In recent years, the UAE has seen a significant shift toward sustainable building materials, as developers, designers, and homeowners prioritize environmental responsibility alongside aesthetics and functionality. Initiatives such as the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategy, Dubai’s Al Sa’fat Green Building System, and Abu Dhabi’s Estidama Pearl Rating System are driving the adoption of low-impact, sustainable materials in construction. The UAE green building market, valued at around USD 6.94 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 15.51 billion by 2032, reflects this growing demand (MarketsandMarkets, United Arab Emirates Green Building Market Report). Designers and builders now seek materials that combine durability, sustainability, and design flexibility.
Engineered wooden boards have thus emerged as a preferred choice. Among the leaders in this field, DesertBoard stands out as a pioneering manufacturer of Palm Strand Boards (PSB®)—a 100% sustainable, engineered wooden board made from pruned palm fronds, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional timber sources. PSB® combines durability, versatility, and design flexibility, lowering embodied carbon while supporting the UAE’s vision for responsible and eco-conscious construction.
PSB® Performance
Palm strand boards are engineered to deliver higher performance and reliability for a wide range of interior applications. Independent testing by the Engineering Department at Abu Dhabi University confirmed PSB®’s superior moisture resistance, recording a water contact angle of 72°—significantly higher than MDF (50.2°) and plywood (65°). This reduced surface wettability minimizes water absorption, ensuring consistent performance and lasting protection, even in humid environments.
PSB® also exhibits exceptional structural performance, with a screw withdrawal capacity of 1,356 N at the edge and 1,112 N on the face, as certified under BS EN 320:2011. Coupled with zero formaldehyde emissions, these technical advantages allow designers and fabricators to craft bespoke interiors that are not only visually striking but also eco-conscious, and durable.
| Zero-emission | 100% sustainable | Fire-rated |
| High-moisture resistant | High-load bearing | Strong & durable |
| Termite resistant | Acoustically insulated | High screw-withdrawal capability |
Creating Bespoke Interiors with DesertBoard PSB®
Palm strand boards provide designers and fabricators the versatility to create premium, customized interiors. Ideal for wardrobes, vanities, wall panels, furniture, fixed furniture, parquet flooring, interior decoration, commercial displays, and fire-rated or acoustic door cores, PSB® combines durability, precision, and design flexibility. Its engineered strength and seamless finishes enable intricate designs and diverse textures, making it perfect for residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces. DesertBoard PSB® enables designers to bring their creative vision to life with eco-conscious, structurally reliable
PSB® in Residential Developments
PSB® wooden boards have been trusted by some of the region’s most prominent developers for a wide range of interior applications. Some of the notable projects include:
- Seagate for EMAAR at Mina Rashid Development, Dubai
- Dubai Creek Harbour Phases 3, 4 & 5 for EMAAR at Al Kheiran First, Dubai
- Peninsula B for Select Group at Business Bay, Dubai
- Kempinski Residences for Swiss Property Development LLC at Al Jaddaf, Dubai
- Yas Acres Development for Aldar Properties, Abu Dhabi
In these projects, PSB® wooden boards were used to craft wardrobes, doors, vanities, wall panels, and other bespoke interior elements.
Engineered wood is no longer just an alternative—it’s becoming the benchmark for interiors that combine style, resilience, and eco-conscious design. With PSB®, designers and builders can explore creative applications, turning innovative concepts into reality with accuracy, quality, and environmental responsibility.
