How Much Does an Interior Design Project Cost in Dubai?
- A91 Concepts
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
How Much Does an Interior Design Project Cost in Dubai?
Dubai never does “simple.” From sky-high penthouses to chic cafes tucked into corners of Al Quoz, every space feels like it’s trying to say something. And when it comes to interior design, the city doesn’t hold back — neither in style nor in price. So, what does it actually cost to design a space here?
The answer? It depends. But not in a vague, frustrating way. It really depends on the kind of space, the finishes, the purpose, and who’s doing the work. Whether it’s residential interior design in Dubai, commercial interior design, or luxury interior design, the pricing can swing big.
Let’s break it down — not in a stiff brochure way, just straight-up, real talk.
Interior Fit Out vs. Design Fees – Not the Same Thing
First up, it’s easy to confuse interior design with fit out. Design is all the creative part — layout, colors, furniture styles, lighting mood, etc. Fit out? That’s the actual build: walls, ceilings, flooring, MEP work, and so on.
A designer might charge AED 150 to AED 500 per square meter just for the concept, drawings, and mood boards. A full turnkey interior design solution — where they handle everything start to finish — that’s going to be more.
Size Matters, Always
Let’s say there’s a small studio apartment in JVC. The interior design cost in Dubai for something like that could start from AED 20,000 and go up depending on how custom the finishes are. Now, bump that up to a luxury villa interior design in Dubai — we’re talking AED 300,000 to over AED 1 million if you’re going full marble floors, designer lighting, and imported furniture.
For office interior design, a basic corporate look might start around AED 350 per square meter. But if the goal is modern tech-savvy spaces with biophilic walls and glass partitions — the budget climbs.
Quality, Custom, and the Curveballs
Every project throws surprises. Materials might be delayed. Clients change their minds. Prices fluctuate. That’s why commercial fit out companies in Dubai often build buffers into their quotes.
Going custom? Like made-to-measure reception desks, or bespoke cabinetry? That always costs more. Not because they want to overcharge — but because custom means more hands, more time, more steps.
Authority Approvals – The Silent Costs
Here’s something nobody talks about upfront: the paperwork. Dubai Municipality, Trakhees, Tecom, Civil Defence — they all need their say. And all of them cost money. Fees for permits and approvals vary based on property type and location, and they’re not always included in the first quote you get.
That’s why experienced fit out contractors in Dubai matter. They know the system. They’ve done it 100 times. They’ll price it properly and save everyone headaches.
Materials Make or Break the Budget
Choosing between laminate and natural wood? Between regular gypsum or acoustic-enhanced partitions? These details drive cost faster than people expect. Same goes for lighting — a statement chandelier could cost more than an entire sofa set.
This is where interior fit out companies in Dubai help balance beauty with practicality. The best ones suggest alternatives when needed. Want the marble look without the price tag? They’ll know a material that pulls it off.
Residential vs. Commercial Interior Design – Two Worlds
Designing a home feels emotional. It’s about comfort, personal style, and longevity. Most homeowners stretch their budget for that dream kitchen or the walk-in closet with smart lighting.
With residential interior design in Dubai, cost depends on whether the space is owner-occupied, rented, or meant for resale. Full villa design jobs? They usually start at AED 200,000 and can go far north if the finishes are ultra high-end.
Commercial interior design plays by different rules. Offices, clinics, showrooms — the ROI is always in the picture. So companies tend to lean on efficiency, compliance, and durability.
What About Restaurants and Cafés?
Restaurant and café interior design in Dubai is a whole other beast. You’re not just designing for looks — you’re designing for experience, movement, health standards, and that Instagram moment.
Fit out costs for restaurants usually start at AED 600 per square meter but can skyrocket if the concept is premium. Ventilation systems, kitchen build, grease traps, furniture, lighting, branding — all of it adds up. And since competition is stiff, everyone’s trying to stand out. That adds to the price too.
Designer or Design & Build?
Some people hire just an interior designer in Dubai, then give the build job to someone else. Others prefer a design and build company that handles everything under one roof.
The second option may be more efficient — fewer gaps in communication, faster execution. But it can also cost a little more up front. The flip side is fewer delays and surprises later.
Maintenance and Aftercare
This part often gets skipped when budgeting. But any serious interior fit out company in Dubai will tell you: spaces need upkeep. Maintenance contracts, post-handover support, warranty periods — they all factor in.
Whether it’s a commercial project or a home, having someone to call when something breaks or malfunctions is worth the extra AED 10,000 you might spend on a more reliable team.
No One-Price-Fits-All
There’s no magic number for how much an interior design project costs in Dubai. One café might cost AED 150,000. Another with the same size could go over AED 500,000. Same for homes and offices. It all comes down to:
• Scope
• Size
• Finish level
• Location
• Timeline
• Authority requirements
• Materials
• Experience of the company
What helps? Asking for an itemized quote, comparing more than just price, and choosing a team that listens more than they talk.
No one wants surprises mid-project. And in a city like Dubai, where every square meter matters, every detail counts. It’s not just about spending money. It’s about spending smart.
*As with everything, prices will vary based on time, material, labor, and add-ons features, so it is best to request a quote specific to your Space and needs.*
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