Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) reported a 9% increase in approved applications for no-objection certificates (NOCs) related to infrastructure and information services in the first half of 2025. The growth has been linked to the Marafeq Smart Feature, a digital system that streamlines the process of issuing NOCs, according to HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
Since its introduction, the Marafeq Smart Feature has facilitated the approval of 43,816 NOCs by the end of June 2025. The system is designed to improve coordination between Dubai’s utility providers and enhance government service delivery.
Al Tayer noted DEWA’s focus on using advanced artificial intelligence solutions as part of ongoing investments aimed at strengthening Dubai’s infrastructure. He said these initiatives are aligned with the city’s urban and population growth and support wider economic development goals. The Marafeq Smart Feature reduces bureaucracy by simplifying the NOC application process from seven steps to three and cutting processing times from one hour to just 20 minutes.
“We are committed to promoting close partnerships with utilities, accredited consultants, contractors and developers to ensure the continuous development of service networks and public infrastructure projects. This collaborative approach supports Dubai’s position as a leading destination to live, work and visit,” said Al Tayer.
The Marafeq Smart Feature also offers contractors and consultants access to live data valid for six months for DEWA project sites. By leveraging Geographic Information Systems (GIS), it replaces traditional offline DGN or CAD files with a secure smart link. This upgrade enhances data protection, eliminates risks associated with data loss, and provides detailed maps along with service data for stakeholders working on DEWA infrastructure projects in Dubai.
