Choosing fabric for Dubai homes
The right fabric depends on the piece, the sun it gets and who sits on it. This guide compares the fabric families in our library and in the Design Studio.
Fabric families compared
| Fabric | Character | Best for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linen | Natural look, breathes, relaxed creases | Curtains, sheers, scatter cushions, light use seating | Can fade in strong sun, choose lined curtains |
| Velvet | Deep colour and soft sheen | Statement sofas, headboards, chairs, cushions | Shows pressure marks, choose a performance velvet for family rooms |
| Boucle | Looped, textured, very soft | Accent chairs, ottomans, cushions | Can snag with pets |
| Performance weave | Stain and water resistant, easy clean | Family sofas, dining chairs, rentals, majlis | Slightly less natural hand feel |
| Outdoor acrylic | Solution dyed, UV and fade resistant, water repellent | Terraces, pergolas, pool loungers | Pair with quick dry foam |
| Leather | Durable and ages well | Sofas, dining chairs, headboards | Keep out of direct sun and condition twice a year |
| Your own fabric | Any fabric you have chosen | Any piece | We check rub count, width and repeat before cutting |
How hard wearing is it?
Upholstery fabric is tested by the Martindale rub test, which counts how many rubs a fabric survives before it wears.
| Martindale rubs | Use |
|---|---|
| 10,000 to 15,000 | Light domestic: scatter cushions, headboards |
| 15,000 to 25,000 | General domestic: most sofas and chairs |
| 25,000 plus | Heavy domestic: family sofas, majlis, dining chairs |
| 40,000 plus | Commercial: hotels, restaurants, offices |
Dubai specifics
- Sun through glass fades natural fibres, so line curtains and choose solution dyed fabrics near big windows
- Dust and sand settle into deep piles, so choose tighter weaves in living rooms that open to terraces
- Air conditioning dries leather, so condition it regularly
- Outdoors, use only outdoor acrylics and quick dry foam
Want this done for you?
Home visits across Dubai, written quote within 24 hours, fitted on a fixed date.
See it before you choose
We bring the fabric library to your home so you see colour in your own light. Try combinations first in the Design Studio, then read the full upholstery fabric guide.
Which fabric for which room?
| Room | Best fabric choices | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Family living room | Performance weave, performance velvet, leather | Stain resistant and rated for heavy use |
| Formal majlis | Velvet, jacquard, performance velvet | Rich colour and a formal finish that lasts |
| Bedroom | Linen, velvet, blackout lined curtains | Soft to the touch, darkness at night |
| Dining room | Performance weave, faux leather, leather | Wipes clean after meals |
| Terrace and pool | Outdoor acrylic with quick dry foam | UV stable, dries fast, resists mildew |
| Rental property | Performance weave in mid tones | Hard wearing and hides marks between tenants |
Questions people ask
What is the most durable sofa fabric?
For family use, a performance weave or performance velvet rated 25,000 rubs or more on the Martindale test, or a good quality leather.
Can I use my own fabric?
Yes. We check it is suitable for the piece, confirm the metres needed including pattern repeat, and handle it with care.