Should I worry about musty smell in coworking space?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent renovation of our coworking space in Downtown Dubai, we’ve been noticing a persistent musty smell that’s particularly noticeable when the air conditioning is on. It’s starting to worry me because employees have complained about feeling unwell. How urgent should I be about addressing this issue?
Posted by Marco Kowalski
Asked on January 5, 2026 9:07 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell is a serious concern and should be addressed promptly. A persistent odor like that can indicate hidden issues within your coworking space which could impact both productivity and health of employees.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that this smell might stem from various sources including dampness, mold growth, or even improper ventilation systems. The UAE has strict environmental regulations regarding indoor air quality particularly in commercial spaces such as coworking areas (UAE Law 31/2005 on the Protection of the Environment). Therefore, ignoring it could lead to non-compliance issues.

A call for professional inspection would be wise. Companies like Saniservice that offer mold and moisture inspections are highly recommended. They can conduct detailed assessments using thermal imaging cameras and humidity meters to identify any hidden problems.

Ignoring this issue might also have health implications. Employees who complain of feeling unwell could actually be experiencing symptoms from indoor air pollutants such as mold spores, dust mites, or chemicals from building materials. These conditions are prevalent in Dubai's hot climate where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically leading to condensation and moisture issues.

Moreover, addressing the smell should not just be about removing the odor but also tackling its root causes which might include insufficient ventilation, water leaks, or poor HVAC system maintenance. Regular checks on your AC units, ensuring that they're serviced annually by licensed professionals, is vital in preventing such smells from arising.

In the meantime, you can take some initial steps. Increase air circulation with fans and open windows when weather permits. Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. However, these are temporary measures at best; a thorough inspection remains necessary.

Don't delay in contacting Saniservice for a professional assessment. Their service numbers - 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 - can be dialed right away. You could also reach out to them via email at hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, the well-being of your employees and the compliance with local laws should always be top priorities in managing such issues.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 11:20 pm