How to stop humidity mold in a dark Dubai closet?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in a villa in Jumeirah for years, but since the humidity really kicked in a couple of months ago, we keep finding black mold spots in the master bedroom closet, especially on our leather bags and shoes. The room is on the ground floor and doesn't get a lot of sun. What's the most effective long-term solution to control the moisture in there and stop this from happening every winter?
Posted by Carmen Thomas
Asked on April 16, 2026 9:50 pm
This is a classic Dubai issue, especially in ground-floor rooms with limited sun exposure. The humidity is creating condensation inside the closet, providing the perfect environment for mold. The long-term solution requires addressing both the moisture source and improving conditions inside the closet.

First, mechanically control the humidity inside the closet. A small, plug-in desiccant dehumidifier is highly effective for enclosed spaces like this. Run it continuously during the humid winter months. Also, ensure the closet is not over-packed; leave space between items for air to circulate. For leather goods, specific conditioning products can help protect them from mold spores.

Second, investigate the room’s environment. This mold growth suggests high ambient humidity in the bedroom itself. Ensure your AC is functioning correctly and set to a consistently low temperature, as running it cools the walls and reduces condensation. Check that no external dampness is seeping through the wall shared with the closet, a common issue in older villas.

For a permanent fix, a professional inspection is often needed. They can identify if there’s a hidden leak or insufficient insulation in the external wall and use thermal imaging to find cold spots where condensation forms. In many cases, the solution involves improving room ventilation or adding a dedicated dehumidifier to the AC system for that zone.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 18, 2026 2:06 am