Public and private schools across Abu Dhabi have begun strictly enforcing a complete ban on mobile phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices on school premises, citing student safety, discipline, and privacy concerns.
The move aligns with Ministerial Resolution No. 851 of 2018 on Student Behaviour Management Regulations and is described by school authorities as “final and non-negotiable.” Devices found in students’ possession will be confiscated, with return only at the end of the term, or later in repeat cases.
Parents and Students Must Sign Pledge
To reinforce the policy, schools are requiring both parents and students to sign an official pledge agreeing not to bring smart devices to school. Disciplinary action will apply without exception, administrators confirmed.
What’s Banned and What Happens if You Break the Rules
- Banned Devices: Mobile phones, smartwatches, gaming devices, and cameras (unless approved in advance)
- First Offence: Phone confiscated for one month
- Repeated Offences: Confiscation until the academic year ends
- If Photos/Videos Are Found: The Case is referred to the Child Protection Unit
Parents will also be required to sign official Form 24 upon confiscation and Form 25 upon return of the device.
Why the Ban?
In circulars to parents, schools cited the psychological impact of phone addiction, including mood changes, reduced attention, and social isolation. They also pointed to issues such as:
- Disruption of the learning process
- Negative impact on academic performance
- Increased risk of bullying
- Violation of others’ privacy
Schools are encouraging students to use laptops or tablets for educational purposes instead, and have advised students to record key login details for academic portals in notebooks, eliminating the need for phones.
Penalties and Parent Involvement
In addition to device confiscation, penalties for violating the rule may include:
- Exclusion from extracurricular activities
- Ineligibility for school trips
Parents are also urged to support these efforts by encouraging positive behaviour, attending awareness sessions, and reinforcing school values at home.
School leaders say these measures are part of broader efforts to build a disciplined, distraction-free learning environment that supports academic success and student well-being.
