As the food and beverage industry in the UAE continues to flourish, restaurants are reimagining their interiors to offer more than just great food—they’re crafting immersive dining experiences. In 2025, restaurant design is shifting toward bold aesthetics, sustainable materials, and smart functionality, making it more essential than ever to stay ahead of the curve.
In this guide, Design Core, your expert in commercial interior design in the UAE, explores the top restaurant design trends for 2025, practical tips on budgeting, selecting materials, and making the most of compact spaces.
Trend 1: Bold Colour Palettes That Set the Mood
Gone are the days of playing it safe with beige and white. In 2025, restaurant interiors in the UAE are embracing vibrant colour schemes that stimulate appetite and emotion.
How to Use Colour to Transform a Commercial Space
- Red tones evoke energy and appetite, perfect for fast-casual dining.
- Earthy greens and blues offer calm and sophistication for upscale restaurants.
- Use accent walls and statement furniture to introduce colours without overwhelming the space.
Tip: Work with a professional interior designer in the UAE to select a colour scheme that aligns with your brand identity and customer expectations.
Trend 2: Sustainable and Locally Sourced Materials
Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s expected. Restaurants across Dubai and Abu Dhabi are turning to eco-friendly design choices to appeal to conscious consumers and reduce environmental impact.
How to Choose the Right Materials for a Restaurant Renovation
- Opt for reclaimed wood, recycled tiles, and eco-friendly paint.
- Use locally sourced stone or ceramics to minimise the carbon footprint.
- Incorporate indoor plants and green walls for freshness and aesthetic appeal.
Tip: Durable materials may have a higher upfront cost but provide long-term savings in maintenance.
Trend 3: Multifunctional Layouts for Small Spaces
With rising real estate costs in cities like Dubai, maximising space in small commercial areas is a key challenge. The solution? Smart layouts and modular furniture that adapt as needed.
Tips to Maximise Space in Compact Restaurants
- Use mirrors to create the illusion of a larger area.
- Opt for built-in benches and foldable tables to save space.
- Vertical storage and open shelving help with both aesthetics and practicality.
Trend 4: Smart Technology Integration
In 2025, smart tech is deeply embedded into restaurant interiors. From touchless fixtures to AI-powered lighting systems, tech enhances both customer experience and operational efficiency.
Popular Smart Features in UAE Restaurants
- QR code menus and digital ordering systems
- Smart ambient lighting that adjusts based on the time of day
- IoT-enabled kitchen and HVAC systems for better energy efficiency
Trend 5: Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
A growing trend among top restaurants in the UAE is blending traditional Arabic aesthetics with contemporary minimalism.
Interior Design Ideas for Traditional-Modern Fusion
- Use mashrabiya screens, mosaic tiles, and arched doorways as subtle nods to tradition.
- Pair with sleek, modern furniture and clean lines for balance.
Tip: Choosing the right design elements requires cultural sensitivity—hire a commercial interior design expert in Dubai to guide this integration.
Trend 6: Open Kitchens and Transparent Concepts
Customers love to see the action behind the scenes. In 2025, open kitchen concepts paired with live counters and interactive bars are gaining popularity.
Why Open Kitchens Are Trending
- Builds trust by showcasing hygiene and culinary skills
- Adds entertainment value to the dining experience
- Encourages customer-chef engagement in upscale dining
Industry Tips & Educational Advice
When to Hire an Interior Designer vs DIY
Hire a professional if:
- You’re opening a new restaurant or doing a complete renovation.
- You need structural changes or MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) planning.
- You want to ensure your design complies with UAE building regulations.
DIY is suitable for:
- Minor updates, like changing wall paint or rearranging furniture.
- Adding decorative elements like art, lighting, or greenery.
Interior Design Terminology Explained
- Fit-Out: The process of making an interior space suitable for occupation.
- FF&E: Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment—movable items in a space.
- Wayfinding: Design elements that help people navigate a space easily.
- Prioritise spending on high-impact areas like lighting, flooring, and kitchen layout.
Need help planning your budget? Contact Design Core, the best commercial interior designer in the UAE, for a free consultation today!
Bring Your 2025 Vision to Life with Design Core
At Design Core, we specialise in restaurant fit-out solutions in Dubai and across the UAE. From concept development to execution, our expert team ensures your dining space is not only trendy but also functional, cost-effective, and unforgettable.
