ensure alignment with zoning regulations, land use requirements, building height limits, FAR/GFA calculations, setback rules, and accessibility standards.
- Maintain a detailed log of submissions, comments, approvals, NOCs, revisions, and timelines to ensure traceability and audit readiness.
- Prepare reports on approval progress, risks, and delays for management and project teams.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in Architecture.
- Minimum 48 years of proven UAE experience in architectural authority approvals, specifically in Dubai.
- Strong knowledge of Dubai Municipality Building Regulations , DDA & Trakhees Guidelines ,UAE Fire & Life Safety Code, Al Sa'fat Green Building Regulations, and Master Planning and Urban Design submission requirements.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and authority online submission systems.
- Strong technical understanding of building design, code compliance, and documentation.
- Excellent communication and coordination skills with a professional approach to dealing with government officials.
- Ability to work under pressure, manage tight deadlines, and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
