In the UAE, property sizes are often shown in square metres (SQM) and square feet (SQFT). Sometimes both appear in the same listing. Sometimes they do not. That is where confusion starts.
A 100 SQM apartment can look “smaller” than a 1,076 SQFT apartment at first glance. But they are actually the same size. The numbers just speak different languages.
This guide keeps it practical. You will get the conversion factor, a built-in calculator, real UAE-style examples, and the common mistakes that can throw your comparisons off.
- SQM to SQFT converter calculator online for UAE properties
- Why does the SQM to SQFT conversion matter in the UAE?
- SQM vs SQFT examples you will see in the UAE
- What should you double-check before comparing two properties?
- How should you round conversions in the UAE?
- Error examples and troubleshooting
- How can you build a converter in Excel or Google Sheets?
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
SQM to SQFT converter calculator online for UAE properties
SQM to SQFT Converter
Standard UAE Conversion: 1 SQM = 10.7639 SQFT.
Market rates update based on your inputs.
- SQM stands for square metres. It is the metric unit used across the UAE and most of the world. You will see it in technical documents, drawings, and many official records.
- SQFT stands for square feet. It is an imperial unit still commonly used in real estate marketing. Many buyers recognise it quickly, so it often shows up in listings and brochures.
Neither unit is “more correct”. The issue is consistency. You want to know which unit you are reading and convert cleanly when you need to compare.
Why does the SQM to SQFT conversion matter in the UAE?
Because the UAE market uses both. You might view a listing in SQFT, then see paperwork or drawings in SQM. If you are comparing properties, even a small misunderstanding can distort value.
Conversion matters most when you are: comparing multiple listings with different units, reviewing tenancy or sale documents, or checking fit-out quantities. It is also useful when discussing built-up area versus usable space with contractors and units that may be measured differently.
It is also a time-saver. Once you know the key numbers, browsing becomes much easier.
How do you use the converter in three quick steps?
Most converter mistakes happen before anyone presses “convert”. Keep your input simple, and the result will be reliable.
- Enter the number (for example, 85).
- Select the unit you are starting with (SQM or SQFT).
- Convert and review the output, including any rounding.
- Also, if you input the total property price, you will get the price per SQM and SQFT (optional step).
If the result looks wildly off, the unit selection is usually wrong. Double-check that first.
What is the standard SQM to SQFT formula?
The conversion factor does not change.
1 SQM = 10.7639 SQFT
From that, you get the two standard formulas:
- SQM × 10.7639 = SQFT
- SQFT ÷ 10.7639 = SQM
If you want a mental shortcut for quick browsing, 10.76 is close enough. For anything formal, use 10.7639 and round at the end.
SQM vs SQFT examples you will see in the UAE
In the UAE, property sizes can look confusing at first because listings are measured in both SQM and SQFT. A place that says “85 SQM” might be the same size as one that says “915 SQFT”; it is just a different unit. And even when the numbers match, the layout can make a home feel bigger or smaller than you expect.
The table below provides handy size benchmarks you will often see in apartments, villas, and townhouses, shown in both SQM and SQFT for quick comparison.
| Area (SQM) | Equivalent (SQFT) | What it often matches in the UAE |
|---|---|---|
| 35 | 376.74 | Compact studio |
| 50 | 538.20 | Small studio |
| 75 | 807.29 | Large studio or compact 1-bed |
| 100 | 1,076.39 | Typical 1-bed |
| 150 | 1,614.58 | Typical 2-bed |
| 200 | 2,152.78 | Large 2-bed or small 3-bed |
| 250 | 2,690.97 | Townhouse or villa (built-up varies) |
| 500 | 5,381.96 | Large villa or warehouse unit |
These are reference points. Layout can change how a space feels, even at the same size. Learn more about the differences between Townhouses and Villas in the UAE.
What should you double-check before comparing two properties?
The area figure is a helpful starting point, but it is not the full picture. Ownership documentation typically refers to the property description, which is why title deeds in Dubai are often mentioned when clarifying what a unit’s area refers to.
In the UAE, two listings can show the same number and still offer very different usable space, simply because the measurement method differs. A quick double-check on what is included makes your comparison fair.
- Built-up area vs net area
Some listings show built-up area, which may include wall thickness and, in some cases, balconies. Others show net area, which is closer to usable internal space.
Two homes can both say “1,200 SQFT” and feel different if one counts a terrace and the other does not.
- Balconies, terraces, and shared areas
Balconies are a common source of confusion. Some listings include them in the total. Some list them separately. Some do not say.
If you are comparing prices, ask what is included in each area. It prevents surprises later.
- Comparing like-for-like property types
A 90 SQM apartment and a 90 SQM townhouse are not comparable in the same way. Reporting can vary, and the layout experience is not the same.
When you compare, try to match: net to net, built-up to built-up, and internal space to internal space. This is also why the questions about what to ask when buying an apartment in Dubai often focus on how the area is defined and what is included.
Explore all apartments available for sale in Dubai
-
Apartment
Listed 5 days ago
2,100,000 AED
Spacious 1BR | High Floor | Park View
South Ridge 6, South Ridge, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
1
1
915 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
6,700,000 AED
Fully Furnished | Lowest in market| Community view
Apartment Building 5, Bluewaters Residences, Bluewaters, Dubai
2
3
1,351 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
39,000,000 AED
High Floor | Luxurious with Full Skyline Views
Bulgari Resort & Residences 2, Bulgari Resort & Residences, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah, Dubai
3
4
2,631 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
25,000,000 AED
Spacious Apt | Furnished with Amazing View
Bulgari Resort & Residences 2, Bulgari Resort & Residences, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah, Dubai
2
3
1,938 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
155,000,000 AED
Opulent Design Unit | Burj Al Arab Views
Bulgari Lighthouse, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah, Dubai
5
6
11,655 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
45,500,000 AED
Large Corner Apt with Marina and Sea Views
Bulgari Resort & Residences 5, Bulgari Resort & Residences, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah, Dubai
3
5
3,168 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 2 days ago
3,550,000 AED
EXCLUSIVE | AGENTS WELCOME | MULTIPLE UNITS
Island Park II, Dubai Creek Harbour (The Lagoons), Dubai
3
3
1,620 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 4 days ago
8,500,000 AED
Penthouse Style with Skyline Views at Golf Heights
Golf Heights, The Views, Dubai
4
5
2,399 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
12,500,000 AED
Fully Upgraded | Sea View | Never Occupied
La Vie, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai
3
4
2,062 sqft
-
Apartment
Listed 3 days ago
1,500,000 AED
Prime Location | 1 Bed | Spacious Layout | Rented
Mosela Water Residences, Mosela, The Views, Dubai
1
1
752 sqft
How should you round conversions in the UAE?
Rounding is not the enemy. Rounding at the wrong time is. In practice, most property figures are either used for quick comparisons, cost estimates, or official paperwork. Each one needs a different level of precision. The safest approach is to use the full conversion factor in the calculation, then round at the end, and always keep the unit visible next to the number.
For browsing and shortlisting
Whole numbers are fine for browsing listings and shortlisting options. You are trying to compare, not draft a contract.
- Example: 100 SQM ≈ 1,076 SQFT is clear and readable.
For quotations and contractor discussions
One decimal place is often a good balance. It keeps the figure consistent without pretending it is “survey-perfect”.
- Example: 74.6 SQM ≈ 802.9 SQFT.
For legal documents and permits
Follow the document requirements. In many cases, clarity matters more than extreme precision. Use consistent rounding, state the unit clearly, and avoid mixing “approx.” figures across different pages.
A simple rule: calculate first, round last.
Error examples and troubleshooting
When a conversion looks wrong, it is usually not the formula; it is the input. Most issues come from mixing up length and area units, or selecting the wrong unit before converting. A quick sense-check against common apartment sizes can save you time and prevent bad comparisons.
- Feet vs square feet: Feet measure length, while square feet measure area. Mixing them creates nonsense results.
- Metres vs square metres: Metres measure length, while square metres measure area. A room that is “10 metres” long is not “10 SQM”.
- Wrong input unit: Entering SQFT into an SQM field (or the reverse) will make results look extreme.
- Result too large or too small: This usually points to a unit mix-up, not a maths problem.
- Incorrect precision: Too many decimals can look artificially exact, while rounding too early can distort later calculations.
A quick check that helps: compare against the reference table. If your “one-bedroom” suddenly converts to 7,000 SQFT, the unit is wrong.
How can you build a converter in Excel or Google Sheets?
If you find yourself converting areas more than once or twice, a simple spreadsheet is a lifesaver. You can drop in the number, get the result instantly, and keep everything in one place while you compare listings or review documents. Once it’s set up, it becomes a quick habit you’ll rely on.
Convert SQM to SQFT:
- Put the SQM value in cell A1.
- In B1, enter: =A1*10.7639
Convert SQFT to SQM:
- Put the SQFT value in cell B1.
- In A1, enter: =B1/10.7639
Make it readable:
Format the result to:
- 0 decimals for browsing, or
- 1 decimal for contracts and quotes.
Label your cells clearly (“Input SQM”, “Result SQFT”). It prevents mistakes later.
Key Takeaways
SQM and SQFT are both widely used in UAE property, so conversion helps you compare listings and understand documents without confusion. The fixed relationship is simple: 1 SQM = 10.7639 SQFT, and you convert using multiplication or division. Rounding should match the context, with whole numbers for browsing and one decimal place for more formal use.
Before comparing properties, confirm what the stated area includes, especially balconies and whether the figure is built-up or net, because that affects value as much as the unit.
FAQs
1 square metre equals 10.7639 square feet.
Both are common. Many listings show SQFT, while technical documents often rely on SQM.
Whole numbers or one decimal place are usually enough, as long as the unit is clear.
Because area may be measured differently, or include balconies, walls, or terraces.
Check the unit first, convert once, then compare using the same unit across all listings.
