As part of the official launch of the Binaa digital platform, powered by artificial intelligence technologies, the Department of Municipalities and Transport signed a multi-party cooperation agreement on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS 2025) at the Abu Dhabi Energy Center, organised by the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre.
The agreement was signed between the Department and key entities, including Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and e&. The parties committed to streamlining procedures for issuing building permits and related services, aiming to expedite approvals and authorisations.
Additionally, they agreed to coordinate the exchange of data, documents and technical reviews, as well as other services associated with building construction processes.
Platform reduces processing times by up to 70 percent
The Binaa digital platform is the first-of-its-kind in the region, representing a fundamental shift in how construction plans are submitted, reviewed, and approved for both new and existing developments across the Emirate.
This multifaceted system will reduce processing times by up to 70 percent, and it identifies over-designs, such as using unnecessarily complex construction methods or heavy materials for smaller buildings like villas. This helps avoid redundancy, needless costs and minimizes environmental impacts, without compromising structural safety and integrity.
“This platform is a transformational step forward for Abu Dhabi’s construction sector, and supports our goal of providing smart, AI-enabled services that streamline the permit issuance process while setting a new global benchmark for efficiency and transparency in government services,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of the DMT.
Phase 1 to focus on new private villas
The Binaa digital platform will be rolled out in phases to give architects, contractors and developers ample time to adjust to its features. In line with the aspirations of the UAE Year of Community, Phase 1 will focus on new private villas, for which about 20,000 applications are received each year.
It will also provide all stakeholders, including individual villa owners, their consultants and contractors, with the ability to simultaneously monitor the project’s progress through the system.
“Abu Dhabi’s construction and building regulatory frameworks are poised to set global standards as a result of the Binaa’s rollout. We call on architects, engineers, project owners and everyone operating in the sector to embrace this development as we are all set to benefit from the considerable opportunities it provides,” said Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, acting executive director of the planning and infrastructure sector at DMT.
The Binaa digital platform incorporates artificial intelligence, Building Information Modelling (BIM) — introduced in 2024 and showcased at GITEX Global that same year, along with virtual and augmented reality technologies to improve efficiency and ensure building codes compliance.
Through its advanced features, Binaa also introduces an innovative approach to construction reviews. Its virtual interface allows users to remotely explore and navigate construction sites, while tagging areas that require additional development or attention. On-site, augmented technology enhances inspections by overlaying 3D design data onto physical structures and spaces, enabling inspectors to mark zones for closer examination.
Unified platform for contractors
The Binaa digital platform also incorporates an advanced AI review tool capable of analyzing 2D models of current or older buildings requiring adjustments or improvements, ensuring precision, adherence to regulations and alignment with Abu Dhabi’s building standards.
Currently, all new and existing 2D building plans will continue to be reviewed manually, with AI gradually introduced into the process.
DMT highlighted that the system enables over 15 government entities to access blueprints and other relevant documents, creating a unified platform for contractors, project owners and consultants to secure certifications and permissions.
Binaa also offers a comprehensive view of each project’s progress, from initial design to final completion, ensuring seamless coordination at every stage.
