10 Must-Ask Questions for Your Interior Designer

Looking for the perfect interior designer in the UAE? Start by asking the right questions. Here’s a quick guide to help you make informed decisions and ensure your project is a success:

• Licenses: Verify their UAE design licenses and compliance with local regulations.
• Portfolio: Review their experience with UAE-based projects to ensure they understand local styles and preferences.
• Fees: Understand their pricing structure, VAT compliance, and additional costs like consultation fees or project management charges.
• Timeline: Request a detailed project schedule, including milestones and contingency plans for delays.
• Materials: Ensure they source materials that meet UAE regulations and sustainable practices.
• Contracts: Confirm the contract includes scope, payment terms, timeline, and dispute resolution clauses.
• 3D Plans: Check if they provide 3D design plans to visualise the final result.
• After-Project Support: Clarify warranty coverage and post-project assistance.
• Bilingual Documentation: Ensure all documents are available in Arabic and English.
• Insurance: Verify their professional indemnity and public liability insurance to protect your project.

These questions will help you evaluate designers, avoid surprises, and achieve the results you envision. Set your budget, plan ahead, and choose wisely.

Interior Design Questionnaire for Clients (Get the answers you need from clients)

1. What UAE Design Licenses Do You Hold?

It's essential to confirm that your interior designer holds a valid UAE license. The Dubai Building Code (DBC) enforces minimum standards for safety and sustainable development, making compliance a must for any design professional in Dubai.

In Dubai, designers are required to provide up-to-date licenses with clear expiration dates. If you're working with an independent designer, they should have a Freelance License (Sole Professional License) issued by the Dubai Development Authority (DDA).

Here’s what you should check:

• License validity: Ensure they provide copies of their current permits.
• Emirate-specific compliance: Verify their credentials align with regulations in the emirate where your project is based.
• Professional certifications: Ask for any additional qualifications they hold.

To confirm their credentials, consider these practical steps:

• Reach out to municipal licensing departments to validate their licenses.
• Assess their knowledge of the latest building codes.
• Request copies of any extra certifications.
• Confirm their familiarity with local sustainable development requirements.

A licensed designer should have no trouble providing proof of their credentials and demonstrating knowledge of UAE standards. Once you've verified their licensing, the next step is to evaluate their experience with local projects.

2. What Local Projects Have You Completed?

When choosing a designer, it’s essential to review their portfolio for projects completed in the UAE. This gives you a clear sense of their understanding of local design preferences, regulatory requirements, and market demands. A portfolio filled with UAE-based projects highlights their ability to cater to the unique needs of this region.

Here are a couple of standout examples of UAE-specific projects that reflect expertise in the local market:

• A&T Group Interiors: Delivered a stunning 9,000 sq ft residence in Abu Dhabi. The project featured a contemporary design with bespoke finishes and an open-plan layout that optimised natural light.
• Elicyon: Transformed a 30,000 sq ft luxury penthouse in Dubai. The design combined natural materials, custom furniture, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

These types of high-end projects showcase the perfect balance between luxury and practicality. When evaluating portfolios, look for evidence of:

• The scale and complexity of completed projects
• Versatility in design styles
• Knowledge of locally sourced materials
• Seamless integration of UAE cultural elements into the design

To gain deeper insights into a designer’s capabilities, request detailed case studies. These should include before-and-after photos, project timelines, budgets, and testimonials from clients. Such documentation helps confirm their ability to deliver exceptional results while adhering to UAE standards and client expectations.

3. How Do You Structure Fees and Handle VAT?

When it comes to interior design fees in the UAE, pricing models and VAT compliance play a significant role. Designers in Dubai often tailor their pricing approach based on the scope and type of project.

For residential projects, fees are typically calculated per square metre, as shown below:

Project Size (sq.m.)	Fee (AED per sq.m.)
1,000+	120
750–1,000	130
500–750	140

Similarly, commercial projects follow a per square metre model:

Commercial Space (sq.m.)	Fee (AED per sq.m.)
1,000+	110
750–1,000	120
500–750	140

These rates serve as a guideline for fee discussions with your designer. It's crucial to ensure that the pricing structure and VAT details are clearly outlined in the agreement. Most designers request an initial deposit - usually 10% of the estimated project cost - before beginning work. Make sure this deposit and VAT application are transparently addressed in the proposal.

Key cost components to consider include:

• Design consultation fees: AED 180–1,650 per hour
• Material procurement charges
• Project management fees: Typically 25% of the total project cost
• Markup on furnishings: Ranges from 17% to 45% above retail prices

Payment schedules are usually tied to specific project milestones. It's important to review these schedules carefully, as they often progress through phases like initial deposit, design concept approval, documentation, procurement, and final project completion.

Additionally, designers may charge extra for services such as technical drawings, 3D visualisations, site visits, contractor coordination, and procurement management. These additional fees should also be discussed upfront to avoid surprises later.

4. What is Your Project Timeline?

Interior design projects in the UAE often encounter delays due to supply chain disruptions, labour productivity challenges, and the influence of the local cultural calendar.

To stay on track, request a detailed project timeline that outlines each phase, from design and documentation to procurement, installation, and final styling. Ensure the timeline includes clear milestones to monitor progress.

When reviewing the timeline, keep these key points in mind:

• Local Supply Chain Factors
  Check if the design firm has strong relationships with local suppliers, access to alternative material sources, and contingency plans to handle potential delays.
• Cultural Calendar Considerations
  Make sure the schedule accounts for periods like Ramadan, national holidays, and the adjustments businesses often make during the summer months.
• Documentation and Approvals
  Confirm that the timeline includes sufficient time for municipal approvals, necessary certifications, and the preparation of bilingual documentation when required.

These elements should be explicitly outlined in your agreement to avoid misunderstandings.

Additionally, ensure your contract addresses critical aspects such as:

• Protocols for managing delays
• Regular progress tracking methods
• A solid contingency plan to handle unexpected issues

5. How Do You Source Materials Under UAE Rules?

When sourcing materials in the UAE, it’s essential to adhere to local building codes and regulations, such as the Dubai Building Code (DBC). These rules outline minimum standards for health, safety, and environmental considerations. Designers must provide the necessary certifications, testing results, and documentation to prove compliance, all while incorporating sustainable practices.

Here’s what to focus on when discussing material sourcing with your designer:

Compliance Verification

Ensure your designer works closely with the Dubai Central Laboratory for product certification and testing. This partnership guarantees that materials meet the standards set by Dubai Municipality.

Environmental Standards

Ask about their experience with sustainable practices, including:

• Green Building Certification expertise
• Approaches to sourcing environmentally friendly materials

Quality Control Process

A robust quality control process is non-negotiable. It should include checks at every stage of the project:

Stage	Verification Required
Pre-selection	Dubai Municipality approval
Procurement	Product certification documentation
Installation	Adherence to DBC specifications
Final Inspection	Testing reports from Dubai Central Laboratory

Documentation Requirements

Your designer should maintain thorough records, including:

• Product conformity certificates
• Dubai Municipality approvals

Don’t hesitate to ask for examples of past projects where they successfully sourced materials that met all regulatory requirements. This ensures their experience aligns with the standards your project demands.

6. What Does Your Contract Include?

After discussing fees, timelines, and design preferences, it's crucial to ensure that your contract captures every agreed detail. In the UAE, your interior design contract must align with local laws, particularly the Civil Code and Consumer Protection Law, to safeguard both parties.

Here's a quick breakdown of the key elements your contract should include:

Contract Component	Required Details
Scope of Work	Clear project specifications and deliverables
Payment Terms	Fee structure, VAT details, and payment schedule
Timeline	Project phases, deadlines, and revision allowances
Material Specifications	Product details and sourcing responsibilities
Cancellation Terms	Notice periods, refund policies, and dues
Dispute Resolution	UAE law compliance and arbitration procedures

Legal Protections

The UAE Consumer Protection Law voids any contract terms that unfairly harm consumer interests. To comply, ensure your designer's contract includes the following:

1. Liability Coverage
   The contract should specify professional indemnity insurance to cover design errors and material defects. A liability period of 6 to 12 months is typically included.
2. Force Majeure Provisions
   Address unforeseen events that may delay or impact the project, such as:
   • Changes in legislation
   • Natural disasters
   • Civil unrest
   • Epidemics or pandemics

Critical Clauses

Some terms require extra attention to avoid misunderstandings:

• Clearly state that custom-made furnishings are non-refundable.
• Specify that third-party contractor services are excluded and require separate agreements.
• Outline termination rights, ensuring that all outstanding fees are settled before the agreement can be dissolved.

Professional Review

Once the contract is drafted, have it reviewed by a UAE-based legal expert to ensure everything is in order. A lawyer can confirm:

• Compliance with the UAE Civil Code
• Adherence to consumer protection laws
• Effective dispute resolution mechanisms
• Clear and fair termination terms
• Properly structured payment conditions

UAE law also mandates that consumer disputes be resolved promptly. Your contract should reflect this requirement, with clear terms that protect both you and your designer.

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7. Do You Provide 3D Design Plans?

Detailed 3D design plans play a key role in making sure your ideas match the final result. Skilled designers often rely on CAD technology to create digital mock-ups. These mock-ups typically include floor plans measured in the UAE's standard metric system, though imperial units can be provided if required.

8. What After-Project Support Do You Offer?

After-project support and warranty coverage are essential to safeguard your interior design investment. In the UAE, many reputable designers provide a 1-year warranty to cover manufacturing defects. Always request written documentation outlining the warranty terms.

It’s important to note that warranties typically exclude damages caused by misuse, improper installation, or assembly by third parties. Consumable items like light bulbs and textiles, or components with shorter lifespans, are also not covered. Additionally, warranties may become void if unauthorised repairs are made, non-genuine parts are used, or the items are resold.

When discussing after-project support with your designer, make sure you clarify these key points:

• The length of the warranty period
• What materials, furniture, or fixtures are included under the warranty
• How to report defects or issues
• Response times and commitments for handling warranty claims

Keep a record of the warranty details and maintain your designer’s contact information. Having everything documented ensures you can address any issues quickly and with minimal hassle.

9. Are Documents Available in Arabic and English?

In the UAE, having bilingual documentation isn't just helpful - it's a necessity. Designers must provide all critical documents in both Arabic and English to ensure smooth communication and compliance with local regulations.

Here’s a breakdown of what to focus on for accurate and consistent bilingual documentation:

Documents to review in both languages:

• Contracts, proposals, technical plans, material schedules, payment terms, warranty certificates, and regulatory documents.

Key considerations:

• Make sure legal documents comply with UAE Arabic language requirements.
• Always ask for sample documents in both languages before signing any agreements.
• Verify that translations of critical documents and technical specifications are precise and consistent.
• Confirm that measurement units are clearly stated in both metric and imperial formats.
• Double-check that payment terms and amounts are identical in both language versions.

Many designers in the UAE rely on specialised software to handle bilingual documentation. This helps them maintain version control and ensures that stakeholders always have access to the latest documents in their preferred language.

It’s also important to discuss bilingual support during the project. Your designer should offer real-time translation assistance during site visits and technical discussions to avoid any misunderstandings.

Best practices for managing bilingual documents:

• Keep digital copies of all documents in both Arabic and English.
• Centralise files for quick and easy access.
• Request updates in both languages whenever changes are made.
• Share bilingual documents with all stakeholders involved in the project.
• Store official translations alongside their original counterparts.

10. What Insurance Coverage Do You Have?

In the UAE, interior designers are required to have insurance that safeguards both their business and clients against unexpected errors or accidents.

Key Types of Insurance:

• Professional Indemnity Insurance: This covers mistakes or negligence in design work. For example, a miscalculation in a project that led to expensive redesigns underscores the importance of this coverage.
• Public Liability Insurance: Protects against third-party injuries or property damage during the execution of a project. A case involving a hotel lounge upgrade revealed how critical this insurance is when design flaws caused complications.

Steps to Verify Insurance:

• Request and review current insurance certificates from a UAE-licensed provider.
• Ensure that the coverage complies with UAE Insurance Law (Federal Law Number 6 of 2007).
• Check that the coverage amount aligns with the project's scope.
• Confirm documentation is provided in Arabic, with accurate translations if necessary.
• Verify that policies cover the entire duration of the project.

Failure to comply with UAE insurance regulations can result in hefty fines, reaching up to AED 100 million, as enforced by the Central Bank of the UAE. Additionally, policies issued by unlicensed providers are considered void under UAE law, leaving projects exposed to unnecessary risks.

Verifying your designer's insurance is a critical step that complements the contract and risk management strategies already discussed. It ensures your investment is protected as you move forward with pricing and project details.

Design Service Pricing Guide

When navigating the UAE interior design market, understanding the variety of pricing models is essential. This guide builds on earlier discussions around fee structures and VAT considerations, offering insight into the most common pricing approaches.

Fixed fee pricing works best for projects with a clearly defined scope. On the other hand, hourly rates provide flexibility for projects that may evolve over time. Choosing the right method depends on the specific needs of the project and the client’s preferences.

Some designers also opt for percentage-based pricing or charge per square metre, tailoring their fees to the nature and scale of the project. These models offer additional flexibility in structuring design costs.

Before committing to a pricing model, it’s important to have a detailed discussion with your designer and confirm all terms in writing. Key points to address include:

• What’s included (and excluded) in the service
• Payment schedules to ensure clarity on when and how payments will be made
• Extra charges for revisions or added services
• Costs for material procurement and whether they’re included
• Fees for project management, if applicable

In the next section, we’ll dive into practical strategies for managing project expenses and setting clear financial expectations. These tips will help ensure your design project stays on track financially while delivering the results you envision.

Next Steps

Once you've assessed your designer's qualifications and pricing, it's time to finalise the contract. This step ties together all your earlier efforts to evaluate credentials and minimise potential risks.

Contract Verification

Double-check that your contract accurately reflects the terms you've agreed upon. Pay close attention to:

• Scope and specifications: Ensure the contract clearly outlines the work to be done.
• Pricing breakdown: Include VAT and any other applicable costs.
• Payment schedule: Confirm deadlines and amounts for each payment phase.
• Material sourcing: Clarify how and where materials will be obtained.
• Project timeline: Make sure deadlines are realistic and documented.
• Insurance coverage: Confirm liability and coverage specifics.
• Photo rights: Address how project photos may be used in portfolios or promotions.

Project Documentation

Keep detailed records to avoid misunderstandings later. Your documentation should include:

• Blueprints and 3D renderings of the design.
• Material specifications, including colour palettes and finishes.
• A list of selected furniture, fixtures, and fittings.
• Safety measures and protocols for the project.

Once all documentation is in order, move on to a professional review.

Professional Review

Before you sign the contract, take these extra steps to ensure everything checks out:

1. Have a qualified lawyer review the terms and conditions.
2. Verify that the designer holds the necessary licences and insurance.
3. Confirm that the payment structure aligns with your budget and expectations.
4. Look through their portfolio to see examples of similar completed projects.
5. Contact recent clients for references to gauge their satisfaction.

It’s wise to include a contingency of 10–20% in your budget for unexpected expenses. To keep communication clear and smooth throughout the project, make sure all documents are available in both Arabic and English.

FAQs

How can I confirm if an interior designer in the UAE is licensed and follows local regulations?

To confirm that an interior designer in the UAE is properly licensed and adheres to local regulations, you can verify their credentials through official government platforms. Each emirate operates its own Department of Economic Development (DED), where you can check business licenses and approved activities. Alternatively, the National Economic Register is another resource to confirm their legal status.

When meeting with a designer, request to see their trade license. Make sure it specifically lists activities related to interior design. Taking this step ensures they meet the required legal and professional standards in the UAE.

How can I evaluate an interior designer’s portfolio to ensure they are experienced with UAE-specific projects?

When evaluating an interior designer's portfolio, prioritise projects completed within the UAE. This approach ensures the designer understands local design preferences, aesthetic traditions, and municipal regulations. Look for examples that align with the region’s architectural styles, whether it’s luxury villas, upscale apartments, or commercial spaces.

It’s also worth noting how well their designs cater to the UAE’s climate and lifestyle. For instance, do they use sustainable materials? Have they integrated efficient cooling systems? Are there outdoor spaces designed to suit the region’s hot weather? A well-rounded portfolio will highlight a balance of artistic flair and practical know-how, tailored to the specific needs of UAE-based projects.

How can I make sure my interior design contract complies with UAE laws and safeguards my interests?

To make sure your interior design contract aligns with UAE laws and safeguards your interests, keep these points in mind:

• Legal Compliance: Contracts in the UAE are regulated by Federal Laws, local Emirate-specific regulations, and Shari'ah principles. The Civil Code emphasises that all parties must act in good faith and provides guidelines for executing contracts and resolving disputes.
• Key Clauses: Clearly outline the scope of work, payment schedules (in AED), project timelines, and terms for handling changes or defects. A detailed agreement can prevent potential misunderstandings down the line.
• Language Considerations: If your contract is bilingual (English and Arabic), remember that the Arabic version will hold legal precedence in case of disputes.

For extra assurance, consider consulting a legal expert well-versed in UAE construction and design laws before finalising the agreement.