Building Codes Higher Committee formed to ensure a smooth implementation of new codes in 2010

Abu Dhabi, June 7, 2009: The Department of Municipal Affairs in Abu Dhabi has taken a step closer towards implementing a world-class building code across the emirate which will deliver better buildings in which to live and work. The move follows a meeting with the "Building Codes Higher Committee" a cross-Abu Dhabi government panel formed to ensure the smooth adaptation, development and implementation of the International Building Codes (IBC) across the emirate.

The session focused on the implementation plans for the International Building Code and its supporting codes, while highlighting the need for close collaboration and cooperation between the public and private sectors to ensure a smooth transition phase.

H.E. Rashid Mubarak Al Hajeri, Chairman of DMA and Chairman of the Building Codes Higher Council said: "The new building codes will help developers create better places in which to live and work across the entire emirate by improving construction standards.  That means improved public health and safety in homes and offices, greater energy efficiency and ultimately buildings which are more durable and long-lasting. Our goal is to adopt the best codes in the world for Abu Dhabi. 

"The implementation of the new codes will require continued collaboration and feedback between government entities and our partnerships in the construction and real estate sector.  We are committed to a smooth transition phase made possible through training workshops and awareness seminars," Al Hajeri added.

The Department of Municipal Affairs also confirmed that cross-municipal employees have participated in the first phase of seminars and training workshops to raise awareness and improve understanding of the new building codes and supporting codes.  Industry training workshops will be offered to all sectors within the construction industry later this year.

The building codes, once developed, will be applied throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by code administrators, construction design professionals and developers, and enforced through a rigorous program of inspections and legislation by the authorities.

H.E. Eng. Ahmad Shareef, Undersecretary of the Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) said: "DMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and service agreement with the International Code Council (ICC), the world's leading building code authority and developers of the International Codes."

"The MOU established the framework for adoption of the International Building Code (IBC), which will take effect by January next year and the development of the Abu Dhabi International Building Code, the new localised set of standards which will guide the development of Building construction projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi." Shareef added.

The "Building Codes Higher Committee" includes the following members:-

  • H.E. Rashid Mubarak Al Hajeri - Department of Municipal Affairs - Chairman

  • H.E. Eng. Ahmad Shareef - Department of Municipal Affairs - Member

  • H.E. Khalifa Mohammad Al Mazrouei - Abu Dhabi City Municipality - Member

  • H.E. Awad Khalifa bin Hasoum Al Darmaki - Al Ain City Municipality - Member

  • H.E. Hmoud Humaid Al Mansoori - Western region Municipality - Member

  • H.E. Majed Ali Al Mansoori - Environment Authority - Member

  • H.E. Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi - Urban Planning Council - Member

  • H.E. Mubarak Hamad Al Muhairi - Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority - Member

  • H.E. Ahmad Saif Al Darmaki - Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority - Member

  • H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaberi - Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company - Member

  • H.E. Othman Yousif Al Tamami - Abu Dhabi Police (Civil defense) - Member

  • H.E. Eng. Khadem Suwaieh Al Muhairi - higher corporation for specialized economic zones- Member

  • Representative from Abu Dhabi Council for Quality and compliance - Abu Dhabi Council for Quality and Compliance - Department of Economic Development - Member

-Ends-

About Department of Municipal Affairs:
The Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) commenced operations in May 2007, following the Abu Dhabi Executive Council's decision to integrate the Emirate's municipal system. As a new government entity, the Department of Municipal Affairs was created to lead, coordinate and oversee three municipalities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region.  The DMA has a regulatory role while the service delivery and operations are at the municipality level.

On the 5th of May 2008, the Department of Municipal Affairs along with the Abu Dhabi Municipality, Al Ain Municipality and Western Region Municipality embarked upon a new municipal services journey, with the signing of the historic Municipal Charter which aligns the DMA and three municipalities towards greater collaboration and cooperation.

For further information, please contact:
Department of Municipal Affairs 
Mrs. Amal Al Jarwan
Tel: 971-2-4030311
Email: amal@dma.abudhabi.ae

Impact Porter Novelli
Rami Adwan
Mobile: 971-050-6171499
Email: r.adwan@ipn.ae   

© Press Release 2009