For a situation like a damp wall behind a wardrobe, this is often caused by a combination of Dubai’s high humidity and a cold spot from year-round AC use, leading to condensation inside the wall. A professional inspection is critical to identify the moisture source—it could be a hidden plumbing leak, poor insulation, or seepage from outside—as simply cleaning the mold will fail if the underlying issue isn’t fixed.

Under UAE rental law (Law No. 26 of 2007), the landlord is typically responsible for fixing the structural defect causing the dampness, such as a leak or insulation failure. You are responsible for informing them in writing immediately. They are obligated to address it to maintain a habitable property. The remediation of the mold itself can sometimes be a point of negotiation, but the health risk to your toddler makes prompt professional action essential.

The process should involve isolating the area to prevent spore spread, removing the contaminated materials like drywall, HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial treatment, and finally addressing the moisture source. Always request before-and-after testing from an independent microbiology lab to verify the spore count has been returned to safe levels.