How to test and remove mold in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past couple of weeks and I just found black spots behind their bedroom wardrobe, which is on an interior wall in our apartment in Jumeirah. I'm really worried it's mold, especially with the humidity creeping back up. What's the best way to get this properly tested and handled in Dubai?
Posted by Ryo Kang
Asked on March 31, 2026 12:00 am
Based on your description, this presents a classic case of mold growth exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and year-round air conditioning use. The location behind the wardrobe on an interior wall is a significant red flag; this is a prime spot for condensation to form due to the temperature differential between the cooled room and the warmer wall, creating a microclimate perfect for mold.

For proper testing, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY test kits are unreliable and cannot identify the species or concentration of spores, which is critical for determining the health risk and correct remediation protocol. A certified inspector will conduct a visual assessment, use a moisture meter to identify the water source, and perform air and surface sampling. This is sent to an accredited lab to identify the mold species (e.g., the potentially toxic Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold") and the spore count in the air your children are breathing.

In Dubai, remediation must adhere to strict guidelines. Simply wiping the spots is ineffective and can aerosolize spores, worsening the problem. The process involves containment of the area with negative air pressure, safe removal of contaminated materials, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial application. The root cause—likely condensation or a hidden leak—must be identified and rectified to prevent recurrence.

Given the health symptoms and visible growth, immediate professional action is advised. For expert testing and Dubai-approved remediation, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are equipped to handle this safely and effectively. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com for a consultation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 2:01 am