Directive order no.

(37) of 2021
For amendment of some articles of the
Building Code Regulations & Construction Specifications

Chairman of Dubai municipality

Having reviewed the local order for establishing Dubai Municipal Council of 1961, refer t o it
hereinafter as the “Municipality”, and
Local order no. (3) of 1999 , and
Executive resolution no. (125) of 2001 endorsing Building code Regulations & Construction
Specifications
We hereby decide the following:

Replaced Articles
Article (1)
This article replaces article (53), (54), (55), and (57) of Building Code Regulations &
Construction Specifications approved by the administrative order no.(125) of 2001 by the
following articles:

Conditions for structural Design

Article (53)
a) Structural design of the buildings shall be done by a qualified structural engineer licensed to
practice the profession in the emirate as per the stipulated regulations and approved by the
relevant department.
b) Specialized contractor or engineer when performing his duties shall exclusively use
approved and licensed smart applications and computer software as per the regulations
stipulated in the emirate.
c) Buildings and all their components as well as material used in them shall satisfy the minimum
safety standards and durability assurances against following factors:
1. the most dangerous stresses and loads or combinations thereof affecting the building
including combinations of stresses and loads that may lead successive collapsing.
2. Any other effects including corrosion of steel that the building may be subjected to.

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Approved Building Codes
Article (54)
The followings codes are approved for the design of buildings and facilities in the Emirate:

A) Concrete Structure Codes:

LOAD CODES
1. Dead and live loads affecting buildings.
The dead and live loads are taken according to the American code, or European code or
British code. The following should be considered:
1.1 Live load on mezzanine floor shall not be less than (5kN/m²) in commercial and
industrial buildings.
1.2 Live load shall not be less than (3.5kN/m²) in car parking buildings and car parking
levels in other buildings, taking in to consideration loads on traffic lanes and use of
typical load method in the design.
1.3 Live load in design of flat slabs and post tensioning slabs shall not be less than (3kN
/ m²) in all buildings that may be exposed to live load less than such figure. The designer
may use the values mentioned in the code (2kN/m²) under the condition of using typical
load method in the design; and take in to consideration all the installations passing
through the roof.
1.4 The minimum dead loads on the slabs shall be according the following table:
Type of Partition Dead load Min (kN/m²)
Light weight partitions 4.5
Normal weight partitions 5.5
Dry wall partitions 4.0
Cladding 1.5 kN/m

It is possible to reduce the applied load further than the values indicated in the above
mentioned table for all types cladding and internal partitions on the slabs, and apply
the actual loads, after submitting the required calculations for the actual loads as per
the system used and indicating them in the drawings submitted for permit, with the
ability to modify the buildings later according to a new approval issued by the
municipality after fulfilling the approved requirements.

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2. Wind loads:
2.1 American code (ASCE7-5/ ASCE7-10/ ASCE7-16) or European Code and any updated
and amendments made to them or any other code after obtaining approval from the
relevant authority.
2.2 reference to be made to the table bellow for the calculation of design wind speed
(strength Design) and operational (Service Design) in addition to the load factor.

Design wind speed ( Strength Design)

Mean Recurrence interval Wind speed (m/s, 3-sec gust. 10m, open terrain)
(years)
Strength Load factor
50II 38 1.6*
1000III.IV 40 1.6*
300I 44 1**
700II 47 1**
1000 49 1**
501700IIII 51 1**
3000IV 53 1**

* to be used with Wind Load Factor of 1.6 for ASCE7-05 strength design
approach(specified wind x load factor)
** be used with Wind Load Factor of 1.0 for ASCE7-10/ ASCE7-16 strength design
approach (ultimate limit state ULS wind load)
(I, II, III, IV are ASCE 7 Building Risk Categories)

(Service Design)

Mean Recurrence interval Wind speed ( m/s, 3-sec gust. 10m, open terrain)
(years) Strength Load factor

1 22 1**
10 30 1**
25 34 1**
50 36 1**
** be used with Wind Load Factor of 1.0 for ASCE7-10/ ASCE7-16 service design approach
(serviceability limit state SLS wind load)
Wind speed for temporary structure is calculated as (32m/sec)
32m/sec (gust wind for 50 years return period building category II)

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2.3 Reface to be made to the following table to conform wind speed with codes other than
ASCE7.

Mean Recurrence Effective Wind speed ( m/s, 10m, open terrain)

interval
(years) 3 Second Gust 1o-minute Mean Mean Hourly

10 28 19.5 18.4
25 30 20.9 19.7
50 36 25 23.6
100 39 27.1 25.6
700 45 31.3 29.5
1700 48 33.4 31.5
3000 50 34.8 32.8

2.4 In all cases, the wind design load shall not be less than 1kN/m² when designing steel
buildings and structures.
2.5 Wind loads to be taken from wind tunnel model for buildings with height of 120m above
the level of regular buildings. Building with unusual shapes and containing curved and sharp
formations in the facades, wind tunnel model shall be made regardless of the height of the
building.
2.6 Damping factor for concrete buildings shall be defined based on studies submitted by the
engineering consultant and the wind tunnel testing consultant and it shall be within the
values mentioned in the following table:
Damping Factor
Loads
Concrete buildings Steel buildings
Service loads 1% - 2% 0.75% - 1%

Strength loads 1.5% - 2.5% 1% - 1.5 %

3. Thermal Loads:
Thermal loads shall be considered based on the following table:

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 Type of Element ATC
Exposed element 20C
Non-exposed element 15C
Steel structures 25C

The early and seasonal thermal loads and their impact can be calculated based on Ciria
Report No.(660) specification.
The value of (axial stiffness modifier) in thermal load equation is:
- (1.0) for Typical / (repeated floors) concrete slabs.

4. Seismic Loads:
4.1 American code (ASCE 7) and its updates and amendments.
4.2 The ground movement parameters to be used for (5%) critical damping and shear
wave velocity of (760m/sec) are according to the following table
𝑃𝐺𝐴(𝑔) 𝑆𝑠 (𝑔) 𝑆1 (𝑔) 𝑇𝑙 (𝑠)
0.2 0.51 0.18 24

(i) The factors𝑃𝐺𝐴, 𝑆𝑠 and 𝑆1 shall be adjusted according to the nature of the soil by
using 𝐹𝑃𝐺𝐴 , 𝐹𝑎 , 𝐹𝑣 (site amplification factors) and referring to tables (118-1, 114-1, 114-
2) in the American code (ASCE7) consecutively.
(ii) In case of estimating the shear wave velocity for rocks for site class (B) instead of
measuring it,( 𝐹𝑃𝐺𝐴 = 𝐹𝑎 = 𝐹𝑣 =1)shall be used according to (ASCE7). The adjusted
factors 𝑃𝐺𝐴, 𝑆𝑠 and 𝑆1 shall be labeled consecutively in ASCE7 as 𝑃𝐺𝐴𝑚 , 𝑆𝑀𝑠 and 𝑆𝑀1
according to the nature of the soil.
4.3 The factor 𝑃𝐺𝐴𝑚 shall be used for the calculation of soil liquefaction analysis; the
seismic force impacting the 𝑃𝐺𝐴𝑚 factor in the emirate is (M 6.2).
4.4 The seismic importance factor (𝐼𝑒 ) for each building can be determined according to
table (1.5-2) in (ASCE7).
4.5 The ground movement parameters for buildings with critical damping rate less than
(5%) shall be calculated by dividing the factors 𝑆𝑀𝑠 and 𝑆𝑀1 on the damping- adjustment
factors 𝛽1 and 𝛽𝑠 consecutively as mentioned in the table below.
4.6 The soil factor shall be calculated as per the recommendations of the soil investigation
report for the project.

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4.7 The Seismic mass includes:

Damping ζ (%) 𝛽𝑠 𝛽1
0.5 0.47 0.54
2 0.72 0.78
5 1 1
10 1.4 1.3
20 1.9 1.7
30 2.3 2.1

• 25% of live loads

• 100% live mechanical loads
• 100% dead loads

B) Steel Structure Codes:

The design of steel buildings and structures shall be according to the latest issues of American,
European, or British codes and standard as detailed below
1. American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) standards
− AISC 360 – Specification for Structural Steel Buildings
− AISC 341 - Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings
2. Standard Specification for Plain and Steel-Laminated Elastomeric Bearings for
Bridges ASTM D4014-03
3. Standard Specification for High Load Rotational Spherical Bearings for Bridges and
Structures1ASTM D5977-3
4. Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) for Highway Bridge Superstructures
(AASHTO LRFD)
5. Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7-05/ ASCE 7-10/
ASCE 7-16)
6. Structural Welding Code - Steel (AWS D1.1 / D1.1M)
7. Structural Welding Code – Steel Reinforcing Bars (AWS D1.4 / D1.4M)
8. Structural Welding Code - Seismic Supplement (AWS D1.8 / D1.8M)
9. Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA 2006 & MBMA 2010)

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 10. Euro Code 3 – Design of Structural Steel (BS EN 1993-1-1TO 12)
11. British Standards – section 13 – Loading of buildings (BS 6399 13)
12. British Standard code of practice for the design and construction of steel, concrete
and composite bridges (BS 5400)
13. BS 5950

C) Concrete Block Structure Codes:

The following shall be considered: British code no.5628 – part 1 – 1978/1985 in conjunction
with part 3 of the same code for 1985 and the local orders and directives issued by the
municipality.

D) Aluminum Structures Codes:

British code no. 118-1969 (CP 119:1969)

E) Wood Structures Codes:

British code no. 5628 – part 2 -1989 and part 3 – 1985
(BS 5628 part 2: 1989 & part 3: 1985)

F) Other Design Codes:

Structural design can be made with reference to other codes not mentioned above provided
obtaining approval from the relevant department.

Design and Execution Parameters

Article e (55)
A) Concrete Structures:
Latest references pertaining to classification and design of buildings and design mechanisms
shall be used in order to prevent successive and inconsistent collapsing of all building according
to the following:
1. Buildings shall be designed to withstand the assumed central vertical and horizontal seismic
and wind forces defined in article (54) of this regulation. The details of the steel
reinforcement shall be compatible with the requirement for seismic load design.
2. Deflection value after installation partitions on slabs and bridge/beams shall not exceed
(L/480) and not more than (20mm), in order to limit cracks in partitions and finishes.
3. Façade drift: Overall drift and inter-story drift shall be calculated from L/400 to L/600. The
façade design shall be evaluated by a specialized consultant (including profile dimensions,
allowable variation in fabrication/installation, thermal expansion). The horizontal story
/floor drift shall not exceed (10mm); in case drift exceeds this limit, details of installation of

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 no-structural elements shall be submitted. Façade performance specifications shall be
submitted including drift limits to be used by the construction contractor in the final
dimensions of the partitions.
4. Minimum vertical reinforcement in columns shall be (1%), and in walls (0.04%), minimum
horizontal reinforcement shall be (0.25%). The diameter of stirrups shall not be less than
(10mm) in columns and walls with vertical reinforcement of more than (1%), and complying
with the maximum allowable distance between the branches.
5. Maximum limit for concrete bearing capacity is (90N/mm²), the minimum limit is (35N/mm²)
(cubes).
6. Maximum reinforcement in walls and columns shall not exceed (4%) and it can reach up to
(8%) in case of using couplers.
7. For pile caps design reference to be made to the latest edition of CRSI.
8. Crack width design shall be as per American code (ACI 224R Table 4.1) or European code (BS
EN 1992-3 section 7.3). When using waterproofing in areas inaccessible for maintenance it
shall be considered as un-proofed.
9. Crack width design
• Under foundations and bearing walls exposed to water = 0.2 mm
• Above foundations and bearing walls unexposed to water = 0.3 mm

These values shall not contradict the requirements of the above mentioned code, under the
condition of providing tanking system for all elements exposed to water.

10. Concrete modulus of elasticity:

a) Normal stress concrete with cylinder strength of 55 N/mm²
− Concrete modulus of elasticity shall be calculated based on the equation no. (19.2.2.1a) in
ACI 318 standard (0.04x𝑊𝑐 1.5 x ((𝑓′𝑐)0.5 )
b) Normal stress concrete with cylinder strength less than 55 N/mm²
− Concrete modulus of elasticity shall be calculated based one of the two following options:
1. Equation no. (6-1) in ACI 363R standard
2. Calculate the actual value of the modulus of elasticity based on necessary laboratory
tests for concrete mixes according to the requirements of article (19.2.2.2) in (ACI:318-
19) standard and indicate the used modulus of elasticity in the drawings submitted to
the municipality and ensuring the conformity/correspondence/matching of the actual
values of the concrete modulus of elasticity with the design before and during
construction.

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B) Steel Structures:
It can also be ”major” or ”main”
1. Design loads:

1.1 Basic design loads including dead and live loads, wind and seismic loads, as for the other
design loads such as mechanical equipment (fixed or dynamic) they are considered as
secondary loads.

1.2 loads are applied as per the used code; all the loads mentioned here are for the minimum
design requirements:
− Roof dead load 0.25kN/m²
− Pitched roof live load 0.60kN/m²
− Flat roof live load 0.75kN/m²
− Additional loads to the roof 0.25kN/m²
− Wind speed (as per wind load specified in article 54 concerning wind loads’0
− Minimum wind design pressure 1kN/m²
− Importance factor (1)
− Exposure classification (category C) as per MBMA latest edition
− Crane Loads as per factory specifications
− Thermal load (± 25 degrees Celsius)
− Mezzanine dead load 3KN/m²
− Mezzanine live load 5KN/m²

1.3 Basic loads for walls and roofs shall be as follows:

− Wind load- shall be calculated according to the wind load specified in the local
regulations of the emirate
− Degree of exposure to external environment – category C and D (open and closed)
− Importance factor depends on the use of the building
− All major loads and additional loads shall be defined and indicated in the drawings
− Seismic zone as determined by the local regulations in the emirate
− MBMA according to the latest edition

1.4 Each structural element shall be designed as per the stresses resulting from load overlap
and providing the maximum ratio of actual stress to the allowable stress as per the
applicable code. The ultimate deflection to each unit shall be as follows:

− (L/240) for deflection due to dead and live loads, for main horizontal and vertical
elements.

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 − (L/360) for deflection due to live loads only, for horizontal main elements.
− (H/200) for vertical elements (blockwork higher than 2.4meters).
− (H/100) for vertical elements in buildings with steel facades.

1.5 Minimum thicknesses for steel plate shall be (6mm) in case of built-up sections.

2. Quality Control
2.1 welding
− Welding procedures shall be as per the requirements of
AWS D1.1 / Di.1M: 2015/ BS EN ISO 15614
− All welding teams shall be qualified as per the requirements of
− AWSD1.1 / D1.1M: 25/ BS EN ISO 1473, BS EN ISO 9606-1; and shall have certificates
approved by independent inspection authorities.
− It is prohibited to perform welding works on site; in case there is a necessity for it,
detailed method of execution shall be submitted in addition to the required tests and
certificates. The work shall be done by certified welders

2.2 System for tests and checks

Tests and checks during the process of assembling the elements by welding at the factory
or on site shall be conducted as follows:
− Testing and approval of welders shall be as per the requirements of the municipality.
Locations and types of errors, and corrective measures shall be documented.
− Conduct eye inspection for all welding works
− Perform all necessary welding tests as per the following tests:
1. Liquid penetration test (ASTM E 165)
2. Magnetic particles test BS 4397
3. Radiation test (BS – 2600), and minimum quality (-2T2)
4. Ultrasound test BS 3923

2.2.2 Welding Inspection

− The contractor shall obtain the approval of the consultant on the proposed quality
control system to be used during the works, as well as his approval on doing the welding
on site.
− The workers shall be approved and sufficiently trained to document all the procedures
agreed by the qualified welders, eye inspection, and document the results and verify
the dimensions/ distances.

2.2.3 Scope of test

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 Welding shall be specified by the engineers from “category A” and “category B”. ; the
parameters for acceptance shall be the same for both categories. The test range shall be as
follows:
− Welding category “A”
Success rate of eye testing shall be (100%) before starting later works; the same rate
shall be at the completion of the works to ensure its compliance with BS5135
specifications.
− Welding category “B”
− Success rate of eye testing shall be not less than (10%) of the works after passing the
initial test; and not less than (20%) of every welding after passing the final welding test
to ensure its compliance with BS5135 specifications.
2.2.4 Welding Categories
− Category (A)
1. Butt welding for metal elements
2. Butt welding for metal elements exposed to loads or high bending moments, as per
the judgment of the site engineer
− Category (B)
All other welding types not included in category (A)
2.2.5 Nondestructive tests (NDT)
It shall include at minimum the following tests:
− Liquid penetration test
− Magnetic particles test
− Radiation test
− 4. Ultrasound test
All previous tests shall be performed s per BS 5135 Code
2.2.6 Application of nondestructive tests
Welding shall be tested in the following manner:

Welding type Test

Total penetration for butt 100% Ultrasound test
welding 100% Magnetic particles test
Partial penetration for butt 100% Ultrasound test
welding 100% Magnetic particles test
Sheet welding At least (30%)Magnetic particles
test or penetration test

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 − Ultrasound test or Radiation test or both shall be done when evaluating total
performance of transverse welding.
− Magnetic particles test or dye penetration test or both shall be done when testing
the external surface of the welding or to ensure success of medial welding.

3. Inspection
Periodical maintenance reports (every 5 years) shall be submitted to guarantee the efficacy
and safety of the building.
4. Structural Efficiency and Durability
To obtain structural efficiency and durability and to limit local risks due to partial collapse, the
buildings shall meet the following parameters:
− Provide structural ties in vertical and horizontal direction.
− Ability to resist minimum level of horizontal forces stipulated by the applicable code.
− Possibility of removing the vertical structural element by redistributing forced to
prevent damages or collapse of the building. The resulting deflections in the structural
elements shall be within allowable limits when removing the element.
− Design of main elements as per the applicable code indicated in the drawing bellow.

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5. Avoiding inconstant collapse
Metal buildings designed as per applicable codes may not have rapid response to inconsistent
collapse if the following conditions are met:
− Horizontal ties in general shall be placed in a way that achieves continuity, durability
and stability as much as possible, and be placed in each floor and roof in perpendicular
directions.
− The load shall be transferred to the columns through connections between
bridge/beam and column unless the steel structure is totally continuous in at least one
direction. All column overlaps shall be able to resist tension forcestodue
This is a system resistto vertical force
horizontal
reaction from applicable and dead load, or dead load, or itwind
forces; anda shorter
may have applicable
name loads,
or terminology
loaded on the column on a single floor level between overlap of a column and the
column below it.
− [Ties and other systems resisting horizontal forces] shall be distributed as recommend
in the applicable code in perpendicular directions; it is not permissible to for any part of
the building to connect with the [horizontal forces resistance system] in one point only.
− In case of precast concrete or other heavy systems, they shall be firmly tied on their
levels by tying them together at the support or directly to the supports as recommended
by the applicable code. The Arabic word used can also
mean cushions, pads..etc.

The original text is not

clear – ambiguous-

− In case the above conditions are not met each floor shall be inspected -each one at a
time- to ensure that inconsistent collapses will not occur due to a presumed demolition/
dismantle. Each member of the horizontal resistance system and part prone to collapse

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 shall not exceed (15%) of the floor area or roof, or (70m²) (whichever is less) in the
relevant level or parallel level (above or below).
− If a presumed/virtual removal of any column or member of [the resistance system for
horizontal forces] may increase the risk of collapse, the column or member shall be
designed as a main member as per the applicable code. The design of the basic elements
and connections shall be resistant to pressure of explosion force of (34KN/m²) or vehicle
collision if necessary.

6. Loads during construction

Loads arising during construction work shall be taken in to consideration.
7. Load overlap factors
Different types of loads and overlap of basic loads impacting the building during
construction shall be taken in to consideration.
8. Vibrations due to wind
Occurrence of vibrations within the building should be limited to avoid disturbing the
users or causing damage to its contents. In case of special buildings, or those including
large spans, or roofs of large stadia and chimneys, it is recommended to make a wind
tunnel model to confirm the operational limits of the building.
9.Types of corrosion proofing
When selecting the suitable corrosion proofing system, the maintenance of the system
such as galvanization, or concrete covering, paints…etc shall be taken in to consideration.
10 Operational requirements
− -Bulging
− Expansion and shrinkage
− Deflections, vibration and displacement
− Joint slippage
− Corrosion
− Durability
11 Fire resistance
− All buildings shall be designed to resist fire for the duration specified in the code and
for not less than (2) hours.
− Fire rating shall be done based on the type of building, its use and its occupational
risk.

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 − The nature of fire protection required as per the rating depends on the following
parameters:
1. Fire resistance period
2. Type of protection used
3. Coating / encasement of the steel section
4. Record and size of the steel section
5. Use and occupancy
− All proposed products and systems shall be checked and approved by Dubai Central
Laboratory or an approved laboratories as per the approved codes and standards.
− All the details regarding fire protection shall be indicated in the drawings, such as
classification of columns, slabs, roofs; in addition to the proposed fire protection
system and all the other necessary information.
− All the details pertaining to fire protection shall meet the requirements of the
relevant entities such as civil defense and be in accordance with the regulations
stipulated in the emirate.

12 open architectural steel buildings

These buildings shall meet the allowable limits for fabrication and installation as per AISCA
code. In case the allowable limit in the code is less than the values mentioned in this
regulation, the most stringent values shall be met.

C) Pre-stressed Concrete
The following terms and conditions shall be taken in to consideration:

1. Only stress cables approved by Dubai Central Laboratory shall be used, with nominal stress
resistance of (1860MPa).

2. Thickness of steel channel walls shall not be less than (0.4mm), galvanized flat or
corrugated steel channels are acceptable.

3. Minimum thickness for pre-stressed slab is (200mm), in case of using lesser thicknesses,
prior approval must be obtained.

4. Injection: injection material mix is composed of cement and water and anti-shrinkage
material; where the minimum limit of resistance for the mix after (28) days is the same
minimum concrete allowable limit with an allowance of (12N/mm²) and not less than
(25N/mm²) in all cases.

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5. Inspection shall be made by the consultant prior to the injection, and it shall be mentioned
in the drawings.

6. Resistance of the concrete cubes used in the pre-stressed slabs shall not be less than (35
N/mm²) at the age of 28 days, and in the transition period shall be at minimum (25N/mm²).
A very unfamiliar Arabic word is used here – obviously created as a
7. The concrete cover“arabization”
shall achieve theit means
but I assume highest value of durability requirements or fire
“failure”
resistance requirements.

8. The vibration in the slabs must be studied when designing office buildings as per the
approved codes. The Arabic word used has many meanings

9. If the prior/pre axial force for the pre-stressed elements exceeds elements exceed (3)
Megapascal, the design engineer shall study the impact of failure in the concrete
connection knots and its impact on the supports

10. Verification of deflection values:

− For calculation of the long term deflection, compliance is required with escalation
modulus for short term deflection as follows:

LOAD Short term deflection

escalation
Dead load 3.0
Pre-stressed (Losses 3.0
considered)
Live 1.5

− Slab bending is acceptable provided that the designer submits clear justification
according to the applicable code.
− Long term deflection shall be within the allowable limits taking in to consideration
section cracking.

11 minimum horizontal distance between channels shall not be less than (75mm) or the width
of the channel.

12 use of bent cables shall be avoided as much as possible, in necessary cases, pins shall be
used in addition to upper and lower steel mesh or either one of them. The bend shall not
exceed (1:12).

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13. Cables shall not be stopped inside the slab without supporters at the end of the cable,
hidden or fallen bridges, walls, columns or any special details might be there.

14 cable tension load shall be as per the code used in the design, the tension force shall not
exceed (80%) of the bearing capacity of the cable.

15 lower steel mesh shall be used to reduce the impact of shrinkage on the concrete with a
minimum limit of (T10) for every( 300m). If the thickness of the slab is equal to or more
than (300mm), an additional upper layer shall be added in the areas where there is no
upper steel, or the designer shall study the impact of shrinkage on the slab.

16 An amount of steel (at minimum) shall be placed above the supports to reduce the impact
of cracking in case of its occurrence in these areas.

17. Steel reinforcement shall be placed in (U) shape on all edges of the slabs, with vertical and
horizontal reinforcement (as shown in the diagram below).

18. Punching sheer resistance shall be tested by hand or use of municipality approved
softwares, the columns shall be provided with a minimum amount of reinforcement steel
used for punching shear to achieve the seismic ductility requirements.

19. Steel shall be added to resist concentrated stresses at the slab fulcrum points, the steel can
be placed in a spiral shape or any other approved way.

20 lower steel shall be added at column and supports locations not less than (30%) of the upper
steel used in these locations.

21 Theoretical elongation for the tension cables shall be indicated in separate sheet within the
design drawings. Acceptable difference between actual and theoretical elongations shall
be with (± 10%), it shall be inspected by the consultant and the specialized engineer.

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22 maximum allowable variations for change in location and height of cables shall be (±5mm)
in the vertical dimension and (±10mm) in the horizontal direction.

23. In case of possible occurrence of cracks in the concrete due to early shrinkage, it is
recommended that the tension shall be done in two stages; in the first stage around (25%)
of total tension force shall be applied. It shall be applied directly when the concrete reaches
the required resistance in this stage which is usually around (10MPa) to (15MPa), it shall be
achieved from concrete cubic or cylinder resistance tests done on site.

24. In the case of steel cables retracting after stress, retraction factor of (6mm) shall be used
to calculate the resulting loss.

25. In case of cable stressing for slabs or systems comprised of secondary pre-stressed
bridges/beams passing through main bridges/beams, attention must be paid to the
sequence of stressing operation to avoid damaging the formworks of the major
bridges/beams.

26. In locations of two way columns, at least one channel comprised of 2 cables shall pass
through the column support or wall, if not possible, additional lower reinforcement steel
shall be added in these areas equivalent to (1.5) the value of the steel needed for flexural
reinforcement, the ratio of the steel shall not be less than (2.1bw.d/𝑓𝑦 ) where (bw) is the
width of the column or wall support from the direction of steel entry. The steel shall extend
after the support for an equivalent of or more than fixing length.

Soil and Foundation Tests

Article e (57)
1. Design and Geotechnical works Codes
The design shall be done in accordance with the updated American, European or British codes
2. Soil Investigation
2.1 Eurocode 7 – Geotechnical design
2.2 BS 5930 – Code of practice for ground investigation
2.3 BS1377- Methods of testing for soil for civil engineering purposes
2.4 Requirements and regulations of Emirates International Accreditation Center (EIAC)
2.5 BS 10175 Investigation of potentially contaminated site
2.6 ASTM international
2.7 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (ASSHTO)

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 2.8 International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM)
3. Excavations
3.1 Eurocode 7 – Geotechnical design
3.2 BS 6031 – Code of practice for earthworks
4. Shoring
4.1 Eurocode 7 – Geotechnical design
4.2 BS 8081 – Code of practice for grouted anchors
5. Piling
5.1 International Building Cod IBC
5.2 Eurocode 7 – Geotechnical design
6. Geotechnical works
6.1 Execution of Special geotechnical works
European Standards for Execution of Special Geotechnical Works
BS EN 1536 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Bored Piles
BS EN 1537 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Bored Piles
BS EN 1538 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Ground anchors
BS EN 12063 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Sheet piles walls
BS EN 12699 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Displacement Piles
BS EN 12715 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Grouting
BS EN 12716 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Jet grouting
BS EN 14199 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Micro piles
BS EN 14475 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Reinforced fill
BS EN 14490 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Soil nailing
BS EN 14679 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Deep mixing
BS EN 14731 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Ground treatment by deep vibrations
BS EN 15237 Execution of Special Geotechnical Works – Vertical drains
6.2 Regulations of Roads and Transport Authority shall be observed in case of planning for
activities such as drilling, excavations and the like near a conservation area.
7. Geotechnical Conditions
The following geotechnical conditions and regulations shall be observed:

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7.1 The geotechnical report and design for building and structure shall be done by a
geotechnical engineer qualified and licensed to practice and approved by the relevant
authority.
7.2 All designs submitted by a geotechnical contractor (shoring and foundation contractor)
shall be approved by the consultant.
7.3 All soil reports submitted by the geotechnical laboratory shall be approved by the
consultant; he also has to monitor and supervise the soil investigation work.
7.4 The geotechnical engineer shall use approved relevant technical programs/softwares
with valid software license.

8. Geotechnical design:
A) Geotechnical Investigation
1. General instructions for testing:
1.1 Soil investigations, tests and preparation of reports shall be done according to the latest
codes, standards, and approved regulations, taking in to consideration the
requirements and regulations of the local authority represented by Emirates
International Accreditation Center (EIAC).
1.2 Soil tests shall be made based on the necessity of the design and construction of the
proposed project including all physical and chemical tests pertaining to the soil, rock
sand ground water and the like.; the soil testing laboratories conducting the test shall
guarantee providing the geotechnical report and furnish it with sufficient information
including clear definition of the Geotechnical properties of the tested area and provide
the following information in the soil investigation report for example but not limited to:
− Values of the standard penetration test (SPT) which shall be obtained in sections
0.5m long for the initial depth 3m, followed by sections 1m long unless facing
loose soil (N< 10), in such case a continuous PST shall be conducted
− The preliminary undisturbed samples shall be placed in a brittle cementitious
material and subjected to unconfirmed compressive strength test (UCS) on
specimens; the diameter of the core shall not be less than 76mm throughout the
length of the core.
− The general topography of the site shall be mentioned in the drawings, and all
the levels shall be marked in DMD (this shall be applied on the boreholes, ground
water level and the like).

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 − All the soil reports shall be stamped and signed by a geotechnical engineer with
experience, sufficient knowledge, registered in the municipality and holding a
bachelor’s degree attested by the Ministry of Higher Education.
1.3 All laboratories commissioned to conduct soil investigations shall be licensed and
approved by Dubai Municipality and Emirates International Accreditation Center
(EIAC); in addition, the appointed laboratory shall conduct the soil investigation in
compliance with all the procedures and recommendations indicated by the local
authorities (EIAC) and international codes; or in instruction guidelines during the
process of soil investigation and obtaining adequate extraction samples.
1.4 The soil investigation for any structure/building/ facility shall relay primarily on the
location of the structure/building/ facility with coordinates specified as per the
schematic plan and the geographical maps approved by the relevant entities, in addition
to the information pertaining to estimated loads, number of floors, shape of the
structure/building/ facility, previous land use, site topography, geological qualities and
surface drainage.
1-5 Borehole coordinates (x, y) and levels mention in DMD (Dubai Municipality Datum) on
the site plan which shall also reflect the basic data such as plot limits, north direction,
surrounding structures, traffic, vegetation, hazardous chemical materials …etc.
1.6 The euro code indicates 7 as the minimum number of boreholes with the condition of
homogenous outcomes from the boreholes as follows:
− High rise buildings ( G+12) – borehole every (750m°) – minimum (5) boreholes
− Buildings less than ( G+12) – borehole every (750m°) – minimum (3) boreholes
− The boreholes shall be in a grid form and spacing of (60) meters for
structure/building/ facility, built on (spread) large areas.
− Compound villas – (1) borehole at least for each villa

1.7 The minimum depth of the boreholes should reach below the Pile toe level and the area
of impact for isolated and strip foundations (Eurocode 7) according to the following:
− For isolated and strip foundations, the borehole depth shall exceed the depth of the
expected depth ( usually 2.5 to 3 times the width of the footing) by a depth not less
than 8.0 meter for any borehole.
− Drilling shall be deeper in some points to investigate and evaluate possible issues of
settlement and ground water as per the recommendations of specialists.

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 − For raft foundations, the depth of the tests conducted on site or boreholes shall be
equivalent to or more than the width of the foundation / base unless solid rock soil is
found at this depth.
− In natural circumstances, the investigation boreholes shall be made under soil levels
unsuitable for laying foundations such as weak or insufficiently compressed soil.
2. Minimum requirements for the Geotechnical / soil test report
Geotechnical / soil test report is requested to know the possibility of liquefaction or loss of
strength in the soil and the ramifications such as settlement, lateral movement, loss of
bearing capacity or any other geotechnical risks; the report shall include the following items:
2.1 Design parameters which are: type of recommend foundation, soil bearing capacity,
soil/sub-grade reaction factor, and allowable settlement.
2.2 Recommendation for treatment or reduction of impact of some problems that may
occur such as soil prone to swelling or settlement, soil liquefaction, settlement and
impact of adjacent loads.
2.3 Various seismic factors/ coefficients for upper layer of soil ( 30 meter height) according
to the specified parameters.
2.4 Bearing capacity of pile foundations under tension and compression for several pile
diameters and several depths, and effective length of the piles (all levels to be taken
from DMD).
2.5 Recommendations for group pile adjustment factors for loads and settlement (if
applicable).
The original text is not
2.6 Values of elasticity coefficient. clear – ambiguous-

2.7 Modulus/coefficient for lateral sub-grade reaction (Kh) and Vertical resilience
constants (Kv)
2.8 Constant coefficient for lateral soil reaction (nh) used for structural analysis for lateral
pile flexibility
2.9 Poisson’s ratio
2.10 Group Pile durability and stiffness (Ks) and recommendations in case of group pile
settlement (if applicable)
2.11 Ideal distance between piles
2.12 Soil factors/ coefficients required for shoring design and basement walls, such as total,
saturated and dry density, shear resistance angle, cohesion, lateral soil pressure (Ko)-
active, passive and at rest- for the various layers of the soil.
2.13 Soil classification, particle grading, and general description of the soil.

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 2.14 Soil permeability.
2.15 Cross section for all boreholes to describe the soil.
2.16 Ground water level (taken from DMD) and temperature.
2.17 Recommendations for the proposed design based on the ground water level and
calculations for soil upward pressure due to ground water levels.
2.18 Results of laboratory tests on soil specimens, ground water, PH concentration, sulfates,
chlorides and any other chemical material or other components which may impact the
structural frame.
2.19 Duration and intervals of ground water monitoring (3) visits per week
2.20 Reference to be made to (Eurocode 7) for additional instructions

B) Open Excavation
1. General instructions for excavation works:
1.1 Excavation works shall be done according to the best practices and compliance with
geotechnical design code Eurocode 7 , and BS 6031:2009 regarding the rules of
practice.
The Arabic text is ambiguous it can have
1.2 Compliance with the circulars issued from the municipality regarding the shoring and
several meanings.
excavation works. This phrase can also be translated as
(Stability slope) or (Slope stability)
1.3 All excavations with depth exceeding (1.2) meters require calculations for consistency
and stability of slope or recommendations depending on the geotechnical factors from
the soil investigation report.
1.4 Materials used for backfill purposes (2.00m maximum) shall be of sand or mixed-grain
clean from organic materials or any other biodegradable materials; the plasticity
indicator for the backfilling material shall not exceed (10%), the maximum particle size
of the back fill shall not exceed (75mm); the rate of large particles (bigger than 75mm
sieve) than (20%); the organic content shall not exceed (2%), and (5%) soluble salt. The
backfill material shall be laid in layers of 150 mm to 250mm and compacted to a density
not less than (95%) from the maximum density of the dry mix. Specialists on site shall
determine the possibility of using backfill material for general filling works upon
conducting the necessary tests in this regard; it is possible to make a sand cone test to
determine the degree of pressure/ compaction; plate load test ( according to
specification ASTM D1194) is also acceptable for conforming/ matching the soil
strength and permissible settlement.
1.5 Protection shall be provided to all existing facilities at all times.

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 1.6 All exposed slopes shall be continuously monitored and any observations shall be
noted.
1.7 All excavations shall remain dry at all times, and shall be protected from bad weather
condition which may affect then.
1.8 All excavation activities shall be carried out within the authorized plot limits with
maintaining a distance of at least (1meter) as a restricted zone of the sides of the
excavations where vehicle parking shall be prohibited. As for any excavation works
carried out outside the plot limits, the contractor shall obtain all the necessary permits
form all relevant entities and owners of adjacent plots prior to commencing such
works.
1.9 All safety and security measures shall be taken in the construction site during the
execution of the works.
1.10 Shoring systems shall be used for any excavation works deeper than (2 meters).

C) Shoring Systems
Shoring systems are considered as temporary structures, designed to perform the required
purpose for a maximum duration of two years.
1. General instructions for shoring works:
1.1 Protection shall be provided to all existing facilities at all times.
1.2 All shoring activities shall be carried out within the authorized plot limits. As for any
shoring or anchoring works carried out outside the plot limits, the contractor shall
obtain all necessary permits form all relevant entities and owners of adjacent plots
prior to commencing such works. The upper part of shoring works done on the road
side or service side (2 meters) shall be removed immediately after the completion of
the basement works.
1.3 Shoring systems shall not be considered as part of the main structure.
1.4 The contractor shall keep record of actual deviations/deflections and other factors and
parameters onsite by using a level measuring tool at all times and in coordination with
the consultant.
1.5 All shoring works shall be monitored and supervised by the contractor and the
consultant
1.6 Movements of heave vehicles, loading, offloading, storing of materials on site shall be
thoroughly considered so as not to impact in any shape the stability and firmness of
the shoring.

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1.7 Removal of anchors shall be done on site after obtaining written approval from the
consultant.
1.8 The main contractor and shoring contractor and the consultant shall appoint qualified
engineers with experience in geotechnical field for site supervision.
1.9 Rise of the ground water levels shall be verified for the duration of the design to
consider the natural changes (such as tidal peak, change of land use, increase of the
ground water due to irrigation or global warming) and insure that it shall not impact
the firmness and stability of the retaining wall.
1.10 Depth of shoring and internal excavations shall be sufficient enough to ensure safety
against soil swelling and the possibility of ground water seeping in to the excavations,
and ensure the compatibility of the design of the retention wall and the dewatering
machine. The main shoring contractor and the consultant shall review the dewatering
design prepared by specialists in the field; and ensure that wall deformation shall be
within the acceptable limits and the dewatering system does not impact the adjacent
structures and infrastructures.
2. Design of retaining walls
Considering various excavation depths, nature and conditions of the site, t the data in
the bellow table shall be followed:
Shoring Type Depth of excavation
All types Up to 5 meters depth or one basement
All Types except (H) More than 5 meters – in case of no buildings or
pile water bodies in surrounding plots
in case of buildings or water bodies in surrounding
Waterproof shoring
plots or high ground water level
Waterproof shoring Projects close to sources of water

− According to the soil investigation report, ground water level, existence of water
sources, adjacent buildings or surrounding facilities, recommendation of shoring
system other than the above mentioned is possible.
− Auditing shall be done by a third party geotechnical consultant for projects with
four or more basements, special projects, or projects near bodies of water.
In addition, compliance with the following instructions:

Minimum limit for Consideration to be made for adding (20Kn/m²) to

additional loads the loads from the direction/side of the road and
adjacent plots; and by reviewing the site

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 conditions additional loads can be increased to
the retention walls in case of adjacent
foundations as per actual calculations
Minimum distance (1.2m)
between anchors
Maximum length of Not exceeding (10m)
anchors
Minimum length of Not less than(3m)
anchors
Maximum side offset Maximum allowable offset for shoring is (40mm)

Unplanned excavations When inspecting stability, equilibrium and

deformation of the soil, retention, the wall design
shall be made with the assumption of the
existence of unplanned excavation in front of the
wall with a depth not less than (10%) of the overall
height of the vertical walls or (10%) of the vertical
distance between the lowest anchor and the
bottom of the excavation. minimum depth of
unplanned excavations is (0.50m)

3. Design Excavation works near water bodies

The following instructions shall be followed when doing shoring works for projects close to
water bodies:
3.1 Shoring works shall be designed as an independent structure, it is not acceptable to
relay on the existence of pavement walls.
3.2 Location of the anchors shall be far from the pavement edge.
3.3 Special design for shoring near water bodies shall be provided.
3.4 All projects near water bodies shall have waterproof shoring system to prevent water
leakage such as damper walls or secant piles.
3.5 Shoring systems shall be discussed and a final decision is made during the preliminary
submission stage.
3.6 Temporary works shall be accurately defined; the consultant shall prepare a document
containing the methodology. The contractor shall comply with executing all works
stipulated in that document after obtaining written approval from the consultant.

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3.7 All shoring works in projects near water bodies shall be reviewed and approved by a
third party geotechnical consultant equally sharing the liability of the safety of the
works with the consultant and shoring contractor.
3.8 Shoring contractor together with main contractor and consultant shall bear full
responsibility and legal liability for the safety of the site preparation works, the
shoring.
3.9 All shoring works on projects near bodies of water shall be continuously monitored by
the contractor and the consultant; and in case of need to take any corrective measure,
prior approval from relevant authority must be obtained.
3.10 All parties shall approve the safety plans developed based on making individual and
independent risk evaluation regarding temporary works near bodies of water.
D) Ground Improvement
1. General manual/ guidelines for ground improvement works
1.1 Design of soil improvement works shall be done by specialized consultant and
reviewed and approved by the consultant.
1.2 laboratory tests shall be for similar samples; the laboratory shall provide an official
letter confirming the result clarifying the soil bearing capacity and characteristic of the
improved soil.
1.3 All test to be made after the improvement shall be indicated in the drawings during
the design stage.
1.4 Soil report shall be submitted based on the tests made after the soil improvement
measures.
1.5 All contractors and consultants shall designate the site supervision to specialized
geotechnical engineers expert in this field.
1.6 All excavation activities shall be carried within the plot limits only. In case of works
outside the plot limits, a No Objection letter (NOC) shall be obtained from relevant
authorities or owners of adjacent plots; in addition, safety shall be provided to all
existing facilities at all times.
1.7 Compliance with all health and safety precautions during execution of excavation
works.

2. Liquefaction
Potential liquefaction risk shall be calculated by qualified geotechnical engineer, the
evaluation shall depend on sufficient number of field test results (CPTU is preferred); the

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analysis shall indicate the areas prone to liquefaction and recommend the compaction of
the location or parts thereof; based on that the secondary and local liquefaction areas inside
limited depths shall be indicated, and an evaluation shall made on the potential implications
resulting from the following factors:
2.1 Liquefaction causing settlement of foundations and footings near the surface.
2.2 Settlement of the surface.
2.3 low/reduced soil bearing capacity for foundations and footings near the surface.
2.4 low/reduced bearing capacity for vertical and lateral pile forces.

3. Calculation Assumptions:
3.1 Compliance with the following recommended procedures and applying the instruction
manual for the analysis and reduction or liquefaction risks in the state of California
(DMG Special Publication-117).
3.2 Earthquake loads (CSR) occurring in the soil due to earthquakes shall be calculated,
earth movement factors shall be calculated by referring to structural conditions in
article (54) of this regulation pertaining to seismic loads.
3.3 Soil strength (CRR) shall be calculated based on the results of site tests such as Soil
Penetration Test (SPT) or Cone Penetration Test (1996 NCEER workshop on
Liquefaction Evaluation).
3.4 Evaluation of liquefaction ability by calculating the liquefaction safety factor resulting
from seismic load and soil strength where the liquefaction factor shall not be less than
1.25 or F.S = CRR/[(1.2-1.5)CSR.
3.5 Ground water level selected for liquefaction analysis shall be based on the peak of the
deign lifespan to accommodate natural changes such as (Tide spring peak) and change
of land use (increase of ground water levels due to irrigation or global warming).
3.6 Incase of liquefaction analysis based on Cone Penetration Test, the soil shall be classified
based on (Robertson 1996) to determine the locations of high fineness content.
Liquefaction analysis used shall be based on the standard penetration test or similar
methods. In case of liquefaction analysis by electronic programs/software, copy of valid
license of the software and updated instruction manual shall be submitted.
3.7 Amplification factor and Shell correction factor shall be calculated based on the type
and classification of the soil.
3.8 Liquefaction can be calculated by methods approved n the mentioned codes.

4. Soil Improvement technologies

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 4.1 technologies for enhancing soil liquefaction are classified/ categorized to:
Intensification, drainage, soil reinforcement, mixing, replacement, compaction, Vipro soil
replacement (stone columns), deep dynamic compaction or any other technology approved
by codes and standards.

Zone A: The soils of this zone are very well compactable. The
right borderline indicates an empirically found limit
where the amount of cobbles and boulders prevents
compaction because the Viboprobe connot reach the
compaction depth
Zone B: The soils in this zone are suited for Vibro Compaction.
They have a fines content of less than 10%
Zone C: Compaction is only possible by adding suitable backfill
(Material from zones A or b) from the surface (Stone or
sand columns)
Zone D: Stone columns are a solution for a foundation in these
soils. There is a resulting increase in bearing capacity
and reduction on total and differential settlement

E) Piles
1. Design requirements
Compliance with all the requirements mentioned in the table below
Crack width due to Cracks due to upward ground water pressure=
tension 0.1mm
Cracks due to secondary forces (wind, seismic) =
0.2 mm

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 Geotechnical design According to recommendations of geotechnical
requirements soil report
Material test reports Be done by laboratories approved by Dubai
(gravel , concrete…etc) Municipality or (EIAC)
Minimum limit for lateral Not less than (5%) of pile bearing capacity
design force
Minimum steel To achieve (0.5%) elasticity the uniform diameter
reinforcement of the bar not less than (10mm)
Pile design • Ensure that the design takes in to
consideration vertical and horizontal forces
• Verticality (1/75)
• Out of position (7.5cm)s
• Piles to be designed with safety factor not
less than (2.5) unless site tests studies are
made by a geotechnical consultant
• Use reduction factor for peripheral friction
modulus when using bentonite
Distances between piles In case of no prior studies for the distance
between pile centers, the distance shall be not
less than (2.5) times the diameter of the pile
Strains Not more than (25%) from the 𝐹𝑐𝑢
Horizontal pile stiffness From (50%) to (1005) of the vertical stiffness.
Any other ratio can be calculated such as (105 to
15%) under the condition of submitting
geotechnical studies and study of collective pile
impact done by an approved Geotechnical
consultant in compliance with the codes
Vertical pile stiffness Impact of settlement of group piles on vertical
stiffness (Piles group effect settlement) to be
studied.

- Representative (qualified geotechnical engineer) for the consultant and the contractor
shall be available on site.
- Requirements for minimum limit for design horizontal forces and moments resulting from
displacement /(out of position), mentioned in the above table can be ignored upon
consideration of the following terms and conditions:
a) Thermal impact on foundations from building or on foundations if subjected to
seasonal thermal variations.
b) Pile group effect on the design of the piles and the building.
c) Moments resulting from raft dishing effect on the pile design.

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 d) Kinematic interaction analysis of the piles due to earthquakes.
e) Lateral stiffness of the soil surrounding the piles.
f) In case of ignoring the moments resulting from displacement /(out of position),
compliance is required with the pile locations approved in the design; in case the
location of executed piles is different from the locations in the design, geotechnical and
structural model shall be updated according to the new locations of the piles with
studying the impact of the new locations on the foundations/rafts and pile reactions
and making necessary adjustments on the design of the rafts.

2. Minimum limits for pile tests:

The table below indicts the minimum limits to be considered in pile tests
Static test 1% for each diameter
Dynamic test 5%
Sonic coring test 1%
Integrity test 100%
Cubes test As per specifications
Steel test As per specifications
Preliminary test pile (PTP) One test for the pile with the biggest length,
biggest diameter and carrying the biggest load

3. Preliminary test pile (PTP)

The main contractor and specialized geotechnical consultant are responsible for selecting
test locations so as not to interfere with the proposed locations of the permanent building
piles. The test is submitted during the design phase, ant it shall include the following:
− Detailed drawings of the location of the piles to be tested.
− Information about the schedule and plan for the PTP test.
− Official letter from the main contractor and/or geotechnical consultant.
In addition to the above, and what’s mentioned in EC7 of the European code the most
stringent values of the following results shall be used in the design.
− Preliminary test pile (PTP).
− Laboratory recommendations for the soil.
− Calculations submitted by the consultant or specialized geotechnical consultant.
Preliminary test results can be used in the design of piles and raft foundations according
to what’s mentioned in the European code and international building code.

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F) Dewatering
1. Necessary protection shall be provided to all existing facilities at all times
2. The dewatering system shall be based on reducing the loss of soft materials in the soil, or
any impact on surrounding structures
3. Hydrological model shall be made for (20) meters below the excavations, the model shall
define: soil type and rocks, horizontal permeability for each layer of the soil, un-cohesive
or gypsiferous soil or any other areas prone to water leakage under the surface.
4. Prepare dewatering design and general location by digital modeling to reduce pressure of
dewatering and to suite the depth of the retaining wall and excavation depth to ensure
there s enough safety factor against soil swelling.
5. Define the areas of hazardous hydrological sedimentation under ground.
6. Prepare network to monitor the pressure of ground water pressure and barometric
pressure independent of the dewatering system to monitor the vertical and horizontal
graduation of ground water inside and outside the excavations and shoring.
7. Dewatering shall not be stopped prior to obtaining written approval from the main
consultant and ensure achieving balance between water pressure and weight of the
building with a safety factor not less than (1.1) and ignoring friction between wall and soil.
8. Care must be taken in dewatering to ensure soft soil is not removed during pumping
because this may lead to unexpected settlement in the surrounding ground and the
structures related to it.
G) Water and Soil Pressure
1. soil up to (1) meter depth shall be ignored, safety factor of at least (1.1) shall be used
when designing dead lifting loads for basements or when verifying lifting and swelling
forces for buildings.
2. When designing water ground levels, seasonal tide impact shall be taken in to
consideration; in addition to current level of ground water in the area.

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 Issue of Executive Instructions
Article (2)
Executive director of the engineering and planning sector in the municipality shall issue
necessary instructions for the application of this directive.

Cancelations
Article (3)
This directive supersedes any other directives contradicting the rulings of this directive.

Publication and validity

Article (4)
This directive shall be published in the official gazette and shall take effect from date of
publishing.

Eng. Dawood Abdul Rahman Al-Hajri

General Manager
Issued on 22. Feb.2021

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In general:

Text in blue color is optional words,

Text in red color, Arabic term used is a bit confusing.

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