ADCDA Circular – 10 March 2026
Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) has completed a technical review of the current fire performance requirements for smoke management ducts in buildings. Based on this review, as well as alignment with international standards and industry practices, ADCDA has issued this circular to clarify and refine the fire performance criteria for smoke management ducts.
The purpose of this update is to:
- Improve consistency in design and inspection
- Address practical installation challenges
- Maintain the life safety objectives of the UAE Fire & Life Safety Code of Practice
Under the updated framework, smoke management ducts must comply with one of the following fire performance categories, depending on location and function within the building.
Category A – Full Fire Resistance
120 minutes Stability + 120 minutes Integrity + 120 minutes Insulation
This requirement applies to:
- Kitchen exhaust ducts
- Ducts within or serving exit enclosures
- Refuge areas
- Firefighter access areas
- Pressurization systems and pressurization shafts
- Smoke management ducts in non-sprinklered buildings
Category B – Reduced Insulation
120 minutes Stability + 120 minutes Integrity + 60 minutes Insulation
May be permitted for smoke management ducts in fully sprinkler-protected buildings, located in areas where occupant tenability is not dependent on duct surface temperature.
This reduction shall NOT apply to:
- Exit enclosures
- Refuge areas
- Firefighter access routes
- Pressurization systems
Category C – No Insulation
120 minutes Stability + 120 minutes Integrity
May be permitted where the duct is located entirely within non-occupied areas, such as:
- Underground car parks
- Plant rooms
- Service areas
Permitted only if the duct does not pass through protected egress routes or occupied spaces.
Important Notes
- Stability and Integrity requirements shall not be reduced under any circumstances.
- Kitchen exhaust ducts must always comply with Category A.
- Pressurization ducts and shafts must always comply with Category A.
- If multiple conditions apply, the most stringent requirement shall govern.
These requirements apply to all new project submissions and projects currently under design review.
ADCDA expresses its appreciation to all consultants, contractors, developers, and industry stakeholders for their cooperation in maintaining the highest standards of fire and life safety across Abu Dhabi.