Are sandstorms harming my family's health?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new home on the outskirts of Dubai a few months ago, we’ve been experiencing frequent sandstorms that kick up even during midday. Yesterday was particularly bad; my daughter and I were in the living room trying to finish some reading when this thick yellow haze suddenly filled the air, making it hard to see through the windows. Now both kids have started coughing and sneezing. Have anyone else noticed similar issues? What can we do to protect our family from these sandstorms?
Posted by Steven Allen
Asked on February 9, 2026 3:56 pm
0
Yes, sandstorms can indeed harm your family's health especially during these frequent occurrences here in the UAE. The fine particles carried by the wind are often full of pollutants and allergens which can irritate the respiratory system leading to coughing, sneezing, and other allergic reactions. For those with asthma or other lung conditions, it might even exacerbate their symptoms.

In your situation, it sounds like you're already experiencing these effects with your kids. It's not uncommon for families living near the outskirts of Dubai to face similar issues due to the proximity to sandy deserts which are more prone to sandstorms.

To protect your family from sandstorms, here are some practical steps:

Firstly, use air purifiers in your home. They can help filter out particulate matter and allergens from the air, making it easier for everyone to breathe comfortably. Look for models with HEPA filters as they are more effective at capturing small particles.

Secondly, keep windows tightly closed during sandstorms and consider using heavy curtains or blinds if possible. This will minimize the amount of dust and pollen entering your home.

Thirdly, take indoor activities when you can. If it's safe to do so, try to limit outdoor playtime for children especially during peak storm hours. Keep them indoors with plenty of books, games, or movies to keep their minds engaged while staying away from the harmful elements outside.

Fourthly, if your home is equipped with an HVAC system, ensure that it has a good filter and consider replacing it with one designed specifically for trapping fine particles. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the filters can also help improve air quality inside your home.

Lastly, keep an eye on local weather forecasts so you can anticipate sandstorms before they hit and take preventive measures accordingly. Always stay informed about any UAE-specific regulations or advisories related to health during such events.

If symptoms persist despite these precautions, it might be wise to seek professional advice from a healthcare provider. For more specific environmental concerns regarding your home's indoor air quality, you may want to consider hiring an inspection service like ours at Saniservice - we can provide a detailed assessment and recommendations tailored to the UAE environment.

Remember to contact us anytime on 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 11, 2026 3:00 pm