Abu Dhabi: The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has launched Binaa, a cutting-edge, AI-powered digital platform aimed at transforming how construction permits are issued, reviewed, and approved across Abu Dhabi.
The platform was launched on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit held at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.
The launch included the signing of a multi-party cooperation agreement between DMT and several major entities, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and e&, to streamline the building permit process and improve coordination among relevant stakeholders.
Binaa is the first platform of its kind in the region and marks a significant evolution in digital governance and construction oversight. It is designed to cut processing times by up to 70 percent while improving structural efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
The system identifies instances of overdesign, such as unnecessarily heavy materials or complex construction methods for small structures like villas, to reduce waste and environmental impact without compromising safety or code compliance.
Commenting on its launch, His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the DMT, said that, “We are pleased to launch Binaa 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 Binaa platform integrates artificial intelligence, Building Information Modelling (BIM), introduced in 2024 and showcased at GITEX Global, along with virtual and augmented reality to ensure code compliance and optimize project planning and inspection.
The launch aligns with the UAE’s ‘Year of Community’ and will roll out in phases, starting with new private villas, which account for approximately 20,000 applications annually. The platform allows villa owners, consultants, and contractors to track progress, provide feedback, and collaborate in real time via a shared interface.
His Excellency Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, Acting Executive Director of the Planning and Infrastructure Sector at DMT, remarked that, “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.”
Notably, the platform features an AI review tool capable of analyzing 2D models, including older building plans, to recommend improvements in alignment with Abu Dhabi’s regulatory framework. Though reviews are still conducted manually, AI will gradually be integrated into the workflow.
In addition, the system offers over 15 government entities access to project blueprints and relevant documentation through a unified platform, fostering seamless collaboration between contractors, consultants, and government authorities.
Binaa provides a comprehensive end-to-end view of every project, from initial design to final approval, with virtual simulations allowing users to explore construction sites, identify problem areas, and tag specific zones for further inspection. On-site inspections are enhanced through augmented reality that overlays 3D design data onto real structures.
WE RECOMMEND | Magic Awaits: Harry Potter Exhibition set to enchant Abu Dhabi
