Start with the garden and the crops you want to grow, then choose the greenhouse size. In the UAE, access, summer solar load, humidity and water quality matter as much as the footprint shown on a drawing.
Choose usable area, not only floor area
A 20–30 m² house suits a compact herb or leafy-green garden with a central walkway. Around 40–60 m² gives more room to separate beds and a small work area. Larger 80–100 m² layouts can accommodate propagation and crop zones, but need proportionately more water, ventilation capacity and maintenance. Reserve space around the outside for access, cleaning and equipment.
Survey sun, wind and services
Mark the morning and afternoon sun, nearby walls and trees, prevailing wind, drainage falls and the route to water and power. Keep fan discharge away from seating and neighbours, and allow service access to the cooling pad and filters. Check the base and anchoring with the site conditions before ordering a frame.
Match shade and cooling to the crop
UV-stabilised polycarbonate, controllable shade, ventilation and a correctly sized pad-and-fan system work together. Evaporative cooling depends on outdoor humidity and air exchange; it is not air conditioning and cannot guarantee a fixed summer temperature. Choose seasonal crops after a site review rather than promising year-round performance from the cover alone.
Plan irrigation and upkeep before installation
Test the water, select filtration for the drippers, provide drainage and decide whether growing will use beds, containers or hydroponics. Ask the supplier to state what is included in controls, electrical connection, commissioning and maintenance. Clean pads and filters, inspect shade movement and calibrate sensors on a schedule.
Turn this guide into a material list
Send the site, crop and dimensions to GIA or the project desk for a coordinated recommendation.