Circular 9 of 2026 clarifies consultant and contractor roles in Abu Dhabi projects

Abu Dhabi's Urban Planning and Permits Centre (UPPC) has issued Circular No. 9 of 2026 regulating the roles and responsibilities of supervision consultants and contractors across all construction stages. The circular applies to all new and ongoing building projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, covering structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing works, plus additional scopes specified by the building control authority.

Under the circular, supervision consultants are responsible for monitoring construction activities to ensure compliance with approved drawings, technical specifications and building codes. Contractors must systematically document all works throughout execution. The circular also stipulates joint liability between the consultant and contractor for non-compliance, defects or non-conforming works within their defined legislative scopes.

Before starting any major construction phase, contractors must formally notify the supervision consultant and document site conditions according to approved procedures. Upon completing a phase, a certified technical report dated and signed by both parties must be compiled detailing executed works, inspection results and corrective actions, with the consultant submitting it via the Unified Permitting System. The Centre will accept these certified reports in lieu of traditional phase closure permits for designated project categories, accelerating workflows — but mandatory field inspections and external clearances, including from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, are not waived.

The circular also elevates technical documentation standards, requiring photographic evidence and visual technical reports. The Centre will continue conducting unannounced site visits across execution stages. Relying on consultant-certified reports does not relieve consultants or contractors of statutory obligations; violations may trigger enforcement actions, fines and legal penalties.