Dubai is where luxury and design go hand in hand. You see those shiny skyscrapers and super fancy villas, right? The interiors are everything.
But let’s be real, when you’re thinking about hiring an Interior design firm, the first thing you wanna know is, “How much is this gonna cost me?” The cost depends on a few things. The size of your space matters.
Designing a big house costs more than a small apartment. What you want also matters. If you just need a few new pillows, it’s not too expensive, but a full redesign will cost more. The designer’s reputation makes a difference, too.
And if you want fancy gold finishes, get ready to spend. In this blog, we’ll share insights to help you know about these pricing details so you’re not hit with any surprise costs later.
Pricing Models Used by Interior Designers in Dubai
In Dubai’s market, interior design can change any space from dull to amazing. Costs vary depending on the size and type of project. Designers might charge hourly, a flat fee, or based on space size. Bigger spaces or projects will cost more, so it’s all about what fits your budget. Designers typically charge in one of several ways:
1. Hourly Rates: You’ll pay about AED 200–500 per hour. This is good for quick advice or small projects. It won’t cost too much for smaller things, but if they take their time, those hours can add up.
2. Fixed Fees: Some designers charge AED 5,000–20,000 for the design phase. If you’re doing a full villa or big house, expect to pay AED 20,000–150,000+. Everything is set up front, so there are no surprises.
3. Per-Area Pricing: For homes, it’s about AED 75–400 per square foot. Commercial spaces usually cost more, AED 100–500 per square foot. Luxury designs? That can be AED 200–1,000 per m². The bigger the space, the higher the price.
4. Percentage of Project Cost: Some designers take 10–20% of the total project cost as their fee. For example, on an AED 1 million project, that’s AED 100k–200k. Make sure to factor that into your budget.
5. Consultation Fees: If you just need a consultation, it’s around AED 500–1,000 per hour. Or you can pay AED 2,500 for a half-day consultation. It’s a flexible, low-commitment way to get expert help.
These pricing models often work together. Always ask designers how they charge, whether it’s hourly, flat, or a percentage, and what’s included. Many Dubai firms offer free initial quotes and even 0% interest payment plans on design fees to help fit projects into your budget.
Residential Project Costs
So, when it comes to homes, the cost really depends on the property and the kind of finishes you’re looking for.
1. For studios or interior design just for a one room, expect to spend around AED 10,000–25,000 for the full design or renovation. Not bad, right?
2. For a 2–3-bedroom apartment, it’s gonna cost between AED 25,000–60,000. More space means more options.
3. But if you’re going for a villa with 3–5+ bedrooms and want a high-end makeover, be ready to spend AED 80,000–250,000+, depending on how fancy you want it. Big spaces mean big budgets. Simple as that!
Look, these prices are based on mid-range materials and scope. But if you want to go all out with luxury finishes, custom furniture, or some unique details, expect to pay more. Some interior design firms break it down like this: basic services cost AED 200–400 per m², mid-range is AED 400–700, and if you’re going high-end, it’s AED 700–1,000+ per m².
In simple terms, the better the materials and the bigger the designer’s reputation, the more you’ll pay.
Budget Examples: Some firms like to break things into packages to keep it simple for you. For a small apartment renovation, the cost is around AED 20–50K total.
Not bad, right? But if you’re eyeing a mid-sized villa, that starts at around AED 80K, and if you’re going ultra-luxe, it could easily hit six figures. So, depending on how fancy you wanna get, it’s all about what fits your vibe and wallet!
Commercial Project Costs
Offices, shops, hotels, and restaurants are more complicated. It’s not just about making the space look good, but also making sure they follow rules, match the brand, and can handle lots of people. The typical costing
Per-Square-Foot: For commercial spaces, designers usually charge AED 100–500 per square foot. If you’re doing an office fit-out, that could be anywhere from AED 50–300 per square foot, depending on how fancy or complex you want it to be.
Total Project Budgets: For smaller retail or office projects, expect to start around AED 20,000–30,000. But if you’re going big or high-end, be ready to spend hundreds of thousands. Full-scale restaurant or hotel designs, especially with things like lighting or kitchens, can quickly cost a lot more.
For commercial spaces, you’ll pay more because there’s a lot more work to do. The interior design services include things like MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), fire safety, and all the important stuff that makes the space work. Designers usually charge 15–25% of the total budget for this. Business projects cost more and need more work.
And if you’re doing premium office or retail spaces in Dubai, expect those costs to double compared to a regular home. That’s the price for high-end spaces!
Freelance vs. Professional Firms
Choosing who to do your design will totally change the game for you, both in cost and service.
♢ Freelance Designers: Freelance designers are usually cheaper, about 10–30% less than big firms. They don’t have the same overhead, so they can offer more flexible pricing. You’ll get personal attention and more freedom with the scope of your project.
The downside? Freelancers often work alone or in small teams, so you’ll have to handle things like procurement and construction yourself. They focus on the design, but you take care of the rest. It’s a trade-off for the lower price.
♢ Design Firms/Agencies: If you go with a big design firm, expect to pay more, usually 10–30% more. What you get is a full-service package. They take care of everything from design to sourcing and project management.
They’ll also handle permits and site supervision. It’s all-in-one, but that comes with higher fees and less room for negotiation. You’re paying for everything to be done for you.
Freelancers are cheaper but may not have the resources a big firm can offer. If you’re doing a small renovation, a freelancer is a great choice. But for big projects like villas or offices, you’ll need a firm with engineers, contractors, and bulk buying power.
Many firms also offer perks like 0% payment plans and free consultations, while freelancers usually want full payment upfront. It all comes down to what you need. Go with the firm if you want everything handled, or choose a freelancer if you’re okay doing some extra work and saving money.
Factors That Influence the Price
Project Size
Bigger projects cost more, but you might get a lower price per square meter. Materials also play a big role. If you go for imported marble, fancy lighting, or custom furniture, your budget will definitely go up. But if you choose local materials, you can save some cash.
Customization
Customization makes a difference. Ready-made furniture is cheaper than custom pieces like built-in cabinets or smart home features. Designer names matter too. If you pick a well-known interior design company in Dubai, you’ll pay more for their experience, reputation, and client list.
Location
Location matters a lot! Projects in top areas like Downtown Dubai or Palm Jumeirah are usually more expensive. If you have tight deadlines, seasonal demand, or need special approvals, your budget is going to rise even more. All these factors add quickly.
How to Choose the Right Interior Designer
Choosing the right designer is like avoiding a big problem. It saves you a lot of headaches and keeps your dirhams safe.
Check Experience & Portfolio
Start by looking at their past work. You want a designer who has experience with projects like yours. Don’t just focus on the photos; check if the style and quality stay consistent. Always read reviews or ask for references. If they have awards or recognition, you know they’re the real deal.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first quote. Get at least three detailed ones. A lot of designers offer free initial meetings or quotes, so take advantage. Make sure each quote shows what’s included, like design hours, 3D renders, and site visits, and what’s not, like furniture and materials. Being clear from the start saves a lot of headaches later.
Clarify Your Budget & Scope
Be upfront about your budget. Don’t try to hide what you can actually spend. Tell the designers your budget range so they can match their proposals to what you want. Be clear about what you need: Is it a full renovation or just new furniture? How many rooms? What style are you going for? Be specific.
Assess Communication & Fit
You’ll be working with this person or team for months, so make sure you get along. Set up a meeting or call. Are they quick to respond? Do they understand your vision? You need someone who gets you, especially when things get stressful. Find someone who can keep things smooth even when the pressure’s on.
Verify Credentials
Even though interior design isn’t as strictly regulated in Dubai as construction, make sure your designer knows the local rules. They should be familiar with the codes and permitting process, especially for things like fit-outs. A reliable designer will know the Dubai Municipality rules well.
Review the Contract Carefully
Before signing anything, read the contract carefully. Make sure it clearly says what’s included, like design drawings, project management, sourcing, etc.
Get the timeline and payment schedule in writing. Look out for extra costs, like travel charges for distant sites. If furniture or materials are involved, confirm how markups or fees are handled. Make sure you know exactly what you’re agreeing to.
Follow these steps to find someone who fits your style, timeline, and budget. And remember, just because you get the cheapest quote doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deal. Cutting corners on quality or service is not worth it. The right designer is worth every penny.
Is It Worth Hiring an Interior Designer?
The cost might seem high, but hiring a professional saves you money in the long run. Designers get trade discounts and know how to avoid costly mistakes that need fixing. Well-designed homes have a higher resale value.
For businesses, good interiors help with branding and make customers feel good about your space. So, it might seem like a big expense at first, but it’s an investment that pays off.
Trends Shaping Interior Design Costs in 2025
The Dubai market is moving towards turnkey services now. One company doing everything from design to execution. It’s more expensive, but it gives you a lot of peace of mind.
There’s a growing trend for eco-friendly designs and materials. They cost more at first, but save you money on upkeep. Smart homes and custom furniture are everywhere now, and while they can raise the price, they make your space look super luxurious.
Conclusion
Hiring an interior designer in Dubai can cost anywhere from AED 25,000 for a simple apartment makeover to over AED 300,000 for a luxury villa or commercial space. The price depends on factors like space size, material choices, customization, and the designer’s reputation.
I know, it sounds like a lot, but trust me, it’s worth it. Think about the long-term benefits: better functionality, higher resale value, and avoiding costly errors.
With the right planning, realistic budgeting, and a designer who understands your vision, a space can be created that’s stylish, functional, and unique.
Ready to transform your space? Reach out to us today and start bringing your dream project to life!
FAQs
1. How much does an interior designer in Dubai cost?
Prices can range from AED 25,000 for a small apartment makeover to over AED 300,000 for luxury villas or commercial spaces, depending on size and style.
2. What pricing models do interior designers use in Dubai?
Designers charge hourly (AED 200-500), fixed fees (AED 5,000-150,000+), per area (AED 75-500 per sq ft), or a percentage of the project cost (10-20%).
3. How do the costs differ for residential and commercial projects?
Residential projects can range from AED 10,000 for a small room to AED 250,000+ for a luxury villa, while commercial projects usually start around AED 20,000-30,000 and can go much higher.
4. Do freelance designers cost less than professional firms?
Yes, freelancers are typically 10-30% cheaper than design firms but may require you to handle some of the project management and procurement.
5. What factors affect the cost of interior design?
The project size, customization, materials used, location, and designer’s reputation all influence the final cost. High-end finishes and larger spaces lead to higher fees.
