How much does a commercial fit-out cost in Dubai? The honest answer is that it depends on scope, specification and site conditions, and a price per square metre rarely tells the whole story. This guide explains what moves the price so you can compare proposals sensibly.
Why a price per square metre is not enough
Two spaces of the same size can differ enormously in cost, because the square-metre figure hides what is included. A rate is only meaningful when the scope, specification, services and exclusions behind it are the same. We do not publish fixed rates for that reason: a number without a defined scope can mislead more than it helps.
What influences the final price
- Scope and specification: the level of finishes, joinery and fixtures is usually the largest lever.
- Existing conditions: what the landlord hands over, and what must be removed or modified first.
- Services: electrical and plumbing changes, and specialist systems that are coordinated through qualified specialists.
- Access and working hours: restricted access, out-of-hours work and delivery windows add time and cost.
- Programme: compressed schedules and phasing around an occupied property.
- Approvals and procurement: requirements specific to the building and the authority, and the lead time of selected materials.
- Unknown conditions: hidden issues found once finished surfaces are opened.
What a quotation should include
A useful quotation lists the scope, specification and quantities, the assumptions it relies on, what is excluded, the programme, how changes are priced and what the client must supply. Provisional sums should be labelled and explained.
Exclusions worth checking
Loose furniture, IT and audio-visual equipment, relocation, authority and building fees, and client-supplied items are often outside a contractor price. Confirming them early keeps comparisons between proposals like-for-like.
How changes are priced
Changes after the contract is agreed should be described, priced for both cost and time, and approved in writing before the work proceeds. This keeps the final account aligned with what the client has approved.
Questions clients ask
Is fit-out cost quoted per square foot or as a lump sum?
Early discussions sometimes use rates for benchmarking, but a firm proposal is priced against a defined scope. Treat any rate without a scope as indicative only.
Do access restrictions affect cost?
They can. Limited delivery windows, lift booking and out-of-hours work change productivity and programme.
Does the price include approvals?
That depends on the proposal. Ask what authority and building submissions are included and who pays the associated fees.
How SADEED prices a fit-out
SADEED prices against your drawings and finish schedule, states its assumptions and exclusions, and explains how changes are handled. For a view of the process, see our guide to the commercial fit-out process.
Ready for a scope-based quotation?
Related guides
- Category A vs Category B Fit-Out in Dubai, Explained
- How Long Does an Office Fit-Out Take in Dubai?
- Choosing a Fit-Out Company in Dubai: Questions to Ask
- Design & Build programme
- Request a site visit
Last reviewed: October 2026. This guide is general information; requirements vary by property, scope and authority.