Is our mold causing these health issues in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit, and now we’ve found black spots spreading on the wall behind the bedroom wardrobe. My husband and I have both had a stuffy nose and itchy eyes for the last couple of weeks, and it’s worse in the morning. Is this likely from the mold, and what’s the fastest way to get it properly tested here in Dubai?
Posted by Robert Lewis
Asked on May 7, 2026 3:55 pm
The symptoms you describe—stuffy nose and itchy eyes worsening indoors—are classic reactions to mold exposure and are very plausible given your situation in Jumeirah Village Circle. The leaking AC unit creates constant moisture, and Dubai's high humidity provides ideal conditions for mold to thrive on that damp wall.

For the fastest proper testing, engage a company with a certified indoor environmental professional who can conduct a thorough inspection. They should use a moisture meter to find the full extent of the water damage behind the wardrobe and take air and surface samples. Crucially, these samples must be analyzed by an accredited microbiology lab to identify the specific mold species, as this determines the necessary remediation approach.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing it can release a large number of spores. The AC unit itself will also need to be inspected for microbial growth in the drip pan and ducts, as this is a common source of ongoing contamination. A proper remediation plan will address the moisture source, contain the area during removal, and verify the cleanup's effectiveness with post-remediation testing.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 9, 2026 10:14 am