Galvanic corrosion

Galvanic corrosion is what happens when two different metals are in contact with a little moisture: the less-noble metal (often ordinary steel) corrodes much faster than it would alone, while the other metal is left protected. It's an electrochemical reaction that needs three things together — dissimilar metals, an electrical path between them, and an electrolyte — and in Dubai that electrolyte is supplied for free by humid, salt-laden coastal air. That's why a cheap steel screw in an aluminium frame, or mild-steel brackets behind a glass balustrade, will streak rust, seize and weaken within a season or two near the sea, even while the aluminium itself barely marks. The fix is designed in, not cosmetic: marine-grade (316) stainless fixings, matched metals, isolating washers or coatings, and drainage so joints don't sit wet. Getting those fixings and details specified correctly is much of the real value of an aluminium and metalwork specialist in Dubai, because the failure is nearly always in the fixings and detailing rather than the panel itself.