Abu Dhabi Police has reminded motorists that they must come to a complete stop at least five metres away when a school bus activates its side-mounted stop sign arm. The rule applies to drivers approaching from both directions to ensure students can cross the road safely.

Penalties for violations

• Fine: Dh1,000
• 10 traffic points
• All violations will be detected electronically

Rules for school bus drivers
To avoid traffic disruption, bus drivers must follow these guidelines when using the stop arm:

• Stop directly in front of a student’s home (unless blocked by construction or obstacles).
• Avoid stopping at public bus stops on highways or major roads, which are unsafe for students.
• Do not activate the stop arm while a student is still inside the home.
• Misuse of stop arms, such as activating them in prohibited areas, may allow other drivers to contest violations.

Both drivers and bus operators must strictly follow school bus safety rules to protect children and ensure smooth traffic flow across the emirate.

Families in Dubai will soon have more education choices as the city’s private education sector continues its strong growth. For the 2025-26 academic year, 16 new early childhood centres (ECCs), six schools, and three international universities are set to open their doors.

More seats for students
Together, the new institutions will add more than 11,700 school seats and welcome over 2,400 children at early childhood centres, giving families more flexibility when choosing where to enrol their children.

New schools this year

• UK curriculum: GEMS School of Research and Innovation (Sports City), Victory Heights Primary School (City of Arabia), Dubai British School (Mira), Dubai English Speaking School (Academic City), and Al Fanar School (Nad Al Sheba).
• French curriculum: Lycée Français International School (Mudon).

Early learning options
The 16 new ECCs will cater to Dubai’s diverse communities with:

• 11 offering the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• 3 following the Creative Curriculum
• 1 Montessori centre
• 1 Maple Bear centre

Higher education expands
Three new international universities will also welcome students:

• Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) – ranked 27th globally in Business & Management (QS Rankings)
• American University of Beirut – ranked 237th globally (QS Rankings)
• Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia

KHDA’s view
Her Excellency Aisha Miran, Director General of KHDA, said the expansion reflects investor confidence in Dubai and aligns with the city’s Education 33 Strategy. “By welcoming trusted operators and innovative models into more communities, we are creating new opportunities for our learners to thrive, while supporting Dubai’s long-term economic and social aspirations,” she said.

Number of institutions 

• 331 early childhood centres
• 233 schools
• 44 higher education institutions

Parents rushing to drop off or pick up their children at schools this term face hefty fines if they flout new traffic rules.

• Stopping in the middle of the road without reason: Dh1,000 + 6 black points
• Failing to stop for the school bus “Stop” sign: Dh1,000 + 10 black points
• Blocking other vehicles: Dh500
• Ignoring pedestrians at crossings: Dh500
• Reckless driving near schools: Dh400 + 4 black points

Police said random parking remains the most common offence around schools, especially in the afternoons when parents double-park or block moving traffic. Officers warned that such habits cause chaos and put children at risk.

Motorists were urged to use designated parking spaces, even if it means a short walk, or wait at a side area until a legal spot opens up. Leaving vehicles running, or worse, leaving children inside unattended, is strictly prohibited.

Extra patrols & inspections
As part of a new academic year safety plan, Abu Dhabi Police will intensify patrols around schools, monitor bus movements, and keep a close eye on pedestrian crossings to ensure children’s safety.

Authorities also reminded parents that children under 10 cannot sit in the front seat, and drivers must come to a complete stop when school buses extend their side “Stop” sign.

Civil Defence joins campaign
Adding to the push, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has launched its “Our Students, Our Future” campaign to promote a culture of safety and prevention across schools and buses.

Officials say the message is clear: breaking traffic rules near schools this year won’t just cost you money, it could cost lives.