Bathroom Renovations in Dubai — A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about updating your villa’s bathrooms? Learn how to plan your renovation, choose materials that last, and navigate Dubai’s approval process with confidence.

Introduction

Thinking about upgrading your bathroom?

Whether it’s outdated tiles, poor lighting, or a layout that just doesn’t work, a well-designed bathroom renovation can completely transform daily life.

In Dubai, however, there’s more to consider than design — developer approvals, waterproofing, and material selection all play a big role in achieving a long-lasting result.

At The Big Fitout, we’ve completed over 1,600 bathroom renovations across communities such as Arabian Ranches, Dubai Hills, Victory Heights, and The Villa. Examples can be seen here ->

Here’s our guide to what you should know before starting your bathroom renovation.

Step 1: Understanding the Process

Bathroom renovations involve multiple trades — plumbing, tiling, waterproofing, electrical, and glass — so coordination is everything.

A typical process includes:

Design & layout planning – ensuring fixtures fit properly within existing walls and drains.
Material selection – tiles, sanitaryware, and fittings sourced from reputable suppliers.
Approvals – developer NOC submission with layout drawings and product specs.
Execution & snagging – waterproofing, tiling, MEP, silicone sealing, and quality inspection.

Having one team manage all of this — design through handover — prevents delays and miscommunication.

You can learn more about our approvals process here ->

Also our Frequently Asked Questions page explains the process in detail here ->

Luxury Bathroom in Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 2: Budgeting and Cost Factors

Bathroom renovation prices in Dubai depend on scope, materials, and existing conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of what a bathroom typically costs.

Standard renovation involves removing the full bathrom installation. Application of waterproofing, ceiling and lighting replacement. Tile and sanitaryware installation in the existing locations.

Redesigned bathroom renovation additionally included wall removals/construction, illuminated niches, possibly window modifications and plumbing relocations for WC, bath, shower, mixers etc.

Luxury / Spa type bathrooms additionally include modifications for steam showers, jaqquzi baths, recessed cove lighting, shower benches, dual showers etc.

Typical Range (AED)
25,000 – 40,000
45,000 – 65,000
70,000+

Item
Standard bathroom
Redesigned bathroom
Luxury / Spa-style

💡 Tip: Avoid simply comparing “per bathroom” quotes — look at inclusions and exclusions carefully to make sure you’re comparing like for like. Many quotes will lack detailed itemisation and lumpsum items. If its not written down never assume its included.

At The Big Fitout, all works are quoted transparently on a per-scope basis and backed by a one-year workmanship warranty. You can read more about how we price and quote here ->

Luxury Master Bathroom with Twin Shower Area in Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 3: Design and Material Choices

The best bathroom designs combine practicality and style.

For Dubai homes, we recommend focusing on:

Porcelain tiles – durable, low maintenance, and available in realistic stone or wood textures.
Walk-in showers with fixed glass panels — modern, safe, and easy to clean.
Floating vanities to visually expand smaller bathrooms.
LED mirrors and concealed lighting for a soft, elegant ambience.

Our design team assists clients with tile layouts, 3D visuals, and supplier coordination to ensure everything fits perfectly before construction begins.

Modern Tiled Bathroom in Victory Heights Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 4: Approvals and Compliance

Every Dubai community requires a developer NOC for bathroom works, even if you’re only retiling or changing fixtures.

This ensures waterproofing and drainage standards are maintained.

For villas managed by Emaar, Dubai Properties, DAMAC, and DSC, the approval process usually takes 3–5 working days once drawings and supplier specifications are complete.

When structural changes or new bathrooms are added, DDA or DM approval is required — handled by our in-house technical team in coordination with licensed consultants.

Step 5: Timelines and Aftercare

A standard bathroom renovation in Dubai takes 10–14 working days once works begin on site, assuming materials are ready.

Larger master bathrooms or premium finishes can take 3–4 weeks.

After completion, we carry out a detailed snagging checklist to ensure all silicone, grout, and fittings are perfect before handover.

Your renovation is covered by our one-year warranty, giving full peace of mind.

Luxury Master Bathroom in Mirador Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Ready to start your villa transformation?

Renovating your bathroom should be exciting, not stressful. With careful planning, clear approvals, and the right contractor, you can transform one of the most used spaces in your villa into something you’ll enjoy daily.

At The Big Fitout, we take care of everything — from design and materials to documentation and delivery — under one contract, with no surprises.

Book a free consultation and we’ll guide you through design, budgeting, and approvals — all managed under one contract with British-led quality and transparent pricing.

Book Your Free Consultation