Could this mold be causing our sinus issues in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our bedroom in Jumeirah has been leaking a bit for the last few weeks, and now I’ve spotted black patches growing on the wall behind the curtain. My husband and I have both been waking up with stuffy noses and scratchy throats that clear up once we leave for work. Is this likely from the mold, and what’s the fastest way to get it properly tested in Dubai?
Posted by Khalid El-Masri
Asked on April 4, 2026 4:00 pm
Yes, the mold from your AC leak is very likely causing your sinus issues. The symptoms you describe—stuffy noses and scratchy throats that improve when you leave the room—are classic signs of mold exposure. In Dubai's climate, continuous AC use creates condensation, providing the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive indoors, especially from an unresolved leak.

The fastest way to get it properly tested is to engage a company with in-house microbiology capabilities, as they can collect surface and air samples and analyze them directly without outsourcing, significantly speeding up the process. You should receive a detailed report identifying the mold species and spore count levels, which is essential for understanding the health risk and planning remediation. For a situation involving visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended over DIY test kits, which are often unreliable.

Focus on addressing the source first: the leaking AC unit must be repaired by a certified HVAC technician to prevent further moisture intrusion. Until then, keep the area as dry as possible and avoid disturbing the mold, as this can release more spores into the air.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 6:08 pm