The UAE is known for its vibrant cities, beautiful architecture, and luxurious interiors. But maintaining painted surfaces here can be challenging. Between frequent dust storms, coastal humidity, and intense sunlight, paint often wears out faster than in other regions.

At RAK Paints, we understand the UAE’s environment better than most. Our products are designed for durability, but even the best paints need proper maintenance to stay fresh and clean. Here’s a practical guide to keeping your painted walls looking great all year round—whether in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, or anywhere across the Emirates.

The UAE’s Climate and Its Impact on Paint

Let’s look at the main environmental factors that affect painted surfaces:

1. Dust and Sandstorms

The UAE regularly experiences shamal winds, which carry dust and sand particles. These settle on walls, making them look dull and dirty. Over time, sand can even act like sandpaper, eroding paint surfaces.

2. High Humidity

Coastal areas like Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi face extremely humid summers. Humidity leads to:

• Mold and mildew formation
• Peeling and blistering of paint
• Water stains on walls

3. Intense Sun Exposure

The UAE’s harsh sunlight can:

• Fade wall colors
• Cause paint to crack or flake if not UV-resistant

Tips to Maintain Painted Walls in UAE Conditions

1. Regular Dusting and Cleaning

Use a soft microfiber cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment to dust walls weekly. For stubborn marks, gently wipe walls with:

• Mild soap and water
• A soft sponge or non-abrasive cloth

Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the paint’s finish

2. Choose Washable Paints

When repainting, select washable or silk-finish emulsions, like RAK Silk Emulsion, for easier maintenance. These paints resist dust adhesion and are easy to clean with a damp cloth.

3. Use Anti-Fungal Coatings

To protect walls from mold and mildew, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or coastal properties, use paints with anti-fungal additives, such as RAK Shield Emulsion. This reduces the risk of black spots or peeling.

4. Recoat Every 3–5 Years

In dusty climates, repainting is required more often than in temperate zones. Exterior walls especially need recoating every 3 to 5 years to maintain weather resistance and color vibrancy.

5. Protect from Direct Sunlight

For interiors, use curtains or blinds to block harsh sunlight and prevent paint from fading. For exteriors, opt for UV-resistant paints like RAK Heat Reflective Coatings to reduce surface temperature and protect color.

6. Inspect and Repair Cracks Early

Hairline cracks can trap dust and moisture, leading to bigger problems over time. Inspect walls twice a year, preferably before and after the summer. Use RAK Putty and RAK Primer to repair cracks before repainting.

6. Inspect and Repair Cracks Early

Hairline cracks can trap dust and moisture, leading to bigger problems over time. Inspect walls twice a year, preferably before and after the summer. Use RAK Putty and RAK Primer to repair cracks before repainting.

7. Control Indoor Humidity

Use dehumidifiers or air conditioning to manage indoor moisture levels. Proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms also prevents condensation that can damage paint.