Taking Photos at UAE Schools: What Parents Should Know About Privacy

A school performance, sports day or graduation can be a moment parents want to photograph. Before taking a picture, however, check who else is in the frame. In the UAE, photographing or sharing images of other children without appropriate consent can raise privacy concerns, even when the picture is sent only to a parents’ WhatsApp group.

Schools in Dubai and Sharjah have recently reminded parents and visitors to avoid photographing students on campus or sharing images that include other children without permission. Some schools allow photos at designated events, but their rules may still require parents to focus only on their own child.

Does the rule apply only to social media posts?

No. Article 44 of the UAE’s Cybercrimes Law addresses the use of electronic technology to invade someone’s privacy without consent or legal authorisation. The UAE Public Prosecution says the provision can cover taking a person’s photograph without consent, as well as copying, transferring, disclosing or saving it. A private group chat is therefore not automatically exempt from privacy rules. Whether a particular act is an offence depends on its circumstances and the authorities’ assessment.

Is there an automatic AED 500,000 fine?

No. AED 500,000 is the upper end of a potential fine under Article 44, not a charge that a school automatically imposes whenever someone takes a photo. If the authorities determine that an offence has occurred, the law provides for at least six months’ imprisonment, a fine from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000, or either penalty.

How can parents take photos responsibly?

Before photographing an event, read the school’s instructions and ask staff where photography is permitted. Keep other students out of the frame where possible. If another child is clearly visible, seek appropriate permission before sharing the image. Check the background of videos as carefully as the main subject, and avoid forwarding school photos received from other parents without considering the children shown in them.

If you are unsure whether an image can be shared, ask the school or keep it private. These simple checks let families preserve their memories while respecting other children’s privacy.