In addition to unpacked suitcases, Dubai residents coming back from their lengthy vacation periods are faced with issues of malfunctioning air conditioners, foul smells, dampness, mould, and others, arising when houses stay vacant for a certain period of time. In Dubai and Sharjah, AC repair specialists and cleaning firms indicate an increase in their business due to people’s need to ready themselves for the new academic year.
Due to very hot and humid weather, ventilation systems in Dubai houses can experience problems because of the climate and lack of activity while the residents are away. Maintenance should be done prior to taking vacation time. One Dubai resident, Abdul Basith, returned to his Al Nahda apartment after spending about six weeks away and found a strong smell inside. Switching on the AC did not resolve the issue. The system was also providing weak cooling and later developed a water leak, requiring both cleaning and technical inspection.
The service providers report similar cases. Clean Touch representative Shamveel Khan said his team is handling around three to four homes daily, with bookings sometimes pushed to the following day because of demand. AC technician Asad Niyaz of Al Nafiz AC Repair also reported a near-full schedule, with weak cooling among the most frequent complaints.
Technicians said common faults include dirty filters, blocked drainage lines, dusty coils, moisture accumulation and leaks. Homes left closed for long periods can also develop damp areas, insects and mould around vents and walls.
According to Justlife, as many as 30% of homes could experience some form of mould buildup inside AC systems this year. The company attributed the risk to heat, humidity, dust and trapped moisture.
Residents planning long trips are advised to service AC systems, clean filters and inspect drainage lines before departure. Justlife recommends maintaining indoor temperatures between 26°C and 28°C in fan or auto mode during extended absences. Experts also advise keeping indoor humidity below 60% where possible.
Those returning to a hot property should avoid immediately setting the AC to 16°C or 18°C. Unusual smells, weak cooling, leaks or strange noises should instead prompt an inspection before continued use.
