Children's safety in Dubai: how the law protects your child and how to report harm

What to know and what to do

1. 1

   Know that the law protects your child

   UAE law protects children against all forms of negligence, exploitation, and physical and psychological abuse. Adults who put children in danger, abandon them, neglect them, leave them without supervision, do not enroll them in school, or do not register them upon their birth can face a prison sentence or a fine or both.

2. 2

   Know the age the law covers

   The law applies to all children up to the age of 18. Confirm the current wording on the authority's website if you are unsure whether it applies to your situation.

3. 3

   Understand the school Child Protection Unit

   The Ministry of Education has launched a 'Child Protection Unit' initiative for students of government and private schools across the UAE. It aims to protect children from all forms of harm, negligence, and abuse that they may experience at school or home, and to safeguard their physical, psychological, and educational wellbeing.

4. 4

   Report a child abuse case

   To report a child abuse case, call the Ministry of Education's Child Protection Unit on their dedicated number 80085, or call the Ministry of Interior's Child Protection Centre on 116111. You can also email the report to CPU@moe.gov.ae, attaching any supporting documents if you have them.

   Documents:Supporting documents (if any)
5. 5

   Use Nedaa if a child goes missing

   The Nedaa service alerts Facebook users in the area where a child has reportedly gone missing, helping the community respond quickly.

6. 6

   Keep the air clear around children

   Smoking in public and private vehicles and in indoor facilities where children are present is prohibited under the law. Keep these spaces smoke-free whenever children are around.

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