Nutrition in Dubai schools: what parents should know

How school nutrition works in Dubai

1. 1

   Know the Dubai Municipality initiative

   In the emirate of Dubai, Dubai Municipality runs the 'Promoting healthy nutrition in educational institutions' initiative. It raises awareness on following healthy habits and nutrition for students, and helps schools change their approach to school meals so canteens and cafeterias offer proper food options.

2. 2

   Understand its reach

   The initiative aims to reach over 300,000 students in schools across the emirate, so the changes are meant to touch a wide share of Dubai's student population rather than a single school.

3. 3

   Meet the School Canteen Lab

   The School Canteen Lab, from the Ministry of Health and Prevention, aims to enhance acceptance of nutritious options and improve the food provided by school canteens. It uses an innovative, experiential model that places students at the centre of developing healthier meals — involving them in meal preparation and taking their dietary preferences and feedback into account.

4. 4

   Check food safety compliance

   The Lab mandates schools to adhere to quality control and to comply with Federal Law No. 10 of 2015 on Food Safety in the provision of food services — including canteen meals, vending machines, and food kiosks — and to obtain and maintain valid licences and inspection records or notices. When choosing a school, it is fair to ask how they meet these requirements.

   Documents:Valid food licenceInspection records or notices
5. 5

   Verify current details

   Programme scope and requirements can be updated over time. For the current figures and rules, confirm on the authority's website rather than relying on second-hand summaries.

Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.

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