Wallpaper vs Paint: Which is Better for Dubai Apartments?

The choice between wallpaper and paint for your Dubai apartment walls depends on several factors: humidity tolerance, cost, durability, landlord requirements, and personal style. Both options have evolved significantly in recent years, with modern wallpapers offering much better moisture resistance than their predecessors. Here is a practical comparison for Dubai residents.

Paint for Dubai Apartments

Advantages

• Cost-effective — lower upfront cost per square meter
• Quick application — a room can be painted in a day
• Easy to touch up — minor marks and scuffs can be spot-repaired
• Color flexibility — unlimited color choices, easy to change
• Landlord-friendly — easier to restore to original color at move-out
• Moisture management — breathable paints allow walls to dry

Disadvantages

• Less visual impact — flat color lacks the texture and depth of wallpaper
• Frequent refresh needed — Dubai's dust and humidity mean repainting every 2-3 years for best appearance
• Shows wall imperfections — bumps, cracks, and uneven surfaces are visible

Best Paint Types for Dubai

• Emulsion/latex paint — standard for interior walls, available in washable formulations
• Anti-mold paint — essential for bathrooms and kitchens
• Low-VOC formulations — healthier for indoor air quality in sealed, air-conditioned spaces
• Satin or eggshell finish — easier to clean than matte, more forgiving of imperfections

Paint Costs

• Standard emulsion (material only): AED 15-30 per sqm
• Premium brand (Jotun, Dulux): AED 25-50 per sqm
• Professional application: AED 8-15 per sqm labor
• Total for a 2-bedroom apartment: AED 2,000-5,000

Wallpaper for Dubai Apartments

Advantages

• Design variety — patterns, textures, metallic finishes, 3D effects
• Hides imperfections — covers minor wall damage and uneven surfaces
• Durability — quality wallpaper can last 5-10 years without fading
• Acoustic benefit — adds minor sound insulation

Disadvantages

• Humidity risk — improper installation in humid environments leads to peeling
• Higher cost — both material and installation are more expensive
• Difficult to change — removal is time-consuming and may damage walls
• Move-out complications — landlords may charge for removal and wall repair
• Limited repairability — damaged sections are harder to fix than painted walls

Best Wallpaper Types for Dubai

• Vinyl wallpaper — the most suitable for Dubai, moisture-resistant, washable, and durable
• Non-woven wallpaper — breathable, tear-resistant, and easy to install and remove
• Avoid: Paper-based wallpaper in humid areas (bathrooms, kitchens)
• Avoid: Grasscloth and natural fiber wallpapers in bathrooms

Wallpaper Costs

• Budget vinyl wallpaper: AED 30-60 per sqm
• Mid-range designer wallpaper: AED 60-150 per sqm
• Premium wallpaper: AED 150-400+ per sqm
• Professional installation: AED 15-30 per sqm
• Total for one accent wall (10 sqm): AED 500-2,000

Dubai-Specific Considerations

Humidity Impact

This is the most critical factor for Dubai residents. Humidity levels in Dubai apartments fluctuate between:

• AC-cooled rooms: 30-50% relative humidity
• When AC is off (travel, power outage): 70-90% relative humidity

This fluctuation is what causes wallpaper adhesion failure. When humidity rises, wallpaper can bubble, peel, and eventually detach. Mitigation strategies:

• Use vinyl or non-woven wallpaper only
• Ensure the wall is properly primed with a wallpaper-specific primer
• Apply wallpaper paste generously and completely
• Allow the apartment AC to run continuously for at least 48 hours after installation
• Avoid wallpaper in bathrooms and kitchens unless using specifically rated moisture-resistant products

Landlord and Tenancy Considerations

Before applying wallpaper to a rental apartment, consider:

• Most landlords prefer paint to wallpaper
• Wallpaper removal may damage the wall surface, requiring plastering and painting at move-out
• Get written landlord approval before applying wallpaper
• Document the wall condition before and after installation
• Factor removal costs (AED 500-2,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment) into your decision

AC and Temperature

Dubai's strong air conditioning can work in your favor for wallpaper:

• Consistent cool temperatures help adhesion
• Low humidity in AC environments prevents moisture-related issues
• The main risk is when AC is off for extended periods (vacations, power outages)

The Verdict for Dubai

Choose paint if:

• You are renting and want to avoid move-out complications
• Budget is a primary consideration
• You change your decor frequently
• The walls are in good condition
• You need to treat bathrooms and kitchens

Choose wallpaper if:

• You want a premium, textured look
• You need to cover imperfect walls
• You own the property or have landlord approval
• You will maintain consistent AC operation
• You use moisture-resistant wallpaper types only

The best compromise: Paint most walls and use wallpaper on one or two accent walls. This gives you the design impact of wallpaper with the practicality of paint for the majority of surfaces.

Conclusion

Both paint and wallpaper work well in Dubai apartments when the right products are selected and properly applied. For most residents, especially renters, paint offers the best balance of cost, practicality, and flexibility. For homeowners seeking a premium finish, quality vinyl wallpaper on selected walls delivers stunning results. ProKeep offers professional painting services and wallpaper installation through our network of skilled tradespeople. Get a consultation to explore your options.