UAE: Some schools ban trolley bags for students; here's why
Even as families are yet to begin their back-to-school shopping amid the summer break, some parents have received circulars urging them to reconsider their bag choices. Recommended For You
Educators and healthcare professionals are urging parents to prioritise safety and smart habits over convenience or trends when choosing a school bag.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
This isn't the first time schools have addressed school bag concerns. In August last year, Abu Dhabi authorities reminded institutions that a student's backpack should not exceed 20 per cent of their body weight.
Since then, a growing number of schools across the Emirates have moved to implement lighter bag policies and age-specific weight guidelines to minimise the physical strain on students. Safety before convenience
At the heart of this shift is a focus on student wellbeing. 'The removal of trolley bags across Woodlem Schools is a student-centered initiative aimed primarily at safeguarding students' health and wellbeing," said Noufal Ahmed, managing director at Woodlem Education.
He cited multiple issues with trolley bags, including physical strain from dragging them, tripping hazards on stairs, and excessive noise. "Trolley bags also contribute to congestion and clutter in classrooms, increasing the risk of tripping inside the classroom, too," he added.
To ease the burden, Woodlem Schools are reinforcing their BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy and e-learning platforms to reduce reliance on heavy textbooks. With lockers available on campus, students are encouraged to bring only the essentials in lightweight, ergonomic backpacks.
Meanwhile, Shining Star International School in Abu Dhabi takes a more age-specific approach.
'We recommend that students in Foundation Stage and Upper Primary use trolley bags, as their shoulders are still developing and carrying heavy loads could strain their spine and body.
"For middle and senior school students, backpacks are more suitable. We advise students to pack their bags according to the timetable to keep the overall weight below eight for older students," she explained. Injury risks
Healthcare experts across the UAE are backing schools' concerns, warning that trolley bags aren't as safe as many assume.
'While trolley bags may reduce direct pressure on the back, they are not necessarily safe. Tripping hazards are a major concern. Manoeuvring trolley bags in such settings can also lead to wrist and shoulder strain. In many cases, children end up carrying trolley bags up steps or over curbs, defeating the purpose and increasing injury risk," explained Dr Amr El Zawahry, Consultant Pediatrician at Medcare Royal Specialty Hospital.
He emphasised that the solution lies not just in choosing the right type of ergonomically appropriate bag, but also in reducing what goes inside — by using lockers, digital textbooks, or lighter materials.
Dr Maleeha Rafiq, consultant paediatrics at NMC Royal Hospital, added that poor usage of trolley bags could result in a range of musculoskeletal issues.
She advises that parents and schools not only focus on the type of bag, but also on how it's used, how much it carries, and how it fits the child's daily school environment.
'Children often use them incorrectly, which can lead to uneven muscle strain, altered walking patterns, and even spinal misalignment,' she said.
"Trolley bags can easily trip other students... and the larger size makes them harder to store neatly in classrooms or buses. Besides, the wheels can be noisy and disruptive, and the larger size of trolley bags makes them harder to store neatly in classrooms or buses," she added. nandini@khaleejtimes.com
Nandini Sircar has a penchant for education, space, and women's narratives. She views the world through a prism of learning: whether it's the earthly pursuit of wisdom or the unearthly mysteries of space. In her written universe, women and children take centre stage.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
10 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Divorce in the UAE for Expats: Legal Process, Costs & Special Rules by Nationality
Divorce in the UAE for Expats: Full Guide 1. Introduction Divorce in the UAE can be a complex process—particularly for expatriates—due to the coexistence of Sharia (Islamic family law) and civil personal‑status laws. This guide walks you through the legal procedure, costs, timelines, and special rules based on religion or nationality. All paths begin with clarity—clarity on official governmental guidance, legal rights, and practical expectations. 2. Applicable Laws: Sharia vs. Civil Divorce Muslim Couples Muslim residents in the UAE must apply Sharia-based divorce laws under Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 ('Personal Affairs Law') and the Family Guidance Department rules. Divorce begins with a conciliation attempt, where a mediator tries to reconcile the couple. If reconciliation fails, a referral letter allows the case to proceed to court. Courts comprise Sharia courts in each emirate. After conciliation, cases move through multiple levels: Court of First Instance, Court of Cessation (appeals), and Enforcement Court. Non‑Muslim Couples Expats who are non-Muslim may choose civil divorce under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 (effective Feb 1, 2023), which allows civil marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance outside Sharia. Non-Muslims who prefer can instead opt for their home country's divorce laws to govern their proceedings, subject to UAE judicial approval and federal Article 1 of Law No. 28 of 2005. 3. Step‑by‑Step Divorce Process for Expats A. Filing & Conciliation One spouse registers a divorce request at the Family Guidance Department at the judicial department in the emirate. A conciliator attempts resolution. It may take up to 60 days. If reconciliation fails, a referral letter is issued. The letter remains valid for three months. The case then proceeds to court. B. Court Proceedings Court of First Instance: Legal representation is recommended; proceedings in Arabic, interpreter may be required. This stage addresses divorce, alimony, child custody, asset distribution, etc. Court of Cessation (Appeals): No new evidence is allowed, but procedural review is permitted. Enforcement Court: Issues final judgment and ensures implementation. Non-compliance can carry penalties. C. Divorce Certificate & Attestation After judgment, a divorce certificate is issued. Fees to register the case and issue the certificate are around AED 500, plus attestation by Ministry of Justice, MOFA and foreign consulate (up to ~AED 1,200). No reconciliation is possible after final certificate; remarriage is required to restore a marital relationship. 4. Timeline & Costs Uncontested, amicable divorce: 2–3 months; contested divorce: 6–12 months. Costs: Filing: AED 500 Attestation: up to AED 1,200 Legal fees: AED 8,000–25,000 for amicable; AED 20,000–50,000+ for contested cases involving significant assets Translation of documents: AED 80 per document (approx.) Court filing fees (alternative sources): AED 2,000–3,000 + lawyer fees AED 10,000–50,000+. In summary: Total estimated cost: AED 10,000–30,000 for straightforward divorce; up to AED 50,000 or more if contested or complex. 5. Financial & Custody Considerations Alimony & Financial Claims Under civil divorce for non‑Muslims, no-fault divorce applies—no need to prove harm or blame. A divorced woman can claim alimony based on factors such as duration of marriage, age, financial position, contribution to divorce, and role as mother. For Muslim couples, alimony is determined under Sharia principles, often linked to khul' where a woman relinquishes her mahr to end the marriage Wikipedia. Child Custody & Guardianship Sharia courts prioritize the mother for custody (physical care) up to certain ages (typically 13 for girls, 11 for boys). The father retains guardianship (legal decisions and financial responsibility). Under civil personal status for non‑Muslims, custody and inheritance rules are defined by Decree‑Law 41/2022 and offer modern mechanisms to manage joint custody etc. Visa & Residency Status Contrary to common belief, a divorced wife does not automatically lose residency visa. She may apply for an independent visa via employment or company formation during a grace period. 6. Nationality & Religion‑Specific Rules Indian Expats Indian residents may choose to file for divorce in India, under conditions set by Indian jurisdiction (e.g. place of marriage, last joint residence, spouse's hometown). Alternatively, they may proceed under UAE civil or Sharia law, depending on religion and preference. Other Nationalities / Religions Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, etc. (non-Muslims) can use UAE civil family courts in Abu Dhabi or Dubai to opt for personal status law based on their home country or civil family law as defined under Decree‑Law 41/2022. Pre‑2023, non-Muslim expats defaulted to Sharia law unless permitted otherwise—but recent reform allows wider choice. Muslims All Muslim divorces must follow Sharia courts process, regardless of nationality. Islamic rules apply to alimony, inheritance, khul', etc. 7. Official Government Resources UAE Government Portal – Divorce Information page: outlines legal grounds, procedures for both Muslim and non-Muslim couples. UAE Family Guidance Department (Judicial Dept websites by emirate): for conciliation appointments and case filing. Dubai Courts / Abu Dhabi Judicial Dept: court systems and enforcement procedures. Ministry of Justice & Ministry of Foreign Affairs: required for attestation of divorce certificates. 8. Exceptions & Special Considerations Expats must evaluate whether to opt into UAE personal status law or home country law early in proceedings—this affects financial claims, inheritance, and custody outcomes. In Abu Dhabi, civil family courts for non-Muslims were established in November 2021. They allow more flexible procedures and civil divorce options under Abu Dhabi's Law No. 14/2021. Appeals must be filed within 28 days of judgment; clerical errors may extend deadlines slightly. Contested divorces involving assets across borders may require expert valuation and financial evidence in court. UAE courts may not enforce foreign settlements unless registered locally. 9. Conclusion & Practical Tips Start with Family Guidance Department in your emirate to open your record and conciliation process. Prepare all translated and attested documents: marriage certificate, passports, IDs, salary statements, bank records, children's birth certificates. Decide early whether to opt for civil or Sharia process, and if civil, whether to apply UAE or home country law. Secure legal representation especially if the case is contested, involves assets or children—expected legal fees AED 15,000–50,000+. Timeline estimates: amicable divorce 2–3 months; contested divorce up to 12 months. Understand custody and alimony rules based on your chosen law framework. Ensure visa and residency status —seek advice immediately post-divorce to avoid lapses. By navigating the nuances of religion, nationality, and choice of legal framework, expatriates in the UAE can manage divorce proceedings effectively. Whether opting for a civil path under modern legal reforms or Sharia law for Muslim couples, it's essential to work with experienced representation and follow official procedures to protect your rights. If you'd like assistance crafting a timeline checklist or template document list, I'd be happy to help further.
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Gulf Today
38 Emirati humanitarian aid trucks enter Gaza
A convoy of Emirati humanitarian aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip on Monday through the Rafah border crossing, as part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to support and provide relief to the Palestinian people under the "Operation Chivalrous Knight 3' humanitarian mission. The convoy consisted of 38 trucks, including 18 loaded with food supplies, medical aid, and infant formula, and 20 trucks carrying pipes, tanks, and equipment to support the operation of a new water pipeline. This pipeline will stretch approximately 7 kilometres, connecting the UAE-established desalination plant in Egypt to the displacement zones between the Palestinian cities of Rafah and Khan Younis, with a production capacity of 2 million gallons per day. An earlier convoy of 25 trucks had entered yesterday, carrying water pipes and essential equipment for the pipeline. This brings the total number of trucks transporting materials for the water infrastructure project to 45, with all necessary components now delivered and preparations underway for the project's implementation. The UAE resumed its "Birds of Goodness" airdrop missions yesterday, alongside the continued land-based aid deliveries via the Rafah border crossing. These efforts reflect the UAE's steadfast commitment to alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people. WAM
Zawya
a day ago
- Zawya
Sharjah: A global standard for inclusion and a model of social integration and sustainable development
Sharjah: Hosting the World Congress 2025 'We Are Inclusion" in the Emirate of Sharjah is a culmination of a longstanding humanitarian and developmental journey that has solidified its position as a global model for comprehensive social inclusion. This path led to Sharjah being named a "Disability-Friendly City" in 2018 by the World Disability Union, following the emirate's extensive efforts to develop its infrastructure to ensure full and safe accessibility to all public facilities and services. An inclusive educational environment Sharjah's commitment to comprehensive inclusion is seen across several key sectors essential to the health and well-being of individuals in the community. In the field of education, the emirate has played a significant role in inclusive education and pedagogical rehabilitation. Since its establishment, the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) has actively worked to integrate individuals with disabilities into schools and the broader community, while advocating for an accessible built environment that allows for easy and safe mobility. These significant efforts have enabled the integration of many students with disabilities into schools within an educational environment rooted in equality and specialised educational support. Sharjah has also provided early intervention services, family care, and individualised rehabilitation for children. In parallel, economic initiatives like Takween were launched with the goal of producing goods handcrafted by persons with disabilities, serving as a model for the shift from care to empowerment, and showcasing their ability to create independent artistic and craftwork that supports economic inclusion. Furthermore, the University of Sharjah established the Disability Resource Center to provide academic and technical support to students with disabilities, ensuring their full participation on campus from admission through graduation and achieving an inclusive and comprehensive educational experience. On the social and psychological front, several institutions in Sharjah organise seasonal programs that include a range of activities for persons with disabilities, such as art workshops, sports events, and psychological support. These initiatives are part of a broader community strategy aimed at improving quality of life and fostering a sense of inclusion and acceptance. Alignment with national policies At the legislative and legal level, Sharjah's efforts are fully aligned with federal laws and policies notably Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 concerning the rights of persons with disabilities. The emirate has continuously worked to connect health, education, economic, and social sectors to ensure a sustainable and integrated approach to inclusion. The significance of these efforts is underlined by data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which reveals that excluding persons with disabilities from the labor market can result in losses ranging from 1% to 7% in the GDP of some countries. This highlights the profound economic and innovative impact of inclusive and integrative policies. Inclusion International's World Congress 2025, 'We are Inclusion', taking place in Sharjah this year, reinforces the significance of inclusive policies in achieving sustainable development. Aligning with the UN 2030 Goal Agenda, particularly Goal 10, which aims to 'reduce inequality' and emphasises that 'social and economic inclusion of all, regardless of age, gender, or disability,' is essential to building sustainable societies. Sharjah: A Global Call for Inclusion and Diversity Through this World Congress, Sharjah is calling out to the global community that building communities cannot be complete without everyone's contribution. Inclusion is not only a humanitarian principle but also a developmental, economic, and cultural policy, and a fundamental human right that must not be compromised.
