The Abu Dhabi Criminal Court sentenced a teacher to two years in prison for assaulting four pupils at a private school. The court also ordered the teacher’s deportation from the UAE and payment of all legal costs.

According to case details, the teacher assaulted the four pupils inside a classroom. Their injuries left them unable to carry out their personal activities for up to 20 days.

During the investigation and court proceedings, the defendant admitted to the conduct, claiming the pupils had been physically punished to prevent disorder and disruption to lessons and to correct their behaviour.

However, classroom CCTV footage clearly showed the teacher using severe and unjustified violence against the pupils.

In its ruling, the court stressed that such conduct constituted a clear breach of laws and regulations, and that firm legal action was necessary to protect public safety and individual rights and prevent similar harmful acts from recurring.

According to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, the court also said that an assault on school premises during a lesson constituted a breach of public security and order, endangering pupils’ health and personal safety.

Corporal Punishment of Pupils Prohibited in the UAE

Under UAE federal law, all forms of corporal punishment and physical violence by teachers against pupils are prohibited. Depending on the circumstances, offenders may face criminal prosecution, disciplinary action and dismissal.

Under the National Child Protection Policy in Educational Institutions, adopted in 2022, physical abuse includes inflicting physical harm on a child or failing to prevent such harm.

Under the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law, any assault resulting in physical injury or illness may lead to imprisonment and a fine, depending on the severity of the injuries and the circumstances of the case.