#1. Bolted vs Welded Connections
PEBs from major suppliers (Zamil, Mammut, Kirby, Robotic Park) use bolted moment-resisting connections at the eaves and ridges. These can be unbolted in sequence and reused if the project owner wants to resell the steel. Welded connections (older or custom PEBs) must be cut, reducing resale value but not scrap value.
#2. Dismantling Sequence
Top-down sequence: roof sheets, purlins, sag rods, then portal frame bays starting from one end. A 50–80 tonne mobile crane is typically used for portal frame lifts. Mid-size PEBs (3,000–8,000 sqm) take 3–5 weeks for full dismantling.
#3. Steel Recovery Economics
Bolted portal frames in good condition can be resold for 35–55% of new steel value (AED 1,800–3,200 per tonne in 2026). Scrap-only steel sells for AED 900–1,400 per tonne. On a 5,000 sqm PEB with 80 tonnes of steel, the recovery credit is AED 72,000–256,000 depending on method.
#4. Roof Sheet & Insulation Recovery
Single-skin roof sheets can be reused if removed carefully (AED 18–32/sqm resale). Insulated panels (50–100mm) are typically scrapped unless very recent. Removing carefully adds 1–2 weeks to dismantling but the credit is meaningful on large jobs.
#5. Foundation & Slab Demolition
PEB foundations are isolated pad footings — much faster to demolish than continuous reinforced slabs. Concrete crushing on-site for reuse as fill saves AED 35–55 per cubic metre on disposal.
#6. Regulatory Workflow
PEB demolitions inside industrial zones (Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Mussafah, Hamriyah) are straightforward: Free Zone authority NOC (if applicable), Municipality demolition permit, DEWA/AADC disconnection. Total permit cycle: 7–14 days.
#7. Cost Benchmarks 2026
Standard PEB warehouse (3,000–8,000 sqm): AED 40–65/sqm gross demolition. After steel and recovery credits, net cost typically drops to AED 18–38/sqm. Larger PEBs (15,000–30,000 sqm logistics centres): AED 30–48/sqm gross.