The Cost of Building a Cold Room in the UAE: Complete Pricing Guide (2025)

Building a cold room in the UAE involves several technical, material, and installation factors that ultimately determine the final cost. Whether you are opening a restaurant, supermarket, warehouse, or industrial facility, knowing the cost structure helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.

This guide covers everything you need to know about cold room pricing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other UAE regions, including insulation, cooling units, electrical work, and installation charges.

Factors That Affect Cold Room Cost in the UAE

1. Cold Room Size & Dimensions

Room size significantly impacts the cost. Larger spaces require more insulation panels, more powerful condensing units, and higher installation labor.

Typical UAE price ranges:

• Small rooms (2×2×2.4m): AED 9,000 – AED 16,000

• Medium rooms (3×3×2.4m): AED 15,000 – AED 28,000

• Large rooms (custom-built): AED 30,000 – AED 180,000+

2. Type of Cold Room: Chiller vs. Freezer

• Chiller Rooms (0°C to +10°C)
  Lower capacity compressors → lower cost.

• Freezer Rooms (-18°C to -25°C)
  Requires thicker insulation (100–150mm) and heavy-duty refrigeration → higher cost (approx. 20–40% more).

3. Insulation Panel Thickness

UAE standard insulation options:

• 60mm / 80mm → For chillers

• 100mm / 120mm / 150mm → For freezers

Thicker panels = higher cost but better efficiency.

4. Refrigeration Unit Capacity

This includes the condenser, evaporator, and controller. Reliable brands cost more but offer longer life and energy savings.

Common UAE brands: Emerson, Danfoss, Tecumseh, Bitzer.

5. Installation & Labor Charges

Skilled technicians in the UAE charge more due to technical requirements and safety standards. A typical installation ranges AED 1,500 – AED 4,500 depending on complexity.

Hidden Costs You Should Know

• Electrical rewiring

• Floor insulation

• Drain line work

• Additional shelving

• Temperature monitoring systems

• Backup power integration

These can add AED 1,000 – AED 9,000 depending on scope.

Final Cost Summary

A full cold room setup in the UAE generally costs:

• Chillers: AED 12,000 – AED 40,000

• Freezers: AED 20,000 – AED 80,000

• Large custom solutions: AED 50,000 – AED 180,000+

Conclusion

Cold room pricing in the UAE depends mainly on size, temperature requirements, insulation, and the brand of refrigeration equipment. Investing in quality materials ensures long-term savings and reliable performance in the UAE’s extreme climate.