With schools across the United Arab Emirates set to reopen on Monday, the familiar yellow school buses will soon return to the roads. As families prepare for the new term, transport safety guidance issued by education and transport authorities is being highlighted once again to ensure safe and smooth journeys for all students.
These rules apply to everyone involved in school transport, including parents, students, drivers, attendants and schools.
Guidance for Students and Parents
Families are encouraged to ensure children arrive at their designated bus stop on time each day. In cases of delay or absence, parents should notify the driver and bus attendant promptly.
Students are expected to board only their assigned buses and follow an orderly single-file queue when entering or exiting. They should avoid pushing, crowding or causing disruption to others.
Pupils must not allow outsiders or parents onto the school bus under any circumstances. During the journey, students are required to remain seated and follow instructions from the driver or attendant, particularly in emergencies.
They should not change seats without permission and must not leave the bus unless instructed by the driver or attendant. Eating and drinking on board is not permitted, and students should avoid leaning out of windows during travel.
Responsibilities of Bus Drivers
Drivers are required to wear uniform and use seat belts at all times while operating the vehicle. They must be proficient in both English and Arabic to ensure clear communication.
Each journey must strictly follow designated pick-up and drop-off points. Overloading the bus beyond its capacity is not permitted, and drivers must adhere to a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h.
Safety requirements include carrying a first aid kit on board at all times. Drivers must not consume alcohol or smoke while on duty or inside the vehicle.
School Transport Standards
Schools are responsible for ensuring buses meet all regulatory requirements, including being clearly marked in yellow with “School Bus” displayed in both English and Arabic.
Each bus must have an assigned attendant to supervise students throughout the journey. Proper air conditioning must be maintained to ensure passenger comfort.
Technology and safety systems are also mandatory, including GPS tracking and CCTV monitoring across all school transport vehicles. Regular cleanliness checks must be carried out by schools.
Additional safety measures include ensuring buses have no barred windows and are equipped with functional emergency exits. Fire safety equipment is also required, with at least one fire extinguisher for buses up to 10 metres in length and two for longer vehicles.
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Further Reading:
- Dubai Nurseries Prepare to Reopen With Strict Safety Checks and Phased Return for Children
- The Wait Is Over, UAE Students Head Back to School on 20 April