Record Growth in DEWA NOC Approvals
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has reported a notable 4.49 percent increase in No-Objection Certificate (NOC) approvals during 2025, highlighting Dubai’s continued momentum in construction, infrastructure, and utilities development.
By the end of December 2025, DEWA approved a total of 132,981 NOC applications through its Soqoor programme. This marks a steady rise compared to 2024, reflecting growing project demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors throughout the emirate.
The figures represent more than administrative progress. They signal sustained economic confidence and active development across Dubai. Thousands of new and ongoing projects required electricity, water, and civil clearances, making DEWA’s streamlined approval system a critical enabler of progress.
Soqoor Programme Accelerates Approvals
The Soqoor programme has played a central role in improving the efficiency of NOC approvals. Designed to simplify and accelerate procedures for consultants and contractors, the initiative has reduced delays while ensuring strict adherence to technical standards.
Throughout 2025, the programme supported 2,472 consultants and contractors who submitted applications across multiple project categories. By focusing on improving first-submission success rates, Soqoor has minimized resubmissions and enhanced turnaround times.
The initiative also aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global business hub. Efficient approvals contribute directly to smoother project delivery and stronger economic activity.
Breakdown of Approvals Across Divisions
The total 132,981 NOC approvals processed in 2025 were distributed across DEWA’s key operational divisions, demonstrating balanced growth in power and water infrastructure.
The Transmission Power Division processed 69,816 applications, accounting for the largest share. This reflects continued expansion in high-voltage electricity networks and large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Distribution Power Division handled 45,418 applications, supporting localized electricity connections for residential communities, commercial developments, and industrial facilities.
Meanwhile, the Water and Civil Division approved 17,747 applications, covering water network services and civil-related works. These figures underline steady investment in water infrastructure to support Dubai’s expanding population and development footprint.
Together, these numbers confirm sustained growth in electricity transmission, distribution, and water services across the emirate.
Rising Demand Across Dubai’s Development Sector
The increase in DEWA NOC approvals mirrors broader economic and construction activity across Dubai. As new residential towers, retail hubs, hospitality projects, and logistics facilities move forward, demand for utility clearances has naturally risen.
Electricity and water infrastructure remain foundational to urban growth. Every new project depends on reliable power connections and water supply systems. DEWA’s role in processing NOC applications ensures that projects integrate safely into the existing utility network.
This steady rise in approvals indicates strong coordination between the public and private sectors. Developers, consultants, and contractors continue to work closely with DEWA to maintain compliance while meeting ambitious project timelines.
Ensuring Compliance and Operational Safety
Beyond processing applications, the Soqoor programme emphasizes compliance with technical standards and guidelines. Each submission undergoes review to ensure alignment with engineering requirements and safety protocols.
This proactive oversight helps reduce violations, prevent damage to utility assets, and minimize operational risks during construction activities. By strengthening compliance, DEWA safeguards both public infrastructure and project stakeholders.
To enhance clarity, technical requirements for project services have been published on DEWA’s official website. Awareness sessions have also been conducted to guide consultants and contractors through approval procedures and expectations.
Such measures promote transparency and improve understanding of regulatory frameworks, ultimately contributing to smoother project execution.
Recognizing Excellence in the Industry
DEWA has also introduced recognition through the Soqoor award, which highlights outstanding participants across project categories. This initiative encourages consultants and contractors to maintain high standards in documentation, compliance, and technical accuracy.
By rewarding excellence, DEWA reinforces a culture of quality and accountability across Dubai’s infrastructure sector. Recognition programmes not only motivate stakeholders but also elevate overall industry performance.
Supporting Dubai’s Long-Term Vision
The 4.49 percent rise in DEWA NOC approvals reflects a structured and forward-looking approach to urban expansion. With nearly 133,000 applications approved during 2025, DEWA has demonstrated its capacity to manage increasing project demand efficiently.
As Dubai advances its long-term economic and development strategies, reliable utility services remain central to sustainable growth. Electricity transmission networks, distribution systems, and water infrastructure form the backbone of modern urban life.
Through continued investment, digital transformation, and stakeholder engagement, DEWA remains a key driver of infrastructure readiness in the emirate. The steady increase in approvals is a clear indicator of momentum, collaboration, and confidence in Dubai’s evolving development landscape.
With streamlined processes and strong regulatory oversight, DEWA’s Soqoor programme continues to support contractors and consultants while enabling faster, safer, and more efficient project delivery across the city.
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