How do aluminum glass curtain walls perform in Middle East hot climates?

In hot Middle East climates such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, aluminum glass curtain walls perform effectively when designed with the right combination of materials and detailing. High-performance double glazing with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and selective solar control glass are primary tools to limit solar heat gain while preserving daylight. Aluminum framing should include thermal breaks and insulated transoms to interrupt heat transfer from the exterior to the interior. Properly designed glazing cavities with gas fills (e.g., argon) and warm-edge spacers further improve U-values and reduce cooling loads in buildings across Riyadh, Abu Dhabi or Doha. Explicit attention to shading — integrated external fins, sunshades, or horizontal louvers — reduces peak cooling demand in façades facing west and south. Drainage and condensation control are also important: we specify pressure-equalized systems and proven gasket/drainage arrangements to avoid moisture intrusion during occasional heavy rains in the region. For long-term performance, anodized or powder-coated aluminum finishes with marine-grade specifications and durable silicone sealants resist corrosion from coastal saline environments found in Kuwait or Bahrain. When designers pair these technical measures with careful specification of thermal performance criteria and local climate data (solar indices, wind, and sand exposure), aluminum glass curtain walls deliver controlled indoor temperatures, reduced HVAC energy consumption, and comfortable daylighting for Middle Eastern commercial and institutional projects.