Is Dubai mold causing my family's persistent cough and headaches?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to panic. I finally pulled out the wardrobe in our master bedroom to find the entire wall behind it is covered in a black, fuzzy patch, and the room constantly smells damp. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah villa for years and never had this issue until after the last round of heavy rains. Could this mold be the reason for our persistent sore throats and headaches, and what’s the safest way to get it professionally tested and removed here in Dubai?
Posted by Ali Al-Maktoum
Asked on May 10, 2026 9:25 am
Yes, the black mold behind your wardrobe is very likely contributing to your family's persistent coughs, sore throats, and headaches. The damp smell confirms active microbial growth. In Dubai's high humidity, especially after heavy rains, interior walls can trap moisture and become an ideal environment for mold. The constant use of AC can then spread these spores throughout the house, leading to the respiratory irritation and allergy symptoms you're describing.

For a case this severe—a large, hidden patch—professional inspection and remediation are strongly advised. Do not attempt to remove it yourself, as disturbing it will release a massive amount of spores into your home's air. The safest approach is a two-step process: first, a certified inspector should take air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the mold species and spore concentration. This evidence is crucial for guiding the remediation plan.

The remediation company will then contain the area, use HEPA filtration to clean the air, safely remove the contaminated materials, and treat the area to prevent regrowth. Always verify that a company holds a Dubai Municipality permit for this work and provides a detailed lab report both before and after the procedure. This documentation is your proof that the issue has been resolved to a healthy standard.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 10, 2026 11:29 pm