Is sandstorm dust really harmful indoors?« Back to Previous Page

After the sandstorm last week, I noticed a fine yellow dust on all my furniture and even my curtains. It’s quite alarming how quickly it spread throughout the apartment, especially since we live in the high-rise building near the desert. The coughing in my kids has been pretty bad too. How urgent is this issue really?
Posted by Lisa Garcia
Asked on January 14, 2026 11:38 am
0
Desert dust from sandstorms can indeed pose significant health and comfort concerns indoors. In the UAE, especially in Dubai where high-rise buildings are common near desert areas, sandstorms can send a fine layer of yellowish dust floating through the air. This quick spread throughout your apartment is quite concerning.

Firstly, the dust you noticed on furniture and curtains isn't just unsightly; it could be carrying fine particulates that might trigger respiratory issues, especially in children like yours. The UAE has specific regulations regarding indoor air quality (IAQ), though sandstorms can make these challenging to maintain. According to the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi, dust particles smaller than 10 microns (PM10) and even finer, known as PM2.5, are particularly harmful as they can penetrate deep into the lungs.

The coughing in your kids could be due to irritants in the dust or possibly from inhaling larger particles that may cause irritation. It's important to act promptly to protect their health.

For a comprehensive assessment of the indoor air quality and identification of any potential issues, I would recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection service like Saniservice. You can call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation. They will be able to provide you with a detailed analysis and recommendations on how to improve the air quality in your home.

In the meantime, consider using an air purifier that can filter out fine particles. Keeping windows closed during sandstorms is also crucial to prevent dust from entering your home. Additionally, regularly cleaning surfaces with microfiber cloths or HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaners can help reduce dust accumulation.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for health and comfort, especially in the challenging conditions caused by frequent sandstorms in Dubai. Don't hesitate to take action if you notice any concerning symptoms in yourself or your family members.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 4:48 pm