How to Choose a Renovation Contractor in Dubai (Without Getting Burned)

Dubai has a contractor problem. Not a shortage of them — the opposite. There are thousands of renovation companies operating here, ranging from one-person operations to established firms with proper teams and track records. The challenge is not finding a contractor. It is finding the right one.

After 15 years in this industry, here are the 7 things I tell every homeowner to check before signing with anyone — including us.

1. Verify Their Trade Licence

Every contractor in Dubai must hold a valid DED trade licence. Ask for the number and verify through the DED portal. The licence should specifically cover the type of work you need. If a contractor hesitates when you ask, that tells you everything.

2. Check If They Use Their Own Team or Subcontract

This is possibly the single most important question. Many Dubai renovation companies are project managers who subcontract actual work to whoever is cheapest that week. The result: inconsistent quality, finger-pointing, and markups at every level.

Ask: “Do you have your own carpenters, tilers, electricians, and plumbers, or do you subcontract?” A company with an in-house team has direct control over quality and scheduling. At First Unicorn, every trade is done by our own people.

3. Review Their Payment Structure

Red flag: Any contractor asking for 50% or more upfront — often means they need your money to fund another project. Standard: 10-15% on signing, remainder tied to milestones. Best practice: Our structure is 10% on signing, 30% after rough works, 40% at finishing, 20% at handover.

4. Demand Specific Material Specifications

A quote that says “marble countertop” without specifying brand, model, finish, and quantity is not a real quote. Every line item should include the specific product. If you cannot walk into a showroom and point to the exact material in your quote, it is not specific enough.

5. Ask for References From Your Community

Ask for 3 specific references from your community. Then actually call them. Ask: Was it completed on time? Were there surprise costs? Would you use them again? The answers tell you more than any website ever could.

6. Understand the Warranty

What is covered? For how long? What is the claim process? Get it in writing. A standard craftsmanship warranty should cover at least 12 months from handover.

7. Get Everything in Writing

The contract should include: detailed scope, specific materials, total price with milestones, start and completion dates, delay penalties, warranty terms, and variation process. If a contractor says “we will sort out the details later” — walk away.

Bonus: Get a Second Opinion on Any Quote

If you have received a quote from another contractor, we are happy to review it — no strings attached. Send it to us on WhatsApp and we will tell you if the pricing is fair and if anything is missing. Even if you do not end up working with us, you will make a more informed decision.