Managing a commercial or residential facility in Dubai isn’t easy. Between strict regulations, harsh weather, and tenant expectations, one small MEP error can snowball into costly repairs or tenant dissatisfaction. Below are the top 7 mistakes facility managers in Dubai make when it comes to MEP maintenance — and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping Preventive Maintenance Schedules
Problem: Many buildings in Dubai operate reactively — waiting for something to break before fixing it.
Why It Hurts: It leads to unplanned outages, tenant complaints, and high emergency repair costs.
Solution: Schedule routine preventive checks for HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems at least quarterly. Use maintenance calendars and checklists tailored to Dubai’s climate.
2. Choosing the Cheapest Contractor Over the Best
Problem: Going with the lowest bidder might seem budget-friendly.
Why It Hurts: Low-cost vendors often cut corners, lack proper documentation, and delay response times.
Solution: Evaluate MEP contractors based on experience, Dubai Municipality compliance, service-level agreements (SLA), and response history — not just price.
3. Ignoring Documentation and Service Logs
Problem: Many managers fail to request or archive proper service reports.
Why It Hurts: You can’t track patterns, defend budgets, or hold vendors accountable.
Solution: Demand detailed reports after every service call. Digitize and store logs in a centralized dashboard.
4. Not Having an AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract)
Problem: Some facility managers rely on one-time fixes or freelance technicians.
Why It Hurts: This approach increases downtime and operational uncertainty.
Solution: Invest in a structured AMC with SLA-based response times, checklists, and scope-of-work clarity.
5. Underestimating HVAC Load During Summer
Problem: Dubai’s extreme summer heat places enormous pressure on HVAC systems.
Why It Hurts: Unmaintained AC units often fail in July/August — right when tenants need them most.
Solution: Conduct full HVAC inspections before peak season, clean ducts, and test cooling efficiency.
6. Not Verifying Vendor Compliance with Dubai Regulations
Problem: Not all maintenance teams follow Dubai Municipality guidelines or hold valid trade licenses.
Why It Hurts: You risk fines, failed inspections, or legal disputes.
Solution: Ask for copies of licenses, DM approvals, and ensure all technicians are certified.
7. No Emergency Maintenance Plan
Problem: When breakdowns occur, there’s often no plan in place.
Why It Hurts: Every minute lost increases disruption and frustration.
Solution: Have an emergency SOP ready with your vendor’s hotline, escalation process, and first-response checklist.
Final Thoughts
From Mistake to Mastery:
Facility managers who shift from a reactive approach to a structured, proactive maintenance strategy will see fewer tenant complaints, lower operational costs, and better property value.
Looking for a Reliable MEP Maintenance Partner in Dubai?
We offer AMC packages tailored for Dubai properties, with transparent documentation, 24/7 emergency response, and compliance you can trust.