Could this mold be causing our health problems?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom in our villa in Jumeirah has had this persistent damp smell since the weather started getting really humid a couple of months ago. I've been waking up with a stuffy nose and itchy eyes, and my husband has developed a bad cough that won't go away. We just found a patch of black spots behind the large wardrobe where it meets the wall. Is this definitely mold, and could it be the reason for our health issues, or is this just a normal Dubai thing we need to live with?
Posted by Juergen Bakker
Asked on March 26, 2026 1:00 pm
Yes, the mold is very likely causing your health issues. The symptoms you describe—stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and a persistent cough—are classic signs of exposure to mold spores. The black spots behind the wardrobe are a clear indicator of a moisture problem, and the confined space allows spore concentration to build up, especially while you're sleeping.

This is not just a "normal Dubai thing" to live with. The high humidity, combined with cold spots from year-round AC use, creates perfect conditions for mold growth in villas, particularly on cooler external walls where condensation forms behind furniture. This is a common issue in Jumeirah and across the UAE.

For a confirmed diagnosis and remediation plan, a professional inspection is advised. They can identify the moisture source (often a small leak or condensation) and the mold species. A certified company with its own microbiology lab can provide air and surface samples to quantify the contamination and verify it is fully removed after cleanup, which is crucial for resolving health symptoms.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 2:06 am