Is desert dust harmful to children's lungs?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent sandstorm that hit Dubai, we've had a constant layer of fine dust settling on everything inside our apartment. Even with the AC running, there’s an unmistakable grittiness in the air and it’s been making my kids’ coughs worse. My wife and I are really worried about what this might be doing to their lungs. Could anyone here share any insights or advice on dealing with desert dust?
Posted by Yuna Tran
Asked on January 11, 2026 12:41 am
0
Desert dust can indeed pose some health risks especially to children. The fine particles of desert dust can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate existing conditions like asthma or allergies. In dubai, during sandstorms, these tiny particulates can accumulate indoors despite air conditioning systems.

The UAE does have regulations in place for environmental quality but typically they focus on industrial emissions and waste management rather than airborne particulate matters from natural sources. However, it's still important to be mindful of the indoor air quality as fine dust can carry pollutants that are harmful when breathed in by children whose lungs are still developing.

To deal with this issue, i'd recommend keeping windows closed during sandstorms and using high-efficiency filters on your air conditioning units if you have them. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are particularly effective at capturing fine particulates. Regularly cleaning surfaces can also help reduce the amount of dust in your home.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it would be wise to seek professional advice from a health practitioner who might recommend an inspection of your living space for potential allergens and irritants. Our company offers comprehensive environmental inspections which can identify any hidden issues that might not be visible to the naked eye but could contribute to respiratory problems.

Remember, keeping children indoors during sandstorms is a good idea until conditions improve. Encourage them to stay hydrated and use saline sprays or humidifiers if their coughs get worse as these can help soothe irritated airways.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information about our services or any other concerns you might have regarding indoor environmental quality in your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 3:38 am