The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has signed a multi-party cooperation agreement with Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and e&, on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit to launch the Binaa digital platform.
The parties committed to streamlining procedures for issuing building permits and related services, aiming to expedite approvals and authorizations. Additionally, they agreed to coordinate the exchange of data, documents, and technical reviews, as well as other services associated with building construction processes.
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.
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.
His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa Chairman -Department of Municipalities and Transport
“We are pleased to launch Binaa digital platform alongside our strategic partners. 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.”
The 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 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.
The Binaa platform 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.
