Guide · Planning a renovation
What Affects Renovation Cost in Dubai
Renovation cost in Dubai varies so much that a price per square metre tells you very little. Two kitchens of the same size can differ several times in price, because of what changes and what stays. This guide explains the factors that move the price. As a result, you can plan a budget and compare quotes fairly.
- Scope What changes and what stays.
- Finishes Materials, hardware and fixtures.
- Services Plumbing, power and AC moved.
- Access Building rules, lifts and working hours.
Budget
Start here
Why renovation cost is hard to guess
Most of the renovation cost sits in things you cannot see in a photo. For example, the age of the pipes, the state of the walls and the rules of your building all affect the work. So any honest price comes after someone has measured and inspected the space.
That said, you can still plan. If you understand which choices drive the price, you can decide where to spend and where to save. In addition, you can spot a quote that leaves something out.
We do not publish price lists, because each job is measured and priced on its own.
The factors
Six things that move renovation cost
Scope of work
A refresh keeps the layout and changes surfaces. A full refit, however, removes everything back to the walls. That difference matters more than room size.
Layout changes
Moving a sink, toilet or hob means new drainage, supplies or circuits. So a changed layout usually costs more than the same finishes in the old one.
Finishes and hardware
Solid timber, stone and premium hinges cost more than painted board and standard fittings. The labour is often similar, though.
Services
Old wiring, hidden leaks and weak AC often appear once walls open. Therefore, a good quote explains how unknowns are handled.
Approvals and access
Towers limit noisy hours and lift use, while communities may need approvals. Both add time, and time adds cost.
Phasing and timing
Doing rooms one at a time spreads the cost. On the other hand, it can repeat set-up, protection and cleaning.
By project
Renovation cost by type of project
Each type of renovation has its own main cost drivers. Our project pages explain them in more detail:
- Kitchen renovation: cabinet run, worktops and appliances
- Bathroom renovation: waterproofing, tiling and fixtures
- Villa renovation: floors, exterior and approvals
- Apartment renovation: building rules and access
Smaller jobs follow the same logic. For instance, tiling works depend on area and preparation, while a staircase renovation depends on the number and shape of the steps.
For commercial premises, see office renovation, shop fit-out and clinic fit-out.
Getting a quote
How to get an accurate renovation cost
- Photos Send photos of each room and the building name.
- Wish list List what must change and what can stay.
- Finishes Collect pictures of finishes you like.
- Visit Then the contractor measures and inspects the space.
- Quote Compare quotes line by line, not just the total.
- Questions Finally, ask what is excluded and how extras are priced.
Building work in Dubai follows the Dubai Building Code, alongside any rules your building or community sets.
Comparing quotes
How to compare renovation quotes
A lower total is not always cheaper. Often, it simply leaves something out. So check each quote for the same items:
- demolition and waste removal
- protection of floors, lifts and furniture
- plumbing, electrical and AC work
- materials, hardware and their brands
- painting and making good after the work
- approvals and building charges
Also ask how the contractor prices hidden problems. Because walls and floors can hide surprises, a clear rule agreed in advance avoids arguments later.
Our guide on comparing joinery quotations covers the cabinet side in more detail.
Questions
Renovation cost FAQs
Can you give me a price per square metre?
Not reliably. The same area can need very different work, so we price after a visit.
Why did my quotes differ so much?
Usually because they cover different scopes or finishes. Comparing them line by line shows where the gap comes from.
How can I reduce renovation cost?
Keep the layout where possible, choose durable mid-range finishes, and phase the work if your budget is tight.
Should I keep a contingency?
Yes, especially in older properties, since hidden problems often appear once work starts.
Related
Plan your renovation
Renovation services Every service in one place.
Home renovation Rooms and whole homes.
Compare joinery quotes Read a quote line by line.
Kitchen cabinet cost What a kitchen budget covers.
Get a real number
Ask for a renovation quote
Send photos, rough sizes and a list of what you want to change. We will then arrange a visit and price the work line by line.
You can also use the contact form and attach photos with rough sizes.