Dubai, a city known for its innovation, luxury, and ever-evolving design scene, is witnessing a fresh and conscious wave in home interiors: sustainable Dubai upholstery. With the growing global focus on eco-friendly living, more residents in Dubai—from minimalist apartment dwellers to villa owners in Emirates Hills—are seeking upholstery options that are not just beautiful, but also kind to the planet.
In this blog, we explore what sustainable upholstery means, why it’s becoming popular in Dubai, and which materials and practices are leading the way.
Why Sustainability Matters in Dubai’s Interior Scene
Dubai’s luxury lifestyle has long been associated with grandeur and extravagance. But as climate concerns grow and the UAE’s leadership pushes toward environmental initiatives like the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategy, sustainability is becoming a vital consideration across industries—including interior design.
Consumers are becoming more mindful of their environmental impact. Whether it’s through reducing waste, using eco-friendly products, or opting for long-lasting furniture over fast décor, a shift is happening—and upholstery is no exception.
What Is Sustainable Upholstery?
Sustainable upholstery refers to fabric and materials used in furniture that are:
Eco-friendly (e.g., organic or recycled fibers)
Non-toxic (free from harmful dyes and flame retardants)
Durable and long-lasting
Sourced responsibly (supporting fair trade and ethical labor)
Biodegradable or recyclable
This includes everything from the outer fabric to the foam and wood inside a sofa or chair
Top Sustainable Upholstery Materials Trending in Dubai
Organic Cotton and Linen
These are plant-based, breathable, and widely available. Organic cotton and linen are cultivated without harmful chemicals and are ideal for Dubai’s hot climate due to their lightweight, moisture-wicking properties.
Why Dubai loves it: It offers a clean, minimalist look perfect for modern interiors, while being soft, natural, and breathable.
Recycled Polyester (rPET)
Made from recycled plastic bottles, rPET has become a popular upholstery choice due to its durability and stain resistance. It’s often blended with natural fibers for a more luxe finish.
Why Dubai loves it: It’s practical for families and hospitality venues, blending eco-consciousness with performance.
Hemp Fabric
Hemp is one of the most sustainable textiles on the planet. It requires minimal water, grows quickly, and is naturally resistant to pests. As a fabric, it’s durable and softens with time.
Why Dubai loves it: Hemp upholstery adds a rustic-chic texture that complements both modern and Arabic-inspired interiors.
Bamboo Viscose
Bamboo grows fast and regenerates without needing replanting. As a fabric, it’s hypoallergenic, breathable, and ultra-soft—great for upholstery in bedrooms and majlis seating.
Why Dubai loves it: Bamboo fabric aligns with wellness-focused lifestyles and modern home aesthetics.
Upcycled or Reclaimed Materials
Artisans and bespoke upholstery shops in Dubai are increasingly offering furniture made from repurposed textiles and reclaimed wood. This gives a second life to old materials while reducing landfill waste.
Why Dubai loves it: Each piece becomes a unique, story-driven object—perfect for luxury homeowners seeking exclusivity with a conscience.
Green Upholstery Practices Gaining Momentum
Beyond just materials, several eco-conscious practices are being embraced across Dubai’s upholstery industry:
Foam Alternatives: Traditional polyurethane foam is petroleum-based. Eco-upholstery brands now use natural latex foam, soy-based foam, or coconut coir, which are more sustainable and healthier.
Low-VOC Adhesives & Dyes: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in some glues and dyes are harmful to indoor air quality. Sustainable upholsterers are switching to water-based, low-VOC alternatives.
Furniture Reupholstery: Rather than replacing old furniture, many Dubai residents are reupholstering high-quality pieces using sustainable fabrics, reducing landfill waste and preserving craftsmanship.
Local Sourcing: Buying locally produced or regionally available materials minimizes the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping.
Where to Find Sustainable Upholstery in Dubai
Dubai offers a growing number of showrooms, workshops, and boutiques focused on sustainability:
The Attic Dubai – Known for reclaimed wood furniture and eco-friendly upholstery options.
Home and Soul Dubai – Offers boho-chic furnishings made from natural materials.
Upholstery shops in Al Quoz & Satwa – Many custom upholsterers in these areas now offer organic or sustainable fabric options upon request.
The Sustainable City – A great place to discover green living brands and eco-conscious design professionals.
Final Thoughts: Style Meets Sustainability
Sustainable upholstery Dubai is not just a passing trend in Dubai—it’s part of a broader movement toward mindful living. With so many eco-friendly fabrics and practices now accessible, homeowners and designers no longer have to choose between luxury and sustainability.
Whether you’re updating your majlis, revamping your villa living room, or simply reupholstering a beloved armchair, choosing eco-chic materials allows you to express your style while contributing to a greener future.
Pro Tip: Before your next upholstery project, ask your supplier or upholsterer:
What eco-friendly fabric options do you have?
Is the foam used in the cushion sustainable?
Do you use low-VOC adhesives and dyes?
