Is toxic mold in our Dubai apartment making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described and the visible black, fuzzy mold growth from the AC leak, there is a high probability that the mold is contributing to your health issues. In Dubai's humid climate, constant AC use combined with a leak creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, particularly in enclosed spaces like closets. The persistent moisture allows colonies to proliferate and release mycotoxins and spores into the air, which can cause respiratory irritation, persistent coughs, headaches, and sore throats.

For a situation involving visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is absolutely critical. DIY cleaning is not recommended as it can aerosolize toxins and spread the contamination. The fastest way to address this is to engage a certified mold inspection and remediation company. They will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including air quality and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration of mold, which is essential for determining the remediation protocol.

You should also consult a physician, specifically an allergist or a pulpomonologist, and inform them of your potential exposure to mold. They can perform tests to determine if your symptoms are allergy-related.

Regarding your landlord, in the UAE, tenants have the right to a habitable property. Document the issue with photos and written communication. If they remain unresponsive, you can escalate the matter to the Dubai Land Department's Rental Dispute Center (RDC).

For immediate professional testing and remediation, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are experts in handling mold issues specific to Dubai's building conditions and climate. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com for a swift response.