Dubai is famous for its luxury apartments, impressive spaces, and stylish homes. But before you start any interior design project, one big question comes to mind: What is the cost of interior designer in Dubai? The cost depends on certain factors like the level of luxury, size of the property, scope of the project, and the material you choose.
In this blog, we will thoroughly discuss interior design costs in Dubai so that you may know what you are going to pay before you start your project. Let’s dive in!
What Is the Average Interior Design Cost in Dubai?
The price of interior design depends on the designer and the scope of the work. Some designers charge high fees; others may charge low. Some offer complete turnkey solutions; others offer design-only packages. Let’s break down some typical price ranges in the Dubai market.
Basic Interior Design Services
This service includes layout suggestions, concept planning, and mood boards.
Estimated cost:
- AED 50 – AED 120 per square foot
- Design fee: AED 5,000 – AED 25,000 for smaller properties
This service is best when you want just guidance and can handle the project yourself.
Mid-Range Interior Design Projects
This service includes 3D renders, detailed drawings, and little supervision.
Estimated cost:
- AED 120 – AED 300 per square foot
- 1-bedroom apartment: AED 40,000 – AED 90,000
- 3-bedroom apartment: AED 90,000 – AED 180,000
Luxury Interior Design Projects
Luxury interior design involves imported materials, custom furniture, and premium-quality finishes.
Estimated cost: AED 300 – AED 800+ per square foot
Typical budgets:
- Luxury apartment: AED 250,000 – AED 600,000
- Luxury villa: AED 700,000 – AED 3,000,000+
Turnkey Interior Design Projects
Turnkey interior design means everything is in the hands of the designer. He does everything for you. For example,
- Design
- Fit-out
- Furniture
- Lighting
- Styling
Estimated turnkey interior design Dubai price: AED 400 – AED 1,200+ per square foot
Key Factors That Affect Interior Design Costs in Dubai
The price of interior design is not fixed. There are certain factors that participate in the final budget. In this section, we will discuss those factors one by one.
i) Property Type
Each property type has different design requirements. Let’s have a look.
Villas
Villas often need:
- Landscaping
- Large living areas
- Custom joinery
- Outdoor design
Due to these factors, the villa interior design cost in Dubai is usually higher.
Typical range: AED 350,000 – AED 2,000,000+
Apartments
Compared to villas, apartments are smaller and easier to manage.
Typical range: AED 30,000 – AED 250,000
Generally speaking, the overall apartment interior design cost in Dubai depends on the size and the level of luxury.
Penthouses
Penthouses usually include custom layouts, premium finishes, and professional-grade furniture.
Budget range: AED 500,000 – AED 3,000,000+
Offices or Retail Spaces
These interiors often include functional and professional layouts alongwith compliance approval.
Budget range: AED 150 – AED 450 per square foot
ii) Size of Property
Another factor that affects the cost of internal design is the size of your property. The larger the property, the higher the cost, and vice versa. The factor that is worth noticing here is that if the area is large, it will have a lower cost per square foot.
Example:
- 900 sq ft apartment → higher per sq ft cost
- 5,000 sq ft villa → lower per sq ft cost
iii) Scope of Work
The scope of your project plays a key role in the final price.
Design Only
In this, you handle the execution and receive drawings and concepts. It’s the most budget-friendly option.
Design & Supervision
In this type of work, the designer supervises the project, manages the contractor, and ensures good quality.
Turnkey Design
Here, everything is handled by the designer, from start to finish. This option is the most convenient but costly.
iv) Level of Luxury
The level of luxury of any property quickly changes the overall budget.
Standard Finish
- Basic materials
- Ready-made furniture
- Local suppliers
- Lower budget.
Premium Finish
- Higher-quality materials
- Designer furniture
- Custom lighting
- Mid-range budget.
Ultra Luxury
- Imported marble
- Italian furniture
- Custom joinery
- Advanced lighting systems
- Very high budget.
v) Materials and Finishes
Material choice is also a main factor in changing the price of interior design.
Examples:
- Imported marble flooring
- Custom wardrobes
- European furniture
- Smart home systems
Each element adds cost to the overall investment.
vi) Authority Approvals
Many projects in Dubai need approvals from municipal authorities, developers, and building management. These approvals can add extra cost.
Interior Designer Fee Structures in Dubai
There are several interior design fee models in Dubai. Let’s understand in an easy way.
Fixed Design Fee
Some designers have set fixed charges for interior design services.
Example:
AED 10,000 – AED 80,000
Pros:
- Clear Dubai interior design pricing
- Easy budgeting
Cons:
It does not include supervisions or revisions.
Percentage of Project Cost
Many designers charge in percentages, like they take 10% to 20% of the overall project cost.
Example:
If your project costs AED 200,000:
Designer fee = AED 20,000 – AED 40,000
Pros:
- The designer is fully focused on completing the project with precision.
Cons:
- Difficult to figure out the final fee at the start.
Per Square Foot Pricing
Another common interior design price model in Dubai.
Typical rates:
AED 10 – AED 50 per sq ft for design services
Pros:
- You can easily estimate the total cost.
Cons:
- Furniture or materials are not included.
Hourly Consultation Fee
Some designers only offer consultations.
Typical fee: AED 300 – AED 800 per hour
This plan is best when you want just guidance.
Villa Interior Design Cost in Dubai
3,000 sq ft Villa
Estimated total cost: AED 250,000 – AED 600,000
Includes:
- Living room design
- Bedrooms
- Kitchen upgrades
- Lighting
- Wardrobes
5,000 sq ft Villa
Estimated cost: AED 500,000 – AED 1,200,000
Costs increase due to:
- Larger spaces
- Custom furniture
- Premium materials
8,000+ sq ft Luxury Villa
Estimated cost: AED 1,500,000 – AED 5,000,000+
Luxury villas may include the following:
- Designer kitchens
- Home cinema
- Smart home systems
- High-end furniture
Landscaping may also add AED 100,000 – AED 500,000.
Apartment Interior Design Cost in Dubai
Now, let’s break down the interior design costs of apartments in Dubai.
Studio Apartment
Estimated cost: AED 20,000 – AED 60,000
1 Bedroom Apartment
Estimated cost: AED 40,000 – AED 90,000
Generally speaking, turnkey projects may reach AED 120,000.
2–3 Bedroom Apartment
Estimated cost: AED 80,000 – AED 250,000
The cost mostly depends on furniture and finishes.
Luxury Penthouse
Estimated cost: AED 500,000 – AED 2,000,000+
Here, high-end materials and premium materials are used.
Commercial Interior Design Costs in Dubai
Commercial projects have different requirements compared to residential projects. These spaces must follow regulatory and safety standards. Let’s discuss commercial interior design cost in Dubai.
Office Fit-Out Cost
Typical price: AED 150 – AED 400 per square foot
Includes:
- Workstations
- Meeting rooms
- Lighting
- Ceiling design
Retail Store Design
Retail interiors focus on customer experience.
Estimated interior design fees Dubai: AED 200 – AED 600 per square foot
Restaurant Interior Cost
Restaurants need specialized design.
Estimated cost: AED 350 – AED 1,000 per square foot
It includes kitchen planning, seating design, and lighting.
How to Reduce Interior Design Costs in Dubai
With smart planning, you can control your budget efficiently. In this section, we will discuss some practical tips.
- Prioritize Key Areas: Your first focus should be master bedrooms and the living room.
- Mix Custom and Ready Furniture: Use a mix of custom-made and ready-made furniture. Use a custom piece only where there is a need.
- Choose Local Suppliers: Choosing the local supplier helps you reduce the shipping costs.
- Phase the Project: Always start with the most important area of your place.
- Compare Multiple Quotes: Before choosing a company, always check at least two design proposals.
Is Hiring an Interior Designer in Dubai Worth It?
Although many people design their homes themselves, hiring a professional can offer you several key benefits. Let’s discuss.
- Saves Time: Designers can better manage the suppliers and contractors. Also, help you avoid delays and stress.
- Avoids Expensive Mistakes: Always choose the right material; it can cost you thousands of dollars. A dependable designer helps you avoid these mistakes.
- Access to Supplier Discounts: You know, designers usually have relationships with suppliers; they can help you get discounts.
- Increases Property Value: A well-designed home rents and sells faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does interior design cost per square foot in Dubai?
Well, it depends on the project complexity and the material you choose. It usually ranges from AED 150 to AED 800 per square foot.
What is the minimum budget for a villa interior in Dubai?
A small villa project usually costs around AED 250,000. Luxury villas may exceed AED 2 million.
Do interior designers in Dubai charge a consultation fee?
Yes. Interior design consultation fees in Dubai usually range between AED 300 and AED 800 per hour.
Is turnkey interior design more expensive?
Yes, but it saves your time and effort. The plan includes design, construction, furniture, and overall management.
How long does an interior design project take in Dubai?
Most projects take 8 to 20 weeks, depending on size and complexity.
What is the difference between fit-out and interior design?
Interior design usually focuses on aesthetics and planning, while fit-out involves flooring, partitions, and ceilings.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, interior design costs vary in Dubai. It depends on the design, style, materials, and size of your property. Well, a simple apartment project often costs AED 40,000, while a luxury villa design can cost AED 2 million.
Okay, are you planning to design your apartment, villa, or any commercial space? The right designer can help you save time, effort, and money. At Dehleez Studio, we offer interior design solutions tailored to your taste, space, budget, and preferences. We are a dependable designer you can rely on.
