For many UAE residents, returning home after a long summer holiday means unpacking luggage, preparing children for school and getting back to everyday routines. But after weeks with the doors closed and air-conditioning switched off, some Dubai homes may come with an unwelcome surprise: bad odours, weak cooling, water leaks, dust or mould.
Residents and home-service professionals say the post-holiday period can bring a sharp increase in demand for deep cleaning and air-conditioning maintenance as families return to apartments that have remained empty during the peak summer heat.
AC problems can appear after weeks of shutdown
One Dubai resident, Abdul Basith, returned to his Al Nahda apartment after spending about six weeks away and was immediately confronted by a strong unpleasant smell.
Opening the windows and switching on the air-conditioning did little to resolve the problem. He later discovered that the AC was not cooling properly, had developed an unusual smell and was leaking water.
The apartment eventually required a thorough cleaning and an AC inspection before the family could comfortably settle back in.
His experience is not unusual, according to cleaning and AC technicians working across Dubai and Sharjah.
Cleaning companies see a surge in demand
Cleaning professionals say homes left closed for several weeks can develop a range of problems, including accumulated dust, unpleasant smells, damp areas, insects and mould around AC vents or walls.
Kitchens and bathrooms can be particularly affected. Unused drains may produce strong odours, while homes with moisture problems may require more than routine cleaning.
Some residents returning from holiday are therefore opting for full deep-cleaning services before resuming their normal routines.
Why Dubai homes are vulnerable in summer
The UAE’s combination of extreme heat, humidity and dust can create favourable conditions for moisture and mould buildup when homes remain closed and poorly ventilated.
Moisture can accumulate in AC filters, coils, ducts and drain pans. When the system is switched on again, residents may notice a musty smell, reduced cooling or even water leakage.
Home-service professionals have also reported increased demand for mould inspections and AC duct cleaning during previous UAE summers.
Should you switch off the AC before a long holiday?
Turning off the AC can reduce electricity consumption while a home is empty, but residents should consider the effect of prolonged heat and humidity indoors.
Experts recommend servicing the AC before travelling, cleaning or replacing filters and checking drainage systems for leaks or blockages. Any existing condensation or water-leak problems should be addressed before leaving the property unattended.
For residents planning an extended absence, maintaining some level of cooling and controlling indoor humidity can also help reduce the risk of mould and odours.
What to do before leaving your Dubai home
Residents heading abroad for several weeks can take a few precautions:
- Service the AC before travelling.
- Clean or replace dirty filters.
- Check AC drain lines for blockages and leaks.
- Inspect bathrooms and kitchens for drainage issues.
- Look for existing damp patches or condensation.
- Keep indoor humidity under control where possible.
- Arrange for someone to check the apartment periodically.
- Consider maintaining moderate AC operation during a prolonged absence.
When returning, residents should also avoid immediately setting the thermostat to extremely low temperatures in an attempt to cool the property faster. If the AC produces an unusual smell, makes strange noises, leaks water or fails to cool properly, it is better to have the system inspected.
A little preparation can prevent bigger problems
A long summer holiday does not have to end with unexpected AC repairs or a costly deep clean. Preparing the property before departure and arranging periodic checks can help Dubai residents identify moisture, drainage and cooling problems before they become serious.
For homeowners and tenants alike, a pre-holiday AC service and a quick inspection of the property could make the return home much more comfortable.
Dubai Herald brings readers practical UAE lifestyle, home and community news to help residents stay informed about everyday life in the Emirates.
