Is musty smell and cough due to mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my son's bedroom, and he’s been complaining about having a persistent cough. I'm really worried because they spend so much time there, especially since we’ve had them over for most of their school holidays this year. Has anyone else experienced mold issues like this in Dubai and what did you do to address it?
Posted by Christopher Lee
Asked on January 19, 2026 2:56 pm
Yes, the musty smell and persistent cough could be indicative of mold growth in your son's bedroom. Mold thrives in damp environments and can produce spores that irritate respiratory systems, especially in children who spend a lot of time in such areas.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels can vary significantly throughout the year, with higher levels during the summer months. This climate condition can create perfect conditions for mold to flourish, especially if there's been rain as you mentioned recently. Mold often grows behind walls, under carpets or in corners of rooms where moisture accumulates.

To accurately assess the situation, it is highly recommended that you seek professional inspection services. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice are well-regarded and can provide thorough mold testing using methods such as air sampling, visual inspections, and moisture meter tests to determine the extent of any contamination. UAE regulations under the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) require buildings to be free from mold infestation for health reasons.

If a professional inspection confirms mold growth, remediation should follow promptly. This involves removing contaminated materials, treating affected areas with biocides or other appropriate methods, and ensuring proper ventilation and moisture control measures are in place to prevent future occurrences. It’s critical to address any underlying causes of moisture such as leaks or poor drainage.

To avoid spreading the issue further, keep the area sealed off during remediation if possible. Use negative air pressure systems and HEPA filters to capture mold spores and minimize exposure. Post-remediation, you might consider having the environment tested again by a professional to ensure all mold has been eliminated.

Given your concern about the prolonged stay of guests in this room, it would be prudent to address the issue sooner rather than later to prevent any health complications for both your family and visitors. For assistance, you can call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537, or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember that while immediate steps are necessary, maintaining a dry environment is key in preventing mold resurgence. Regularly check for signs of moisture or water damage and address these promptly to keep your home healthy.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 21, 2026 6:22 am