How do maintenance and cleaning considerations affect the choice of glass curtain wall systems in desert climates?1

In desert climates such as those found around Dubai, Riyadh or Abu Dhabi, maintenance and cleaning considerations heavily influence the specification of glass curtain wall systems. Fine dust and sand accumulation accelerate soiling and can abrade coatings; therefore, owners prefer glass with durable coatings, easy-to-clean surface treatments and hard-wearing seals. Access for façade cleaning—whether via building maintenance units (BMUs), rope access points or integrated cleaning systems—must be planned early, because frequent cleaning cycles are required to maintain visual transparency and glazing warranties. Water scarcity in some regions motivates the use of low-water cleaning methods, efficient delivery systems on-site, and coatings that reduce cleaning frequency. For Central Asian sites such as Almaty or Tashkent where freeze-thaw cycles also occur, maintenance plans must address de-icing, drainage and seal longevity. Specifiers often balance the desire for large, uninterrupted vision panels with the practical need for replaceable units and accessible spandrel areas where electrical and HVAC interfaces live. Choosing robust gaskets, accessible fasteners, and modular panel designs simplifies future repairs and reduces lifecycle costs. In short, maintenance strategy drives material selection, access design and operational budgets—especially in harsh desert and continental climates.