Families feel strain as Iran war drives up back-to-school costs
Before the US-Iran war began, Sumit Augustine's weekly grocery bill ran to about Dh150 ($41). Now it's Dh300, as the conflict is affecting shipping costs and the supply of goods across the Gulf. “It would only be natural for the school expenses to increase, too,” the mother of a 10-year-old told The National . Ms Augustine has budgeted accordingly – locking in tuition and transport costs early,…
The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has led to an increase in back-to-school costs for families across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sumit Augustine, a mother of a 10-year-old, reported that her grocery bill has risen from Dh150 ($41) to Dh300. This surge in prices is affecting not just household essentials but also school expenses.
As the new school year approaches, families are feeling the strain of higher costs for uniforms, stationery, and even specialist equipment. The disruption in Red Sea and Gulf shipping routes has made it harder to source items, increasing prices for parents. Retailers like Landmark Group have worked to maintain steady supply chains, but some cost pressures persist.
Parents are adapting by shopping for second-hand items, being more selective with extra-curricular activities, and finding ways to offset school fees. Despite the challenges, some families are finding ways to manage expenses, such as repurposing unused stationery and utilizing circular practices to reduce waste.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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