UAE schools tighten rules on hairstyles, makeup and food
Schools in the United Arab Emirates have tightened requirements for school uniforms, students’ appearance and the food they bring for lunch at the start of the school year. Parents and students were informed, in particular, about restrictions on hairstyles and makeup, The National reports.
Appearance requirements
At Gems Royal Dubai School, boys must wear clean, neat hair in a natural color that meets school standards. Principal and CEO Jen Steel said that extreme, patterned or sharply contrasting hairstyles do not meet these requirements. These include the qaza style, in which some parts of the head are shaved while others are left longer.
At the American Academy for Girls, rules on uniforms, hairstyles, footwear, jewelry, makeup and overall appearance were explained to students through videos and photographs of acceptable uniform options. School superintendent Lisa Johnson said that students without uniforms receive penalty points unless they have a valid reason. The school also keeps a supply of uniforms in case of clothing problems.
Respect, equality and school uniforms
Michelle Thomas, principal and CEO of Gems Al Barsha National School, said that the institution, which follows the British curriculum and is based on Emirati and Islamic values, considers appearance part of a positive school culture. According to her, the requirements are explained to students and parents at school assemblies, during mentor sessions and in the daily school routine.
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If a student arrives with a hairstyle that does not comply with the rules, the school discusses it with the student and their family and gives them an opportunity to change the hairstyle. Thomas noted that this approach involves education and cooperation rather than humiliation or confrontation. School representatives also believe that a shared uniform promotes a sense of belonging, equality and responsibility.
Restrictions on school lunches
Schools also reminded parents of the need to pack nutritious lunches for children and avoid caffeinated drinks, ultra-processed foods and food high in salt. Food in Dubai school cafeterias must comply with the requirements of Dubai Municipality and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority.
In Abu Dhabi, the education authority prohibits processed junk food, sugary and energy drinks, confectionery, deep-fried foods, nuts and processed meat, including sausages, in schools. ADEK’s food and nutrition policy rules also prohibit alcohol, carbonated drinks and pork in school cafeterias.
