What to Ask a Curtain Supplier in Dubai Before You Buy
Buying curtains in Dubai is not the same as buying curtains anywhere else. With intense heat, strong sunlight, large glass windows, and premium interiors, choosing the wrong curtain supplier can cost you more than just money — it can affect comfort, privacy, and long-term satisfaction.
Dubai has no shortage of curtain suppliers. But not all suppliers offer the same level of quality, expertise, or service. Before you commit, here’s a complete list of questions you should ask a curtain supplier in Dubai — so you know exactly what you’re paying for and avoid common mistakes.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters in Dubai
Many homeowners assume all curtain suppliers offer similar products. In reality, the difference lies in fabric quality, measurement accuracy, installation standards, and understanding of Dubai’s climate. Asking the right questions helps you avoid poor fit and heat leakage, get better value for money, and choose curtains that actually perform in Dubai conditions.
1) Do You Offer On-Site Measurement?
This should be your first question. Curtains that are even slightly mismeasured can leave gaps that let in heat and light, look uneven, and reduce insulation and privacy. In Dubai, many homes have floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, and non-standard window sizes — so “guessing” measurements is a costly mistake.
What to look for: A professional supplier should always offer on-site measurement before finalizing curtains.
Dubai reality check
- Large glass panels need full coverage (gaps = heat + glare)
- Sliding doors require correct stacking space and track planning
- Apartment windows often vary more than buyers expect
2) Are Your Curtains Custom-Made or Ready-Made?
Not all suppliers are transparent about this. Ready-made curtains are produced in standard sizes and may be cheaper upfront, but they often leave gaps or sit awkwardly. Custom curtains are made to match your exact window measurements, typically offering better fit, cleaner finish, and better performance for heat and light control.
Why this matters in Dubai: Large windows and strong sunlight demand precision and proper coverage.
3) Which Fabrics Work Best for Dubai Heat?
This is a critical question many buyers forget. Some fabrics fade quickly, while others allow heat to pass through easily. A knowledgeable supplier should explain fabric thickness, weave type, UV resistance, and lining options — and clearly tell you what performs best in Dubai’s climate.
What a good supplier should explain
- Which fabrics handle direct sunlight better
- Which fabrics keep rooms cooler (when paired with lining)
- What works best for bedrooms vs living areas
- How to choose based on window direction (west-facing matters)
4) Do You Offer Thermal or Blackout Lining?
In Dubai, lining is not optional — it’s essential. Curtain lining helps with heat insulation, light control, privacy, and sometimes noise reduction. Ask whether the supplier offers thermal lining, blackout lining, and layered solutions (sheer + lined).
Tip: Bedrooms and west-facing rooms benefit the most from lined curtains.
5) How Do You Handle Installation?
Even high-quality curtains can fail with poor installation. Incorrect curtain height, poor rod placement, or incomplete coverage can ruin the look and reduce performance. Ask whether installation is included, who installs, and how adjustments are handled.
Installation questions that save money
- Is installation included in the quote?
- Do you install tracks/rods and accessories?
- Will you adjust if the drop or stacking isn’t right?
- Do you recommend ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted for my windows?
6) What Is the Expected Lead Time?
Timing matters, especially if you’re moving in, renovating, or furnishing a rental property. Custom curtains typically take longer than ready-made options. A reliable supplier should give you a clear production timeline and installation schedule.
Red flag: Vague timelines or unrealistic “next day custom” promises without explaining the process.
7) Can I See Fabric Samples Before Deciding?
Choosing fabric from photos alone is risky. Colors and textures look different in real lighting — especially in Dubai’s bright daylight. Ask if the supplier provides fabric samples, brings samples to your home, and helps you test fabrics against sunlight.
8) Do You Have Experience With Dubai Apartments or Villas?
Dubai homes vary significantly. High-rise apartments, villas with large sliding doors, and glass-heavy living spaces each need a slightly different approach. Experience matters — a good supplier understands apartment vs villa needs, window orientation, and heat exposure patterns.
9) What Is Included in the Price?
Curtain pricing can be confusing if details are unclear. Ask what the quote includes: fabric, lining, measurement, installation, and accessories (rods, tracks, hooks). Transparent pricing prevents last-minute surprises.
Ask for a clear breakdown
- Fabric + lining cost
- Measurement (included or separate?)
- Installation and accessories
- Any add-ons (motorised tracks, double tracks, etc.)
10) Do You Offer After-Sales Support or Adjustments?
Curtains may need minor adjustments after installation. A professional supplier should offer post-installation checks, adjustment support, and clear warranty/service terms. This shows confidence in their workmanship.
Why Custom Curtains Often Make Sense in Dubai
Ready-made curtains can work for small windows or temporary setups. But Dubai homes often benefit more from custom solutions: better coverage, improved insulation, cleaner finish, and longer lifespan. If comfort and aesthetics matter, custom is usually the better long-term choice.
Want to explore options?
Quick Checklist Before You Choose a Supplier
- Do they offer on-site measurement?
- Can they explain fabric performance in Dubai heat?
- Do they provide proper lining options?
- Is installation handled professionally?
- Are pricing and timelines clear?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are custom curtains more expensive in Dubai?
Custom curtains usually cost more upfront, but they often last longer and perform better, making them better value over time.
How long do custom curtains take in Dubai?
Typically 1–3 weeks depending on fabric availability, project size, and installation scheduling.
Are ready-made curtains suitable for apartments?
They can work for small, standard windows. But many Dubai apartments have large glass windows where custom sizing performs better.
Do curtain suppliers provide warranties?
Many professional suppliers offer workmanship or material warranties. Always ask for warranty details in writing.