Dubai’s extreme climate, characterised by high temperatures, intense sunlight, and high humidity, presents a unique set of challenges for outdoor furniture. Therefore, when selecting outdoor bench materials for this region, it’s crucial to choose those that can withstand the harsh climate while maintaining their aesthetic appeal. This guide will explore the best materials for outdoor benches in Dubai, offering valuable insights for landscaping designers, architects, interior designers, and contractors.

Teak Wood

Teak is renowned for its exceptional durability and resistance to weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor benches in Dubai. Its high oil content protects it from rot, insects, and the effects of sun exposure, ensuring the furniture maintains its appearance over time.

In addition, teak wood ages gracefully, developing a beautiful silver-grey patina over time. For those who prefer the original golden-brown colour, regular treatments with teak oil can help preserve it.

Synthetic Rattan

Synthetic rattan, often made from materials such as resin or vinyl, is a popular choice for outdoor furniture in Dubai. This material can withstand Dubai’s extreme temperatures and high humidity without cracking, fading, or becoming brittle, unlike natural rattan.

Moreover, synthetic rattan is low maintenance and easy to clean, requiring just a wipe down with a damp cloth. Its versatility and availability in various styles and colours also make it a favourite among designers.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel offers a sleek, modern aesthetic and exceptional durability, making it well-suited to the outdoor spaces of Dubai’s many contemporary buildings. Stainless steel benches are highly resistant to corrosion and rust, crucial factors in a coastal city like Dubai.
However, stainless steel can become hot under the intense Dubai sun, so it may need to be combined with other materials, like wood or fabric, to make seating more comfortable.

However, stainless steel can become hot under the intense Dubai sun, so it may need to be combined with other materials, like wood or fabric, to make seating more comfortable.

Concrete

Concrete is an excellent choice for outdoor benches in Dubai due to its extreme durability and resistance to weather conditions. It won’t fade in the sunlight, and it’s heavy weight makes it resistant to wind.

With advancements in technology, concrete furniture can now be made in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and finishes. It can even be coloured or textured to resemble other materials, such as wood or stone, offering designers increased flexibility.

Aluminium

Aluminium is a lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance material, making it a good choice for outdoor benches in Dubai. It is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, which is especially beneficial in the coastal environment.

To improve comfort and reduce heat retention, aluminium benches can be powder coated. This process not only enhances the aluminium’s durability and resistance to weather conditions but also allows for a wide range of colour options.

Choosing the Right Material

When choosing the right material for outdoor benches in Dubai, it’s essential to consider several factors:

Durability: The material should withstand the intense sun, high temperatures, and high humidity prevalent in Dubai.

Maintenance: Materials that require minimal maintenance are preferable, given Dubai’s climate.

Aesthetic appeal: The material should align with the desired aesthetic. For example, teak wood might suit a traditional or naturalistic design, while stainless steel or aluminium may be better suited to a modern, minimalist design.

Comfort: Given the high temperatures, the material should not retain too much heat to ensure comfort for the users.

In conclusion, while Dubai’s unique climate presents challenges, selecting the right materials can ensure outdoor benches are durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether it’s the natural elegance of teak wood, the modern appeal of stainless steel, or the versatility of synthetic rattan, each material offers unique benefits suited to Dubai’s unique environment.