Is sandstorm residue harmful to health?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent sandstorm that hit Dubai, I noticed a strange gritty residue all over the couches and windowsills in my living room. It’s not just dust; it feels more like tiny sand particles. My kids have been complaining about their throats hurting, and now I’m worried it might be from breathing this stuff inside. Has anyone else experienced this issue, and do you have any tips on how to clean it effectively?
Posted by Lin Yamamoto
Asked on January 4, 2026 7:38 am
0
Yes, sandstorm residue can indeed be harmful to your health. In dubai and the uae, we've seen several instances where the atmosphere gets filled up with tiny particles of sand during sandstorms which can lead to irritation in eyes, throat, and respiratory issues for both adults and kids.

The gritty residue you noticed on your couches and windowsills is a direct result of the recent sandstorm. It's not just dust but microsand particles that can be quite fine and easily become airborne inside your home. Breathing these particles could cause irritation in the nasal passages, throat, and lungs leading to coughing, sneezing, or even exacerbating existing conditions like asthma.

To address this issue effectively:

1. Ventilation Control: Keep windows and doors closed tightly during sandstorms to prevent further entry of particulate matter into your home.
2. Dust Removal: Use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter or wet mopping to remove the residue from surfaces. Avoid using regular disposable filters as they may not capture finer particles.
3. Humidifier Usage: Keeping humidity levels around 40-60% can help prevent the fine sand particles from becoming airborne again, making it easier to clean up.

Given that your kids are complaining of throat pain and the potential health risks associated with breathing in these particles, I recommend considering a professional inspection if symptoms persist. Our company, Saniservice, offers comprehensive environmental inspections and remediation services tailored for the dubai/uae region. You can reach us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial in protecting your family's health, especially during such weather conditions. Stay safe!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 2:48 am