10 Main Types of Wallpaper

Wallpaper can change the look of your overall interior. It can add depth, colour, texture, pattern, or even a full scene to your room wall. But not all wallpaper is the same. Some types handle moisture well and are easy to clean. Others are only suitable for quiet, dry rooms. At Wall Paint Dubai, we help every Dubai client choose the perfect type for their space and their actual budget.

If you are renovating or redesigning your living room, sleeping room, workspace, or feature wall, it helps to know the main types first. Here are 10 main types of wallpaper in Dubai.

1. Traditional Paper Wallpaper

This type of wallpaper uses a paper or cellulose base with a printed design. This wallpaper comes in different colours and textures and costs less than most other types.

Best for: Bedrooms and living rooms with low traffic
Watch out for: Not water resistant and harder to clean

2. Vinyl Wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper has a paper or fabric base with a plastic ( PVC ) coating. This paper coating makes it hard and easy to wipe clean.

Perfect for: Kitchens, bathrooms and other stain-prone places
Watch out for: Does not breathe as well as paper wallpaper

3. Non Woven Wallpaper

Non Woven type of wallpaper blends natural and synthetic fibres, so it does not expand or shrink much when wet. Many versions use a paste the wall method, and they come off easily later.

Best for: Bedrooms, living rooms and dining spaces
Watch out for: Costs a bit more than basic paper wallpaper

4. Peel and Stick Wallpaper

Peel and stick wallpaper has a sticky backing built in, so no paste is required. Some versions can be repositioned while you put them up.

Best for: Rental homes, short-term designs, and small accent walls
Watch out for: May not last as long as wallpaper put up the modern way

5. Grasscloth and Natural Fibre Wallpaper

Grasscloth wallpaper is made from grass, bamboo, jute, or reeds placed over a backing. It gives a warm, natural texture that feels unique all year around.

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and feature walls
Watch out for: Stains easily, and also easy to clean

6. Fabric or Textile Wallpaper

Fabric wallpaper uses cotton, silk, linen, or synthetic threads over a backing. It gives walls a soft, unique look and can even soften sound a little.

Best for: Formal lounges, master bedrooms, and dry rooms
Watch out for: Hard to clean and usually costs more than others

7. Flock Wallpaper

Flock wallpaper has raised velvet or felt-like fibres that form a soft, textured pattern.

Best for: Formal dining rooms and traditional style feature walls
Watch out for: Delicate surface, needs gentle cleaning

8. Foil or Metallic Wallpaper

Foil wallpaper has a thin metallic surface or ink that reflects light, giving a bright, luxurious look.

Best for: Small rooms, powder rooms, and feature walls
Watch out for: Needs a very smooth wall, since bumps show through

9. Paintable or Relief Wallpaper

Also called relief or Anaglypta wallpaper, this type has a raised texture you can paint after it goes up. You can repaint it later for a brand new look.

Best for: Plain walls that need more depth but flexible colour
Watch out for: Needs an extra step to paint after installing wallpaper

10. Wall Murals and Photographic Wallpaper

Murals use one large image instead of a small repeating pattern, such as a nature scene, city view, or custom design. A mural often becomes the main artwork in the room.

Best for: Feature walls in bedrooms, offices, and commercial areas
Watch out for: Needs planning around furniture and lighting

How to Choose the Right Wallpaper Type

The right option depends on where you plan to install it. Keep these points in mind.

• Moisture. Vinyl works well in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Installation and removal. Non-woven and stick-on are easy to remove wallpaper.
• Texture and style. Natural fibre and fabric wallpapers add warmth.
• Visual impact. Murals create a strong focal point.
• Wall condition. Foil and metallic need a smooth, well-prepped wall.

In Dubai homes, also think about indoor humidity, air conditioning airflow, sunlight, and dust, since these affect how long Dubai wallpaper lasts. Good wallpaper before installing matters no matter which type you pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which wallpaper is best for bathrooms?
Vinyl, since its PVC coating handles moisture, stains, and mildew better than paper-based choices.

What is the easiest wallpaper to remove?
Non-woven and peel-and-stick wallpaper is easy to remove and install. Both come off cleanly without damaging the wall.

Is wallpaper better than paint?
Wallpaper gives more texture and pattern choices. Paint is cheaper and easier to update. Many people use both, wallpaper on one wall and paint on the rest.

How long does wallpaper usually last?
With good installation and wall prep, most types last 10 to 15 years. Vinyl and non-woven hold up the longest in busy or humid rooms.

Final Thoughts

All of these 10 main types of wallpaper offer a different mix of look, texture, durability, and supervision. Before you choose, think about your room’s condition, moisture level, upkeep needs, and the style you want. If you are planning a wallpaper installation or other wall work, Wall Paint Dubai can help you find the best option that suits your space.