Innovative Digital Transformation of Issuing Final Clearance Certificates for Infrastructure Projects in Dubai

Abstract

This chapter investigates the essential practices to digitally transform the process of issuing final clearance certificates. In Dubai, a final clearance system enhancement was introduced recently to combine all stakeholders as it is part of Electronic No Objection Certificate (eNOC) portal to issue the certificate. The eNOC platform acts as a centralized hub, bringing together multiple service entities from both government and private organizations to issue unified NOCs for infrastructure projects within the Right-Of-Way. Employing the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) approach to engineering management, the chapter systematically evaluates the project’s aspects. Real-life case studies illustrate challenges encountered in the manual final clearance process for construction projects such as electric cable lines, water lines, and sewerage networks. The proposed transformation seeks to automate application reception and bolster departmental ownership within the eNOC system, incorporating all relevant entities and departments involved in base construction NOC approvals. Departmental assignments for final clearance applications based on project type aim to optimize the process. Interface upgrades will include alert messages guiding applicants to select the correct application type, reducing submission errors on a centralized web portal. Comprehensive reports will provide an overview of final clearance application statuses for effective monitoring. The chapter presents a comprehensive framework tailored for infrastructure projects, seamlessly integrating with the eNOC system. Anticipated outcomes encompass improved project management, streamlined processes, heightened customer satisfaction, and sustainable infrastructural growth, particularly pertinent to Smart Cities’ development within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, aligning with aspirations for technological innovation and urban progress.

Citation

AlObaidi, A. and Samad, W.A. (2024), "Innovative Digital Transformation of Issuing Final Clearance Certificates for Infrastructure Projects in Dubai", Lytras, M.D., Alkhaldi, A. and Malik, S. (Ed.) The Emerald Handbook of Smart Cities in the Gulf Region: Innovation, Development, Transformation, and Prosperity for Vision 2040, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 205-218. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83608-292-720241012