One-room apartments

Renovation of a One-Bedroom Apartment in Dubai: A Practical Guide and 2026 Prices

Thinking of updating your studio or one-bedroom apartment in Dubai? This isn't just about painting walls. It's a comprehensive solution where every centimeter must work for your comfort, especially given the local climate. We offer clear and transparent service packages for apartments ranging from 40-70 m² in Dubai's most popular areas.

Goals and Options for Renovating a One-Bedroom Apartment

In Dubai, one-bedroom renovations are typically done for two main goals: for rental (investment renovation) or for personal comfortable living (permanent residence). The goal dictates the choice of materials and the complexity of the work.

1. Budget (Cosmetic) Renovation "For Rental":

   • Goal: Quick and affordable refresh to attract tenants.

   • Work: Demolition of old finishes, wall leveling with gypsum putty, painting with washable paint (Jotun or DULUX), installation of practical laminate (32-33 class) or vinyl flooring, replacement of electrical fittings and sanitaryware (faucets, toilet) with basic models (GROHE, HANSGROHE entry-level lines), final cleaning.

   • Features: We use materials resistant to intensive use and easy cleaning. Emphasis on a neutral, light color palette to make the apartment appear more spacious.

2. Turnkey Capital Renovation "For Yourself":

   • Goal: Creating a personal, functional, and long-lasting space.

   • Work: All work from the first package + complete replacement of engineering systems (electrical wiring with circuit separation, pipe replacement), high-quality floor screed, installation of suspended ceilings or multi-level structures with LED lighting, laying porcelain tiles in the bathroom and kitchen, installation of a kitchen unit with a practical countertop (engineered stone, quartz agglomerate), installation of split-system air conditioners.

   • Features: Ergonomic zoning is planned (e.g., living room-bedroom), storage systems are thought out, installation of a basic "smart home" system for controlling lights and AC is possible.

Popular Areas for Renovating One-Bedroom Apartments in Dubai

• Budget and Mid-Segment (Demand for Rental Renovation):

  • Al Barsha, Discovery Gardens, International City: High concentration of studios and 1BR, high demand for quick, inexpensive renovation for rental. Many standard layouts.

  • Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Dubai Sports City: New areas with affordable housing, popular among young professionals and expats. Renovation is often required in new buildings "on bare walls."

  • Deira, Bur Dubai (old buildings): Requires modernization of old apartments, replacement of utilities, re-planning to increase space.

• Mid and Premium Segment (Renovation for Self/Quality Rental):

  • Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Downtown Dubai: Apartments with views and high quality expectations. Renovation often includes panoramic glazing, integration of smart systems, design solutions for compact spaces.

  • Business Bay, DIFC: Locations for the business elite. Renovation must match the status: impeccable finish quality, premium materials (engineered wood flooring, Venetian plaster), hidden engineering systems.

Stages and Timelines of Renovation

1. Consultation and Measurement (1-2 days): Site visit by a foreman, discussion of tasks, inspection of the apartment's condition, assessment of the need to replace hidden utilities.

2. Estimate Preparation and Contract (3-5 days): Detailed calculation with a fixed price, selection of 2-3 material options in the chosen price category. Signing of an official contract with a DED license.

3. Procurement and Delivery of Materials (3-7 days): We purchase all materials at wholesale prices from trusted suppliers (ACE, Danube, IKEA for basic furniture).

4. Production Work (2-4 weeks for cosmetic, 4-8 weeks for capital):

   • Week 1: Demolition, debris removal, installation of new electrical and plumbing lines.

   • Week 2: Leveling of walls and floors (screed), plastering.

   • Week 3: Installation of ceilings, laying of floor coverings, painting.

   • Week 4: Installation of sanitaryware, doors, skirting boards, furniture assembly, final cleaning.

5. Handover and Guarantee: Final inspection, transfer of warranty documents (24 months on labor, manufacturers' warranties on materials).

Budget: Estimated Renovation Cost

• Cosmetic Renovation (Refresh):

  • Example for a 50 m² apartment:

  • What's included: work + basic quality materials.

• Turnkey Capital Renovation (with utility replacement):

  • Example for a 50 m² apartment:

  • What's included: full cycle of work, new plumbing and electrical, suspended ceilings, porcelain tiles in wet areas, painting, laminate flooring.

• Renovation with design elements and smart systems: .

Important: The final price depends on the condition of the apartment (new building or secondary), selected materials (laminate or engineered board, simple paint or decorative plaster) and the complexity of the work (for example, whether it is necessary to move the bathroom).