Apartment renovation cost in Dubai, the complete breakdown
A full premium apartment renovation in Dubai typically costs AED 1,500 to AED 4,000 per square metre. For a standard two-bedroom apartment of 130 m², that is a total budget of AED 195,000 to AED 520,000.
Cost by apartment size
A 130 m² two-bedroom apartment in Marina or Business Bay typically needs AED 195,000-520,000 for a complete transformation. A 200 m² three-bedroom apartment ranges from AED 300,000 to AED 800,000 or more, with the top of each bracket reflecting structural changes, full MEP upgrades and imported marble.
Room-by-room breakdown
The kitchen is usually the single largest expense, 25-35% of the total budget, from AED 80,000 for a compact layout to AED 350,000 or more for an open-plan penthouse kitchen. Bathrooms typically run AED 40,000-120,000 each, and living areas and bedrooms AED 500-1,500 per m².
What drives the budget
Apartment condition, the scope of structural changes and material selection are the three biggest factors. Materials and finishes alone typically account for 35-45% of a premium renovation budget.
Hidden costs to plan for
Building management fees (AED 3,000-15,000), refundable damage deposits (AED 5,000-20,000), permits, temporary utilities and waste removal are the costs most often left out of a first estimate. We itemise every one of them upfront.