UAE Schools Ban Mobile Phones in Classrooms: New Rules for 2026-27

UAE has enrolled new rules regarding the restriction of use of mobile phones in classrooms to reduce distractions in the classroom, regular attendance and responsibility for students.

Attendance and Absence rules have been disseminated to students/parents at the start of the school year. There is a greater focus on regular attendance in order to support learning continuity, achievement and discipline.

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Mobile Phones Face Stricter Classroom Controls

Unauthorised use of mobile phones in the school environment will be dealt with as per procedures provided in the supplied information. Restrictions also apply to such as smartwatches and other electronic equipment that is not being used as authorized for education.

For the first offense, it can be confiscated and kept at school for 1 month, parents informed and must complete the appropriate official sign off paperwork. Several infractions will lead to the retention of the device, through the end of the school year.

An immediate disciplinary review will be conducted in cases of unethical use or illegal use such as taking pictures without permission. Serious cases may be referred to relevant child protection agencies at the school’s discretion.

Inspection Rules and Privacy Safeguards

School screening of devices for unanticipated electronic devices could happen. The guidelines provided, however, say that it is not acceptable for staff to physically search or touch students in these checks.

Students are required to empty their own bags/pockets in front of a validated inspection panel. This applies to helping students stay safe in school, disciplining them, and ensuring they are protected in their privacy.

Educational Exceptions Remain

Restricting the use of mobile phones does not necessarily mean that the use of all digital devices are restricted for educational purposes. Technology approved by the District including tablets for e-textbooks, or specific classroom assignments, may continue to be allowed provided the technology is part of the lesson and is supervised by teachers.

The phone limitations are part of the wider measures to control students’ screen time. In grade 6 digital means have been taken out of key foundation subjects such as Arabic, English, Mathematics and Science and instead textbooks in the traditional physical format and written work have been promoted.

Attendance Rules Strengthen School Discipline

Attendance will also be a top priority during the 2026–27 school year. Schools have announced days of the term on which attendance is particularly important, such as Fridays, the days before and after formal holidays, before final exams, and the last two weeks of the 2nd semester.

According to the information provided, there can be no more than 15 days of absence for the entire school year and no more than 5 days of absence for each semester, for reasons not related to the rules. Also, early notification of parents and follow-up on persistent absenteeism and discipline issues must be done at schools.

What Parents Need to Know?

Parents will be helped to work in partnership with schools to ensure that new expectations for students are understood. Families are also asked to contact the school administration desks for very important messages not students’ personal devices during school hours.

These actions shift emphasis to more classroom instruction, thoughtful use of technology, frequent attendance and defined communication from schools to families.

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