Move-Out Painting in Dubai: How to Get Your Deposit Back

Many tenancy contracts in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman say the apartment must be returned "in its original condition" — which usually means freshly painted in the original colour. If it isn't, the landlord may deduct painting costs from your security deposit, often at a higher rate than doing it yourself.

Do you have to repaint?

Check your tenancy contract and any handover checklist from the agent. If it mentions painting or "original condition", plan to repaint — especially if you've lived there more than a year, hung frames or used colour on any walls.

What landlords check at handover

• Walls are clean, even and in the original colour (usually white).

• Nail and screw holes are filled.

• No marks behind beds, sofas or TV units.

• Ceilings, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, are free of stains.

How much does move-out painting cost?

With Matla Al Anwar, move-out painting starts from AED 650 for a studio, AED 950 for a 1-bedroom and AED 1,400 for a 2-bedroom. Most jobs take a single day.

Your move-out checklist

1. Book painting for after your furniture is moved out.

2. Ask the painters to fill all holes and repaint in the original colour.

3. Book sofa, mattress or carpet cleaning if furniture stays with the apartment.

4. Take photos of every room after the work is done.

5. Attend the handover inspection with your photos.

Moving soon? See our move-out painting service or send us your handover date.