Why Cockroaches Get Worse in the UAE Summer and How to Prepare

If you've lived in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah through a summer, you've probably noticed more cockroaches from around May to October. This isn't your imagination. Here's why cockroaches get worse in the UAE summer and how to prepare your home before the peak.

Why summer brings more cockroaches

Heat speeds up breeding

Cockroaches are cold-blooded. In warm conditions they eat more, grow faster and breed faster. Eggs hatch sooner and young cockroaches reach adulthood quicker, so populations grow rapidly.

Humidity keeps them active

Coastal humidity in summer gives cockroaches the moisture they need. Bathrooms, kitchens and air-conditioning drip lines become even more attractive.

Outdoor heat drives them indoors

When outdoor temperatures become extreme, cockroaches from gardens, bins and sewers move into cooler buildings, drains and service shafts.

Drain traps dry out faster

Heat evaporates the water in unused drains quickly, opening a route from the building's pipes into your home. See cockroaches coming from drains.

Travel season

Many residents travel in summer. Empty flats with dry drains and no daily cleaning become easy targets.

How to prepare your home for summer

1. Treat before the peak

Apply gel bait in spring or early summer, before populations explode. Place small dots of Advion Cockroach Gel Bait in kitchen and bathroom hiding spots. See where to apply cockroach gel.

2. Keep drains covered and traps full

Run water in all drains every few days and use drain covers at night.

3. Check AC drip trays and leaks

Fix leaking pipes and make sure air-conditioning condensate drains properly.

4. Reduce food sources

Seal food, clean the stovetop nightly and empty bins every day.

5. Seal gaps

Silicone the gaps around pipes, under sinks and along skirting boards.

Going on holiday? Do this before you leave

• Apply fresh gel bait in key hiding spots
• Empty and clean the bins and fridge
• Cover or plug all drains, including the balcony
• Remove cardboard boxes and paper bags
• Ask a friend to run the taps once a week if you're away for a long time

Frequently asked questions

Why are there more cockroaches in summer in the UAE?

Heat and humidity speed up breeding and activity, and extreme outdoor heat drives cockroaches into buildings and drains.

When should I treat for cockroaches in the UAE?

Ideally in spring or early summer, before peak season, and again whenever you see activity.

Do cockroaches come in through AC units?

They can use gaps around AC pipes and condensate lines. Seal gaps and keep drip areas dry.

How do I protect my flat while on summer holiday?

Apply bait, clean thoroughly, cover drains and remove food and cardboard before you leave.