Hello there, landlord! Let us talk about the thin little windows located on the side of your front door. These do not get the much-deserved recognition, adding charm to the vibe of your home and letting natural light in. However, searching for the correct front door side window coverings may have left you overwhelmed.
They are right by your door and are tall and narrow. Thus, you require something that does not block all the sunlight, looks attractive, and keeps the prying eyes of the neighbors. In this blog, we will cover both the practical and fun parts of side light window coverings. So, without any further ado, let us dive into the details.
Why Front Door Side Window Coverings Are Tricky
Sidelight windows are super unique. Their long, slender shape makes them a bit of a challenge when it comes to picking out window treatments for sidelights. Standard curtains or blinds? They often don’t fit. Plus, since these side light window coverings are right next to your front door. You have got to think about privacy. Nobody wants their neighbors peeking in while they’re dancing around in their PJs (guilty!).
The good news? There are tons of stylish and functional side light window coverings out there that tackle these challenges while making your home look fabulous.
How to Pick the Perfect Sidelight Window Covering
When choosing front door side window coverings, here is what you need to do before jumping to the fun part. These are:
- Budget:
In terms of budget, quality is not always restricted to price for window treatments for sidelights. Throughout all price ranges, all you need is customization to get started.
- Light Control:
Intense sunlight is also a major problem for the UAE, from which the residents seek protection. For this purpose, you have to decide whether you need a total blackout or a soft-filtered light.
- Privacy Needs:
Think of the layout of your home. In townhouses or villas, privacy from walkways is important.
- Style Vibes:
Select the designs matching your décor, whether that is Arabic-inspired, minimal modern, or elegant classic.
10 Creative Sidelight Window Covering Ideas
Here are 10 sidelight window covering ideas that are popular in Dubai and UAE:
- Rustic Charm with Wood Blinds
When it comes to wood blinds, something is appealing and sophisticated. For front door side window coverings, these are considered a fantastic choice. This is because they bring texture and natural warmth to your entryway. In the UAE, homes with traditional interiors or natural wood accents shine with this option.
These wood blinds maintain privacy and control light by letting you tilt the slats. These sidelight window covering ideas are available in painted finishes and rich stains. Furthermore, these are also ideal for heat control in the hot weather of Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
- Budget-Friendly Aluminum Blinds
If you want something durable and affordable, aluminum blinds are ideal for sidelight window covering ideas. Aluminum Blinds are ideal for high-traffic areas, a solid choice, and easy to clean in high-traffic areas.
For smaller townhouses and apartments, a side light window is known for its sleek pair. They are an ideal choice for a coastal home in areas such as Ajman or Sharjah because of their moisture-resistant appearance.
- Sleek and Modern Roller Shades
Roller Shades offer a tailored and clean appearance for narrow sidelight windows for minimalist lovers. With motorized or cordless options, they are best for high-tech homes in smart communities such as Yas Island or Dubai Hills. To protect interiors, select UV-blocking fabrics to protect the interior while preserving natural light.
- Energy-Saving Cellular Shades
Energy-saving cellular shades are best for the residents in the UAE, who are seeking to cut down their AC bills. These shades act as an extra insulation layer and trap hot air. These are available in blackout or light-filtering options, depending on your needs for sunlight and privacy. For glass-heavy entryways, these are both stylish and compact, found in the newer villas of the UAE.
- Elegant Roman Shades
Roman Shades are an ideal choice if your home features luxurious interiors or leans toward elegance. The Centerpiece™ Roman Shades add fabric softness and layered charm to front door side window coverings. In the UAE, this style complements both classic Arabic decor and Western-style layouts. Go for customized fabrics in muted neutrals, earthy tones, or even Arabic patterns for a cultural twist.
- Soft and Dreamy Sheer Shades
Want privacy without sacrificing light? Sheer Shades are made with translucent fabric and S-shaped vanes that create a glowing, diffused effect. These window treatments for sidelights are ideal for open-plan and airy villas, offering both elegance and softness. Their subtle style suits UAE interiors, where space and light are focal design elements.
- Timeless Shutters
If you love structure and luxury, shutters bring timeless elegance to your entryway. The Normandy® Wood Shutters feature adjustable louvers that provide privacy and temperature control. Particularly, shutters are an ideal choice for side light windows next to French doors. This is the type of entryway style that boosts the living in the UAE. Due to their durable approach, they also work well for the home with pets or kids.
- Cordless Options for Safety and Style
Cordless designs are considered visually cleaner and safer for families. UAE homes with a preference for minimalist or neat design, or with toddlers and pets, are preferred. Choose roller shades or cordless blinds to improve style or overcome hazards. Furthermore, for home integration, these are also an ideal choice.
- DIY Vinyl Cling Window Film
Looking for a low-cost or renter-friendly solution? Throughout the UAE, you can find vinyl cling films from Amazon.ae or Carrefour. Select from patterned designs or a frosted, mosaic that you can easily peel off or stick on without requiring any tools. Without compromising the sunlight, these side light window coverings provide excellent privacy, and they are ideal for rented villas or apartments.
- Decorative Mashrabiya Panels
Add a decorative mashrabiya or a laser-cut wooden panel as your front door side window coverings. While offering privacy, airflow, and shade, this lattice-looking style combines tradition with modern flair. Whether in traditional or contemporary homes, these side light window coverings appear stunning. Also, for Islamic architectural heritage, these appear as a stylish addition.
Other Options:
Glass Etching Cream:
While adding privacy to the room, a glass etching cream can create a custom design.
Stained Glass:
Stained glass offers a private and decorative solution, available in several colors and styles.
Smart Glass:
Smart glass is a high-tech alternative allowing you to switch between opaque and clear with a button touch.
When selecting the ideal option for front door side window coverings, think of budget, privacy level, and
Your home style.
Final Word
Your front door side window coverings may appear as a small detail. However, they may make a big impact in terms of privacy, style, and comfort in your home. Whether you own a conventional villa in Al Ain, a high-rise in Dubai Marina, or a cozy townhouse in Sharjah. There is an ideal sidelight window covering idea out there for you.
From locally-inspired mashrabiya panels or budget-friendly vinyl films, you now have 10 stylish, creative, and functional options. Everyone brings a balance between privacy and beauty, especially important for sun-soaked and diverse neighborhoods of the UAE.
So, take a fresh look at your entryway, pick the window treatments for sidelights that match your personality and lifestyle, and turn those narrow windows into one of your home’s best features.
Look for custom solutions if you plan on decorating your home in the UAE. Several specialists based in Abu Dhabi and Dubai provide made-to-measure treatments for a side light window. Hence, it is a worthwhile investment nevertheless.
FAQs
1. What are the best front door side window coverings for privacy in the UAE?
For full privacy in UAE homes, cellular shades, Roman shades, or custom wood shutters are excellent. They block direct views while withstanding sunlight and dust common in the region.
2. Can I install window treatments for sidelights without drilling?
Yes! Vinyl cling films and adhesive-mounted blinds are great no-drill options—ideal for renters or those in serviced apartments. These are available at Amazon UAE and local stores like HomeBox.
3. How do I measure my sidelight windows for coverings?
Measure the height and width of the glass panel only (not including the trim), then choose a product with a snug fit. If unsure, many UAE-based retailers offer free measurement and installation.
4. Which materials are best for sidelight window coverings in the UAE heat?
Materials like aluminum, faux wood, and cellular fabrics are heat-resistant and moisture-friendly—perfect for the UAE’s hot and occasionally humid climate.
5. Are motorized sidelight window coverings worth it?
Absolutely. In UAE smart homes (especially in areas like Dubai Hills or Yas Acres), motorized blinds offer convenience, energy efficiency, and a sleek, modern finish.
7. Can I use curtains for sidelight windows?
You can, but they’re not ideal due to size constraints. If you prefer fabric, Roman shades or custom-sewn side panels are better suited for the narrow shape of sidelight windows.
