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Concrete core drilling in Dubai and across the UAE.
This article explains the planning question. For scope review, method selection and a site-specific technical proposal, continue to Arasar's primary service page.
Start with a complete bore schedule
Each opening should have a stable reference, diameter, depth, orientation and permitted tolerance. The schedule should also identify what the bore is for, because an MEP sleeve, anchor, sample and structural opening have different finish and coordination requirements.
- Bore identification and drawing reference
- Diameter, depth, angle and tolerance
- Entry and exit-face access
- Receiving service or construction purpose
- Required finish, record and inspection point
Coordinate scanning before the final set-out
Available structural and MEP drawings should be reviewed before the work area is scanned. Suitable concrete scanning can then help the project team understand reinforcement patterns, potential post-tension conflicts and concealed services at the proposed bore location.
Scanning is evidence for a decision, not an automatic clearance. Findings, limitations and any revised location should be coordinated with the responsible engineer and trade before the drill is anchored.
- Mark the proposed bore against a fixed site reference
- Record scan direction, survey extent and interpretation limits
- Escalate congested or uncertain areas before drilling
- Confirm approval of any relocated opening
Design the rig setup around the work face
The drill must remain aligned while torque, feed pressure and the weight of the barrel act on the setup. Anchorage or vacuum fixing, edge distance, working orientation, access equipment and the condition of the substrate all affect the method.
For overhead, inclined or restricted-access bores, the team should define how the rig, barrel and released core will be restrained. The exit face also needs protection where breakthrough could damage finishes or expose people below.
Control cooling water, slurry and the released core
Diamond coring normally needs controlled cooling and produces slurry. Water supply, local collection, bunding, wet extraction and disposal routes should be agreed before work starts, particularly in finished, occupied or equipment-sensitive areas.
The concrete core can be heavier than it appears. Its expected weight, release direction and recovery method should be considered before breakthrough so it cannot fall, jam or damage the receiving side.
- Protect nearby finishes, services and equipment
- Collect slurry at source rather than allowing migration
- Restrain cores where gravity creates a release risk
- Keep the work zone clean enough for inspection
Close the bore with a useful handover record
Completion should confirm that the correct opening was formed at the approved location and that the surrounding concrete has been left in the agreed condition. A practical record links the bore identification, actual dimensions, date, scan or clearance reference and any site observation that matters to the next trade.
For a drilling proposal in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, provide Arasar with the bore schedule, drawings, site photographs, access restrictions, working hours and water-control requirements. This allows the equipment and method to be selected around the real project conditions.
Frequently asked questions
01Should concrete be scanned before core drilling in Dubai?
Where reinforcement, post-tensioning or concealed services may conflict with the proposed bore, suitable scanning and engineering coordination should form part of the pre-drilling review. The required approach depends on the structure and project risk.
02What information is needed to price core drilling?
Provide bore quantities, diameters, depths, angles, concrete thickness, access, orientation, reinforcement information, scanning requirements, water restrictions, working hours and the required treatment of released cores and slurry.
03Can concrete core drilling be completed overhead or at an angle?
Yes, subject to a suitable rig, anchorage, access, water-control and core-retention method. These conditions should be assessed for the actual work face before mobilisation.
04Does Arasar provide drilling services outside Dubai?
Arasar mobilises from Dubai for suitable concrete core drilling projects across the UAE. Scope, access and project controls are reviewed before a technical proposal is issued.
Project note
Guidance is the starting point. The site determines the method.
Every structure, access route and operating environment is different. Final engineering, approvals and controls should be based on verified project information and a site-specific assessment.
