The UAE has rolled out a new framework governing ChatGPT-style AI tools in schools, including age restrictions and a ban on their use during exams.
Abu Dhabi: The UAE Ministry of Education has unveiled a comprehensive framework to regulate the use of generative artificial intelligence in schools, including ChatGPT-style applications, aiming to protect academic integrity, ensure student safety, and maintain a disciplined, secure learning environment.
The guidelines are detailed in the Ministry’s 2026 Safe and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in Classrooms manual, which establishes clear rules for how these technologies can be utilized.
The Ministry emphasized that any use beyond the approved framework will be subject to accountability under existing educational regulations.
A key provision is the age restriction: generative AI tools will be banned for students under 13 or those in grades below Year 7.
This measure aims to shield younger learners from potential negative educational or behavioral impacts, while emphasizing the importance of early-stage learning through interaction, creativity, and the development of independent skills.
Academic integrity is at the heart of the new framework. The Ministry has cautioned against any practices that compromise originality in learning, particularly submitting AI-generated work—such as assignments, research projects, or reports—as one’s own without disclosure or prior teacher approval. Officials noted that such behavior violates the principle of authenticity and undermines the learning process.
The guidelines also strictly prohibit the use of generative AI during formal examinations or official assessments. Copying or rephrasing AI-generated content without demonstrating genuine understanding is similarly forbidden.
Schools are required to ensure that these tools are not used for academic dishonesty, cheating, or circumventing evaluation standards, and that students do not rely solely on AI to complete educational tasks.
The Ministry stated that generative AI should only be used in educational settings under direct teacher supervision and with clear instructional guidance.
Both teachers and students must verify that AI-generated content is accurate, relevant, and aligned with approved curricula and learning objectives before it is used in lessons or assignments.
The Ministry also issued strict warnings against creating or sharing inappropriate content via AI tools. This includes material that conflicts with the UAE’s religious, national, or cultural values, or contains violence, disturbing imagery, hate speech, discrimination, misinformation, or psychologically harmful content.
The restrictions further cover content that promotes illegal or unethical behavior, including cyberbullying, self-harm, or the misuse of technology.
Privacy and intellectual property protections are another key component of the framework. The Ministry has banned the input or uploading of any personal data related to students, teachers, or parents into AI systems. This includes names, photographs, audio or video recordings, identity details, and contact information, emphasizing that protecting digital identities and data security is a priority in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.
The rules also prohibit the sharing of copyrighted or protected material without permission, the creation of fabricated or manipulated content via deepfake technologies, impersonation, and the collection or dissemination of sensitive information about others.
Accessing confidential school materials or using AI to record and transcribe classroom interactions without explicit consent from all parties is considered a serious violation of privacy and digital rights.
The Ministry also confirmed a total ban on using unapproved generative AI platforms in classrooms. This includes accessing unauthorized services, bypassing school cybersecurity measures like firewalls, using virtual private networks (VPNs) to evade restrictions, or creating external student accounts without permission, especially where personal data is involved.
The Ministry stressed that compliance with these rules is crucial for the safe and responsible use of AI in education. The framework is designed to enhance learning quality, protect students’ rights, and strengthen trust in the school environment, while supporting the UAE’s broader goal of leading in innovation.
Officials noted that generative AI should serve as a supportive educational tool, not a replacement for teachers or students’ intellectual effort. The new framework reflects the UAE’s cultural values, educational legislation, and student conduct policies, aiming to prepare learners for the future while preserving human-centred education and fostering critical thinking.
