UAE schools tighten dress-code rules to restrict hairstyles and make-up

UAE schools have implemented stricter rules for the new academic year, focusing on student attire, grooming, and lunch choices. Parents and students have been notified about the new dress code restrictions, which include limitations on hairstyles such as the qaza style for boys. This style, where parts of the head are shaved while other sections remain longer, is not allowed as it does not align with the schools' standards for a neat, clean, and conventional appearance.

School principals emphasize that these uniform and grooming expectations are integral to broader principles of behavior, responsibility, and respect. At Gems Royal Dubai School, for instance, the principal and CEO, Jan Steel, reiterated that these guidelines are set and reinforced at the beginning of each academic year, with daily checks to ensure compliance.

The American Academy for Girls took a different tact, utilizing fun videos and photos in their back-to-school newsletters to clarify the dress code rules. Both schools underscore that their uniform and appearance expectations are not merely about appearance but are also about fostering a positive school culture, promoting equality and belonging, and ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment.

Schools have also implemented a merit system, where students without uniform may receive demerits, with exceptions for extenuating circumstances. Parents are reminded to pack healthy lunches, avoiding items with high salt, caffeine, or ultra-processed content, as Dubai schools adhere to strict nutritional guidelines.