#1. Per-Square-Metre Strip-Out Rates in Dubai 2026
Indicative 2026 ranges: light office strip-out (carpet, partitions, ceilings only) AED 65–110 /m²; full office strip-out including MEP isolation AED 120–220 /m²; retail/F&B strip-out AED 180–320 /m² (heavy joinery, kitchens, refrigeration); apartment strip-out AED 90–180 /m²; back-to-shell strip-out (everything down to slab and core) AED 220–380 /m².
Rates exclude permits, building management charges, hoarding, and out-of-hours premiums.
#2. What Drives the Price Up
Working hours restrictions imposed by tower management (most DIFC and Downtown buildings allow demolition only between 10pm and 6am, attracting a 30–60% night premium); ceiling height (above 3.6m requires scaffolding); presence of refrigerant systems (separate hazardous waste handling for F-gases); reinforced partitions or fire-rated walls; and complex MEP systems with active landlord services that must be isolated without disrupting neighbouring tenants.
#3. MEP Isolation: The Hidden Cost
Mechanical, electrical and plumbing isolation is the most underestimated component of an interior strip-out. Each electrical sub-DB must be safely isolated and tagged out, HVAC FCUs disconnected and capped, fire alarm devices removed and the panel reprogrammed, sprinklers drained and capped, and chilled water valves closed. This work typically requires landlord-approved MEP subcontractors and adds AED 25–60 /m² to the strip-out cost.
#4. Permits and Building Management Approvals
Most Dubai commercial buildings require both a Dubai Municipality fit-out permit (which includes demolition scope) and a separate building management approval. Towers managed by Emaar Asset Management, Damac Properties Management, or major REIT operators have their own contractor pre-qualification, insurance, and induction requirements that add 1–3 weeks to project mobilisation.
#5. Disposal, Hoarding and Protection
Material removal in Dubai towers is restricted to service lifts within designated hours, requiring careful sequencing. Allow AED 12–25 /m² for hoarding, floor protection, and lift bookings. Tipping fees at Al Rowaiya add AED 8–18 /m² to typical interior projects, depending on waste mix and segregation discipline.
#6. Realistic Project Examples
A 600 m² DIFC office full strip-out with MEP isolation, night-only working, and Emaar approvals: AED 165,000–230,000 all-in. A 220 m² apartment back-to-shell in Downtown Dubai: AED 60,000–95,000. A 350 m² Dubai Mall retail unit including kitchen and refrigeration removal: AED 95,000–165,000.