"How much does it cost to renovate an apartment in Dubai?" is the first question every client asks — and rightly so. The honest answer is: it depends on a lot of variables. But that isn't helpful when you're trying to decide whether to proceed, how much to budget, or whether a contractor's quote is reasonable.
This guide breaks down apartment renovation costs in Dubai by room type, apartment size, and finish level — based on Renovel's actual project data from 2024–2025. It covers what drives costs up or down, typical price ranges per square metre, and how to plan a realistic renovation budget.
Quick Cost Summary — Dubai Apartment Renovation 2025
Basic / Cosmetic
AED 600–900
per sqm
Mid-Range / Full
AED 900–1,800
per sqm
Premium / Luxury
AED 1,800–3,500+
per sqm
Room-by-Room Renovation Cost Breakdown
Each room has a different cost profile depending on the trades involved. Bathrooms and kitchens are the most expensive per sqm because they combine tiling, plumbing, joinery, and fitting-out work. Bedrooms and living rooms are lower per sqm but add up quickly at scale.
Bathroom
Basic
AED 12,000 – 20,000
Mid-Range
AED 20,000 – 40,000
Premium
AED 40,000 – 80,000+
Largest cost driver per sqm. Tiling, plumbing, fixtures, and waterproofing all add up quickly. Marble or premium porcelain increases cost significantly.
Kitchen
Basic
AED 15,000 – 30,000
Mid-Range
AED 30,000 – 60,000
Premium
AED 60,000 – 120,000+
Custom cabinetry, countertops, and appliances are the biggest variables. Italian lacquer cabinets and marble countertops push costs to the premium tier.
Living Room
Basic
AED 8,000 – 18,000
Mid-Range
AED 18,000 – 40,000
Premium
AED 40,000 – 90,000+
Flooring type has the biggest impact. Marble flooring for a large living room can cost AED 20,000+ on its own. Ceiling work and feature walls add further.
Master Bedroom
Basic
AED 6,000 – 14,000
Mid-Range
AED 14,000 – 30,000
Premium
AED 30,000 – 60,000+
Walk-in wardrobe fitout and flooring are the main variables. A custom built-in wardrobe system can add AED 8,000 – 25,000 depending on size and finish.
Additional Bedroom
Basic
AED 4,000 – 10,000
Mid-Range
AED 10,000 – 22,000
Premium
AED 22,000 – 45,000+
Lower cost than master due to smaller size and simpler fitout. Flooring and painting are typically the main costs.
Full Renovation Cost by Apartment Size
These estimates cover a complete renovation — flooring throughout, bathrooms, kitchen, painting, ceiling work, and basic electrical/lighting. They exclude furniture and soft furnishings.
| Apartment Size | Basic / Cosmetic | Full Renovation | Premium Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio (35–55 sqm) | AED 35,000 – 55,000 | AED 55,000 – 100,000 | AED 100,000 – 180,000+ |
| 1-Bed (55–80 sqm) | AED 50,000 – 80,000 | AED 80,000 – 140,000 | AED 140,000 – 250,000+ |
| 2-Bed (80–120 sqm) | AED 80,000 – 130,000 | AED 130,000 – 220,000 | AED 220,000 – 380,000+ |
| 3-Bed (120–180 sqm) | AED 120,000 – 190,000 | AED 190,000 – 320,000 | AED 320,000 – 550,000+ |
| Villa (200–400+ sqm) | AED 200,000 – 350,000 | AED 350,000 – 600,000 | AED 600,000 – 1,200,000+ |
Prices are estimates based on Dubai market rates in 2024–2025. Actual costs depend on scope, condition, and materials specified. Contact Renovel for a project-specific quote.
What Affects Apartment Renovation Cost in Dubai?
Understanding what drives renovation costs helps you make smarter decisions about where to spend and where to save.
Apartment Size
The single largest cost driver. Cost per sqm for renovation in Dubai typically ranges from AED 600 – AED 2,500+ depending on finish level.
Scope of Work
A cosmetic refresh (painting, flooring, fixtures) costs a fraction of a full structural renovation that involves moving walls, replumbing, or rewiring.
Materials & Finishes
Basic ceramic tiles vs. Italian marble can represent a 10× cost difference for the same area. Lacquered cabinets vs. PVC-coated add 3–5× on kitchens.
Condition of Existing Space
Old plumbing, damp issues, or structural problems discovered during work add cost. Budget a 10–15% contingency for surprises.
Location in Dubai
Accessibility and parking for materials and workers can affect cost in high-rise Marina or Downtown buildings vs. villa communities.
Timeline
Rush projects requiring weekend or extended-hour work command a premium. Standard timelines get the best pricing.
Turnkey Renovation vs. Partial Renovation
Partial / Room-by-Room
- + Lower upfront cost
- + Can be done in stages
- – Coordination risk if multiple contractors
- – May not look cohesive
- – Can cost more overall doing room-by-room
Turnkey Renovation
- + One point of contact throughout
- + Cohesive design result
- + Usually more cost-effective overall
- + Faster completion
- – Higher upfront investment
How to Budget for Your Dubai Renovation
A realistic renovation budget in Dubai has four components:
- Core renovation work — structural, plumbing, electrical, tiling, flooring, painting. Use the estimates above as a baseline.
- Custom joinery & built-ins — kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, TV units. Often quoted separately from main renovation.
- Fixtures & fittings — sanitary ware, lighting, switches, door handles. Mid-range fixtures for a 2-bed apartment typically add AED 15,000 – 35,000.
- Contingency — always 10–15% — old buildings in Dubai often reveal hidden issues once walls are opened. Set money aside for surprises.
For a 2-bedroom apartment full renovation with mid-range finishes, a realistic total budget including joinery, fixtures, and 12% contingency is AED 160,000 – 260,000.
Ready to Get an Accurate Quote?
Every apartment is different. The most reliable way to budget is a site visit and scope discussion with our team. We respond within 2 hours during business hours.