Dubai's extreme desert climate — with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 45°C — makes HVAC
(Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) the single most important building system. Proper
installation according to local and international standards isn't just about comfort; it's about
safety, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings.
Key HVAC Regulations in Dubai
DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority)
DEWA sets strict requirements for electrical connections to HVAC equipment. All installations must
comply with DEWA's technical standards for power supply, metering, and energy efficiency ratings.
High-efficiency equipment (EER ≥ 11.5 for split units) is preferred under DEWA's demand-side
management initiatives.
Dubai Municipality Green Building Code (Al Sa'fat)
The Al Sa'fat green building rating system mandates minimum efficiency standards for HVAC systems in
new construction. Buildings must achieve specific cooling load benchmarks (kW/m²) and demonstrate
efficient equipment selection and design.
ASHRAE Standards
Dubai widely adopts ASHRAE standards for HVAC design:
- ASHRAE 90.1 — Energy Standard for Buildings (minimum efficiency requirements)
- ASHRAE 62.1 — Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality (minimum outdoor
air requirements)
- ASHRAE 55 — Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy (comfort
criteria)
HVAC System Types Common in Dubai
- Split AC Systems — Popular for villas and small commercial spaces. Energy
ratings must comply with ESMA standards
- VRF/VRV Systems — Variable refrigerant flow systems for medium commercial
applications. High efficiency with zone control
- Chilled Water Systems — The standard for large commercial buildings and hotels.
District cooling connections are common in newer developments
- Package Units — Self-contained rooftop or ground-mounted units for retail and
industrial applications
Installation Best Practices
- Proper load calculations (not oversizing or undersizing systems)
- High-quality duct fabrication with thermal insulation (minimum 25mm closed-cell)
- Correct refrigerant piping sizing and brazing under nitrogen
- Proper condensate drainage to approved points
- Vibration isolation for all rotating equipment
- Full testing and commissioning before handover
Buraq Al Taybah HVAC Services
Our MEP team handles HVAC design, installation, and maintenance for all system types — from
residential split installations to large-scale chilled water systems. Every project is delivered to
DEWA, Municipality, and ASHRAE standards.
