If you’ve ever planned a kitchen upgrade, you’ve probably faced this question: gas vs electric stove — which one’s better for your home in the UAE?
Both are great options, but the right choice depends on how you cook, where you live, and what kind of setup your home has. Gas stoves have been around for a long time and are loved by professional chefs. Electric and induction stoves, on the other hand, are sleek, modern, and gaining popularity in UAE apartments.
Let’s break down the differences so you can decide which stove really fits your kitchen and lifestyle.
- Gas vs electric: the basics
- The main differences: gas vs electric stove
- Why you’ll love a gas stove
- Why an electric stove might suit you better
- Energy efficiency: Which one saves more?
- Staying safe in the kitchen
- Keeping it clean
- Prices and where to buy in the UAE
- Which one fits your cooking style?
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Gas vs electric: The basics
Here’s how each one works:
- Gas stoves use an open flame powered by natural gas or LPG cylinders. They give you that classic feel of cooking over fire.
- Electric stoves run on electricity. Some models have metal coils, while others have smooth glass tops. Newer models utilise induction technology, which heats pots directly and remains cool to the touch.
In the UAE, you’ll find both types everywhere, from budget options in local stores to high-end models by brands like Siemens, Bosch, and Super General.
The main differences: gas vs electric stove
Let’s compare how each performs in real life:
| Feature | Gas stove | Electric stove |
| Heat control | Instant and precise, you can see and feel the flame | Steady, even heat, but slower to change (induction reacts fast) |
| Cooking speed | Heats pans quickly | Takes longer to heat (induction is actually faster than gas) |
| Cost of operation | Usually cheaper in the UAE because gas prices are low | Electricity costs more, so running costs are higher |
| Oven performance | Keeps food moist, but may heat unevenly | Even and dry heat |
| Power outages | Works with manual ignition | Doesn’t work during outages |
| Cleaning | Needs more effort. Burners and grates get messy | Smooth surface wipes clean easily |
| Safety | Visible flame, but higher fire risk | No flame; still gets hot, but includes safety sensors |
As you can see, each has strengths. Your choice depends on what matters more to you — speed, cost, safety, or convenience.
Why you’ll love a gas stove
If you enjoy hands-on cooking, a gas stove might be your best friend.
Here’s what’s great about it:
- Instant heat and control: Turn the knob, and the flame reacts immediately.
- Affordable to run: Gas is cheaper than electricity across most of the UAE.
- Reliable during power cuts: You can still cook if you light it manually.
- Visible flame: Easy to judge heat by sight.
But keep in mind:
- Open flames pose a greater risk of burns or fire.
- Ovens don’t always heat evenly.
- Cleaning can be a chore, especially around the burners.
- You’ll need a connection or space for gas cylinders.
If you live in a villa or cook a lot of quick meals, gas could be the practical choice.
Why an electric stove might suit you better
Electric and induction stoves have become a favourite in many UAE apartments, and for good reason.
Here’s what you’ll enjoy:
- Even cooking: Perfect for baking, roasting, or simmering stews.
- Easy cleanup: A smooth top that wipes clean in seconds.
- Modern safety features: Automatic shut-off, residual heat indicators, and child locks.
- Stylish design: Sleek and minimal for a modern kitchen look.
- No gas line needed: Ideal if your building doesn’t allow gas.
Downsides to consider:
- Heating and cooling take longer (unless it’s induction).
- Electricity costs more than gas in most Emirates.
- You can’t use it during a power outage.
- The glass surface can scratch if you’re not careful.
If you live in a high-rise building in Dubai Marina or Downtown Dubai, an electric or induction stove is already your safest option.
Energy efficiency: Which one saves more?
This might surprise you — gas is cheaper, but electric is more efficient.
Gas stoves waste some energy as heat escapes around the pan. Only about 40–60% of the flame’s energy actually cooks your food. Electric stoves, and especially induction cooktops, use energy more efficiently, sending up to 90% of the power directly into your cookware.
Still, because gas prices are lower than electricity tariffs in the UAE, gas cooking usually costs less overall. If you cook often, a gas stove could save you money month after month.
If you prefer the clean look and energy efficiency of electric cooking, induction is a smart middle ground, offering fast, safe, and modern cooking.
Staying safe in the kitchen
Safety matters, no matter which stove you choose.
For gas stoves:
- Keep the area well-ventilated.
- Check hoses and connections regularly for gas leaks.
- Install a small gas detector for extra peace of mind.
- During power cuts, light the burner with a match or lighter if your model has electric ignition.
For electric stoves:
- Be careful, as surfaces stay hot for a while after use.
- Keep the area dry.
- Choose a model with an auto shut-off feature and a child lock if you have children.
If you ever smell gas, turn off the supply, open windows, avoid using switches or phones, and call your building manager or emergency services immediately.
Keeping it clean
Nobody enjoys cleaning stoves, but some are easier to deal with than others.
Gas cookers need more effort. You’ll want to clean the burners and grates regularly, soak them in warm soapy water, and wipe down any spills before they harden.
Electric and induction cookers are much simpler. A quick wipe with a soft cloth usually does the job. Just avoid abrasive sponges that could scratch the surface.
Pro tip: If you use induction, make sure your pans have flat bottoms. That keeps the surface spotless and improves cooking efficiency.
Prices and where to buy in the UAE
You can find both types of stoves at most major retailers across the UAE, including Carrefour, Sharaf DG, Eros, and Lulu Hypermarket.
Here’s what to expect in terms of price:
- Basic models: AED 600–800
- Mid-range models: AED 1,200–3,000
- Premium or dual-fuel stoves: AED 5,000 and up
Dual-fuel stoves, which combine a gas cooktop with an electric oven, are becoming a top pick among UAE homeowners who want the best of both worlds.
Which one fits your cooking style?
Your choice really depends on how you cook and where you live.
Go for a gas stove if you:
- Like quick, high-heat cooking (stir-fry, sautéing, grilling)
- Want lower running costs
- Need something that still works during power outages
- Enjoy hands-on, traditional cooking
Go for an electric or induction stove if you:
- Bake or roast often
- Prefer an easy-to-clean, modern kitchen setup
- Have small kids and want extra safety features
- Live in an apartment that doesn’t allow gas lines
In newer buildings, many Dubai and Abu Dhabi developers now install electric or induction stoves as standard because of safety regulations.
Key takeaways
In short, gas stoves provide instant heat, better control, and lower running costs, making them ideal for serious cooks and larger households. Electric and induction stoves, on the other hand, offer a cleaner design, easier maintenance, and improved safety. This makes them perfect for modern apartments and families with kids.
Your final choice should depend on your cooking style, budget, and home setup. Whether you go for the power of gas or the convenience of electricity, both options can make your UAE kitchen efficient, stylish, and ready for everyday cooking.
FAQs
Gas stoves are still more common in villas, but electric and induction cookers are taking over in modern apartments.
Yes, they’re fast, efficient, and safe. The surface stays cool except under the pan, and they use less energy overall.
It depends on your building. Many towers in Dubai Marina, JLT, and Downtown Dubai don’t allow gas for safety reasons.
You should turn off the main valve, open the windows, and avoid using switches or your phone. Call maintenance or emergency services immediately.
Yes, they do. Homes without an existing gas line or the proper electrical outlet may need extra setup, which can increase your total cost.
