Is persistent haze and stale air harmful?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm a few weeks ago, I noticed a persistent haze in my living room that hasn’t dissipated even though I’ve cleaned everything. The air feels stale and slightly stuffy, especially when I’m using the AC. My kids have been complaining of itchy eyes and coughing, which has me worried. Can this be managed on my own or do I need to seek professional help?
Posted by Tomasz Wisniewski
Asked on January 24, 2026 4:07 pm
0
Persistent haze and stale air can indeed be harmful to your health, particularly for children. In the UAE, especially during dust storms, these conditions are more common due to the high sand content and dry climate. The haze you're experiencing may not just be dust; it could also include other pollutants like pollen, mold spores, or even fine particulate matter from outdoor air being brought inside by your air conditioning system.

In Dubai, the air quality can fluctuate greatly during and after storms, with high levels of PM10 (particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter) which are particularly dangerous as they can penetrate deep into the lungs. These particles not only irritate the respiratory tract but also exacerbate existing conditions like asthma or allergies.

The stale air you feel might be due to your AC system running continuously without sufficient fresh air intake, leading to a build-up of indoor pollutants and moisture, which could promote mold growth. This is a common issue in Dubai's climate where AC systems are used extensively.

For immediate relief, ensure that your air conditioning filters are regularly cleaned or replaced as recommended by the manufacturer. This will help in filtering out more dust and particles. Also, using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can be beneficial to capture smaller particulates. Additionally, keeping windows closed during storms and ensuring proper ventilation when it's safe outside can reduce indoor pollution levels.

However, if your kids continue to experience symptoms like itchy eyes or coughing despite these measures, I'd recommend consulting a professional environmental inspector. They can conduct an inspection of your home’s air quality, identify sources of contamination, and provide tailored recommendations for improvement. In the UAE, you can reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for a professional assessment.

Regular maintenance and monitoring are key in managing indoor air quality in Dubai’s climate. It's important not to ignore these signs, as they can lead to more serious health issues over time.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 9:31 am