Planning an apartment renovation in Dubai? In 2026, most apartment renovations in Dubai cost between AED 35,000 and AED 280,000, depending on the size of the apartment, the scope of work, and the finish level you choose. This guide breaks down the prices by apartment size and finish, explains what drives the final bill, and shows you how to budget with confidence.
What Does Apartment Renovation Cost in Dubai in 2026?
As a broad guide, a light refresh with painting, flooring, and minor repairs is the most affordable option, while a full renovation with a new kitchen, new bathrooms, and updated electrical and plumbing work sits at the higher end of the range.
- Light refresh: AED 35,000 to AED 70,000
- Mid-range renovation: AED 70,000 to AED 150,000
- Full luxury renovation: AED 150,000 to AED 280,000 or more
Cost by Apartment Size
Size is one of the biggest cost drivers, because it affects the amount of flooring, painting, joinery, and labour required.
- Studio apartment: AED 25,000 to AED 60,000
- 1-bedroom apartment: AED 45,000 to AED 110,000
- 2-bedroom apartment: AED 80,000 to AED 180,000
- 3-bedroom apartment: AED 130,000 to AED 280,000
Cost by Finish Level
The finish level you choose can change the total by tens of thousands of dirhams, even for the same apartment.
- Standard finish: durable, practical materials and straightforward fittings
- Mid-range finish: better tiles, worktops, sanitary ware, and lighting
- Premium finish: stone worktops, bespoke joinery, and designer fittings
Room-by-Room Costs
A kitchen renovation is usually the most expensive single room, with new cabinets, worktops, appliances, and tiling often costing between AED 25,000 and AED 90,000.
A bathroom renovation typically costs between AED 12,000 and AED 35,000 per bathroom, depending on tiles, sanitary ware, shower fittings, and waterproofing.
- Living areas and bedrooms: painting, flooring, and lighting upgrades
- Balconies and storage: weatherproofing, built-in wardrobes, and smart storage
What Drives the Price Up or Down?
Several factors can push a quote up or bring it down, so two apartments of the same size can still cost very different amounts.
- Scope of work: cosmetic changes cost far less than structural or layout changes
- Materials and brands: imported tiles and fittings cost more than local alternatives
- Building access and working hours: restricted access can add time and labour costs
- Plumbing and electrical changes: moving kitchens and bathrooms adds complexity
Approvals, Building Rules, and Timelines
Most Dubai buildings require a no-objection certificate (NOC) and an approved scope of work before renovation can start, and some works also need developer or authority approval. Working with an experienced renovation company in Dubai Marina can help you prepare the right documents and avoid costly delays.
- Allow time for NOC approval, deposits, and building inspections
- Confirm working hours, noise rules, and material delivery routes in advance
- Most apartment renovations take 4 to 12 weeks, depending on scope
How to Budget With Confidence
Start with a clear scope, get itemised quotes, and keep a contingency of 10 to 15 percent for hidden issues such as old wiring, water damage, or uneven floors.
- List must-haves separately from nice-to-haves
- Compare like-for-like quotes, not just headline totals
- Agree on materials, timelines, and payment stages in writing
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to renovate a 1-bedroom apartment in Dubai? A 1-bedroom apartment typically costs between AED 45,000 and AED 110,000, depending on the scope and finish level.
How long does an apartment renovation take? Most apartment renovations take 4 to 12 weeks, with light refreshes at the shorter end and full renovations at the longer end.
Do I need approval from the building or developer? Yes, most buildings require a no-objection certificate and an approved scope of work before work can begin.
Can I live in my apartment during renovation? For light work it may be possible, but for full renovations it is usually more practical and safer to move out temporarily.
Is a full renovation worth it before selling or renting? A well-planned renovation can improve comfort, rental appeal, and resale presentation, but it is best to focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and finishes buyers and tenants notice most.
Ready to plan your renovation? Contact us today for a clear, itemised quote and a renovation plan that fits your apartment, your budget, and your timeline.