Is AC mold causing my husband's respiratory issues in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the AC mold is very likely contributing to his persistent respiratory issues. The constant moisture from a leaking AC unit creates an ideal environment for mold growth in Dubai's humidity. The black spots on your wall are a clear visual indicator of a colony, and its spores are being circulated directly into your bedroom air every time the AC runs.

For someone with prolonged exposure, this commonly causes exactly the symptoms you describe: a chronic stuffy nose, dry cough, and general irritation that feels like a cold that won't resolve. It's a frequent issue in villas here, where AC systems run year-round and small leaks can go unnoticed.

You need two separate professionals. First, call a licensed HVAC company to immediately repair the AC leak—this is the source of the moisture and must be fixed first. Then, for the mold itself, you must contact a specialized mold inspection and remediation company. Do not hire a general handyman or a company that only does AC cleaning.

A reputable inspector will perform air and surface sampling, often sending samples to an independent microbiology lab to identify the specific type of mold. This is critical for understanding the health risk and planning the correct removal protocol. The remediation process should include containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated materials like the affected drywall, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment to prevent regrowth.

Ensure any company you contact can provide a detailed scope of work, verifiable before-and-after test results from a certified lab, and holds relevant credentials from Dubai Municipality or ESMA. Proper remediation is a science-driven process, not just wiping down a wall.