Are sandstorms harmful to our health?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in Dubai for two years now, and recently we've started noticing sandstorms more frequently. The last one was particularly bad – it lasted for about three hours yesterday afternoon, with thick yellow dust coating everything inside our apartment. Even though I closed all the windows and doors, there's still a fine layer of sand on every surface in our living room, including the furniture and my husband’s work desk by the window. The kids have been coughing since it cleared up; is this normal after such storms?
Posted by Daniel Harris
Asked on January 13, 2026 6:29 am
0
Absolutely, sandstorms can be quite harmful to our health, especially in the UAE context. They're not just an inconvenience; they carry a host of potential risks.

Firstly, the fine particles from these storms are typically made up of dust, dirt, and sometimes even industrial pollutants. When you mentioned the thick yellow dust coating everything inside your apartment, those were indeed the airborne particulates that can cause discomfort and health issues. The small size of these particles means they can easily penetrate deep into our lungs, causing irritation to the respiratory system.

For someone like yourself who noticed coughing in the children after a sandstorm, this is quite common. The fine particulate matter can trigger asthma attacks, exacerbate existing respiratory conditions, or even cause new ones. It’s not uncommon for people living in areas prone to such storms to experience symptoms like throat irritation, runny nose, and persistent coughs.

In Dubai, where the environment is known for its arid climate and frequent sandstorms, it's crucial to take precautions during these events. While you did a good job of closing all windows and doors, sealing out some of the dust, it’s essential to know that some particulates can still seep inside. A professional inspection might be necessary if symptoms persist or worsen.

If you're concerned about the health impacts on your family, I’d recommend giving us a call at 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com for an assessment of the indoor air quality in your home. Our team can help identify any lingering contaminants and provide recommendations to ensure better breathing conditions post-sandstorm.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is paramount in protecting the health of you and your family. Regular cleaning with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner might also be beneficial, as these filters are designed to capture even the finest particles that can irritate lungs.

Stay safe and take care!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 16, 2026 8:17 am