Is Dubai apartment mold causing our breathing issues?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to panic. I just pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading from the corner, probably from a slow leak I didn't know about. My throat has been feeling scratchy too. **Could this mold be the cause of our breathing issues and what's the safest way to get it cleaned here in Dubai?**
Posted by Tuan Phan
Asked on April 25, 2026 8:55 pm
Yes, the black mold you found is very likely contributing to your family's persistent cough and scratchy throat. In Dubai's humid climate, especially in older Deira buildings with potential envelope leaks, this is a common issue. The constant AC use can create condensation problems that feed mold growth in hidden spaces.

For a patch spreading from a wall corner, professional remediation is strongly advised. This isn't just surface cleaning; the wall itself may need to be opened to address the moisture source and the mold growth inside the cavity. DIY cleaning with bleach is ineffective and can aerosolize the spores, potentially worsening your respiratory symptoms.

The safest approach is a certified inspection to identify the mold species and the full extent of the problem. In the UAE, look for a provider that follows DM and DHA guidelines and can produce a full lab report from a microbiology culture. This confirms the type of mold and informs the correct remediation protocol.

Until professionals arrive, reduce exposure by keeping the area isolated and the room well-ventilated. Run a dehumidifier if you have one, as controlling indoor humidity is critical in our climate. The health of your children makes this a priority for proper assessment and removal.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 28, 2026 1:23 am