Solid Surface vs Quartz vs Sintered Stone – Which Is Best for UAE Homes & Offices?
When it comes to modern interior design in the UAE, choosing the right countertop or surface material can dramatically affect the look, durability, and hygiene of your space. Whether you are designing a luxury kitchen in Dubai, a high-traffic office pantry in Abu Dhabi, or a stylish showroom in Sharjah, three materials dominate the market today: Solid Surface, Quartz, and Sintered Stone.
Each material offers unique advantages—but the best choice depends on your purpose, budget, and usage. In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about solid surface vs quartz and sintered stone vs quartz, helping you select the perfect option for your next project.
What Is Solid Surface?
Solid surface is an advanced man-made material composed of acrylic resin, natural minerals, and color pigments. Brands like Corian made it popular, but high-quality alternatives such as STONIM™ Solid Surface Sheets UAE offer equal performance at a better price.
Key Features of Solid Surface
✔ Seamless joints – Perfect for large counters and curved shapes
✔ Repairable surface – Scratches, cracks, and stains can be polished out
✔ Non-porous & hygienic – Ideal for hospitals, kitchens, cafés, and labs
✔ Thermo-formable – Can be bent and shaped into unique designs
✔ Matte, soft-touch premium look
Best Uses
Kitchen countertops
Reception desks
Wall cladding
Vanity tops
Cafeteria & restaurant counters
Medical facilities
What Is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. It offers a glossy, luxurious look with a stone-like feel.
Key Features of Quartz
✔ High scratch resistance
✔ Glossy, premium marble-like finish
✔ Low maintenance
✔ Wide variety of patterns and colors
Best Uses
High-end kitchens
Residential apartments
Hotel suites
Vanity tops
Premium office pantries
What Is Sintered Stone?
Sintered stone is an ultra-compact material created using high heat and pressure—replicating the natural formation of stone. It is one of the most advanced surfaces available today.
Key Features of Sintered Stone
✔ Heat-proof (can place hot pots directly)
✔ Ultra UV resistant (no fading)
✔ Largest slab sizes for seamless installation
✔ High scratch + stain resistance
✔ Suitable for outdoor kitchens & façades
Best Uses
Outdoor kitchens
Commercial counters
Building façades
High-end interiors
Floor & wall applications
Solid Surface vs Quartz vs Sintered Stone: Detailed Comparison
To help you make the right decision, here is a side-by-side comparison based on performance, durability, and cost—specifically for UAE conditions.
**1️⃣ Appearance & Design Flexibility
Solid Surface
Offers a soft matte look
Seamless joints for long counters
Can be molded into curves and 3D shapes
Best for modern minimalist designs
Quartz
Glossy, luxurious finish
Mimics marble or granite
Limited flexibility (cannot bend or curve)
Sintered Stone
Available in polished, matte, or textured finishes
Largest range of natural stone-like patterns
Works beautifully for high-end luxury spaces
Winner: Tie (depends on design style).
2️⃣ Durability
Solid Surface
Good durability
Scratches can be repaired easily
Not suitable for placing extremely hot pans directly
Quartz
Highly durable
Resistant to scratches and stains
Not fully heat-proof—may discolor with direct heat
Sintered Stone
Extremely strong
Heat-proof, UV-proof, scratch-proof
Ideal for outdoor and commercial use
Winner: Sintered Stone
3️⃣ Maintenance & Hygiene
Solid Surface
100% non-porous
Zero bacteria absorption
Easy to sand and maintain
Seamless look → no dirt lines
Quartz
Non-porous and easy to clean
Glossy finish stays shiny with minimal care
Sintered Stone
Very low maintenance
No sealing required
Perfect for demanding environments
Winner: Solid Surface (for hygiene)
4️⃣ Heat Resistance
Solid Surface: Moderate
Quartz: Medium
Sintered Stone: Excellent (hot pots OK)
Winner: Sintered Stone
5️⃣ Price Comparison (UAE Market Insight)
Solid Surface Sheets UAE
Most affordable
Wide range of colors
Cost-effective for large projects
Quartz Slabs
Medium to premium price
Luxury appearance but higher cost
Sintered Stone
Highest price
Best performance & durability
⭐ Which Material Should You Choose?
Choose SOLID SURFACE if:
You want seamless counters
Need a hygienic, food-safe material
Want something repairable
Budget-friendly solution
Suitable for receptions, cafés, and kitchens
Choose QUARTZ if:
You want a marble-like glossy finish
Need a premium look
Want high scratch resistance
Best for villas, apartments, hotels
Choose SINTERED STONE if:
You need the strongest, most advanced material
Will use outdoors or in high-heat areas
Want the most premium feel
Ideal for luxury villas, commercial spaces, façades
🔥 Final Verdict: Best Countertop in Dubai?
If you’re choosing based on value + performance, here’s the expert breakdown:
Best overall indoor choice: Quartz
Best for budget + design flexibility: Solid Surface
Great for durability + premium luxury: Sintered Stone
Best countertop in Dubai for long-term performance: Sintered Stone
🧱 Why Choose STONIM™ for Solid Surface, Quartz & Sintered Stone?
At Stonim, we offer:
✔ Premium-quality solid surface sheets (pure & modified acrylic)
✔ Engineered quartz slabs with natural stone patterns
✔ Ultra-compact sintered stone slabs in UAE-standard sizes
✔ Ready stock in the UAE for fast delivery
✔ Competitive pricing for projects & fabricators
Whether you’re an architect, contractor, or homeowner, Stonim has the perfect solution for your next project.
