Who is responsible for cleaning dust and sand?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storms we had last week, I noticed a layer of fine sand settling on all the shelves in my balcony, and even inside some of the cabinets. It’s really making me wonder if it's part of the cleaning responsibilities when renting here in Dubai, or should I be doing this myself?
Posted by Salim Hamid
Asked on January 21, 2026 5:31 am
0
Cleaning dust and sand is indeed an important aspect of maintaining the indoor environmental quality in Dubai. Depending on where you live in the UAE, particularly if it's a rental property, there are some general guidelines that can help clarify who should be responsible for cleaning these particles.

Firstly, according to the UAE's Property Regulations (Law No. 21 of 1983), landlords and tenants have specific responsibilities when it comes to maintaining the property. These regulations state that both parties must ensure the premises are kept in a clean and good repair condition throughout their tenancy period. However, what exactly constitutes "clean" can sometimes be ambiguous.

For balconies and outdoor spaces like yours, it would typically be the tenant’s responsibility to keep these areas clean as they are not part of the internal living space. This means you should take care of removing any accumulated dust or sand yourself. You might want to consider using a soft cloth or a gentle vacuum cleaner to avoid damaging surfaces.

However, for indoor cabinets and shelves, it's generally more appropriate that the cleaning is handled by the landlord or property management, unless specifically stated otherwise in your rental agreement. This is because these areas are part of the living space which falls under the landlord’s responsibility according to the law.

If you find yourself frequently dealing with dust and sand, it might be worth checking if there's a need for remediation work like sealing gaps around windows or doors that could be allowing entry during storms. In serious cases where indoor air quality is significantly impacted, consider calling in professionals at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for inspection and advice.

Regular cleaning might also involve using microfiber cloths or a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces without causing damage. Avoid using abrasive materials as they can scratch surfaces and leave marks. Always ensure that any cleaning products used are suitable for the materials you're cleaning.

In summary, while it's your responsibility to keep outdoor areas like balconies dust-free, indoor spaces should be maintained by the landlord or property manager unless otherwise stated in your rental contract. If you have concerns about your health or the structural integrity of your home due to sand and dust, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 24, 2026 10:20 am