Abu Dhabi launched Binaa, an innovative AI-powered platform aimed at revolutionizing the construction and permitting process in the emirate. Developed by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), Binaa is designed to streamline operations, enhance transparency, and foster collaboration among all parties involved in construction projects, from project owners to engineers.
A Game-Changer for Construction
Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit, Maryam AlMheiri, Acting Section Head of Business Systems Development at DMT, described Binaa as “a complete system that helps a large part of society to understand and manage the construction journey in Abu Dhabi.” She highlighted its versatility, noting that whether building a residential villa or a commercial tower, the platform provides a comprehensive 360-degree view of the project, covering everything from documentation requirements to consultant performance.
Binaa integrates all key stakeholders—project owners, consultants, contractors, and engineers—into a single smart digital ecosystem. This unified approach eliminates silos, reduces bureaucratic hurdles, and ensures smoother project execution. The platform is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader vision to support population-driven urban growth while maintaining high standards of efficiency and sustainability.
Key Features of Binaa
Binaa offers a suite of advanced tools to support every stage of the construction lifecycle. These features include:
- 360-View Dashboard: Provides a comprehensive visualization of projects, giving users a clear overview of progress and requirements.
- Firm Directory: Allows project owners to compare and select consultants and contractors based on performance data, enabling data-driven hiring decisions.
- Virtual Assistant: Guides users through the platform, answering queries and simplifying navigation.
- Integrated Training Modules: Upskills users on the latest construction practices and UAE regulations.
- Access to UAE Construction Laws: Offers direct access to relevant legal and regulatory information.
- Smart Inspection with Building Information Modelling (BIM): Enhances accuracy and efficiency in inspections through advanced digital modeling.
- Virtual Reality Tools: Enables immersive project visualization and planning, improving decision-making.
| Feature | Description |
| 360-View Dashboard | Visualizes project progress and requirements comprehensively |
| Firm Directory | Compares consultants and contractors based on performance data |
| Virtual Assistant | Guides users and answers queries |
| Integrated Training Modules | Upskills users on construction practices and regulations |
| Access to UAE Construction Laws | Provides direct access to legal and regulatory information |
| Smart Inspection (BIM) | Uses Building Information Modelling for accurate and efficient inspections |
| Virtual Reality Tools | Enables immersive project visualization and planning |
Significant Benefits for Stakeholders
The implementation of Binaa is expected to transform the construction process in Abu Dhabi. One of its most significant benefits is the drastic reduction in licensing time. For example, obtaining a license for a residential villa, which previously took months, can now be completed in just 10 days. The platform also reduces system touchpoints by 40%, streamlining workflows and minimizing bureaucratic delays.
Binaa enhances transparency by providing real-time data and performance metrics, which helps reduce human error and speeds up approval processes. This transparency also supports data-driven decision-making, particularly when selecting consultants and contractors, ensuring projects are executed efficiently and to high standards. By reducing errors and delays, Binaa contributes to cost savings and improved project outcomes.
Accessibility and User Experience
Binaa is currently accessible through the TAMM portal, Abu Dhabi’s official government services platform. Users require UAE Pass credentials to log in, ensuring secure and authorized access. The platform’s user-friendly interface makes it suitable for a wide range of users, from individual homeowners to large-scale developers, ensuring that all can navigate and benefit from its features.
Future Plans and Vision
The DMT has ambitious plans for Binaa’s next phase, which will introduce more advanced and complex features to further enhance its capabilities. The ultimate goal is to position Abu Dhabi as the leading city in the region for digital infrastructure transformation within the next 10 years. This aligns with the emirate’s broader strategy to leverage AI and digital technologies to drive innovation across sectors, as evidenced by initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027, which aims to create a fully AI-native government by 2027.
Setting a New Standard
With the launch of Binaa, Abu Dhabi is setting a new benchmark for the integration of AI in the construction sector. The platform promises a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable approach to building the city’s future, supporting its growth as a global hub for innovation and urban development. As Binaa continues to evolve, it is likely to serve as a model for other cities looking to modernize their construction processes through technology.
