Dubai’s real estate market is competitive.
Whether you’re planning to sell your apartment or rent it out, the right interior design can seriously boost your property value. Buyers and renters pay more for homes that look good and work well.
Here are 10 features that actually increase what your property is worth.
1. Modern Kitchen Upgrades
The kitchen is where people spend most of their time.
A modern kitchen with quality finishes can add 10-15% to your property value. What makes a kitchen modern?
Key features buyers want:
- Strong countertops (like quartz)
- Enough cabinet space
- Good lighting
- Modern appliances
- Clean, simple design
You don’t need to spend a fortune. Just make sure everything looks clean, works well, and has enough storage.
2. Updated Bathrooms
Bathrooms sell properties.
Nobody wants to buy a place and immediately renovate the bathroom. If yours looks fresh and modern, you’re ahead.
Focus on:
- Good quality tiles
- Modern fixtures (taps, shower heads)
- Proper lighting
- Enough storage
- Clean grout and no water damage
Even a small bathroom can look expensive with the right materials and lighting.
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3. Built-in Storage
Storage is a huge selling point in Dubai apartments.
Built-in wardrobes and cabinets:
- Save space
- Look cleaner than separate furniture
- Give buyers one less thing to buy
- Make rooms look bigger
According to Moz, value-based content helps buyers make decisions. Same with homes—visible value like built-in storage helps properties sell faster and for more money.
4. Quality Flooring
Floors are one of the first things people notice.
Good flooring throughout the property makes everything look more expensive. Popular choices in Dubai:
| Flooring Type | Best For | Why It Adds Value |
| Porcelain tiles | Living areas, kitchens | Durable, looks high-end |
| Wooden flooring | Bedrooms | Warm, comfortable feel |
| Marble | Entrance, bathrooms | Luxury appeal |
Scratched, damaged, or outdated floors? They’ll lower your property value fast.
5. Good Lighting Design
Lighting changes everything.
A dark apartment feels small and depressing. A well-lit one feels spacious and welcoming.
Smart lighting moves:
- Mix different types (ceiling lights, lamps, spotlights)
- Add dimmers for mood control
- Use warm white bulbs (not harsh white)
- Light up dark corners
Buyers walk into a bright apartment and immediately feel better about it. That feeling translates to better offers.
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6. Fresh Paint in Neutral Colors
This is the easiest and cheapest upgrade.
Fresh white or beige paint makes any property look newer and cleaner. It also lets buyers imagine their own furniture and style.
Avoid:
- Dark colors on all walls
- Bright unusual colors
- Dirty or damaged walls
According to real estate experts in Dubai, a fresh coat of neutral paint can return 3-4 times what you spend on it.
7. Air Conditioning Quality
In Dubai, AC isn’t optional. It’s survival.
Properties with:
- Modern AC units
- Good cooling in every room
- Low electricity bills
- Regular maintenance records
…sell for more and rent faster.
Nobody wants to move in and immediately spend thousands on new AC units.
8. Balcony or Outdoor Space
Any outdoor space adds value.
Even a small balcony is better than none. If you have one:
- Keep it clean
- Add simple plants or furniture for photos
- Make sure the flooring is in good condition
- Fix any railings or damage
Penthouses with terraces or villas with gardens? Those command premium prices.
9. Modern Electrical Fixtures
Small details matter.
Replace old-style switches and sockets with modern ones. It’s cheap but makes the whole property look updated.
Also check:
- Enough power outlets in each room
- USB charging ports (buyers love these)
- Proper circuit breakers
- Good quality wiring
Electrical issues scare buyers. Modern fixtures give confidence.
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10. Smart Home Features
This is becoming more important every year.
Smart features that add value:
- Smart door locks
- Automated lighting controls
- Smart thermostats for AC
- Video doorbells
- Motorized curtains
You don’t need everything. Even 2-3 smart features make your property stand out in listings.
Young buyers and renters especially look for these features now.
What Actually Matters
Not all upgrades give you your money back.
Best return on investment:
- Kitchen and bathroom updates (70-80% return)
- Fresh paint (300-400% return)
- Good lighting (200-300% return)
- Quality flooring (60-70% return)
Lower return:
- Super expensive custom features
- Very personal design choices
- Overcomplicated smart home systems
Final Thoughts from Liger Interiors
Focus on upgrades that:
- Appeal to most buyers (not just your taste)
- Solve common problems (storage, lighting, cooling)
- Look modern but timeless
- Don’t break your budget
The goal is simple: make your property look better than similar ones in your building or area.
Quick checklist before selling/renting:
□ Kitchen looks modern and clean
□ Bathrooms are updated
□ Fresh neutral paint everywhere
□ Good lighting in all rooms
□ Quality flooring with no damage
□ AC units working perfectly
□ Built-in storage visible
□ Balcony/outdoor space is presentable
Do these right and you’ll see the difference in offers you get.