{
  "id": 3176510,
  "title": "Lessons in cost-saving: How to cut down on back-to-school expenses",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/lessons-in-cost-saving-how-to-cut-down-on-back-to-school-expenses",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-25T03:14:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National UAE",
    "slug": "the-national-uae",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/2026/08/25/uae-school-fees-uniform-costs/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the academic year approaches, parents face a daunting task of preparing their children for school. This often involves purchasing new uniforms, sports gear, and shoes, among other supplies. However, experts suggest that this annual expense can be managed more effectively. Megan Lawler, a parent of three and founder of Dubai Mums Meet, notes that the transition back to school can be stressful for families, especially amid rising cost-of-living pressures. The poll found that 45 percent of UAE respondents cited cost of living as a leading cause of stress. Natalie Maaitah, a child and adolescent psychologist, explains that while it's normal for parents to feel pressure to help their children adjust to a more structured routine, the \"back to school\" experience has become a significant social and cultural event. This can lead to over-spending on trendy items. Budgeting expert Caz Mooney advises families to consider whether they truly need all the items listed in the school supply list. She recommends buying only what is necessary for the first few weeks of school and suggests exploring second-hand options. Alice Crossley, a strategic foresight analyst, points out that buying second-hand is becoming more socially acceptable due to environmental awareness and the influence of younger generations. Many UAE schools now accept donations of used uniforms, and social media platforms offer opportunities to find discounted items. Mooney also emphasizes the importance of involving children in the decision-making process, helping them differentiate between needs and wants, and encouraging them to appreciate the value of pre-owned items.",
  "summary": "Time is ticking for parents to prepare their children for the academic year ahead. This often comes with a long shopping list. School uniforms, sports kits and shoes might be outgrown and need replacing. Yet parents are often encouraged to buy everything new, from pencil cases to water bottles, so costs quickly add up. “The start of the school year can be a really stressful time for families,”…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The National Business",
        "title": "Lessons in cost-saving: How to cut down on back-to-school expenses",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/lessons-in-cost-saving-how-to-cut-down-on-back-to-school-expenses",
        "published": "2026-08-24T14:37:44.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}