| Material Type | Source | Acceptance Criteria | |------------------|------------|--------------------------| | Selected fill | Borrow pit (approved quarry, e.g., Al Ain or Sweihan) | Max particle size 75 mm, ≤ 5% fines passing #200, sulfate content ≤ 0.5% by weight | | Granular sub-base | Same | CBR ≥ 30, sand equivalent ≥ 35, liquid limit ≤ 25, plasticity index ≤ 6 | | Structural fill | On-site or imported | No organic matter, no gypsum bands, chloride ≤ 0.3% (for reinforced zone) | | Fill behind retaining walls | Free-draining granular material | ≤ 12% passing #200 sieve |
Abu Dhabi special restriction: No sabkha material is allowed in structural fills or below footings, even if compacted. Salt attack on concrete and rebar is unacceptable.
| Parameter | Abu Dhabi Part 2 | BS 6031 (UK) | AASHTO (USA) | |---------------|----------------------|------------------|------------------| | Max fill lift thickness | 200–300 mm (depending on compaction equipment) | 250 mm | 200 mm (modified) | | Compaction (granular), % mod. Proctor | 95–98% | 95% | 95% (light), 98% (heavy) | | Sabkha prohibition | Explicitly banned | Not applicable | Not addressed | | Salt/chloride limits for fill | Yes, strict (<0.3% near rebar) | No (except marine environments) | Some state DOTs | | Dewatering requirement | Compulsory if GW <1.5 m below excavation bottom | Risk-based | Risk-based | standard construction specifications part 2 abu dhabi
| Issue | Why it occurs | Penalty per typical contract | |-----------|------------------|----------------------------------| | Using on-site sabkha as fill | To avoid hauling cost | Full removal at contractor’s expense + recompaction testing | | Insufficient compaction passes | Schedule pressure | 50% reduction in payment for earthworks unit rates | | No dewatering during excavation | Underestimating AD’s high water table | Stop-work order, retesting of subgrade | | Not protecting utilities | Poor coordination | Full replacement cost of damaged fiber/gas/water lines + DMT fines (AED 10k–100k) |
The Standard Construction Specifications Part 2 Abu Dhabi is not a bureaucratic formality—it is the legal and technical DNA of the emirate’s sustainable growth. Whether you are laying a single manhole or a 20km highway, strict adherence to Part 2 ensures that your work withstands the region's harsh environment, meets the DMT’s zero-defect policy, and ultimately, protects public safety. | Material Type | Source | Acceptance Criteria
Final action steps for your project team:
Remember: In Abu Dhabi, the specification is king. Part 2 is its constitution. Engineer your work accordingly. | Issue | Why it occurs | Penalty
The Rule: Chapter 600 – Precast kerbs must be cured for 7 days at 90% humidity inside the plant. The Violation: Shipping kerbs to site after 48 hours to meet schedule. Fix: Plan production 14 days ahead. Part 2 prohibits installation of precast units if the compressive strength is less than 85% of 28-day design strength (tested via break test).