Types of Outdoor Umbrellas and Parasols: A Complete Guide to Every Design

Outdoor umbrellas are sold under a dozen names, and most of them describe one of a handful of designs. This guide sets out every type we supply at Adams Furniture, what it is for and how it is fixed, so you can match the design to the space before you look at prices. Our full outdoor umbrellas in Dubai range covers all of them.

Centre pole umbrellas (market, patio, garden, table umbrellas)

The classic parasol: one mast through the middle of the canopy. The symmetrical structure makes it the most stable and wind-resistant design and the cheapest per square metre of shade. Used through a table hole, in a weighted base of 40 to 180 kg, or in a ground sleeve. Sizes typically 2.5 to 4 m. Frames are teak (classic resort look) or aluminium (lighter, rust-free). Heavy-duty telescopic versions such as the Astral TC close above the furniture. See centre pole umbrellas.

Cantilever umbrellas (side pole, offset, hanging umbrellas)

The canopy hangs from an arm on an offset mast, leaving the shaded space clear. Most rotate 360° around the base and tilt the canopy to follow the sun. The trade-off is wind: the load is off-centre, so bases must be heavier (100 kg or more) or ground-fixed, and the canopy should be closed in strong gusts. The best choice over dining tables, sofa sets, daybeds and pool loungers. See cantilever umbrellas and our centre pole vs cantilever comparison.

Double canopy umbrellas (twin canopy)

Two full canopies on a single central mast. One base shades two tables or two lounger rows, with a symmetrical load that is steadier than two cantilevers. Ideal for restaurant terraces and hotel pool decks. Read more on double canopy umbrellas.

Giant umbrellas (large commercial umbrellas)

Canopies from 5 x 5 m up to 7 x 7 m square or 8 m diameter on one anchored mast, built for restaurants, hotels and resorts. Modular systems such as the Flexy link several masts to cover a whole terrace with no central obstruction. Always ground-anchored, usually with custom canopies, lighting and heaters. See giant umbrellas.

Motorised and automated umbrellas

Giant umbrellas with motor opening in place of a manual winch, often with LED lighting, heaters and wind sensors. For terraces that open every day. See motorised umbrellas.

Beach umbrellas

Centre pole parasols built for sand and salt: aluminium masts with teak ribs, or teak and Balinese designs, set in screw sand anchors or concrete sleeve sockets. See beach umbrellas in Dubai.

Swimming pool umbrellas

Not a separate design but a specification: marine-grade aluminium or teak frames and solution-dyed acrylic canopies, in centre pole form beside loungers or cantilever form over pool sofas. See swimming pool umbrellas.

Gazebos and pergolas

For permanent shade over a fixed area, a gazebo or pergola replaces an umbrella altogether. See our gazebos.

How to choose

• Pole in the way? Centre pole for tables with a hole and lounger rows; cantilever for everything the pole would obstruct.

• Exposed to wind? Centre pole or double canopy over cantilever; ground anchorage over a loose base.

• Area to cover? Up to 4 x 4 m, a single umbrella; beyond that, giant, double canopy or modular.

• Opened daily? Consider a motor.

• Budget? Centre pole teak from AED 1,800 to 2,700; Italian cantilever AED 7,950 to 9,850; giant and motorised quoted per project. Full detail in our price guide.

All our umbrellas are on display at our Al Quoz warehouse in Dubai, with installation across the UAE. Contact us if you would like help choosing.

Browse our made-to-measure outdoor furniture in Dubai, or compare Dubai's outdoor furniture stores in our 2026 store guide.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main types of outdoor umbrellas?

Centre pole (market or patio) umbrellas, cantilever or side pole umbrellas, double canopy umbrellas, giant commercial umbrellas, motorised umbrellas, beach umbrellas and pool umbrellas. Gazebos and pergolas are the fixed-structure alternative.

What is the difference between a cantilever and a centre pole umbrella?

A centre pole umbrella has the mast through the middle of the canopy and is the most stable design. A cantilever hangs the canopy from an offset arm, keeping the space below clear, but needs a heavier base.

Which umbrella type is most wind resistant?

A centre pole umbrella, followed by a ground-anchored double canopy or giant umbrella. Cantilevers are the least stable and should be closed in strong wind.

What is a double canopy umbrella?

Two canopies mounted on one central mast so a single base shades two tables or lounger rows.

Can an umbrella be motorised?

Yes. Giant umbrellas are available with motor opening, LED lighting, heaters and wind sensors.