Choosing the right shade net for UAE weather often comes down to two technical specifications: GSM (grams per square metre) and shade percentage. While both influence performance, they measure very different things and understanding how they relate is essential before buying shade netting for farms, villas, construction sites, or commercial shading structures.
In this guide, we break down the difference, explain how they impact durability and cooling, and help you decide which combination is ideal for your application.
What GSM Actually Means in Shade Nets?
GSM refers to the weight and density of the material. Higher GSM = thicker yarn, tighter knitting, and stronger structural performance.
How GSM Impacts Durability?
- Higher tensile strength (important for long-term outdoor installations)
- Better resistance to wind stress and tearing.
- Greater UV resistance.
- Less material stretches over time.
For example, Dunet Monofilament Knitted Shade Cloth is engineered with balanced GSM and knitting density to achieve industry-leading performance in UAE conditions.
Explore the product: Dunet Monofilament Knitted Shade Cloth
Shade Percentage Explained
Shade percentage measures how much sunlight the net blocks.
- A 50% shade net blocks half the light.
- A 95% shade net blocks nearly all direct sunlight.
How Shade Percentage Affects Cooling?
- Higher shade % = more cooling
- Lower shade % = better airflow
- Medium shade % = ideal for plants, parking areas, pet enclosures, and pergolas
You’ll find different shade percentages available across various product types, from 50-90% agricultural shade nets to 95% commercial-grade nets.
Check out our product: Commercial Grade 95% Shade Cloth
GSM vs Shade Percentage: Key Difference at a Glance
| Specification | What It Measures | Affects | Does NOT Affect |
| GSM | Material weight & yarn density | Strength, durability, and tear resistance | Cooling or light blockage |
| Shade % | Sunlight blocked | Cooling, temperature control, visibility | Material strength |
This means a higher shade percentage does not automatically mean higher GSM, and vice versa.
Read more about How to Choose the Right Shade Percentage for Shade Nets in Dubai?
How GSM & Shade Percentage Work Together?
To choose the right shade net, both factors must match the application.
1. For Greenhouses & Gardens
- 50% – 70% shade
- Medium GSM
This balances cooling with the sunlight plants still need.
Related reading: Greenhouse & Garden Shade Net Guide
2. For Car Parking & Outdoor Areas
- 85% – 95% shade
- High GSM for long-term exposure
These nets must handle UV, wind load, and temperature extremes.
See Flat Filament Knitted Shade Cloth UL506 for heavy-duty outdoor use.
3. For Construction Sites & Scaffolding
- 70% – 90% shade
- High to very high GSM
Strength matters more than cooling because nets must withstand constant stress.
Recommended: Fire-Retardant Shade Netting FR200 for enhanced safety.
4. For Privacy Fencing
- 90%+ shade
- Medium or high GSM, depending on wind exposure
Higher shade percentage ensures visibility reduction for villas, warehouses, and outdoor spaces.
Learn more: Shade Net Privacy Fencing
Why Higher GSM Doesn’t Always Mean More Shade?
This is a common misconception.
Example:
A 220 GSM net may offer 70% shade, while a 180 GSM net may offer 80% shade, depending on knitting pattern, yarn structure, and mesh openness.
Shade percentage is controlled by knit density, not just GSM.
Which Matters More in the UAE Weather?
For the UAE climate, both matter, but GSM is your baseline.
- GSM decides how long the net will last.
- Shade percentage decides how cool the space will feel.
For most buyers:
✔ Choose shade percentage first based on the purpose.
✔ Then choose GSM based on how long you want the product to last.
Common GSM & Shade Percentage Combinations in the UAE
| Application | Ideal Shade % | Recommended GSM |
| Farming & Greenhouses | 50-70% | 100-180 GSM |
| Walkways, Patios, Pergolas | 80-90% | 180-220 GSM |
| Car Parking | 90-95% | 200-300 GSM |
| Privacy Fencing | 90-95% | 180-220 GSM |
| Construction Safety | 70-90% | 220-300 GSM |
Choosing the Right Material Type Also Matters
HDPE shade nets come in different constructions:
- Monofilament = premium strength, long life, high UV resistance.
- Flat Filament (Tape Yarn) = economical, flexible, cost-effective.
- Fire-Retardant Grades = safety-first construction sites & industrial areas.
Compare them here: HDPE Monofilament vs Tape Yarn Comparison
Final Recommendation: How to Select the Right Combination?
Ask yourself these three questions:
1. What do I want to block?
Heat? Sunlight? Visibility? Dust?
2. Do I need strength or just shade?
Long-term installations need higher GSM.
3. What is my environment?
Open areas, windy rooftops, and industrial sites require stronger nets.
If you’re unsure, the safer choice is a higher GSM with your required shade percentage, especially for UAE conditions.
Looking for Custom Fabrication in the UAE?
Exclusive Tarps manufactures and fabricates custom-sized shade nets in Dubai, with UAE-wide delivery for villas, farms, warehouses, and commercial projects.
Explore all shade net products under our core category: Dunet Shade Cloth Range
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal GSM for shade nets in the UAE weather?
For long-term outdoor use in the UAE, 180-250 GSM is ideal because it provides strong UV resistance, better wind endurance, and long service life. Lighter GSMs (100-150) work well for temporary or agricultural use but will not last as long under extreme heat.
Does higher GSM automatically mean higher shade percentage?
No. GSM measures material weight, while shade percentage measures light blockage. A high-GSM net can still have medium shade depending on its knitting pattern. Both factors must be evaluated separately.
Which shade percentage is best for car parking in Dubai?
For parking, 90-95% shade works best because it maximises cooling and protects car paint from UV damage. Combine it with 200 GSM or higher for long-term durability.
Do plants need high or low shade percentage?
Most garden plants and greenhouse crops need 50-70% shade. Higher shade levels may reduce photosynthesis, while lower shade may not adequately protect crops from the UAE sun.
Is monofilament better than tape yarn shade net?
Yes for durability, no for budget.
- Monofilament = superior strength, UV resistance, lifespan.
- Tape yarn (flat filament) = economical, flexible, suitable for light shading.
For industrial or long-term installations, monofilament is generally recommended.
What happens if I choose the wrong shade percentage?
Choosing the wrong percentage can cause:
- Overheating (if too low)
- Poor ventilation (if too high)
- Reduced plant growth
- Insufficient privacy or cooling
Your choice must match the application and environment.
Do higher shade percentages make a space cooler?
Yes. Higher shade percentage reduces direct sunlight, resulting in lower temperatures and increased comfort. However, GSM still determines how long the net will withstand the UAE heat and UV exposure.
Are higher-GSM shade nets worth the investment?
For the UAE climate, absolutely. Higher GSM means:
- Longer lifespan
- Higher tear resistance
- Better UV stability
If you want a net that lasts 4-6+ years, higher GSM is recommended.
