Land use, zoning, and planning

We help clients navigate complex land use, zoning, and planning laws in the UAE, advising on development approvals, regulatory strategy, and compliance with municipal and federal frameworks.

Practice Overview

Land development in the UAE is governed by intricate zoning regulations and planning controls that vary across emirates and jurisdictions. Kayrouz & Associates advises developers, investors, architects, and landowners on how to comply with land use laws while maximising project potential.

We assist clients in interpreting zoning designations, obtaining planning approvals, and addressing restrictions related to density, use classification, and permitted activities. Our lawyers are well-versed in municipal processes and regularly engage with local planning councils and authorities to resolve land use issues.

From project concept through to regulatory clearance, we work with clients to identify risks and ensure full compliance with environmental, infrastructure, and heritage requirements. We also handle objections, appeals, and disputes arising from planning decisions or land use changes.

Our team provides strategic insight that blends legal precision with commercial awareness, helping to move developments forward without unnecessary delays or regulatory setbacks.

We offer legal advice on a wide spectrum of matters:

  • Legal review of zoning and planning regulations
  • Strategic advice on land use classification and permissible activities
  • Assistance with development applications and authority submissions
  • Objection and appeal handling in planning disputes
  • Coordination with municipal and federal planning authorities
  • Compliance advice on infrastructure, heritage, and environmental impact
  • Meet Our Team

    Our team is equipped to handle complex legal matters with precision and care. Learn more about our lawyers below.

    بيار كيروز

    الرئيس القانوني الأول
    Maria Valeyeva

    ماريا فالييفا

    الرئيس التنفيذي للامتثال
    Georges Touma

    جورج توما

    رئيس قسم التقاضي والمنازعات
    Hanan Ahmed Al Balushi

    حنان أحمد البلوشي

    Practicing Lawyer
    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    لاثامني تشاندراشيكار

    Senior Corporate Counsel
    Arka Navle

    أركا نافلي

    Corporate Counsel
    Nashita Nazneen

    ناشيتا نازنين

    Junior Corporate Counsel
    Professor Mark Engelman

    البروفيسور مارك إنجلمان

    Intellectual Property Barrister
    Rita Semaan

    ريتا سمعان

    مستشار قانوني
    Carlos Rahme

    كارلوس رحمة

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    سُهاد الغريّب

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Sandy Y. Geagea

    ساندي ي. جعجع

    مستشار قانوني
    Saeed Gaber

    سعيد جابر

    Legal Research Analyst
    Muhammed Ali Charif

    محمّد علي شريف

    مستشار قانوني مساعد
    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    جينيفر أبو نصر

    Paralegal
    Patricia Abi Mansour

    باتريسيا أبي منصور

    مديرة تطوير الأعمال
    Valakshmi Balasubramanian

    فارالاكشمي بالاسبرامانيان

    Operations Assistant
    التقاضي وتسوية المنازعات

    Abu Dhabi Cassation Court ruling: key takeaways for property owners and contractors

    The Abu Dhabi Court of Cassation ruling highlights how procedural rules and contract clarity can shape construction disputes. Learn what contractors and property owners should watch for in their contracts under UAE law.

    read article
    August 16, 2025
    قانون العمل والعمال

    UAE Labor Law Resignation Rules 2025

    Navigate UAE labour law resignation rules 2025 with confidence using our comprehensive guide covering notice periods, probation resignations, and employee rights under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Understand your entitlements including end-of-service gratuity, immediate resignation circumstances, and avoid costly labour bans with proper resignation procedures.

    read article
    August 15, 2025
    قانون العمل والعمال

    How to Get a UAE Work Visa for Indian Citizens

    The UAE offers diverse work visa options for Indian citizens, from standard 2-year visas to prestigious 10-year golden visas. Learn about requirements, costs, and the step-by-step application process to secure your UAE employment visa in 2025.

    read article
    August 12, 2025
    View all news and insights