Mold causing my kids' persistent cough in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the heavy rains last month, and I’m starting to panic. I’ve noticed a few dark, fuzzy patches behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom, which is right next to their room in our villa in Al Barsha. The AC unit in the hallway also blows out a damp, earthy smell whenever it kicks on. Could this mold be the cause of their allergies, and how do I find a reliable company to do a proper inspection and tell me how bad it really is?
Posted by Barbara White
Asked on May 1, 2026 7:55 am
Yes, the mold you've described is very likely contributing to your children's persistent cough. The damp, earthy smell from the AC and the visible growth behind the wardrobe are strong indicators of an active mold problem, a common issue in Dubai villas after heavy rains due to increased humidity and potential water ingress.

Post-rain conditions in Dubai often lead to moisture trapped in walls and AC systems, creating ideal breeding grounds for mold. The spores from these colonies are then circulated by your air conditioning, which runs year-round, and can cause significant respiratory irritation, especially in children.

For a reliable inspection, look for a company that provides a comprehensive assessment, not just a visual check. A proper inspection should include moisture mapping to find hidden dampness and air/surface sampling sent to an independent microbiology lab for analysis. This lab report is crucial—it identifies the specific mold species present and their concentration, which determines the actual health risk and necessary remediation steps. Avoid any company that offers a "free inspection" that immediately leads to a large remediation quote without diagnostic data.

Given the symptoms and the visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to understand the full extent of the problem and develop a targeted plan to resolve it.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 3, 2026 11:26 pm