Abu Dhabi issues facade standards for Mussafah industrial buildings

Abu Dhabi's Urban Planning and Permits Centre has issued Administrative Resolution No. 48 of 2026, establishing unified facade standards for industrial buildings and facilities facing streets and public spaces in Mussafah. The resolution applies to existing, new and under-construction properties in the industrial area. The Urban Planning and Permits Centre operates under the Department of Municipalities and Transport.

Three improvement levels defined#

The standards set three levels of improvement based on building conditions and activities. Essential maintenance includes general cleaning, repainting and minor repairs. The second level covers organising facade elements, signage, entrances, fences, service areas and open storage spaces. The third level requires more substantial facade work in priority locations or where wider upgrades are necessary. This structure allows the work required to be matched to each building's condition.

Requirements and scope#

The resolution addresses how facades must appear and be maintained, along with requirements for signage, entry points, service zones and storage areas. It also sets safety and fire prevention requirements. The standards aim to facilitate pedestrian movement around industrial facilities, improve surroundings for workers and residents, and encourage sustainable materials suited to local climate and the nature of industrial activities. Property owners and investors receive defined standards for facade upgrades and maintenance under the guidelines, which account for variations in how buildings are used and their current state.

Implementation and enforcement#

Implementation follows a graduated process designed to give property owners and investors time to make required improvements. Where violations are not rectified, regulatory measures will be taken in line with relevant regulations. Grievance and appeal procedures are available under approved processes. The initial phase applies to industrial structures with street-facing or public-space-facing facades in Mussafah, marking the first step in applying the framework across industrial areas in the emirate.