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.

    Pierre Kayrouz

    Chief Legal Officer
    Maria Valeyeva

    Maria Valeyeva

    Chief Compliance Officer
    Georges Touma

    Georges Touma

    Head Litigator
    Hanan Ahmed Al Balushi

    Hanan Ahmed

    Practicing Lawyer
    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Lathamani Chandrashekar

    Senior Corporate Counsel
    Arka Navle

    Arka Navle

    Corporate Counsel
    Nashita Nazneen

    Nashita Nazneen

    Junior Corporate Counsel
    Professor Mark Engelman

    Mark Engelman

    Intellectual Property Barrister
    Rita Semaan

    Rita Semaan

    Legal Consultant
    Carlos Rahme

    Carlos Rahme

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Souhad Al Ghorayeb

    Senior Legal Consultant
    Sandy Y. Geagea

    Sandy Geagea

    Legal Consultant
    Saeed Gaber

    Saeed Gaber

    Legal Research Analyst
    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Muhammed Ali Charif

    Junior Legal Counsel
    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Jenifer Abu Nasr

    Paralegal
    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Patricia Abi Mansour

    Business Development Manager
    Valakshmi Balasubramanian

    Varalakshmi Balasubramanian

    Operations Assistant
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