Mold and fungus—two words that most UAE homeowners don’t want to hear. Whether it’s patches around your AC vents or a strange smell coming from your wardrobe, it’s hard to ignore once it starts spreading. The question is, is it just harmless fungus or something more toxic? And what should you do about it?
In this guide, we’ll explain how to tell the difference between mold and fungus, what it means for your health, and how much it costs to professionally remove it in the UAE.
1. Is Mold a Real Problem in the UAE?
Yes, it absolutely is. While the outside climate is dry, the inside of most homes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates is often cool and humid due to heavy AC use, poor ventilation, and sealed windows. This environment becomes perfect for mold and fungus to grow.
You’ll commonly find it:
- In bathrooms near the ceiling or shower corners
- Behind wardrobes or couches pushed against walls
- On ceilings around AC vents
- Inside closets or around window sills
If it smells musty or keeps returning after cleaning, it’s likely more than just dust buildup—it’s mold or fungal growth that needs deeper attention.
2. Mold vs Fungus: How Do You Know Which One It Is?
While all mold is a type of fungus, not all fungi are mold. Here’s a simple way to tell them apart at home:
| Feature | Mold | Other Fungi |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Black, green, grey, or white | Usually white or powdery |
| Smell | Musty, sour, stale | Mild or earthy |
| Texture | Wet, slimy, fuzzy | Dry or chalky |
| Spread | Quick and in dark/damp areas | Slower, often harmless |
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to let a professional inspect it. Bio-On offers free mold checks if the area is over 10 sq.m.—just click the contact button on the right-middle of this post.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Remove Mold in UAE?
Prices vary depending on the extent of the problem. Here’s our standard pricing at Bio-On:
- Up to 1 sq.m.: AED 35 per sq.m.
- 1–3 sq.m.: AED 30 per sq.m.
- 3–7 sq.m.: AED 25 per sq.m.
- 7–10 sq.m.: AED 20 per sq.m.
- More than 10 sq.m.: Free inspection
For more detailed analysis—like air quality testing, surface scraping, or mycotoxin checks—we charge AED 1000 per test. These are usually only needed for serious health concerns or ongoing infestations.
4. Health Risks: Mold Sickness and Toxic Signs
Not all molds are toxic, but exposure to certain species (like black mold) can lead to serious health effects. Watch out for these signs:
- Frequent sneezing or coughing at home
- Itchy eyes or skin irritation
- Breathing issues, especially in kids or elderly
- Fatigue or headaches that disappear when you leave home
Is all black mold toxic? Not always—but it’s hard to tell without lab testing. That’s why professional assessment matters. If you notice black patches that keep spreading or smell strong, it’s safer to treat them seriously.
How to tell if mold is toxic? The only way to know for sure is to test the spores. Bio-On offers advanced options like PCR analysis and mycotoxin screening to help you understand exactly what’s growing in your home.
5. How to Fight Mold—and Remove It From Your Body
Stopping mold means fixing the conditions it loves. Here’s how to fight it at home:
- Use a dehumidifier in bedrooms or low-airflow areas
- Clean AC vents and filters monthly
- Fix any plumbing leaks immediately
- Ensure your furniture isn’t tightly packed against walls
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens after use
But what if you’ve already been exposed? While most mold exposure doesn’t require medical treatment, if you’re experiencing symptoms, visit a doctor. They may recommend:
- Antihistamines or nasal sprays for allergies
- Saline rinses or inhalers for respiratory relief
- Blood or urine tests if toxicity is suspected
Once exposure stops and your home is clean, the body typically recovers naturally. But for severe symptoms, detox support from a medical professional may be necessary.
Conclusion
Mold fungus isn’t just ugly—it can be harmful and expensive if ignored. Whether it’s visible on your walls or just smells bad, it’s better to deal with it early. We’ve helped hundreds of UAE residents take back control of their homes, and we’re here to help you too.
Need a professional opinion? Click the contact button on the right-middle of this post to book your free inspection or ask us anything. Let’s fight mold—together.
