Summary
Residing in the UAE implies having to live with hot summers. When it comes to cooling your home however, there are ways to do this without paying so much in electricity bills. In this guide, we’ll show you simple and smart ways to keep your home cool in the UAE — without wasting energy or money. The pieces of advice are effective in apartments, villas, and even small rooms. Just imagine, your space can be cooler, cheaper and more comfortable.
smart ways to keep your home cool in the UAE
In the UAE, summer can feel like living in an oven. With temperatures rising above 45°C, air conditioners work nonstop. That means bigger bills. But you don’t always have to rely on your AC. There are many smart ways to keep your home cool in the UAE.
Use Heat-Reflective Curtains
One of the biggest sources of indoor heat is your windows. Sunlight comes in and heats up the room fast. In the UAE, it’s smart to use heat-blocking curtains. These are also called blackout or thermal curtains.
They help keep the sun out and the cool air in. Hang them in bedrooms and living rooms, especially on windows facing the sun.
Look for brands in UAE stores like Home Centre, IKEA, or Pan Emirates. You can even find them online on Noon or Amazon.ae.
Choose White or Reflective Window Shades
If you don’t want heavy curtains, try reflective window shades or white blinds. These bounce the sun’s rays away from your home. The lighter the color, the better.
Stick-on window films that reflect heat are also available in UAE hardware stores like ACE. They’re easy to apply and make a big difference.
Clean Your AC Filters Monthly
A dirty AC filter can make your unit work harder, using more electricity. In the UAE’s dusty air, filters get clogged fast.
Here’s what to do:
- Open your AC vent cover
- Remove the filter
- Wash it with mild soap and water
- Let it dry fully before putting it back
Do this once a month — especially during summer. It keeps your air fresh and your bills low.
Seal the Gaps in Doors and Windows
Cool air can escape through small gaps around your doors or windows. In many UAE apartments, these gaps aren’t sealed well. Use rubber strips or foam tape to seal the edges.
You can find door seal kits in any Dubai supermarket, hardware store, or online.
It’s a small job but saves big money over time.
Use Ceiling Fans or Standing Fans
Fans don’t cool the air, but they help circulate it. In the UAE, using fans with your AC means you can set the temperature higher and still feel cool.
A ceiling fan in the living room or a standing fan in the bedroom can reduce your AC use by hours each day. That means a smaller DEWA bill at the end of the month.
Switch to LED Lighting
Regular bulbs give off heat. In a UAE summer, even small heat sources matter. LED lights stay cool and use less power.
Change your old bulbs to LED. They last longer and help your rooms feel cooler — especially in small spaces like bathrooms or hallways.
Cook Smart
Cooking creates heat — especially with gas stoves or ovens. In summer, try:
- Cooking early in the morning or after sunset
- Using a microwave or air fryer instead of the oven
- Preparing cold meals like salads or sandwiches
Less cooking heat = a cooler kitchen and less AC use.
Use Rugs and Curtains to Block Heat
Thick carpets or rugs can actually keep your floors cool by stopping heat from rising up. In the UAE, homes with tile floors can feel hot underfoot. A nice rug helps — and adds style to your space.
Curtains that fully cover the window and touch the floor also block heat better.
Turn Off Appliances When Not in Use
TVs, computers, and chargers all give off heat — even in standby mode. In summer, every bit adds up. Turn off what you don’t use. Unplug it if you can.
Less electricity used means less heat inside — and lower bills outside.
Try Cooling Roof Paint (If You Live in a Villa)
If you live in a villa or townhouse, your roof gets direct sunlight all day. That heat transfers inside. One smart fix is cool roof paint — a special coating that reflects sunlight.
In the UAE, companies offer white or silver reflective coatings. They reduce roof temperatures by up to 10°C. It’s a long-term way to stay cool and cut costs.
Final Tip: Close Rooms You Don’t Use
If you live in a big house, don’t cool the whole place all day. Close the doors to unused rooms. Use the AC only where needed.
For example, during the day, cool only the living room. At night, only the bedrooms. This small step brings big savings.
Conclusion
UAE summers are hot — but your home doesn’t have to be. With simple changes like reflective curtains, clean AC filters, and smart appliance use, you can stay cool without high bills. Most of these tips don’t need much money or time.
Try one today. Then try another tomorrow. Your home will feel better — and so will your wallet.
FAQs (Based on UAE Google Searches)
How can I reduce electricity bills in the UAE summer?
Clean your AC filters, use blackout curtains, switch to LED lights, and seal gaps in windows and doors.
What’s the best curtain for UAE heat?
Blackout or thermal curtains are best. They block sunlight and reduce room heat.
Do fans help reduce AC bills in UAE?
Yes. Using fans helps circulate air, so you can set the AC at a higher temperature and still feel cool.
Where can I buy heat-blocking window films in Dubai?
You can find them at ACE Hardware, Carrefour, Dragon Mart, or online at Noon and Amazon UAE.
Is there any paint to reduce heat from the roof in UAE?
Yes, cooling roof paints are available that reflect sunlight. They work best for villas or top-floor flats
