Black mold on exterior wall in Dubai rental?« Back to Previous Page

This is a common issue in Dubai villas, especially on exterior walls during humid periods. The wall behind the wardrobe is a classic spot for condensation to form, as the lack of airflow allows dampness from the cooler interior to meet the warm, humid air seeping in from outside.

For a small area (less than one square meter), you can attempt to clean it yourself with a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mould remover. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. However, simply cleaning the surface is a temporary fix. The mould is growing because of excess moisture in the wall cavity. You must move the wardrobe away from the wall permanently to improve air circulation and allow the wall to breathe. A dehumidifier in the room can help manage ambient humidity.

As this is a rental property, your first step should be to notify your landlord or property management company in writing. The tenancy law implies the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property's structure. The moisture ingress is likely a building envelope issue—perhaps a failing sealant or insufficient insulation—that they are obligated to address. A professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the source of the moisture. They can use thermal imaging and moisture meters to pinpoint the problem, which is often not visible to the naked eye. Without fixing the root cause, the mould will return.