We provide this service to help you convert existing buildings within plot boundaries that are not defined in municipal regulations—especially those built before 1 September 2025, or those unpermitted or permitted under earlier systems—into legally recognised structures. Whether your building predates the SAP system of 2014 or falls under older regulations, we support you in achieving compliance through proper inspection and approval.
If your building meets all approved technical conditions and standards, we will issue the appropriate electronic building permit. We handle a wide range of building types-from residential villas and multi-storey buildings to government and industrial properties.
How Long Will It Take? 5 working days
What Will You Get? Building Permit (Existing Buildings)
How Do You Apply?
You can apply for this service online through https://rakdigital.rak.ae by using your UAE Pass and select “Building Permit (Existing Buildings)” to begin your application.
Fill in the application form and upload all required documents.
Schedule an inspector’s or surveyor’s site visit if required.
The Chief Engineer reviews and approves your application. Assign business partners if needed.
We will issue the building permit electronically once we verify the documents.
How Much Will You Pay?
Inspector’s visit fee: Free of charge
Surveyor’s visit fee: AED 500 if the owner requests the Municipality to prepare the drawings
What Documents Do You Need?
Land Document (Sketch) : Affection plan and title deed (if any).
Emirates ID : A valid copy of the Emirates ID of the applicant.
Building Permit : Any existing building permits.
Site Plan: Approved or as-built drawings of the structure (if the consultant submits the application).
Neighbour Approval: If plots share a boundary or if no wall exists.
Completion Certificate : The previous completion certificate (if applicable).
Assignment Letter: A letter from the applicant, assigned by the owner.
What Terms and Limitations Apply?
Terms :
The plot must be in the applicant’s name.
The structure must be structurally safe.
The function and design must match the plot’s usage.
The building must be fully within the plot’s boundary.
Limitations
We do not permit buildings with asbestos roofs.
We do not approve structures in stopped or under-planning plots.
We do not approve buildings located outside the plot boundary.
Services Link
You can apply online through https://rakdigital.rak.ae/index.html?sap-language=en#/Lobby/ZP08
FAQ
What service do you provide for existing buildings?
We help convert existing buildings within plot boundaries that are not defined in municipal regulations into legally recognized structures.
How long does it take to get a building permit?
It takes 5 working days to issue the building permit.
What types of buildings can you assist with?
We handle a wide range of building types, including residential villas, multi-storey buildings, government, and industrial properties.
Is there a fee for the inspector's visit?
No, the inspector's visit fee is free of charge.
What documents are required to apply for a building permit?
You need a land document, Emirates ID, existing building permits, site plan, neighbor approval, completion certificate, and an assignment letter.
Can I apply for the service online?
Yes, you can apply online through https://rakdigital.rak.ae/index.html?sap-language=en#/Lobby/ZP08 using your UAE Pass.
Are there any limitations on the types of buildings you can permit?
Yes, we do not permit buildings with asbestos roofs or those located outside the plot boundary.
Do I need to schedule a site visit for my application?
You may need to schedule an inspector's or surveyor's site visit if required.