Should I test for black mold in my Dubai villa?« Back to Previous Page

Our twins have been having a runny nose and a weird cough for over a month now, and we finally lifted the rug in their bedroom to find a bunch of black spots along the base of the wall. It's an older villa in Mirdif and I'm panicking, thinking this might be the cause. What's the first step I should take to get this properly tested and cleaned without putting my family at risk?
Posted by Robert Thomas
Asked on April 10, 2026 4:20 pm
Based on your description of a persistent cough, runny nose, and the discovery of black spots on the wall, my professional recommendation is an unequivocal yes: you should have the suspected mold professionally tested immediately. The symptoms you describe in your children are classic indicators of prolonged mold spore exposure.

In Dubai's climate, the combination of high humidity and year-round air conditioning creates a perfect environment for mold growth, particularly in older villas in areas like Mirdif. The AC units can cause significant condensation within walls if not properly maintained, leading to hidden moisture problems. The black spots you found are a serious red flag. Attempting to clean it yourself is strongly discouraged, as disturbing the colony will aerosolize a high concentration of spores, drastically increasing your family's exposure and potentially spreading the contamination throughout the home.

The first step is not cleaning, but a comprehensive inspection and air quality test conducted by a certified professional. This will identify the species of mold (crucial for understanding the health risks) and the source of the moisture. In the UAE, remediation must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure spores are contained and removed safely.

For a situation involving child health and visible growth, I urge you to contact a certified specialist. Our team at Saniservice is equipped with advanced technology like thermal imaging to detect hidden moisture and ERMI testing to identify mold species. We can provide a definitive assessment and a safe, effective remediation plan. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an urgent inspection. Do not delay, as this is a significant health risk to your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 13, 2026 4:58 am