Question 1

Do skylights overheat an interior in the UAE summer?

Accepted Answer

Without the right glass specification, yes — a clear glass skylight adds enormous solar heat gain in summer months. All Swiftrooms skylights are specified with solar control laminated glass as standard, achieving an SHGC below 0.35. Combined with ventilation features (available on our motorised range), properly specified skylights add daylight to interiors without a proportionate increase in cooling load. We calculate the solar gain contribution at specification stage for each project.

Question 2

Can I install a skylight on an existing flat roof in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases. A flat roof installation requires a minimum curb height (typically 150mm above the finished roof level) to prevent water ingress, and the roof structure must be capable of accepting the rooflight dead load plus wind uplift. Our team surveys the existing roof structure at the design stage. UAE concrete flat roofs are generally straightforward to adapt — timber or lightweight steel roof structures require more careful structural assessment.

Question 3

What is the difference between a fixed and motorised skylight?

Accepted Answer

A fixed rooflight is glazed shut and provides light only — no ventilation. A motorised opening skylight incorporates an electric actuator that opens the sash to provide natural ventilation in addition to light. The Swiftrooms motorised range includes rain sensors that close the sash automatically, and can be integrated with building management systems or controlled by a smartphone app. For UAE conditions, motorisation is most useful in the cooler months (November to March) when natural ventilation is comfortable.

Skylights & Rooflights

Fixed Rooflight

Motorised Opening Skylight

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Works well with

Garden Rooms

Curtain Wall Systems

Frequently asked questions.

Further reading.

Skylights & Rooflights for UAE Villas: Fixed, Motorised & Pyramid Options Explained