Is damp wall mold causing our heatlh issues in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Our building in Jumeirah Lakes Towers had a major leak in the ceiling from the apartment above us back during the heavy rains in March. The maintenance guys fixed the leak but the wall in our bedroom still feels damp and I've started seeing these black speckles spreading near the wardrobe. Lately, my husband and I have been waking up with stuffy noses and itchy eyes that clear up once we leave for work. Could this mold be causing our symptoms and what's the proper way to get it treated in Dubai, since just painting over it clearly didn't work?
Posted by Linda Rodriguez
Asked on April 5, 2026 9:35 pm
Yes, damp wall mold is very likely the cause of your symptoms. The black speckles are a clear visual indicator of a mold colony, and the persistent dampness provides the perfect environment for it to thrive. The stuffy noses and itchy eyes that resolve when you leave the apartment are classic signs of mold exposure, which acts as a powerful irritant to the respiratory system and eyes.

In Dubai's climate, simply painting over a mold problem is a temporary and ineffective fix. The high humidity, especially post-rain and with year-round AC use creating condensation, means the moisture source behind the wall is still active. The mold will continue to grow and release spores into your bedroom's air.

For a situation stemming from a major leak, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. Proper remediation is not a DIY job. The process involves more than surface cleaning; it requires identifying and rectifying the residual moisture source, containing the area to prevent spore spread, safely removing contaminated porous materials like drywall or insulation, and using specialized equipment like HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to clean the air. A reputable company will also perform post-remediation verification, often with lab testing, to confirm the spore count in the air has returned to safe levels.

When seeking a provider, look for those with certifications like IICRC and ask how they will verify the job is complete. The goal is to solve the moisture problem and remove the contamination, not just hide it.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 4:22 pm