I will gladly swap you a landscaped home in Tennessee ,kidding ...would love to live where you live

themoxie: i love your DIY outdoor seating! It is really cool! I don't think we will extend the paving, and we want to spend max 10,000 dhs on furniture etc. i like the idea about beachy grass in the front square. Thank you!

Make a small sitting area outside for evening times when it is cooler, perhaps a gazebo between the trees at back and a barbecue area near by. You could also add a water feature, nice to hear when relaxing outside.

Here in california we have shade sails for shade they are canvas on posts. Also for small sunny spaces with no water we use succulents that have interesting shapes. See attached pic for shade sail and BBQ /covered patio.

Have you heard of Al Warsan Nurseries? You can bargain pretty hard there and get a good stock of plants. A majilis area might be nice and look at ACE or Dragonmart for outdoor shades (pagodas etc) that you can take with you - I don't have one and so don't know how long they'll last, though). I don't recommend a water feature for two reasons (although the sound is heavenly). My littles always want to drink from it - sigh - and the water evaporates fast. If you're paying for water, it's a waste of money.

We've been on vacation in the Emirates and the options are amazing. Bottlebrush tree, bougainvillea, palms, flame trees. Find out what attracts birds, there have to be some great birds there.

shade sails. They are very contemporary and would fit lovely into that space. They are gorgeous. Google shade sails and go to images. Very cool!

If you are not planning on using the front space, then paving slabs dotted with bougainvillea or desert rose is a low maintenance option. Would not recommend planting bougainvillea in areas where your young children will play or next to any grassy area which requires an abundance of watering.

I'd get an inexpensive gazebo and some comfortable lawn furniture. Maybe some citrus trees in pots, if you think you could take them with you when you move.

There are some beautiful indoor/outdoor rugs available to define a sitting area under a shade sail or simple gazebo... and succulents love good drainage they could work really well in the sand, I can see it, many people are happy to give away the divisions from their succulent garden. Enjoy!

We are designers based in dubai... Doing lot of villa interiors and landscapes. You can contact us on info@designapostrophe.com if you need assistance in executing it.

I'm new in Dubai too! I would put 4 squares foot garden, as fresh and organic veggies and herbs are hard to find, and in a month, you should be able to start growing. Shade sails are also a great option. Have fun!

Havin lived in Dubai in the late 1970's.....we did not have any grass but our garden bloomed with sturdy redish flowers....comments on shade are good points but sitting around outside was comfy in Dec..Jan and some of February...wishing you the best...and good shopping in Sharjah, too!

Container gardening perfect solution,get book of ideas or magazine inspiration,baskets buckets earthen ware what flows grow inDubai...combinations,you can create and take with you pots of every size,use droopy ivy nicotiana,bold clor cactus endless ideas helpful to see google container gardening ,sunset mag,southern living etc.

Big urns stone with ornamental pampas grass and others,use on and off porch,large colorful ceramic pots another option.

I will be glad to make a few design suggestions. But I need measurements and additional pictures. If interested please let me know at littlemiraclesdesigns@ gmail.com

I'd add a beautiful pergola with a vine to grow up it that would give some shade. You can also get those moisture sprayers installed onto the pergola, which is wonderful on a very hot day. Trees native to that area (not sure what trees are native to Dubai) help with shade to bring coolness and privacy.

Nix the trampoline, they take up too much room and are dangerous too, you don't want the yard to look like a kiddie park do you? Opt for a way to include the kids without taking away from adult enjoyment. Toys can be stored in a nice big bench with outdoor throw pillows on top.

Or, go crazy, making it very ethnic--huge colorful outdoor pillows to lounge on--surrounding a center focal point of a pit (for night use), or large pond water feature. Choose a flowing colorful tent for shade, big pots that have palms to sway in the breeze. Have fun with it!

Pillows rugs great idea and we agree big pots of palms,grass flowers the way tho go.If you don't have time todo yourself betyoucouldhire out task but what fun tobuy the containers to fill in shapes and sizes.

When I moved to Cali from Boston mymothergaveme Sunset Magazine.the wonders of container gardens,less water less care less digging,when plants get leggy or tired you pluck them out,seasonally adjust with holiday color.Loved the fact when we moved they came with rand that you could go rustic,roman Asian vintage country any type of look or scaleSeating and pots of plants or water effect pot ...great....rope hammock too.

Hi, I am architect and would like to see the site to advise you regarding the landscape. We are doing beautiful aluminum frame pergolas, any color including wooden color with grains.
You can see them on Dubizzle. Just call me on 0551549553. Regards, John

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Creative Pigeon crafts for wall decoration

Spend the time to visit any local nature preserves, parks & nurseries etc. learn which plants are native and/or do well in Dubai. Plants in big pots are easier to care for and can be moved if you need extra space for entertaining. Since you have children be aware that many desert plants are poisonous or have wicked thorns -teach your kids to be cautious around plants in the garden. If you must have a lawn, drastically reduce the size or look at artificial turf, the cost & effort of keeping grass alive and healthy in the desert just isn't worth it.

Congratulations on your new rental in Dubai! It's great to see that you're looking to transform your outdoor spaces into a beautiful oasis. As you mentioned, considering the hot climate and lack of rain, it's crucial to prioritize shade and low-maintenance options for your garden.

For the front space, you can consider replacing the sandbox with a small raised garden bed or planters filled with drought-resistant plants or succulents. This will add some greenery and visual appeal to the area while requiring minimal upkeep. Additionally, installing a retractable awning or shade sail can provide the much-needed shade for a comfortable dining area.

In the backyard, you have the advantage of an existing grassy area and plants. To create a dining area, you can set up a patio set or a picnic table under a pergola or large umbrella to provide shade. Surround the area with potted plants or plant some hedges for privacy and a cozy atmosphere.

For your desired chill-out area, consider creating a seating nook with comfortable outdoor furniture, such as lounge chairs or a hammock. You can position it under the shade of a tree or install a permanent shade structure like a gazebo. Adding some outdoor cushions, a small side table, and perhaps a bookshelf will create a relaxing spot for reading and unwinding.

In terms of garden maintenance services in Dubai, it's a wise choice to hire professionals who specialize in this climate. They can provide regular watering, trimming, fertilizing, and pest control services tailored to your specific needs. Look for reputable companies in Dubai thatoffer comprehensive garden maintenance packages at affordable prices. Remember to inform them about your rental status to ensure they adapt their services accordingly.

Enjoy your time in Dubai and may your outdoor spaces become a haven for relaxation and enjoyment!

Congratulations on your new rental in Dubai! It sounds like you have a fantastic outdoor space to work with. Given the unique climate and your rental status, here are some suggestions to transform your front and back outdoor areas:

1. Shade Solutions: Since Dubai's temperatures can be extreme, consider using temporary shade structures like portable umbrellas, pergolas with retractable canopies, or shade sails. These can provide relief from the sun and are usually more budget-friendly and non-permanent.
2. Front Area Transformation: To convert your sandbox into a usable space, you might consider adding some outdoor rugs, comfortable cushions, and low seating to create a cozy chill-out area. Opt for furniture that is easy to move and store.
3. Backyard Dining: In the backyard, designate an area for dining by placing a weather-resistant dining table and chairs. You can use outdoor mats and cushions to make it comfortable. If you're concerned about budget, consider second-hand or affordable furniture options.
4. Garden Enhancement: If you'reinterested in gardening, you can add some potted plants and flowering shrubs to enhance the beauty of the garden. Be sure to choose low-maintenance, heat-resistant plants suitable for Dubai's climate.
5. Children's Play Area: Fixing the trampoline can provide a fun activity for your kids. It's a great addition to the backyard and offers entertainment while staying active.
6. Lighting: To make the outdoor areas usable at night, add string lights, solar-powered garden lights, or lanterns. These will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Remember to discuss any modifications with your landlord to ensure they're comfortable with the changes. Enjoy creating your outdoor oasis, and may it become a place of relaxation and enjoyment for your family! If you have any more questions,feel free to ask. Best of luck with your new space!