Relocating furniture in Dubai can be surprisingly complex. Between high-rise access restrictions, elevator booking policies, and permit requirements, budgeting correctly for your move is essential. Understanding how much movers cost — and what those prices actually include — helps you avoid hidden charges, damage risks, and last-minute stress.
In this guide, we’ll explore the real, verified costs of furniture movers in Dubai, using data from multiple UAE-based sources such as ServiceMarket, WiseMove, fäm Properties, and MoveAdvisor.
Also Read: Furniture Moving Checklist: Pre-Move to Setup in the UAE
Average Cost of Furniture Movers in Dubai
The following data is compiled from leading UAE relocation directories and service aggregators.
| Source | Type of Move | Average Cost (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ServiceMarket (2024) | 1BHK Apartment | 1,200 – 1,500 | Packing, dismantling, transport, re-assembly |
| WiseMove.ae (2024) | 1BHK Apartment | 900 – 1,300 | Labour, truck, basic wrap |
| fäm Properties (2024) | Studio – 1BHK | 1,000 – 2,000 | Packing & unpacking |
| MoveAdvisor UAE Reviews (2023) | Local Moves | 1,038 – 2,966 | Truck, labour, insurance (partial) |
| MacPackDubai (2024) | 1BHK | 1,200 – 2,000+ | Premium packing materials, insurance |
Average price range for 1BHK moves in Dubai: AED 1,200 – 1,500
- 2BHK apartments: AED 2,000 – 3,000
- 3BHK villas or larger: AED 3,500 – 5,000+
These costs align with the UAE’s Dubai Statistics Centre 2024 Household Services Index, which recorded a 5.8% increase in domestic relocation service prices due to higher labour and transport costs.
What’s Included in the Price
A standard full-service moving package in Dubai usually includes:
- Professional packing using bubble wrap, corrugated sheets, stretch film, and cartons.
- Furniture dismantling and reassembly (beds, wardrobes, modular sofas).
- Transport in closed, insured vehicles (1–3 ton trucks depending on load).
- Loading & unloading crew (typically 3–5 workers).
- Basic insurance coverage for goods in transit.
- Disposal of packing waste after setup.
However, some low-cost movers exclude materials or insurance — leading to hidden add-ons at the last minute.
Major Factors Affecting Moving Costs
1. Property Type & Access Difficulty
Moving from or to high-rise towers in Downtown, Marina, or Business Bay often adds 10–15% due to lift booking, restricted truck timings, and limited parking.
Example: Emaar or Nakheel buildings may require move-in/out NOC and elevator reservations (source: Dubai Municipality Community Guidelines, 2024).
2. Volume of Furniture & Materials
Larger households or furniture needing custom crating (e.g., glass tables, artwork) increase costs.
Research from the University of Sharjah’s Civil & Environmental Engineering Department (2023) found that custom-fit crating reduces breakage risk significantly, improving long-term savings despite higher upfront cost.
3. Labour and Crew Size
Labour costs rise during summer due to midday break laws and limited working hours (regulated under UAE MOHRE Summer Work Ban).
4. Distance Between Locations
Most companies include up to 15 km within Dubai. Inter-Emirate or long-distance moves (Dubai to Abu Dhabi or Sharjah) can add AED 300-800.
5. Timing and Booking Window
Last-minute or weekend bookings cost more. ServiceMarket notes that bookings made 3–5 days in advance can reduce costs by 10–20%.
Cost Comparison: Apartment vs Villa Moves
| Property Type | Avg. Price (AED) | Complexity Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 800 – 1,000 | Low | Minimal furniture, short duration |
| 1BHK | 1,200 – 1,500 | Moderate | Includes packing, re-assembly |
| 2BHK | 2,000 – 3,000 | High | More materials and larger truck |
| 3BHK+ or Villa | 3,500 – 5,000+ | Very High | Multiple vehicles, permits required |
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Elevator booking delays or no NOC can lead to parking fines or extra crew hours.
- Cash-only companies often lack insurance — you may have no claim recourse.
- “All-inclusive” quotes that skip itemisation frequently add hidden costs later.
Always ask for a written contract with clear coverage, breakdown, and insurance details.
Tips for Saving on Furniture Moving
- Plan early: Book movers at least 5 days ahead to secure better rates.
- Declutter: Donate or sell unused items to reduce CBM (cubic metre) load.
- Pack small items yourself: Movers charge by volume and material usage.
- Confirm insurance: Ensure coverage for damage or loss.
- Compare at least three licensed movers via verified aggregators like ServiceMarket or WiseMove.
Also Read: Licensed vs. Unlicensed Movers in Dubai: Why Choosing the Right One Matters
Conclusion: Budget Smart for a Smooth Move
The average cost of moving a 1BHK apartment in Dubai is around AED 1,200–1,500, while villas can exceed AED 4,000. The total cost depends on volume, access, timing, and professionalism of the movers.
Choosing a licensed, insured company and requesting a detailed written quotation will help you avoid hidden fees and ensure peace of mind on moving day.
