How Much Do You Need to Furnish an Apartment

To furnish an apartment in Dubai, expect a budget ranging from AED 15,000 for essentials to AED 50,000+ for a comfortable, stylish finish. This includes furniture, appliances, and decor, with costs varying based on quality, new vs. used, and personal style.

Key Takeaways

Budget Wisely: Estimate costs for furniture, appliances, and decor.
Prioritize Essentials: Start with a bed, sofa, dining table, and kitchenware.
Explore Options: Compare prices for new, used, and rental furniture.
Factor in Delivery: Include installation and delivery fees in your budget.
DIY & Decorate: Personalize your space with affordable decorative items.
Consider Dubai’s Market: Leverage local sales and unique souk finds.

Moving into a new apartment in Dubai is an exciting chapter, but the question of “how much do you need to furnish an apartment” can feel overwhelming. It’s a common puzzle for residents, especially those new to the UAE, as you balance creating a comfortable home with managing your finances. You might be wondering if you need to spend a fortune or if there are smart ways to achieve your desired look. This guide will break down the costs and provide a clear roadmap to furnish your Dubai apartment efficiently and affordably, ensuring you feel settled and can truly enjoy your new space. Let’s explore how to make your new residence both functional and fabulous.

Understanding the Cost Factors for Furnishing Your Dubai Apartment

The cost of furnishing an apartment in Dubai isn’t a one-size-fits-all figure. Several elements significantly influence the total expense. Understanding these factors will help you create a realistic budget and make informed decisions. Think of it like navigating Dubai’s diverse attractions; each has its own price point and experience.

New vs. Used Furniture Choices

The most significant cost differentiator is whether you opt for brand-new items or pre-owned pieces.

New Furniture:
Pros: Latest designs, warranties, pristine condition, wider selection.
Cons: Higher price point, potential for longer delivery times.
Cost: Can range from AED 20,000 to AED 70,000+ for a one or two-bedroom apartment, depending on the level of quality and brand.
Used Furniture:
Pros: Significant cost savings, readily available, environmentally friendly.
Cons: May require cleaning or minor repairs, condition varies, limited selection.
Cost: Can reduce the overall furnishing cost by 50-70%. You might find decent second-hand furniture for AED 5,000 to AED 15,000.

Quality and Brand Preferences

Just as Dubai boasts both luxury boutiques and local markets, furniture comes in various tiers. High-end designer brands will command premium prices, while mid-range and budget-friendly options offer substantial savings without compromising too much on durability or style. Consider a mix: invest in key pieces like a sofa and bed, and save on decorative items.

Apartment Size and Room Count

Naturally, a larger apartment with more rooms will require more furniture. Furnishing a studio is vastly different in cost from furnishing a three-bedroom villa. A one-bedroom apartment will typically need a living room set, a bedroom set, and basic kitchen/dining items. A two-bedroom will double these needs, increasing the budget accordingly.

Essential vs. Luxury Items

Are you furnishing for immediate necessity or aiming for a fully kitted-out, aspirational living space? The distinction between essential items and luxury additions greatly impacts the final bill.

Essentials: Bed frame and mattress, sofa, dining table and chairs, basic kitchen appliances (fridge, oven, washing machine), essential cookware and dinnerware, wardrobe or closet system, basic lighting.
Luxury/Comfort Additions: Coffee tables, side tables, entertainment units, accent chairs, rugs, decorative lighting, artwork, premium bedding, curtains/blinds, outdoor furniture (if applicable).

Rental vs. Purchase

For short-term stays or those who prefer flexibility, furniture rental services are a popular option in Dubai. While it can be more expensive over the long term, it offers convenience and avoids the initial large outlay. Purchase is generally more cost-effective for longer residencies.

Budgeting for Your Dubai Apartment Furnishings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a budget is your first and most crucial step. It helps you stay on track and avoid impulse buys that can derail your finances. Here’s a structured approach to help you plan.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs and Prioritize

Before looking at a single item, list out every piece of furniture and appliance you absolutely need. Categorize them into “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.”

Must-Haves for a Basic Apartment:

Bedroom: Bed frame, mattress, wardrobe.
Living Area: Sofa, basic coffee table.
Dining Area: Dining table, 2-4 chairs.
Kitchen: Refrigerator, cooking hob/oven, washing machine (if not provided).
Essentials: Basic cookware, crockery, cutlery, bathroom essentials.

Nice-to-Haves:

Additional seating (armchairs, ottomans).
Entertainment unit/TV stand.
Desk and chair.
Bedside tables.
Lamps and decorative lighting.
Rugs and curtains.
Artwork and decor.

Step 2: Research Average Costs in Dubai

Now that you have your list, start researching prices. Dubai has a wide spectrum of retailers, from budget-friendly stores to high-end showrooms.

Budget-Friendly: IKEA, Pan Emirates, Home Centre (on sale), used furniture stores, online marketplaces (Dubizzle, Facebook Marketplace).
Mid-Range: West Elm, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, Zara Home.
High-End: Numerous independent showrooms and designer brands across Dubai.

Estimated Cost Ranges for Key Items (New, Mid-Range):

| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
| :———————- | :——————- | :—————————————- |
| Bed Frame & Mattress | 1,500 – 5,000 | Queen or King size |
| Wardrobe | 1,000 – 3,000 | Depends on size and internal fittings |
| Sofa (3-seater) | 1,500 – 6,000 | Fabric or leather |
| Coffee Table | 300 – 1,500 | |
| Dining Table & 4 Chairs | 1,000 – 3,500 | |
| Refrigerator | 1,500 – 4,000 | Standard size |
| Oven/Hob | 800 – 2,500 | Built-in or freestanding |
| Washing Machine | 1,000 – 3,000 | |
| Cookware & Utensils | 500 – 1,500 | Basic set |
| Crockery & Cutlery | 300 – 1,000 | Set for 4-6 people |
| Subtotal (Essentials) | 8,400 – 31,500 | For a studio or 1-bedroom apartment |

Note: These are approximate ranges and can fluctuate based on sales, promotions, and specific brands.

Step 3: Explore Second-Hand and Rental Options

To significantly reduce costs, delve into Dubai’s pre-owned market.

Dubizzle: This is the go-to platform for buying and selling used items in the UAE. You can find everything from sofas to entire apartment sets. Be prepared to negotiate and arrange for pickup.
Facebook Marketplace & Groups: Similar to Dubizzle, many expats sell their furniture when relocating. Look for groups like “Dubai Expats Buy & Sell.”
Charity Shops & Donation Centers: While less common for large furniture, sometimes you can find smaller decor items or lesser-used pieces.
Furniture Rental Companies: Companies like IKEA (rental service), Casa & Beyond, and Furniture Hub offer rental packages, especially useful for short-term stays or temporary needs.

Step 4: Factor in Additional Costs

Don’t forget these often-overlooked expenses:

Delivery Fees: Most furniture stores charge for delivery and assembly. This can range from AED 100 to AED 500+ depending on the volume and distance.
Assembly: Some items require professional assembly, which may incur an additional fee.
Decor and Soft Furnishings: Rugs, curtains, cushions, artwork, lamps, and plants add character but also add to the total cost. Budget at least AED 1,000-5,000 for these.
Kitchenware and Linens: Plates, glasses, cutlery, pots, pans, bedding, towels – these can add up quickly.
Cleaning Supplies: Essential for making a new place feel like home.

Step 5: Create Your Final Budget

Add up the estimated costs for your prioritized items, factoring in delivery and any other additional expenses. This gives you your target furnishing budget.

Example Budget for a 1-Bedroom Apartment (Value-Oriented Approach):

Essentials (Mix of New Budget & Used):
Bed & Mattress: AED 1,800 (New Budget)
Wardrobe: AED 800 (Used)
Sofa: AED 1,500 (New Home Centre Sale)
Coffee Table: AED 300 (Used)
Dining Table & 4 Chairs: AED 1,000 (New IKEA)
Appliances (Fridge, Oven, Washer): AED 3,500 (New Budget)
Kitchenware/Crockery/Cutlery: AED 800 (New Budget)
Subtotal Essentials: AED 9,700
Decor & Soft Furnishings:
Curtains & Rods: AED 500
Rugs: AED 700
Lamps & Lighting: AED 400
Cushions & Throws: AED 300
Artwork/Mirrors: AED 500
Subtotal Decor: AED 2,400
Additional Costs:
Delivery & Assembly: AED 500
Miscellaneous (e.g., cleaning supplies, small organizers): AED 400
Subtotal Additional: AED 900

Total Estimated Budget: Approximately AED 13,000

This example shows how focusing on essentials and smart shopping can significantly lower the cost.

Furnishing Room by Room: What to Expect

Let’s break down the furnishing needs and typical costs for each key area of your apartment.

Living Room Essentials

The living room is often the heart of the home.

Sofa: The cornerstone. A comfortable 3-seater sofa can range from AED 1,500 (budget) to AED 7,000+ (mid-to-high end).
Coffee Table: Practical and decorative. AED 300 – 1,500.
TV Unit/Entertainment Stand: If you have a TV. AED 500 – 2,000.
Side Table(s): Useful for lamps or drinks. AED 150 – 500 each.
Area Rug: Adds warmth and defines the space. AED 400 – 2,000.
Lighting: Floor lamp or table lamps. AED 200 – 800.

Estimated Living Room Budget (Mid-Range, New): AED 3,000 – 12,000

Bedroom Furnishings

Your sanctuary needs comfort and storage.

Bed Frame: Consider size and material. AED 800 – 4,000.
Mattress: A crucial investment for good sleep. AED 700 – 3,000+. Quality varies significantly.
Wardrobe/Closet System: Essential for storage. AED 1,000 – 4,000 depending on size and built-in features.
Bedside Table(s): AED 200 – 600 each.
Dresser/Chest of Drawers: For additional storage. AED 500 – 2,000.
Linens: Sheets, duvet cover, pillows, duvet, blankets. AED 300 – 1,000.

Estimated Bedroom Budget (Mid-Range, New): AED 3,500 – 12,000

Dining Area Setup

Whether you eat at a table or a breakfast bar.

Dining Table: Size depends on your needs. A 4-seater table is common for apartments. AED 700 – 3,000.
Dining Chairs: Usually sold in sets of two or four. AED 150 – 500 per chair.
Sideboard/Buffet Cabinet: Optional for extra storage. AED 600 – 2,500.

Estimated Dining Area Budget (Mid-Range, New): AED 1,300 – 5,000

Kitchen and Appliances

Essential for daily life. Many rented apartments in Dubai come with a built-in hob and oven, and sometimes a refrigerator. Always confirm what is included.

Refrigerator: If not provided. AED 1,500 – 4,000.
Washing Machine: If not provided. AED 1,000 – 3,000.
Microwave: AED 200 – 800.
Cookware: Pots, pans, baking dishes. AED 500 – 1,500.
Utensils: Spatulas, whisks, ladles, knives. AED 200 – 600.
Crockery: Plates, bowls, mugs. AED 300 – 1,000 for a set of 4-6.
Glassware: Drinking glasses, wine glasses (optional). AED 150 – 500.
Small Appliances: Toaster, kettle, blender (optional). AED 400 – 1,000 total.

Estimated Kitchen Furnishing Budget (New, Excluding Built-ins): AED 4,250 – 12,400

Bathroom Essentials

Often overlooked, but crucial.

Towels: Bath, hand, face towels. AED 200 – 600.
Shower Curtain & Rod: If applicable. AED 100 – 300.
Bathroom Mats: AED 100 – 300.
Storage/Shelving: If needed. AED 150 – 500.
Toiletries Organizers: AED 100 – 300.

Estimated Bathroom Budget: AED 650 – 2,000

Miscellaneous and Decor

The finishing touches that make a space feel like yours.

Curtains/Blinds: Essential for privacy and light control. AED 300 – 1,500.
Artwork & Mirrors: Personalize your walls. AED 200 – 1,000+.
Plants (Real or Artificial): Add life and color. AED 100 – 500.
Lamps & Accent Lighting: Create ambiance. AED 200 – 800.
Decorative Items: Vases, cushions, throws, candles. AED 300 – 1,000.

Estimated Decor Budget: AED 1,100 – 5,000+

Smart Shopping Strategies for Furnishing in Dubai

Dubai offers a vibrant retail landscape. Leveraging these strategies can save you significantly:

1. Shop During Sales Events

Dubai is famous for its shopping festivals and sales.

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): Typically held in winter (January-February), offering massive discounts across all sectors, including home furnishings.
Ramadan/Eid Sales: Many retailers offer special promotions during the holy month and for Eid celebrations.
Black Friday/White Friday: Like the global event, retailers in Dubai participate with significant discounts in late November.
Seasonal Sales: Look out for end-of-season clearances at major stores.

2. Visit Hypermarkets and Large Home Stores

Stores like LuLu Hypermarket, Carrefour, and IKEA offer a wide range of affordable home goods, from furniture and appliances to kitchenware and decor. Home Centre and Pan Emirates are also excellent for mid-range options.

3. Explore Local Markets and Souks

For unique decorative items, textiles, and sometimes even smaller furniture pieces, explore traditional souks or modern interpretations like the Ripe Market for artisanal crafts.

4. Leverage Online Marketplaces

As mentioned, Dubizzle and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves for second-hand furniture. You can find incredible deals if you’re patient and quick.

5. Consider IKEA’s Services

IKEA in Dubai Festival City offers not just furniture but also delivery and assembly services, which can be very convenient. They also have a “Second Hand – Give Back” program where you can sell back IKEA furniture you no longer need.

6. Negotiate (Where Appropriate)

In smaller independent shops or when buying used items, polite negotiation can sometimes lead to a better price.

7. Opt for Multi-functional Furniture

In smaller apartments, choose pieces that serve multiple purposes. A sofa bed, an ottoman with storage, or a dining table that can double as a workspace can save both space and money.

When Furnishing an Apartment, What Are the Most Expensive Items?

Generally, the most significant investments when furnishing an apartment are:

1. Sofa: A comfortable and durable sofa is a high-priority item.
2. Bed and Mattress: Essential for rest and well-being, quality matters here.
3. Major Appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens represent a substantial cost.
4. Wardrobes/Storage Systems: Large custom or built-in wardrobes can be costly.
5. Dining Set: A complete table and chair set adds up.

These core items will likely consume the largest portion of your budget. Investing wisely in these will ensure your apartment is functional and comfortable from day one.

Pro Tip:

When moving into a new apartment in Dubai, always confirm with your landlord or real estate agent precisely which appliances and fixtures are included. This avoids duplicate purchases and helps you adjust your furnishing budget accurately.

Furnishing for Different Apartment Sizes in Dubai

The cost naturally scales with apartment size.

Studio Apartment

Focus: Compact, multi-functional items.
Key Pieces: Sofa bed or compact sofa, modest dining table (or breakfast bar stools), smaller wardrobe, essential appliances.
Estimated Budget (Value-Oriented): AED 8,000 – 15,000.

1-Bedroom Apartment

Focus: Standard living room, bedroom, and dining setup.
Key Pieces: Full sofa, standard bed, dining table for 2-4, essential appliances.
Estimated Budget (Value-Oriented): AED 12,000 – 25,000.

2-Bedroom Apartment

Focus: Two separate bedrooms, larger living/dining areas.
Key Pieces: Larger sofa or sectional, two beds and mattresses, dining table for 4-6, more storage.
Estimated Budget (Value-Oriented): AED 18,000 – 35,000.

3-Bedroom Apartment and Larger

Focus: Multiple bedrooms, more extensive living spaces, potential for home office or guest rooms.
Key Pieces: Requires a significant investment in multiple bedroom sets, larger living/dining furniture, extensive storage, and decor.
* Estimated Budget (Value-Oriented): AED 25,000 – 50,000+, easily exceeding AED 100,000 for higher-end furnishings.

These are rough estimates for value-oriented furnishing. For luxury brands and premium finishes, these figures can easily double or triple.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Furnishing in Dubai

Q1: What is the average cost to furnish a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai for a new expat?

A1: For a new expat aiming for a comfortable, mid-range setup, expect to spend approximately AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 to furnish a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai. This includes essential furniture, appliances, and basic decor, considering a mix of new and potentially some second-hand items.

Q2: Should I buy new or used furniture when moving to Dubai?

A2: It depends on your budget and timeline. Buying new offers warranties and pristine condition but is more expensive. Used furniture, widely available on platforms like Dubizzle, can save you 50-70% but may require some effort to find the right pieces and ensure they are in good condition. A hybrid approach, buying essentials new and decorative items used, is often optimal.

Q3: Are furniture rental services a good option in Dubai?

A3: Yes, furniture rental services are excellent for short-term stays (less than a year) or if you prefer flexibility. Companies like IKEA offer rental packages. While convenient and avoiding large upfront costs, rental can be more expensive than buying over the long term.

Q4: What are the best places to buy affordable furniture in Dubai?

A4: For budget-friendly options, explore IKEA, Home Centre (especially during sales), Pan Emirates, and larger hypermarkets like Carrefour and LuLu. For second-hand, Dubizzle and Facebook Marketplace are your best resources.

Q5: Do most apartments in Dubai come furnished?

A5: Most apartments in Dubai are rented unfurnished. However, some buildings or specific units offer a furnished option, particularly for short-term rentals or serviced apartments. Always clarify with your landlord or real estate agent what is included.

Q6: What are the essential items I need to furnish a new apartment immediately?

A6: Immediately, you’ll need a bed and mattress, sofa, basic kitchenware, essential appliances (refrigerator, cooking hob/oven, washing machine if not provided), and basic bathroom essentials (towels, shower curtain).

Q7: How much should I budget for delivery and assembly of furniture in Dubai?

A7: Budget between AED 100 to AED 500 for delivery and assembly fees. This varies by retailer, the number of items purchased, and the distance. Some retailers include this in their pricing for larger purchases, while others charge separately.

Conclusion

Furnishing an apartment in Dubai is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and smart shopping, you can create a comfortable and stylish home without breaking the bank. By understanding the cost factors, creating a detailed budget, prioritizing essential items, and exploring the diverse retail landscape – from budget stores and online marketplaces to seasonal sales – you can effectively manage your expenses. Whether you opt for brand-new pieces, pre-loved treasures, or a combination of both, the goal is to transform your new space into a welcoming haven that reflects your personal style and meets your daily needs. Embrace the process, enjoy discovering Dubai’s shopping opportunities, and soon you’ll be settling into your beautifully furnished new home.