Abu Dhabi Schools Clamp Down on Mobile Use

Gulf Insider

07-05-2025

Most public and private schools have begun strictly enforcing the ban on bringing mobile phones and smartwatches onto school premises.
Both public and private schools in Abu Dhabi have issued warnings to students not to bring mobile phones to school, in order to prevent potential harm, promote positive behaviour, ensure student safety, and protect privacy – based on Ministerial Resolution No. (851) of 2018 concerning the Student Behaviour Management Regulations in public education institutions.
Non-negotiableSchool administrations implementing the policy affirmed that the ban on the use of smart devices within schools is final and non-negotiable. They emphasised that any phone found in a student's possession will be confiscated and not returned until the end of the academic term.Students and parents are required to sign official pledges committing to this policy. The complete ban on mobile phones is in line with the Ministry of Education's directives, and schools noted that disciplinary measures will be enforced without exception to maintain a disciplined and effective learning environment.
ProceduresThe schools stressed that if a mobile phone is found with a student, it will be confiscated according to the procedures outlined in the Student Behaviour Management Regulations.The parent will be notified of the violation and required to sign Form 24 upon confiscation and Form 25 upon return. The first offence results in a one-month confiscation, while repeated offences lead to confiscation until the end of the academic year. If the device contains photos of teachers, students, or staff, the case will be referred to the Child Protection Unit for appropriate action.
SmartwatchesSchools clarified that the ban extends beyond mobile phones to include smartwatches and any electronic gaming devices, all of which will be immediately confiscated. Cameras are also prohibited unless prior coordination has been made and the intended use has been clearly stated. These measures aim to regulate the use of technology within school environments, protect privacy, and reinforce discipline.
Phone addictionIn a circular addressed to parents, schools stated that banning the use of mobile phones at school serves several purposes, primarily ensuring students' adherence to school rules and regulations.'From a psychological perspective, it is also essential to train students' minds to detach from smart devices due to their addictive nature, their impact on mood, and the social isolation they can cause. These factors can disrupt the educational process and hinder students' social interactions.'
Negative consequencesSchool administrations that have implemented the ban emphasised that allowing students to bring and use mobile phones in school has several negative consequences, including hindering the learning process and weakening students' academic performance. They highlighted the crucial role of parents in promoting positive behaviour and encouraging their children to comply with school policies. Parents are also encouraged to attend meetings and awareness events when invited by the school.
Finally, school administrators noted that mobile phones are not permitted as educational tools. Students are required to bring their laptops or tablets for educational use instead. They stressed that allowing mobile phone usage in schools can contribute to bullying behaviour among students.
Key points to know
Penalties for students who violate the rules include a ban on smartphone use, exclusion from extracurricular activities, and prohibition from participating in school trips.
School administrations have warned that students who rely on their phones to access the smart portal –for password retrieval or study materials – should instead record this information in their books or notebooks to avoid the need for phone use within school premises.
These measures are part of intensified efforts to regulate student behaviour and create a more focused and disciplined educational environment, ultimately enhancing the quality of education and improving academic performance. This aligns with the state's commitment to providing the highest standards for students and fostering an educational vision rooted in discipline and accountability.
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