Is musty basement smell related to mold in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain we had last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the basement area of our apartment. It's been persistent and gets worse after it rains. My kids have been complaining about coughing fits and my partner has mentioned feeling dizzy sometimes when we go down there. Has anyone else experienced similar issues in Dubai? Could this be related to mold or poor ventilation, and what can we do about it?
Posted by Jacob Wright
Asked on February 6, 2026 8:02 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell coming from your basement could indeed be linked to mold growth. In Dubai and other parts of the UAE, we often see such issues after heavy rainfalls or periods of high humidity. The warm climate here can create a perfect environment for mold to thrive.

The symptoms you're describing—coughing fits in kids and dizzy spells in adults—are common reactions to mold exposure, especially when it's prevalent in areas where people spend time. Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system and trigger allergic reactions. It’s not uncommon for locals or expatriates living here to face similar issues.

In Dubai, mold growth is often linked to poor ventilation, water leaks, or even condensation from air conditioning systems. Since you've noted that the smell gets worse after rain, it points towards moisture ingress into your basement area. This could be due to leaking pipes, a damaged foundation, or inadequate drainage around your apartment.

Given the severity of symptoms and the persistent nature of the smell, I strongly recommend scheduling a professional inspection with a company like Saniservice. They can conduct detailed assessments for mold presence and ventilation issues in your apartment, ensuring that any problems are properly identified and addressed.

Remember to keep the affected areas well-ventilated by using exhaust fans if possible and avoid disturbing any potentially contaminated surfaces until professionals have evaluated them. Keeping an eye out for visible signs of water damage or dampness can also help monitor the situation.

Stay alert and proactive about maintaining good indoor air quality in your home, especially during wet seasons or after rainfall events. If you need any assistance or further guidance, feel free to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.

Take care and I hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 11, 2026 5:04 am