Office approvals depend on the zone. Which authority approves the work depends on where the property is: Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Development Authority, Trakhees or the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority.
For offices in DDA zones, the contractor applies for a fit-out permit with the landlord's NOC and the tenancy (Ejari). Structural changes or a change of use need a separate building-modification approval. The DDA gives an estimated delivery of 2 working days for its fit-out permit, and its fit-out guidance asks for the landlord's approval before works start.
If the works touch fire alarms, sprinklers or escape routes, Civil Defence requirements apply.
Our guide to office fit-out approvals covers each authority in more detail.