Is the mold in our closet making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

Our family villa in Mirdif is great, but ever since the heavy rains in March, the walk-in closet in our master bedroom has had a persistent damp smell. My husband and I have both been waking up with stuffy noses and headaches, and I just pulled out a winter jacket to find a patch of black spots on the wall behind it. Could this mold be the reason we’re feeling sick, and what’s the first thing we should do about it?
Posted by Richard Rodriguez
Asked on March 18, 2026 10:50 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth in your Mirdif villa is contributing to your symptoms. The persistent damp smell, visible black spots, and your reported stuffy noses and headaches are classic indicators of a mold-related air quality issue. The heavy rains in March likely introduced moisture into the structure, and the subsequent high humidity of the Dubai climate, combined with year-round AC use which can create condensation in enclosed spaces, has provided the perfect environment for mold proliferation.

The symptoms you describe are a typical immune response to inhaling mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by actively growing colonies. Prolonged exposure can exacerbate respiratory issues and lead to more severe health concerns.

The first and most critical action is to stop disturbing the area. Do not attempt to clean the visible patch yourself, as this will aerosolize a high concentration of spores throughout your living space, potentially worsening your exposure and contaminating other areas. Your walk-in closet needs to be isolated.

Given the clear health symptoms and the likely penetration of moisture into the wall structure, a professional inspection is not just recommended; it is essential. DIY methods are ineffective for this scenario and can make the problem worse. A certified mold inspector will conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the full extent of the contamination, identify the moisture source, and create a protocol for safe remediation.

For a situation like this, I strongly advise you to contact our specialists at Saniservice. We are equipped with the technical expertise and equipment to handle such cases in accordance with Dubai Municipality guidelines. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection and protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 11:12 am