Quick Summary
Air conditioning is not optional in Dubai — temperatures regularly exceed 45°C in summer. Most apartments use split or central ducted systems, and keeping them running efficiently is critical for comfort and electricity bills. Regular maintenance can prevent 80% of breakdowns, but when issues arise, having a reliable technician on speed-dial matters.
What It Usually Costs
| Service | Typical Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic / service call | 150 – 300 | Includes basic check |
| Filter cleaning & gas top-up | 200 – 400 | Most common routine service |
| Drain line clearing | 150 – 250 | Common in humid months |
| Compressor replacement | 1,500 – 3,500 | Major repair |
| Full unit replacement (split) | 3,000 – 7,000 | Installed, including unit |
| Annual maintenance contract | 300 – 600/unit | 2–4 visits per year |
Key cost factors: unit type (split vs central ducted), brand, building access, whether parts are needed, and urgency (emergency weekend calls cost more).
How to Choose a Good AC Technician
- Look for DEWA or manufacturer certification — this indicates proper training on refrigerant handling and electrical safety.
- Get a written diagnosis before authorizing repairs — never agree to parts replacement based on a phone description.
- Ask for genuine parts with warranty — cheap aftermarket compressors fail faster and void manufacturer coverage.
- Check if they cover your AC brand — some technicians specialize in specific brands (Daikin, LG, Carrier, etc.).
- Compare at least 2 quotes for major repairs — compressor and full-unit quotes vary widely.
- Avoid handymen for refrigerant work — improper gas handling causes leaks and is an environmental violation.
- Consider an annual maintenance contract — it's cheaper per visit and many include priority emergency response.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does AC repair cost in Dubai?
A basic service call (diagnostic + minor fix) costs AED 150–300. Compressor replacement runs AED 1,500–3,500 depending on the unit. Annual maintenance contracts for a single split unit are typically AED 300–600 per year.
How often should I service my AC in Dubai?
At minimum twice a year — once before summer (April) and once mid-season (July–August). Heavy-use environments like ground-floor villas or units with pets benefit from quarterly servicing to maintain efficiency.
Who is responsible for AC repairs in a Dubai rental — tenant or landlord?
Under standard RERA tenancy rules, the landlord is responsible for major AC repairs and replacement. The tenant handles minor maintenance like filter cleaning. However, many contracts modify this, so always check your specific Ejari-registered lease.
What are the most common AC problems in Dubai?
The most frequent issues are refrigerant leaks (causing weak cooling), clogged drain lines (causing water leaks), dirty filters reducing airflow, and compressor failure in older units. Most of these are preventable with regular maintenance.