If you’re a parent in the UAE, here’s an important update to keep on your radar.

Schools across the country are tightening controls around student health and safety, urging parents not to send any medication with their children during the school day, unless it’s necessary and officially approved.

The move applies to government and private schools following a Ministry of Education curriculum, and the message is clear: Unsupervised medication at school can be risky.

In notices sent out to parents, school administrations explained that allowing students to carry medicines could lead to serious health risks. These include incorrect dosages, improper use, or even students sharing medication with classmates. Schools are keen to avoid situations that could quickly turn into medical emergencies.

Exceptions With Rules

The ban isn’t a blanket one. Students with chronic conditions or specific medical needs are still allowed access to medication, but only under strict guidelines.

Parents must provide:

• An official medical prescription from the treating doctor
• Clear details, including the student’s name, medication type, dosage, and timing

Once approved, medications are:

• Stored securely
• Administered only by school management or qualified health staff

This ensures students receive their treatment safely and at the right time.

School administrators say the policy is part of a broader health and safety framework aimed at preventing emergencies and promoting awareness on campus.

Parents are being urged to fully cooperate with the new guidelines, highlighting the importance of strong school–family partnerships when it comes to student health.

It’s not every day you see the moon stealing the spotlight in broad daylight, but that’s exactly what happened in Abu Dhabi this week.

With clearer skies and improved weather conditions, astronomers have captured a rare and remarkably detailed daytime image of the Shaaban crescent, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Shaaban 1447 AH.

The image was taken on Monday, January 19, at 11am UAE time, by the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi, which operates under the International Astronomy Centre. At the time of observation, the angular distance between the Moon and the Sun was measured at just 6.7 degrees, a challenging position that usually makes crescent sightings extremely difficult.

According to astronomers, exceptionally clear atmospheric conditions played a crucial role in making the crescent visible during daylight hours, when the Moon’s faint illumination is often overwhelmed by sunlight.

The observation was carried out by a specialised team that used advanced astronomical imaging techniques to document the lunar phase in detail. Beyond its visual appeal, the sighting has real significance.

Countdown to the holy month

 Crescent observations are a cornerstone of Islamic astronomy, helping determine the start of lunar months, especially those tied to major religious milestones. Shaaban, in particular, is closely watched as it precedes the holy month of Ramadan.

The International Astronomy Centre says such observations also contribute to refining crescent sighting methods and improving the accuracy of lunar calendar calculations, blending scientific precision with cultural and religious importance.

If you live in Discovery Gardens and you’ve seen parking permits being offered on WhatsApp groups or social media, Parkonic says don’t fall for it.

The parking operator has issued an advisory warning residents not to buy parking access through unofficial channels, including private sellers and community groups. According to Parkonic, all parking permits and memberships are non-transferable and must only be obtained through the official Parkonic app and channels.

That means any “extra permit” or “discounted parking” deal you see floating around online isn’t supported, and could actually land you with visitor parking charges instead.

Only use official app

Parkonic stressed that for peace of mind, residents should register, activate and manage parking exclusively through the Parkonic app. Unauthorised offers, even if they seem convenient, aren’t recognised by the system.

More time to register

There’s some good news, too. After residents reported login issues, system glitches and slow customer support, Parkonic has extended the registration deadline to January 19. Residents won’t be fined or penalised while these technical issues are being sorted.

Each residential unit with no dedicated parking is entitled to one free permit. If you have more than one car, you’ll need a paid subscription.

Pricing breaks down (VAT included):

• Standard vehicles: Dh945 per month or Dh2,625 quarterly
• Electric vehicles: Dh500 per month or Dh1,350 quarterly
• Visitor parking: Dh4 per hour (8am–5pm) and Dh6 per hour during peak times (5pm–12am).
• Ramadan parking: Peak hours run from 3pm to midnight.

Residents raise concerns

Some residents, especially those with second cars or living in buildings without basement parking, have voiced concerns over the cost. Parkonic says it’s reviewing feedback and forwarding concerns to relevant teams for consideration.

For now, the key takeaway is simple: If it’s not on the Parkonic app, don’t trust it.