Schools in the UAE now face severe new consequences for failing to safeguard pupils from bullying and abuse. These penalties include fines of up to Dh1 million (Rs. 76.65 million), staff members potentially facing jail time, and even the closure of schools.

The guidelines, which are applicable to both public and private schools, are designed to ensure a secure and encouraging learning environment. In addition to providing official hotlines and emergency numbers for reporting events, they also supplement the National Child Protection Policy.

According to legal consultant Motez Fanous, the UAE has created a "comprehensive legal framework" to protect pupils from sexual, psychological, and physical abuse.

He cited federal rules such as the Child Protection Law (Wadeema's Law), Decree Law No. 18 of 2020 on private education, and revised student conduct requirements.

Warnings and fines ranging from Dh10,000 (Rs. 7.66 lac) to Dh1 million are examples of sanctions. In extreme situations, schools might be closed, and those found guilty of causing significant injury to pupils might spend up to a year in prison.

Fanous emphasized that schools are not the only institutions that must be held accountable. He clarified that if principals, instructors, or staff members employ corporal punishment, deprive students of food or other necessities, or humiliate or mistreat them, they may also face consequences.

Dr. Samer Al Khateeb, a psychologist, stated that the goal of the policy is to promote children's long-term well-being rather than just stop abuse. According to him, bullying and neglect can seriously harm a child's development and self-esteem.

Schools are compelled by these stringent regulations to implement preventive measures, including ongoing teacher training and more robust reporting systems.