Should I hire a pro for closet mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah apartment has had a damp, earthy smell since the humidity spiked a few weeks ago. I finally pulled everything out and found a decent amount of black fuzzy mold on the back wall and on some of our leather shoes and bags. I’ve tried wiping it down with vinegar, but the smell is still there and I’m worried it’s inside the wall. Is this a job for a professional mold remediation company, and if so, what’s the ballpark cost I should expect for a small area like a closet in Dubai?
Posted by Barbara Harris
Asked on March 22, 2026 7:36 am
Based on your description, this absolutely warrants a professional inspection and remediation. The damp, earthy smell is a key indicator of microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), which persist even after surface cleaning and suggest a deeper, active colony. In the UAE's high-humidity climate, especially with year-round AC use creating significant temperature differentials, condensation within wall cavities is a common failure point. Your Jumeirah apartment's proximity to the coast further exacerbates the humidity issue.

Vinegar is insufficient for porous materials like drywall and leather, as it only addresses surface hyphae without eliminating the root mycelium. The persistent odor confirms the mold has likely penetrated the wall. Attempting to handle this yourself risks cross-contamination to other areas of the apartment and inadequate removal, leading to rapid regrowth.

In Dubai, professional remediation for a closet of this size typically involves containment with negative air pressure, HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial application, and potentially removing and replacing affected drywall. For a standard built-in closet (2m x 1.5m), you should expect a ballpark cost ranging from AED 1,500 to AED 3,500, depending on the extent of the wall infiltration. This is a regulated process to ensure spores are not disseminated throughout your living space.

Given the health risks and potential for structural damage, I strongly recommend a certified inspection. Our team at Saniservice can conduct a comprehensive assessment using moisture meters and borescopes to determine the full extent. For immediate consultation, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 1:00 am