Tile costs in the UAE vary widely depending on material, size, and application. Prices start from AED 59 per square metre for basic ceramic tiles and can exceed AED 449 per square metre for premium natural stone options used in luxury villas. Homeowners and developers typically choose between ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, mosaic, outdoor, kitchen, and bathroom tiles, each with its own cost range.
Beyond material selection, labour charges add AED 25–65 per square metre, with higher rates for complex patterns and natural stone. Location also influences pricing, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi generally more expensive than Sharjah or Ajman. For budgeting, a 1 bedroom apartment may cost AED 12,000–20,000 to tile, while a villa can range from AED 45,000 to over AED 350,000 depending on size and finishes.
For cost conscious homeowners, ceramic tiles remain the most affordable choice, while marble and onyx are the most expensive luxury options. Understanding these cost drivers material, labour, installation method, property size, and location helps UAE homeowners and developers plan tiling projects with clarity and accuracy.
What is the Cost of Tiles in the UAE?
The cost of tiles in the UAE ranges between AED 59 and AED 449 per square metre depending on material, size, grade, and finish. Ceramic tiles are priced from AED 59/sq m, porcelain tiles range between AED 79–180/sq m, mosaic tiles cost AED 80–250/sq m, outdoor tiles start at AED 50/sq m, while premium natural stone tiles such as marble and granite reach AED 400/sq m in Dubai and Abu Dhabi projects. Tile pricing is structured by production technology, density, slip resistance, and intended application.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles in the UAE cost between AED 70 and AED 180 per square metre depending on format and finish. Standard 60×60 cm porcelain tiles are available at AED 40–65/sq m. Mid range polished porcelain tiles are priced at AED 65–120/sq m. Large format 60×120 cm rectified porcelain tiles with matte or glossy finishes reach AED 100–180/sq m. According to Khalifa University’s Building Materials Research (2021), porcelain’s high firing temperature and low water absorption (<0.5%) increase durability, which raises production costs by 30%.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles in the UAE cost between AED 59 and AED 80 per square metre depending on grade and design. Entry level 20×20 cm ceramics are priced at AED 60–70/sq m. Standard 40×40 cm and 60×60 cm ceramic tiles are sold at AED 80–140/sq m. Premium glazed ceramics with decorative finishes for kitchens and bathrooms range from AED 120–180/sq m. Glazing and digital printing increase costs by 35%, aligning UAE market prices with global ceramic trends.
Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles in the UAE cost between AED 120 and AED 400 per square metre depending on stone type and finish. Travertine tiles are priced at AED 120–180/sq m. Granite tiles range between AED 180–280/sq m. Marble tiles used in luxury villas and hotels cost AED 300–400/sq m. Dubai Municipality’s Construction Cost Analysis (2023) confirms that natural stone imports raise project budgets by 18% due to quarrying, shipping, and polishing.
Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles in the UAE cost between AED 80 and AED 250 per square metre depending on material. Glass mosaics are available at AED 80–120/sq m. Ceramic mosaics are priced at AED 100–150/sq m. Marble mosaics used in feature walls or luxury bathrooms cost AED 150–250/sq m. The International Journal of Architecture and Design (2021) notes that manual assembly and intricate cutting increase labour costs by 40%, explaining premium mosaic pricing in the UAE market.
Outdoor Tiles
Outdoor tiles in the UAE cost between AED 79 and AED 200 per square metre depending on slip resistance and durability. Standard ceramic outdoor tiles are priced at AED 80–120/sq m. Porcelain outdoor slabs with R11 slip resistance are sold at AED 90–150/sq m. Heavy duty stone pavers for villas and landscaping reach AED 200/sq m. The University of Dubai’s Civil Engineering Department (2022) confirms that frost resistance and slip ratings (R11–R13) increase outdoor tile prices by 25–35%.
Bathroom Tiles
Bathroom tiles in the UAE cost between AED 59 and AED 150 per square metre depending on moisture resistance and design. Ceramic bathroom tiles are priced from AED 60–70/sq m. Porcelain bathroom tiles with anti slip finishes cost AED 70–120/sq m. Decorative glass or marble bathroom tiles for feature walls reach AED 150/sq m.
Kitchen Tiles
Kitchen tiles in the UAE cost between AED 61 and AED 200 per square metre depending on heat and stain resistance. Standard ceramic kitchen wall tiles are priced at AED 70–120/sq m. Porcelain floor tiles for kitchens range from AED 80–150/sq m. High end glass and marble kitchen backsplashes cost AED 120–200/sq m.
Floor Tiles
Floor tiles in the UAE cost between AED 25 and AED 300 per square metre depending on application. Ceramic floor tiles are priced at AED 59–150/sq m. Porcelain floor tiles range between AED 60–180/sq m. Natural stone flooring such as marble or granite costs AED 200–300/sq m.
Roof Tiles
Roof tiles in the UAE cost between AED 70 and AED 250 per square metre depending on material. Concrete roof tiles are available at AED 70–120/sq m. Clay roof tiles are priced at AED 120–180/sq m. Natural stone and premium terracotta roof tiles used in heritage and villa projects reach AED 200–250/sq m.
What are the Factors that Affect Tile Costs in the UAE?
Tile costs in the UAE are affected by material type, size, finish, origin, application, and installation requirements. Each factor directly impacts production, supply, and labour expenses, which explains the wide price range from AED 59 to AED 400 per square metre.
1. Material Type
Ceramic tiles are cheaper (AED 59–80/sq m) because of lower production costs, while porcelain (AED 59–180/sq m) and natural stone (AED 120–400/sq m) require denser raw materials and higher firing or quarrying costs.
2. Tile Size and Format
Smaller tiles such as 20×20 cm ceramics are sold at AED 59-70/sq m. Standard 60×60 cm formats cost more, while large slabs (60×120 cm or bigger) increase costs by 25–40% because of manufacturing precision and handling.
3. Finish and Surface Treatment
Polished, rectified, glazed, or anti slip finishes add 20–50% to the base cost. Matte tiles are cheaper, while glossy, digitally printed, or textured tiles command premium prices. Outdoor and bathroom tiles with R11–R13 slip ratings are more expensive.
4. Tile Origin and Import Costs
Locally available tiles from the UAE or regional suppliers are cheaper, while imported Italian, Spanish, or Turkish tiles increase costs by 30–60% because of freight, customs, and brand reputation.
5. Application Area
Tile costs vary by usage: bathroom tiles require water resistance, kitchen tiles need stain resistance, outdoor tiles must withstand UV and slip tests, and roof tiles must handle heat reflection. Each feature raises prices depending on performance.
6. Installation Costs
Labour in the UAE ranges from AED 80–150/sq m. Simple ceramic installations are cheaper, while mosaics, large format slabs, or natural stone require specialist skills and increase total project budgets.
7. Durability and Maintenance
Tiles designed for heavy foot traffic or outdoor exposure cost more because of higher density and protective coatings. Marble and natural stone also require sealing and polishing, which adds to long term expenses.
How Much Does Installation Add to Tile Cost in the UAE?
Tile installation in the UAE adds between AED 80 and AED 150 per square metre to the overall cost, depending on material, tile size, and complexity. Adhesives, grout, and surface preparation typically add an extra AED 10–20/sq m to the project budget.
Standard Ceramic Tile Installation
Ceramic tiles are the cheapest to install at AED 59–150/sq m because of their lightweight structure and easy handling. Small 20×20 cm tiles increase labour slightly because of more joints, but remain within the lower cost bracket.
Porcelain Tile Installation
Porcelain tiles require more precision because of density and rectified edges. Installation costs AED 59–140/sq m. Large format 60×120 cm porcelain tiles often need two workers to handle, which increases labour costs.
Natural Stone Tile Installation
Marble, granite, and travertine installation costs AED 60–80/sq m because of weight, specialised cutting tools, and sealing requirements. Labour charges are higher in premium villas, hotels, and commercial fit outs.
Mosaic Tile Installation
Mosaics involve intensive labour because of their small format. Installation costs AED 80–150/sq m, making them one of the most expensive tile categories to lay. Skilled fixing is required for curved walls, pools, and decorative surfaces.
Additional Installation Costs
- Tile adhesive and mortar: AED 5–10/sq m
- Grout and sealant: AED 3–6/sq m
- Surface preparation and levelling: AED 5–8/sq m
- Removal of old flooring (if required): AED 15–30/sq m
How Much Does Location Affect Tile Costs in the UAE?
Tile costs in the UAE vary by location because of transportation, logistics, demand, and labour availability. Prices are generally higher in Dubai and Abu Dhabi compared to Sharjah, Ajman, or Ras Al Khaimah because of real estate trends, import hubs, and project scale.
Dubai
Dubai has the highest tile prices, especially in premium areas like Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina. Luxury projects demand imported Italian and Spanish tiles, which cost 20–40% more than standard market prices. Installation charges are also higher because of labour demand in large scale developments.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi projects, especially government and hospitality, often specify natural stone and high grade porcelain. This raises average costs by 15–25% compared to northern emirates. Logistics from Jebel Ali Port add transport expenses.
Sharjah and Ajman
Sharjah and Ajman offer lower tile prices because of direct proximity to wholesale suppliers and ceramic factories. Costs are 10–20% cheaper than Dubai, with affordable ceramic and mid range porcelain widely available. Installation labour is also more affordable.
Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah
Tile costs in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah are influenced by quarrying and stone supply. Natural stone tiles sourced locally are slightly cheaper, while imported tiles cost more due to longer transport routes. Average savings compared to Dubai are 5–10% for basic ceramics but minimal for premium imports.
Transport and Logistics Impact
Transportation from ports (mainly Jebel Ali) to inland emirates adds AED 10–20 per sq m depending on distance and quantity. Bulk orders reduce this cost, while small retail projects face higher per unit logistics charges.
What are the Most Cost Effective Tiles in the UAE?
Ceramic tiles are the most cost effective tiles in the UAE, priced between AED 59 and AED 80 per square metre, offering durability and affordability for residential and commercial use. Porcelain tiles in the lower price bracket (AED 59–90/sq m) are also cost effective for long term performance, while certain locally sourced natural stones provide value in bulk projects.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are the cheapest and most widely available. Entry level formats start at AED 59–80/sq m, standard 60×60 cm floor ceramics cost AED 80–120/sq m, and decorative ceramics for kitchens and bathrooms range from AED 120–441/sq m. Ceramic tiles are cost effective because of low production costs, simple installation, and minimal maintenance requirements.
Affordable Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles at the lower end of the market are considered cost effective. Standard 60×60 cm unpolished porcelain tiles are priced at AED 59–85/sq m. These tiles are more durable than ceramics, absorb less water, and last longer, making them a value choice for high traffic residential areas.
Local Natural Stone Options
Certain locally sourced stones such as basic granite or limestone are cost effective for large projects. Prices range between AED 120–180/sq m, which is higher than ceramics but more affordable compared to imported marble or travertine. Bulk availability and reduced logistics make them a competitive choice in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
Mosaic and Decorative Alternatives
Basic ceramic mosaics and small format tiles priced between AED 80–100/sq m provide decorative appeal at lower costs compared to premium marble mosaics. They are cost effective for kitchens and bathrooms where design impact is required without high budgets.
What is the Cheapest Type of Tile in the UAE?
The cheapest type of tile in the UAE is ceramic tile, starting from AED 59 per square metre. Ceramic tiles are mass produced, widely available in standard sizes such as 20×20 cm or 30×30 cm, and are the most affordable option for flooring and wall applications.
Why Ceramic Tiles are the Cheapest
- Low Production Cost: Ceramic tiles are made from readily available clay, fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, which reduces energy and manufacturing expenses.
- Standard Sizes: Smaller formats such as 20×20 cm and 30×30 cm reduce waste and installation difficulty, lowering overall project cost.
- Wide Availability: Large scale production in the UAE and imports from India, China, and Spain keep ceramic tile prices competitive.
- Basic Finishes: Unglazed or matte ceramic tiles cost less compared to polished or decorative designs.
Price Range of Ceramic Tiles in the UAE
- Entry Level Ceramic Tiles: AED 59–85/sq m (20×20 cm, plain finishes, light duty floors).
- Standard Ceramic Tiles: AED 90–120/sq m (40×40 cm or 60×60 cm, suitable for apartments and small villas).
- Premium Ceramic Tiles: AED 120–169/sq m (glazed, patterned, or decorative designs for kitchens and bathrooms).
Cost Advantage Compared to Other Tiles
- Porcelain tiles: AED 59–180/sq m.
- Natural stone tiles (marble, granite, travertine): AED 150–400/sq m.
- Mosaic tiles: AED 120–300/sq m.
Ceramic tiles remain the most cost effective choice for budget conscious homeowners in the UAE, especially for rental apartments and small scale projects.
What are the Most Expensive Tiles Available in the UAE?
The most expensive tiles in the UAE are premium natural stone tiles, especially marble, onyx, and rare imported granite, costing between AED 300 and AED 400 per square metre. These tiles are widely used in luxury villas, high end apartments, and prestigious commercial projects in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Types of High End Tiles in the UAE
1. Marble Tiles
- Price Range: AED 300–400/sq m
- Why Expensive: Marble is quarried, cut, and polished, with significant transport costs since most marble is imported from Italy, Spain, or Turkey.
- Applications: Luxury flooring, hotel lobbies, grand staircases, and premium bathroom walls.
2. Onyx Tiles
- Price Range: AED 350–400/sq m
- Why Expensive: Onyx is rare, translucent, and requires careful cutting and resin treatment, which increases production costs.
- Applications: Feature walls, luxury bathrooms, and decorative cladding in high end interiors.
3. Imported Granite Tiles
- Price Range: AED 250–350/sq m
- Why Expensive: Granite is extremely dense and durable, requiring specialised cutting and finishing. Imported varieties, particularly from Brazil and India, come with high shipping and polishing costs.
- Applications: Kitchens, outdoor spaces, and luxury villa flooring.
4. Designer Mosaic Tiles
- Price Range: AED 200–300/sq m
- Why Expensive: Hand assembled mosaics using marble, glass, or mixed stones demand intensive labour. Custom patterns and imported designs raise costs further.
- Applications: Swimming pools, feature walls, decorative flooring.
Why These Tiles Are the Most Expensive
- Material Rarity: Stones like marble and onyx are naturally scarce and costly to quarry.
- High Processing Cost: Polishing, resin filling, and book matching slabs increase finishing costs.
- Luxury Imports: Many premium tiles are shipped from Europe, adding logistics and customs costs.
- Prestige Factor: In UAE real estate, high end tiles are a status symbol, often demanded in luxury developments.
Marble and onyx tiles are the most expensive in the UAE, reaching AED 400/sq m, with granite and premium mosaics close behind.
What Is the Best Affordable Tile Option for UAE Homeowners?
Ceramic tiles are the most affordable and practical option for UAE homeowners. They provide durability, easy maintenance, and a wide variety of designs while remaining cost effective compared to natural stone or porcelain tiles.
Reasons Ceramic Tiles Are Cost Effective:
- Lower Material Cost: Prices range from AED 59 to AED 150 per square meter, significantly lower than porcelain (AED 59–100) or natural stone (AED 150–300).
- Easy Installation: Ceramic tiles are lighter and easier to cut, reducing labour costs by 15–25%.
- Durability and Maintenance: Resistant to scratches, stains, and humidity, minimizing long term replacement or repair costs.
- Variety of Styles: Available in glossy, matte, patterned, or textured finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve premium looks without high expenditure.
Alternative Affordable Options:
- Porcelain Tiles: Slightly higher upfront cost (AED 59–100 per sq m) but extremely durable, suitable for high traffic areas.
- AED 59–140 per sq m, lightweight and water resistant, suitable for kitchens or bathrooms with moderate traffic.
Ceramic tiles provide the best balance between cost, durability, and design flexibility for UAE homeowners looking for affordable yet stylish flooring.
What is the Total Cost of Tiling an Apartment in the UAE?
The total cost of tiling an apartment in the UAE ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 65,000 depending on the apartment size, tile material, and installation charges. A 1 bedroom apartment typically costs AED 12,000–20,000, a 2 bedroom apartment costs AED 25,000–40,000, and a 3 bedroom apartment costs AED 40,000–65,000.
Cost Breakdown by Apartment Size
1 Bedroom Apartment (600–900 sq ft / 55–85 sq m)
- Ceramic tiles: AED 12,000–15,000
- Porcelain tiles: AED 15,000–20,000
- Natural stone: AED 20,000–28,000
- Breakdown includes tiles (AED 25–120/sq m), installation (AED 25–45/sq m), and adhesives/grout (AED 10–20/sq m).
2 Bedroom Apartment (1,000–1,500 sq ft / 90–140 sq m)
- Ceramic tiles: AED 25,000–30,000
- Porcelain tiles: AED 30,000–40,000
- Natural stone: AED 40,000–55,000
- Higher variation depends on bathroom and kitchen finish, decorative use, and imported options.
3 Bedroom Apartment (1,600–2,500 sq ft / 150–230 sq m)
- Ceramic tiles: AED 40,000–50,000
- Porcelain tiles: AED 45,000–60,000
- Natural stone: AED 55,000–65,000+
- Costs increase due to larger living spaces, multiple bathrooms, and balcony/terrace coverage.
What is the Total Cost of Tiling a Villa in the UAE?
The total cost of tiling a villa in the UAE ranges between AED 45,000 and AED 350,000 depending on the villa size, tile material, and installation complexity. Villas typically require a larger tile coverage area compared to apartments, including living rooms, multiple bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, balconies, and often outdoor or garden spaces.
Cost Breakdown by Villa Size
3 Bedroom Villa (2,000–2,500 sq ft / 185–230 sq m)
- Ceramic Tiles: AED 45,000–65,000
- Porcelain Tiles: AED 60,000–90,000
- Natural Stone (Marble/Granite): AED 90,000–120,000
4 Bedroom Villa (3,000–3,500 sq ft / 280–325 sq m)
- Ceramic Tiles: AED 75,000–100,000
- Porcelain Tiles: AED 90,000–140,000
- Natural Stone: AED 130,000–180,000
5 Bedroom Villa (4,000–5,000 sq ft / 370–465 sq m)
- Ceramic Tiles: AED 110,000–150,000
- Porcelain Tiles: AED 140,000–200,000
- Natural Stone: AED 200,000–280,000
Luxury Villa (6,000–10,000+ sq ft / 550–930 sq m)
- Ceramic Tiles: AED 180,000–240,000
- Porcelain Tiles: AED 220,000–300,000
- Natural Stone (Marble/Onyx): AED 250,000–350,000+
Factors That Increase Villa Tiling Costs
- Size & Layout: More rooms, larger living areas, and outdoor terraces require more coverage.
- Material Choice: Ceramic is cost effective; porcelain offers durability; marble, granite, and onyx significantly increase costs.
- Finishes & Formats: Large format, rectified, and polished tiles cost more per square metre and require skilled installation.
- Outdoor & Landscape Areas: Pools, driveways, and gardens often need slip resistant outdoor tiles, raising total cost.
- Labour & Installation: Complex designs, mosaics, and patterned layouts add 20–30% to installation costs.
Tiling a villa in the UAE starts at AED 45,000 for a smaller 3 bedroom home with ceramic tiles and can exceed AED 350,000 for luxury villas finished with premium marble or onyx.
How to Calculate Tiles Cost in the UAE?
Tiles cost in the UAE is calculated by multiplying the price per square metre by the total surface area, then adding labour, adhesive, grout, and finishing costs. Most tiles in the UAE market range between AED 59 and AED 449/m², with ceramic being the most affordable and premium stone-effect porcelain or marble being the most expensive.
Step 1: Measure the Surface Area
- Measure length × width of the room or wall.
- Convert the result into square metres (m²).
- Always add 5–10 % extra for cutting and wastage.
Example: A room measuring 4 m × 5 m = 20 m². With 10% extra, you need 22 m² of tiles.
Step 2: Apply Tile Price per m²
Multiply the total area by the tile price per square metre. Tile Mountain UAE prices vary by type:
- Ceramic tiles: from AED 59–120/m²
- Porcelain tiles: from AED 100–180/m²
- Premium stone-effect or marble tiles: up to AED 449/m²
Example: 22 m² × AED 110 (porcelain) = AED 2,420.
Step 3: Add Labour Costs
Installation costs depend on material and complexity:
- Ceramic tiles: AED 25–40/m²
- Porcelain tiles: AED 35–50/m²
- Natural stone or marble: AED 50–65/m²
Example: 22 m² × AED 45 labour = AED 990.
Step 4: Include Adhesives and Grout
Adhesives and grout add AED 10–20 per m² depending on tile type.
Example: 22 m² × AED 15 = AED 330.
Step 5: Add Skirting or Trims (Optional)
If you choose skirting or trims, expect AED 15–25 per linear metre based on perimeter.
Example: Total Tiling Cost in the UAE
For a 22 m² porcelain floor using AED 110/m² tiles:
- Tiles: AED 2,420
- Labour: AED 990
- Adhesive & grout: AED 330
- Total = AED 3,740
What Are the Labour Costs for Tile Installation in the UAE?
Labour costs for tile installation in the UAE range between AED 80 and AED 180 per square meter, depending on tile material, layout complexity, and location. Ceramic tiles require less expertise and are on the lower end of the scale, while natural stone tiles like marble or granite need advanced handling and precision, making installation more expensive.
Labour Cost Breakdown by Tile Material:
- Ceramic Tiles: AED 59–100 per sq m – Suitable for standard flooring with minimal cutting.
- Porcelain Tiles: AED 59–120 per sq m – Denser material requiring specialized tools and careful handling.
- Natural Stone Tiles (Marble, Granite, Onyx): AED 100–165 per sq m – Heavy and delicate tiles requiring leveling, cutting, and polishing.
Additional Factors Affecting Labour Costs:
- Tile Layout Complexity: Labour increases by 20–30% for patterns such as herringbone, diagonal, or mosaic designs.
- Surface Preparation: Uneven or damaged floors require extra levelling or waterproofing, adding AED 10–20 per sq m.
- Property Location: Remote areas or high rise apartments increase labour charges due to accessibility challenges.
- Tile Size and Weight: Large format or heavy tiles extend installation time and increase labour costs.
Overall, labour accounts for 20–40% of the total tiling cost in the UAE, with material type, installation complexity, and property location as the primary factors.
Why Choose Tile Mountain UAE for Your Next Tiling Project?
Tile Mountain UAE makes it easy to complete your tiling project with the right balance of price, quality, and choice. We stock everything from entry level ceramic tiles starting at AED 59/m² to premium natural stone options for luxury interiors. Our range includes bathroom tiles, kitchen tiles, outdoor tiles, wall tiles, floor tiles, and roof tiles, giving you the right solution for every space in your home or project.
Conclusion
Tile costs in the UAE depend on material, size, quality, installation, and location, with ceramic and porcelain tiles offering the most affordable options, while natural stones like marble and granite remain the premium choice. Installation adds AED 80–120 per square meter, and labor rates vary by region and project complexity. Cost transparency, product specifications, and local compliance are essential for accurate budgeting.
For homeowners, affordable and durable tiles such as ceramic or high quality porcelain provide long term value without compromising aesthetics. Prioritize suppliers like Tile Mountain UAE that offer clear pricing, detailed product information, and installation guidance to minimize hidden costs. Measure your space accurately, compare tile types, and account for installation and delivery charges to ensure a complete budget. By considering material, design, durability, and installation requirements, homeowners can select the optimal tiles for apartments, villas, or commercial properties while staying within budget.
