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Fresh graduate, studied Interior Design from AUS. What salary should I realistically expect :(

Hi everyone :))
Just graduated from the American University of Sharjah, interior design. Starting to interview and completely lost on what to ask for. I've heard of salaries ranging from 3.5k to 7k. Whats a realistic starting salary for a genuine fresh grad with no professional experience in Dubai right now. Is 5k a reasonable ask. Any help or support from experienced designers would be appreciated.

Thank you!!
3 replies
@Jon 1 day ago

I graduated from AUS a few years ago and started at 4.8k in a small studio. Within 2 years I was on 9k with real project experience. At this stage chase the best learning environment, not the highest starting number.

@fatima_az 1 day ago

5k is a reasonable ask in Dubai for a fresh grad. Realistic range is 4.5–6k depending on the firm size. Don't undersell yourself but also don't price yourself out of good learning environments early on.

@laylainteriordesigner 1 day ago

Hello ! Starting out early in your career can be confusing. Previous replies here are spot on, prioritize learning over salary in the early years. But make sure you also set a baseline for yourself, understand what you will and won't accept. alculate your expenses, transport, and establish what you need to feel rewarded, and what work conditions work for you. Then negotiate higher pay (always). There is usually a little room for you to earn higher than their offer. Best of luck to you.