Abu Dhabi Launches AI Binaa Platform, Cuts Permit Times by 70%

Abu Dhabi has officially launched Binaa, a groundbreaking AI-powered digital platform designed to transform the emirate’s building permit process, reducing approval timelines by up to 70%. The launch was announced during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS 2025), held at the Abu Dhabi Energy Center and organised by the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre.

To mark the occasion, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) signed a multi-party agreement with key entities including the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and e&. The agreement aims to streamline the procedures for building permits and associated services, coordinating data exchange, technical reviews, and documentation to accelerate approvals across the sector.

Redefining Construction Approvals with AI

The Binaa platform represents a regional first, leveraging artificial intelligence to overhaul how construction plans are submitted, reviewed, and approved across both new and existing developments. The platform is designed to identify inefficiencies in designs, such as excessive materials or unnecessarily complex construction approaches for smaller structures, helping reduce costs, environmental impact, and project duration, without compromising safety or compliance.

“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,” said H.E. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the DMT.

Phase 1 Targets 20,000 Annual Villa Applications

The rollout will be phased, with Phase 1 prioritising new private villas, an area that typically generates around 20,000 applications per year. The system enables villa owners, consultants, and contractors to jointly monitor project progress in real time through a unified platform.

“Abu Dhabi’s construction and building regulatory frameworks are poised to set global standards as a result of the Binaa 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,” said Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, Acting Executive Director of the Planning and Infrastructure Sector at DMT.

AI, BIM, AR & VR Integration

Binaa integrates cutting-edge tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), first introduced in 2024 and showcased at GITEX Global, along with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications. These features enhance design compliance, streamline inspections, and improve visualisation of development progress.

A standout functionality is Binaa’s remote site interface, allowing stakeholders to virtually explore construction sites, flag specific areas for further review, and overlay 3D models on real-world environments using AR for detailed inspection support.

Toward a Unified, Transparent Construction Ecosystem

In addition to its AI capabilities, Binaa will offer a collaborative digital environment for over 15 government entities, giving them simultaneous access to project blueprints, documents, and certification tools. Contractors, developers, and consultants will benefit from a centralised portal that tracks the complete lifecycle of a development—from initial planning through to completion.

The platform’s AI engine also supports the review of 2D plans for older structures, identifying necessary improvements while ensuring all designs meet current building regulations and Abu Dhabi’s urban standards. Although plan reviews will initially remain manual, AI integration will steadily increase.

With Binaa, Abu Dhabi cements its position as a smart city leader, reimagining urban planning and infrastructure approvals through AI, automation, and digital transparency.