The UAE Ministry of Education has banned mobile phones on school premises to curb risks linked to their use and encourage better behaviour among students. The new directive requires schools to confiscate phones if found, notify parents, and impose penalties ranging from a one-month seizure to withholding devices until the end of the academic year.
In its directive, the Ministry laid out detailed rules for inspections and confiscation of phones if students are found carrying them.
“Schools are required to carry out regular inspection campaigns to detect mobile phones. These inspections must comply with regulations and respect students’ privacy. Inspectors are prohibited from physically touching students; searches are limited to their bags and personal belongings, with students themselves required to display their items before the inspection committee to ensure transparency and respect for rights,” the circular for schools said.
The Ministry added that whenever a phone is found, it will be seized and parents will be informed. Parents will also have to sign official forms acknowledging the confiscation and later return of the device.
In the case of a first offence, the phone will be kept by the school for one month. Repeat violations will lead to the device being held until the end of the academic year.
Along with enforcement, schools have been instructed to raise awareness among both students and parents about the confiscation periods and disciplinary measures. The Ministry also warned that schools that fail to comply with the directive may face administrative accountability.
The ban has so far been directed at public schools, but some private schools in the UAE have taken similar steps. Dubai-based Emirates International School (EIS) introduced its own mobile phone ban this academic year.
“Students will have to hand over their phones to the management or not bring them to school. This (use of mobile phones) will not be allowed at all until they finish their classes, then get them back,” said Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, the owner of EIS.
The Ministry’s move comes amid global debate about the impact of smartphones on children’s focus, social interactions, and mental health.
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