Finding the correct building in Dubai can be difficult when properties have similar names, a development has several entrances, or an address only identifies the general area. A building name alone may not direct a driver, visitor, or service provider to the right access point.
A Makani number provides a more precise way to identify a location. This guide explains what a Makani number in Dubai is, where to find yours, how to search for it online or through the Makani app, and what to do if the number is missing or appears to be incorrect.
What is a Makani Number in Dubai?
A Makani number is a unique 10-digit code assigned to a building's main entrance. It forms part of Dubai's official geographic addressing system and links that entrance to an exact map position. This is useful in large developments, commercial complexes and buildings with access points on different roads.
The Makani system is managed by Dubai Municipality. Residents, visitors, delivery providers and public services can use its location data to find a building accurately.
A Makani number identifies the entrance rather than an individual home or office. If you live in an apartment building, you will still need to provide your tower or building name and unit number when arranging a delivery or directing a visitor.
What Does a Makani Number Look Like?
The code contains 10 digits and may be displayed in two groups of five, such as 12345 67890. It is usually shown on a plate near the relevant entrance.
The Makani number is different from an apartment number, plot number, tenancy contract number, or postal address. These details serve different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably.
The main benefit is accuracy. Instead of sending lengthy directions, you can share one code linked to the correct entrance. A Makani number can help when:
Directing guests, couriers, or maintenance teams to a property
Identifying the correct entrance to a large building or complex
Sharing a location when the street address is unclear
Planning a route through the Makani map or app
Providing more precise location information during an emergency
Distinguishing between buildings with similar names
How Can You Find Your Makani Number?
You can find a Makani number at the property or search for it remotely. The best method depends on whether you are already at the building and how much information you have about the location.
Check the Building Entrance
Look for the Makani plate near the main entrance and copy all 10 digits. If the building has several main entrances, check that the plate belongs to the access point you intend to use.
Search Through the Makani Website
The official Makani map allows you to search remotely and inspect the entrance markers shown for a building. To find the number online:
Open the official Makani website
Search using the building name, community, traditional address or available land details
Zoom in until the building boundary and entrance points are visible
Select the relevant entrance and view its 10-digit Makani number
Verify the building, community and map position before sharing the code
Use the Makani App
The official mobile app lets you search, navigate and share locations in Arabic or English. Search by Makani number, place name, community or available address details, or scan the QR code on a Makani plate.
Ask the Building Management
If you cannot find the plate or are unsure which entrance to use, ask the reception, security team, property manager or developer to confirm the correct code. This is useful for new properties, mixed-use projects and buildings with changed access arrangements.
How Do You Use or Share a Makani Number?
Enter the complete 10-digit code into the Makani website or app. The entrance should appear on the map, allowing you to check it, obtain directions, or share the location. Send the code with any details needed after arrival, such as:
Building or tower name
Apartment, villa or office number
Residential, visitor or service entrance
Floor or reception instructions
Your contact number
Sharing the app's location link can reduce typing errors and make navigation easier.
Is a Makani Number the Same as Other Property Details?
No. A Dubai property can have several identifiers with different purposes.
Detail
What It Identifies
Main Use
Makani number
A specific building entrance
Mapping, navigation and location sharing
Unit or villa number
An individual home, office or premises
Identifying the occupant's exact unit
Plot or land number
The parcel of land
Property, planning and land records
Street and community
The general address and surrounding area
Describing where the property is located
For example, a courier may need the Makani number to reach the entrance and the apartment number to complete the delivery. A plot number relates to the land parcel rather than the entrance used for navigation. For more context on property registration and land records, read Binghatti's guide to the Dubai Land Department services.
What If Your Makani Number is Missing or Incorrect?
First, check the entrance. A development may have separate access points for residents, visitors, offices, retail spaces, or parking, and their numbers can differ. If no plate is visible:
Search for the building through the official Makani website or app
Try the community name, building name or land details
Ask building management or security for the entrance code
Check whether the property is newly completed or its entrance arrangements have changed
Practical Tips for Using a Makani Number
Save the code with the property name and entrance description
Check all 10 digits before sharing it
Include the unit number separately for apartments and offices
Confirm copied numbers against the official map
Update saved details if access arrangements change
Conclusion
A Makani number provides a simple and accurate way to identify a building entrance in Dubai, particularly when properties have multiple access points or similar addresses. Before sharing the number, always verify the full 10-digit code and make sure it corresponds to the entrance you intend to use.
For apartments, offices and villas, the Makani number should be shared alongside the building name and unit details to help visitors, couriers and service providers reach the correct location. If the number is missing or appears incorrect, confirm it through the official Makani system or with building management.
Looking for a property in Dubai? Explore the latest Binghatti properties or contact a Binghatti property consultant on +971 800 15.
No. A Makani number identifies a building entrance for navigation. A PO Box is used for postal correspondence, while a street or community name describes a broader area.
How many digits are in a Makani number?
A Makani number contains 10 digits. It may appear in two groups of five, but all digits form the complete code.
Can one building have more than one Makani number?
Yes. A building with multiple main entrances may have a different number for each.
Can I find a Makani number without visiting the property?
Yes. Search through the official Makani website or app, select the relevant entrance, and verify the surrounding location.
Does a Makani number identify an apartment or office? Drag
No. It identifies the entrance, not an individual unit.