Kitchen Renovations in Dubai: Design, Materials & Approvals Guide

Planning to renovate your kitchen? Learn how to design the layout, choose durable materials, and handle Dubai’s approval process — all with one turnkey team.

Introduction

Planning a kitchen renovation in Dubai can feel overwhelming. Between finding the right design, coordinating suppliers, and securing approvals, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters — functionality, durability, and flow.

At The Big Fitout, we’ve delivered more than 800 villa kitchens since 2009, transforming dated layouts into modern, efficient spaces. See examples of our kitchen renovations →

Whether you’re redesigning an open-plan living area or upgrading cabinetry and appliances, this guide explains everything you need to know before you begin.

Step 1: Define Your Layout and Objectives

Every successful kitchen renovation begins with layout clarity.

Ask yourself:

Do you want a closed kitchen, semi-open, or fully open plan?
Do you need additional storage, a breakfast bar, or an island?
Are you changing plumbing or appliance locations?

Understanding these goals shapes your design and determines whether DDA/DM approval is required for wall removals or service rerouting.

Our design team can create detailed plans and 3D visuals that balance flow, functionality, and aesthetics before any work begins.

Modern Kitchen in Mirador Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 2: Choose Materials That Last

Dubai’s humidity, temperature fluctuations, and frequent cleaning demand materials that combine style, practicality, and long-term durability.

Recommended finishes:

Cabinets: Moisture-resistant MDF with High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) or a lacquer finish for a refined, hard-wearing surface.
Countertops: Quartz remains the best all-round choice — antibacterial, non-porous, heat-resistant, and virtually maintenance-free.
Backsplash: Large-format porcelain tiles or matching quartz slabs minimise grout lines and create a seamless, easy-to-clean finish.
Flooring: Porcelain or ceramic tiles are the most durable and spill-resistant options — ideal for kitchens exposed to daily wear and cleaning.

Our team assists with supplier coordination, material selection, and sample matching to ensure consistent finishes across cabinetry, countertops, and flooring.

Modern Open Plan Kitchen in Casa Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 3: Understand Costs and Budgeting

Kitchen renovation pricing depends on scope, design complexity, and finishes.

There are essentially three options most homeowners consider in Dubai:

1. Standard renovation — using an off-the-shelf solution such as IKEA, where cabinetry and countertops together cost around AED 40,000.

2. Mid-range renovation — using either custom-made cabinetry from suppliers such as PineTree Lane or an entry-level German brand such as Kaiser, where cabinetry and countertops typically cost around AED 85,000.

3. High-end renovation — using a premium German brand such as Häcker, where cabinetry and countertops range from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000, depending on configuration, finishes, and accessories.

For all three options, The Big Fitout provides a complete service — including removal of the existing kitchen, wall or window modifications, MEP works (electrical, gas, and plumbing), as well as ceiling and lighting upgrades.

The table below gives an idea of the average total renovation cost for a 16 m² villa kitchen including our turnkey service based on the three options above.

Typical Range (AED)
70,000 – 90,000
110,000 – 140,000
190,000 – 550,000

Item
Off-the-shelf (IKEA) including our services
Custom or German brand incl. our services
Premium German brand including our services

See how we price →

Luxury Hacker Kitchen in Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Step 4: Approvals and Compliance

Most villa communities — including Emaar, DAMAC, Dubai Hills, and Victory Heights — require developer NOC approval for any kitchen renovation involving wall, duct, or plumbing modifications.

For layout changes or load-bearing adjustments, we coordinate with licensed consultants for DDA or Dubai Municipality submissions.

All documentation, drawings, and inspections are handled under your Big Fitout contract — ensuring compliance without stress.

You can read more about the approvals process here ->

Kitchen Renovations in Dubai Design Materials Approvals Guide

Step 5: Execution and Handover

Once approvals are cleared and materials delivered, kitchen renovations typically follow this sequence:

Demolition & prep
MEP rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, ducting)
Ceiling & lighting installation
Cabinet & countertop installation
Splashback tiling & silicone works
Final inspection & cleaning

A full kitchen renovation usually takes 3 – 5 weeks depending on material readiness and complexity. All projects include snagging, testing, and a one-year workmanship warranty.

Modern Kitchen in Arabian Ranches Dubai by The Big Fitout

Ready to design your dream kitchen?

A thoughtfully planned kitchen renovation enhances not only your home’s value but also how you live every day.

With The Big Fitout, every detail — from design and materials to developer and authority approvals — is managed under one contract. Transparent pricing, British-led quality, and over a decade of local experience ensure your kitchen is delivered exactly as promised.

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