We are a restaurant concept development company in UAE. Our fit-out costs range from AED 90,000 to AED 900,000 depending on size and finish. Timeline: 5-18 weeks. We handle permits, NOCs, and design-build. Contact us for a survey. For villas, we also specialize in residential fit-outs.
- Palm Jumeirah projects need Trakhees approval, 15-25 days.
- Dubai Municipality fit-out approval takes 10-15 days.
- Civil Defence fire safety approval: 5-10 days.
- DEWA connection modification: 7-14 days.
- Master developer NOCs (Emaar/Nakheel/Damac): 10-20 days.
- Typical cost
- AED 90K – AED 900K
- Timeline
- 5-18 weeks
- Approvals
- Dubai Municipality permit · Civil Defence approval · DEWA connection · Master developer NOC (Emaar/Nakheel/Damac)
As a restaurant concept development company UAE, First Unicorn Interiors delivers complete fit-out solutions for restaurants across Dubai. Our services cover concept development, design, permitting, and construction. For a typical restaurant, our fit-out costs range from AED 90,000 to AED 900,000, depending on size and finish level. The timeline for completion is 5-18 weeks, based on the scope. We handle all approvals, including Dubai Municipality permits and Civil Defence approvals, ensuring a smooth process.
Dubai's restaurant scene is competitive, and your concept must stand out. We work with you to develop a unique theme, from casual dining to fine dining. Our in-house team of designers and engineers ensures that your vision is realized. We also assist with menu engineering and kitchen workflow to optimize efficiency. With over 800 projects completed, we have the expertise to deliver a restaurant that attracts customers and generates revenue.
Approvals are a critical part of any restaurant fit-out in Dubai. You need a Dubai Municipality permit for building and fit-out plan approval, which takes 10-15 working days. Civil Defence approval for fire and life safety takes 5-10 days. DEWA connection or modification takes 7-14 days. If your restaurant is in a master-planned community like Emaar, Nakheel, or Damac, you also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer, which takes 10-20 days. We manage all these approvals for you.
For restaurants on Palm Jumeirah or in Jebel Ali, Trakhees approval is required, taking 15-25 days. If you're in a mall, the landlord's approval adds another 10-20 days. We have experience navigating these complex processes. Our team ensures that all paperwork is in order, minimizing delays. We also coordinate with Civil Defence for fire safety inspections and with DEWA for power and water connections.
The cost of your restaurant fit-out depends on several factors. Our pricing is based on floor area, not bedrooms. For basic finishes, expect AED 80-150 per square foot. Mid-range finishes cost AED 150-300 per square foot. Luxury finishes range from AED 300-500 per square foot. For a small restaurant (up to 500 sq ft), total costs range from AED 90,000 to AED 180,000. Medium restaurants (500-1500 sq ft) cost AED 180,000-400,000. Large restaurants (1500-5000 sq ft) cost AED 400,000-900,000.
Timelines vary by size. Small restaurants take 5-7 weeks, medium 8-12 weeks, and large 12-18 weeks. These timelines include approvals and construction. We work efficiently to meet your opening date. Our project managers keep you updated throughout the process. We also offer a 3-year warranty on workmanship, giving you peace of mind.
Recent completed project: A 2,000 sq ft restaurant in Dubai Marina. The client wanted a modern industrial look with exposed brick and steel. Before/after: the space was a bare shell with concrete floors and no MEP. We transformed it into a stylish dining area with custom lighting, a mezzanine floor, and a fully equipped kitchen. The project was completed in 14 weeks, within the AED 400,000-900,000 range. The client praised our attention to detail and timely delivery.
We understand the unique challenges of restaurant fit-outs, such as kitchen extraction and grease management. These systems are crucial for food safety and compliance. We design and install commercial kitchen ventilation, grease traps, and fire suppression systems. Our team ensures that all equipment meets Dubai Municipality and Civil Defence standards. This attention to detail prevents costly delays and ensures your restaurant passes inspections.
Choosing the right contractor is essential. Look for a company with experience in restaurant fit-outs, a strong portfolio, and in-house teams. First Unicorn Interiors has all this and more. We offer turnkey solutions, from concept to handover. Our team includes architects, interior designers, MEP engineers, and project managers. We handle everything, so you can focus on your business.
Our clients appreciate our transparent pricing and commitment to quality. As one client said, "They delivered our restaurant on time and within budget, exceeding our expectations." — Sarah M. We are proud of our track record and look forward to helping you bring your restaurant concept to life. Contact us today for a consultation.
In addition to restaurants, we also specialize in residential and commercial fit-outs. Whether you need a villa renovation or an office fit-out, we have the expertise. Our team is based in Dubai and understands local regulations. We work with all major developers, including Emaar, Nakheel, Damac, and Meraas. We ensure that your project complies with all rules and regulations.
If you're planning a restaurant in Dubai, contact First Unicorn Interiors. We are a leading restaurant concept development company in the UAE. Our team will guide you through every step, from concept to completion. Call us at +971 58 565 8002 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you create a successful restaurant in Dubai.
Definitions
- NOC
- No Objection Certificate from a master developer or authority, required before fit-out work begins.
- Fit-out
- The process of making an interior space suitable for occupation, including construction, MEP, and finishes.
- MEP
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems within a building.
- Grease management
- Systems like grease traps and interceptors that prevent fats, oils, and grease from clogging drainage.
- Al Sa'fat
- Dubai Municipality's green building rating system, applicable to certain structural changes.
- Trakhees
- The regulatory body for development in special zones like Palm Jumeirah and Jebel Ali.
How we run a restaurant fit-out project
- Concept and Feasibility. We discuss your vision, budget, and site. We conduct a feasibility study, including zoning and approval requirements. We provide a detailed proposal with cost estimates.
- Design and Engineering. Our design team creates detailed plans, including interior design, MEP, and kitchen layout. We ensure compliance with Dubai Municipality and Civil Defence standards.
- Permits and Approvals. We apply for all necessary permits, including Dubai Municipality, Civil Defence, DEWA, and master developer NOCs. We manage the approval process to avoid delays.
- Pre-Construction. We finalize materials, schedule, and budget. We procure all materials and coordinate with suppliers. We prepare the site for construction.
- Construction and Fit-Out. Our skilled team executes the construction, including MEP, finishes, and installation. We maintain strict quality control and safety standards.
- Inspection and Handover. We conduct thorough inspections to ensure everything meets specifications. We obtain final approvals and hand over the keys. We provide a 3-year warranty.
- Post-Completion Support. We offer ongoing support for any issues. Our team is available for maintenance and repairs. We ensure your restaurant operates smoothly.
Tier comparison
| Tier | Scope / spec | Typical AED |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Basic finishes, standard kitchen equipment, simple design. Suitable for fast-casual concepts. | AED 90,000-180,000 |
| Mid-range | Better materials, custom joinery, upgraded kitchen. Suitable for casual dining. | AED 180,000-400,000 |
| Premium | High-end finishes, designer lighting, premium kitchen equipment. Suitable for fine dining. | AED 400,000-900,000 |
| Ultra-luxury | Bespoke design, imported materials, advanced technology. Suitable for flagship restaurants. | AED 900,000+ |
See exactly where every dirham goes — no hidden costs, no scope creep.
Get my free quote on WhatsApp →Frequently asked questions
How much does a restaurant fit-out cost in Dubai?
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What is your warranty?
- Fixed-price contract — fully itemized, no hidden costs or mid-project surprises.
- 3-year workmanship warranty on every project.
- In-house team — designers, engineers and trades under one roof, no subcontractor markups.
- Approvals handled — we manage Dubai Municipality, DEWA and developer NOCs for you.
- 800+ projects delivered across Dubai.
Free quote — same-day reply
WhatsApp the team on +971 58 565 8002. 800+ projects delivered. Fixed price, 3-year warranty, approvals handled.
