Every July in Dubai, the same pattern repeats itself. Schools are out, temperatures outside push past 45°C, and families spend almost the entire day indoors, air conditioning running full blast, windows sealed shut. By mid-July, many parents start noticing something: their child has a dry cough that will not go away, a blocked or runny nose with no fever, dry skin, or restless nights. They wonder if their child has caught a cold. Quite often, the answer is far simpler, and the culprit is the very thing keeping everyone cool.
Air conditioning is not harmful by itself. In a Dubai summer, it is a genuine necessity. But when it runs continuously without proper maintenance or humidity control, it creates an indoor environment that can quietly affect your child’s respiratory system, skin, ears, and sleep. As a paediatrician and neonatologist based in Dubai, I see these patterns every summer. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to prevent once you understand what is happening.
How AC Affects the Respiratory System in Children
Children breathe faster than adults, and their airways are significantly narrower. This makes them more sensitive to changes in air quality and humidity.
When air conditioning runs for long hours, it removes moisture from the air along with the heat. Indoor humidity in heavily air-conditioned spaces in Dubai can drop well below 30%, far lower than the 40–60% range that is considered healthy. In this dry environment, the delicate mucous membranes lining your child’s nose and throat can dry out. These membranes act as the body’s first line of defence against airborne bacteria and viruses; when they dry out, that defence weakens.
The result is a persistent dry cough, nasal congestion without infection, frequent throat clearing, or a hoarse voice. Parents often describe these symptoms as “a cold that never fully develops.” That is precisely what it is: irritation without infection. However, when the mucous membranes are consistently compromised, the risk of a genuine viral or bacterial infection does increase. Children who spend long hours in heavily air-conditioned environments, such as malls, cars, and sealed apartments, can develop recurring respiratory symptoms throughout the summer months.
Children who already have asthma or allergic rhinitis need extra attention during this season. Cold, dry air from AC vents can act as a trigger for bronchospasm and worsen existing allergy symptoms. If your child uses an inhaler, make sure you are consistent with their preventer medication throughout the summer, not just when symptoms flare.
The AC–Ear Infection Connection
This is something many parents do not realise. Dry indoor air dries out the Eustachian tube, the small passage that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat. When this tube loses its natural moisture, mucus thickens, drainage slows, and pressure builds in the middle ear. This can lead to discomfort, hearing changes, and, in some cases, a middle ear infection (otitis media).
If your child is pulling at their ears, seems off-balance, or is complaining of muffled hearing in the summer months without obvious illness, the AC environment could be contributing. You can read more about ear-related issues in children in our detailed guide on glue ear in children.
Skin and Eyes: The Overlooked Effects
Dry AC air draws moisture from the skin’s surface. In young children and babies, whose skin barrier is naturally thinner, this can lead to dryness, flaking, and worsening of pre-existing skin conditions. If your child has eczema, you may notice flare-ups are more frequent indoors during summer than at any other time of year.
The eyes are affected too. Children who spend hours in air-conditioned rooms, especially in front of screens, blink less and experience increased tear evaporation. Dry, red, or itchy eyes in summer are often dismissed as allergies, but the AC environment frequently plays a significant role.
For advice on managing sensitive skin in children, our article on protecting and soothing your child’s sensitive skin offers practical tips that are especially relevant in the Dubai summer context.
Sleep Disruption and Cold Air at Night
Many families keep bedrooms very cold at night, particularly in summer. While a cool room supports better sleep, temperatures set too low, below 18°C, can cause children to breathe through their mouths, dry out their nasal passages, and wake with congestion or a sore throat in the morning.
The ideal bedroom temperature for children is between 18°C and 22°C. A thin layer, such as a light cotton blanket, helps prevent the body temperature from dropping too much during sleep. Avoid positioning the AC vent so it blows directly onto the bed. For more guidance on healthy sleep environments for children, visit our article on improving children’s sleep quality.
Hydration: The Simple Defence
One of the most effective ways to counteract the effects of dry AC air is consistent hydration. Children lose more fluid than we realise in air-conditioned environments, and because they are not sweating visibly, they often do not feel thirsty. This is a deceptive form of dehydration, one that gradually affects energy, concentration, and the health of mucous membranes.
Encourage your child to drink water regularly throughout the day, even when they say they are not thirsty. Soups, fruits with high water content such as watermelon and cucumber, and diluted juices all contribute. For a full guide on keeping kids hydrated in summer, read our article on the best ways to keep kids hydrated this summer.
Practical Steps to Make Your AC Safer for Children
Clean the filters regularly. AC filters accumulate dust, mould spores, and bacteria over time. In Dubai, where AC runs almost continuously, filters should be cleaned at least once a month. A dirty filter does not just reduce efficiency; it circulates allergens and bacteria through your home.
Use a humidifier. A cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room can restore moisture to the air and significantly reduce dryness-related symptoms. Aim for indoor humidity between 40% and 55%. Clean the humidifier weekly to prevent mould growth.
Set the thermostat wisely. There is no need to set the AC below 21°C indoors. A temperature of 22°C to 24°C is comfortable for children and much healthier for their airways and skin.
Allow for natural ventilation when possible. In the early morning hours, before the heat peaks, opening windows briefly to allow fresh air circulation helps refresh indoor air quality. Late evenings in autumn, when Dubai temperatures become more manageable, are another opportunity.
Keep vents clean and directed away from children. Dust accumulates in vents and can be blown directly into a child’s breathing zone if the vent faces their sleeping or play area. Redirect vents upward or sideways.
Watch for mould. Condensation around AC units and pipes can lead to mould growth on walls. Mould spores are a significant respiratory irritant, particularly for children with asthma or allergies.
When Should You See a Paediatrician?
Most AC-related symptoms improve quickly once the environment is corrected. However, see a doctor if:
- The cough has persisted for more than two weeks
- Your child develops a fever alongside respiratory symptoms
- There is wheezing, rapid breathing, or chest tightness
- Your child is pulling at their ears or showing signs of hearing difficulty
- Skin dryness has progressed to cracking, bleeding, or infection
These signs may indicate a secondary infection or an underlying condition that needs medical assessment.
A Note on Newborns and Infants
Newborns and young infants are particularly vulnerable to AC-related issues. Their thermoregulation is still developing, which means they can become too cold without showing obvious distress. A baby who is pale, unusually quiet, or feeding less than normal in a heavily air-conditioned room may be too cold. Dress babies in a light long-sleeved layer and ensure the room temperature stays above 22°C at all times.
Taking Care of Your Child This Summer
Air conditioning is not the enemy; it is a vital part of life in Dubai. But like most things, it works best in balance. A few simple adjustments to temperature, humidity, and maintenance can make a significant difference to your child’s respiratory health and overall comfort throughout the summer months.
If you have concerns about your child’s health this summer, Dr. Olfa Koobar is available for consultations at her clinic in Dubai Healthcare City. Book an Appointment with Dr. Olfa.
