When applying for demolition permits in Dubai, the Building Card in the Dubai Municipality (DM) Portal is one of the most critical elements. Any mistake in building card selection, area calculation, or demolition method can lead to application rejection, system blocking, or fines.
At Zelzal Demolition, we regularly handle both full demolition and partial demolition permits in Dubai, and this guide explains everything you must know—from creating a building card to fixing errors during demolition applications.
For a complete understanding of approvals and procedures, read our detailed guide on the demolition permit process in Dubai:
👉 https://www.zelzaldemolition.com/3020696_demolition-permit-process-in-dubai
What Is a Building Card in the DM Portal?
A Building Card is an official digital record in the Dubai Municipality Portal that contains complete details of a building, including:
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Building usage and sub-usage
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Built-up area (BUA)
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Individual area measurements
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Completion date
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Building type
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Outdoor and ancillary areas (non-BUA)
Without a correct building card, demolition permits—especially partial demolition—cannot be approved.
Why the Building Card Is Critical for Demolition Permits
The DM system directly links demolition scope to the building card data.
Any mismatch between site condition, approved drawings, and building card area will result in returned or rejected applications.
Important rule:
Partial demolition is permitted only when both an approved building card and approved drawings are available
To understand the difference between demolition types, refer to:
👉 https://www.zelzaldemolition.com/3027292_full-vs-partial-demolition-in-dubai-municipality-including-modification-rules
Knowledge Required Before Creating or Selecting a Building Card
Before proceeding, engineers and demolition contractors must understand:
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DM demolition rules (full vs partial)
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Approved setting-out drawings
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Actual site measurements
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Existing permits on the plot
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Consultant involvement (when required)
How to Create a Building Card in the DM Portal
Step 1: Check If the Building Card Exists
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Search by plot number ( Create demolition application ).
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Review existing building cards linked to the plot
Step 2: Use “Add Missing Building” (If Not Available)
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Select “Add Missing Building”
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Fill in all required details carefully
Step 3: Provide Complete Building Information
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Building usage (Residential, Commercial, Industrial)
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Sub-usage (Villa, Warehouse, Labour Accommodation)
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Building type
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Approximate completion date
How to Fix and Measure Areas in the Building Card
Built-Up Area (BUA):
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Add each internal area separately
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Total must exactly match the actual building
Outdoor Areas (Important Rule):
Boundary walls, yards, open sheds, and external slabs must NOT be added to BUA.
They should be mentioned separately and will not reflect in the total building area.
Selecting Full Demolition vs Partial Demolition
Full Demolition
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Consultant not required
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Allowed even without drawings or building card
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Faster approval process
Common for projects such as villa demolition:
👉 https://www.zelzaldemolition.com/product/22099502/villa-demolition-work-in-dubai
Partial Demolition
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Existing building card required
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Approved drawings mandatory
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Accurate area deduction essential
Example:
Service Block – 36 m² (must be deducted from total area)
Even small errors will cause application return.
Important Rule for Demolition Contractors
Demolition contractors cannot apply for partial demolition if drawing and building card not available.
If the owner wants to retain boundary walls and no drawings or building card exist, a consultant must be hired to prepare drawings and correct the building card. This is a long procedure
Final Thoughts
The Building Card in the DM Portal is the foundation of your demolition permit.
Accuracy, compliance, and technical knowledge are essential for both full and partial demolition.
For expert guidance, approvals, and compliant execution, contact Zelzal Demolition.
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