Parents across the UAE are being reminded to think twice before taking photographs or videos at school, as schools in Dubai and Sharjah introduce tighter rules around photography and online sharing.
Several schools have issued circulars asking parents and visitors not to take photos or videos on school premises where other students or staff may be captured without consent. The guidance also covers sharing such images on WhatsApp groups, social media and other digital platforms.
GEMS Our Own English High School, Sharjah – Boys, said the safety, privacy and wellbeing of every child remain its highest priority. Under its “Protecting Our Students’ Privacy” circular, parents and visitors have been asked to avoid photography and filming in classrooms, corridors, playgrounds, assemblies and drop-off and pick-up areas.
A similar message has been issued by GEMS Winchester School – Dubai, with school officials stressing the importance of respecting student privacy and existing consent procedures.
For parents and families across the UAE, Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No. 1 radio station, continues to highlight everyday community issues, including developments affecting schools and families.
The International School of Choueifat – Sharjah has taken a stricter approach, saying photography and video recording on regular school days is strictly prohibited. The rule applies throughout the school day, including drop-off and pick-up, assemblies, corridors, classrooms, playgrounds and other campus areas.
The school said the only exception is for official open events where parents are specifically invited. Even then, parents are asked to photograph or film only their own children and avoid capturing other students.
Choueifat has also asked parents to remove any previously taken photos or videos showing other students from social media platforms and parent groups.
The GEMS schools, meanwhile, acknowledged that parents want to capture special moments and said clear guidance will be provided for designated school events, with opportunities created where possible for families to take photographs safely.
Official school photography will continue under established consent and safeguarding procedures.
The updated guidance reflects a broader focus on protecting children’s privacy while allowing families to record important school memories in appropriate and clearly defined circumstances.
