How to treat black mold behind wardrobe in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah villa for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe. I pulled the furniture out and the plaster actually feels damp, and there's a really strong, earthy smell in the room. I'm worried this has been growing for a while unseen. What's the best course of action to get this properly treated and who should I call for a reliable assessment in Dubai?
Posted by Rashid Al-Mansour
Asked on March 17, 2026 9:25 pm
The black spots you've described are almost certainly a significant mold colony, made evident by the damp plaster and the characteristic earthy, musty odor. This is a common issue in Dubai due to our high ambient humidity, which is then exacerbated by year-round air conditioning. The temperature differential between the cool wall behind the wardrobe and the warm, humid room air creates massive condensation, providing the perfect environment for mold growth. Given the extent you've described, with damp structural material, this is not a minor surface issue.

The absolute first step is to call a professional for a comprehensive inspection. Do not attempt to disturb or clean it yourself, as this will aerosolize the spores and contaminate the rest of your villa. A certified inspector will conduct a visual assessment and use tools like a moisture meter and thermal imaging camera to locate the exact moisture source—which could be a small plumbing leak, capillary rise from the slab, or simply severe condensation. They will also take air and surface samples to identify the species and concentration of mold, which is critical for determining the correct remediation protocol as per UAE environmental and health guidelines.

The remediation process is technical. It involves setting up containment with negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, the safe removal of affected porous materials like the damp plasterboard, HEPA vacuuming, and abrasive cleaning of non-porous surfaces. This must be followed by a thorough hygienization process using EPA-approved antimicrobial solutions to eliminate residual spores. Finally, the root cause—the moisture—must be permanently resolved, often through improved ventilation, insulation of cold surfaces, or repairs.

For a reliable, certified assessment and remediation in Dubai that adheres to all local standards, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They specialize in these exact scenarios. You can reach their experts for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 11:04 pm