All construction and engineering companies setting up in Abu Dhabi are required to classify their activity in Department of Municipalities and Transport.
The purpose of the Classification registration is to ensure each company’s competencies, i.e. that they are experienced and qualified to meet the criteria for the category in which they wish to be classified. Once classified only the companies are eligible to participate in Government projects according to the classified activity.
There are two separate classifications .One for Contractors and other for Engineering Companies.
Contractors can be classified into Special, First, Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth or Sixth Category and Engineering Companies in Special, First or Second. The criteria for classification is same for both:
- Experience Conditions (executed projects during the previous six years)
- Technical Conditions (number of specified staff (engineers & financial) with a pre-determined number of years’ experience. All Engineers should be registered in Abu Dhabi Engineers Registration System.
- Other Conditions (ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001)
- Financial Data.
FAQ:
- Is it possible to classify a 100% Foreign Owner establishment with Citizen Service Agent like Abu Dhabi Local Company?
Yes, you can apply for the classification, the system has been updated to comply with similar licenses
- If the Owner of Engineering Consultancy is a Citizen who is not an Engineer, Can he Classify in First Category?
It is possible to classify into the first category if it meets the requirements of the projects and the expertise of the engineers.
- Is it possible to classify a contracting company with an Architect with more than 5 years’ experience in Contracting?
Cannot be classified. It is required the Engineers with specific engineering Degree for each category.
- In case of a branch from other emirates ,is it permissible to issue classification with temporary work permit for engineers from parent company?
Temporary work permit cannot be accepted.
- How long does the Classification registration process take?
This depends how quickly the applicant can arrange the required documents. It is advisable to start the process early, allowing sufficient time for the attestations, especially if overseas engineers are in Technical staff.
- What is the validity period of Classification registration?
Classification registration lasts for two years. At that point it will be necessary to renew the classification.
- Is it possible to change or upgrade Classification categories once registered?
Yes, providing all of the criteria is met.
- Is it possible to avoid Classification?
To avoid Classification registration, the activities on the Trade License should avoid activities that are construction and engineering-related which have been highlighted as requiring Classification.