The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has introduced comprehensive health and safety guidelines for Abu Dhabi schools across the emirate. These guidelines include strict weight limits for school bags, emergency health services, and the introduction of a school performance board. It is a major step towards enhancing student well-being.
Abu Dhabi Schools Bag Weight Guidelines Tailored for Student Health
The ADEK has mandated that the total weight of a school bag of students must not exceed 5 to 10 percent. In addition, it aimed at preventing spinal injuries and promoting healthier posture among school children. Below are the details related to the specific weight limits by grades:
- KG1, KG2, Grades 1–2: Maximum 2 kg
- Grades 3–5: 3–4.5 kg
- Grades 6–7: 6–8 kg
- Grades 9–10: Up to 10 kg
Moreover, parents have suggested avoiding wheeled or trolley bags due to health and safety concerns.
Parents to Stay Informed with Real-Time Alerts
The ADEK is mandating all schools to implement real-time notifications through SMS, PA systems, or mobile apps to improve communication. Schools are also required to provide students with psychological support after traumatic incidents as a part of their mental health framework.
Health and Safety Services Now Mandatory
Besides real-time alerts, ADEK has also suggested that schools set up health and safety services in schools. Therefore, schools must perform the following tasks under this advisory:
- Schools must operate a licensed and on-site healthcare clinic
- They must employ a full-time licensed nurse
- They must have a Health and Safety Officer (HSO) on campus at all times
Now, Abu Dhabi schools must be able to handle health and medical emergencies, like administering medications and supporting students with health needs. In addition, emergencies drill with regular health checkups are now compulsory in the schools of Abu Dhabi.
Transparent Performance with New Display Boards
As a part of its transparency drive, the ADEK has launched the School Performance Board that must be installed at a school entrance. In addition, these boards will display results from the Irtiqa’a inspection and the National Identity Mark. In addition, the following achievements will be showcased in these boards:
- Academic achievement
- Innovation and personal development
- Teaching quality and school leadership
These new policies show the strong commitment of the ADEK to student safety, mental well-being, and academic excellence. By February 2026, all Abu Dhabi private schools must fully comply with these regulations to ensure a safe, healthy, and clear environment of education.
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