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UAE National Identity, National Anthem and Cultural Observance Policy
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DATE REVIEW DATE
August 2026 August 2027
Owner Version Number: Working Date:
Director 01 26/08/2026
Legal Sign-off by:
N/A
Legal Sign-off date:
N/A
Type of Policy: Authorised by Exec: Authorised by Board: Effective date of Policy: Circulation:
September 2026 N/A September 2026 Website, Staff Handbook
CONTENTS POLICY STATEMENT .................................................................................................. 4 PURPOSE ................................................................................................................... 4 SCOPE ....................................................................................................................... 5 JESS CORE VALUES AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES ...................................................... 5 UAE NATIONAL ANTHEM OBSERVANCE .................................................................. 6 CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS DURING THE ANTHEM .................................................. 8 STUDENTS OF DETERMINATION ................................................................................ 8 EARLY YEARS PROVISIONS ....................................................................................... 9 UAE FLAG PROTOCOL ............................................................................................. 9 RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL OBSERVANCE REQUIREMENTS .................................... 9 MORAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL STUDENTS (MSC) FOR NON-ARAB STUDENTS ..11 RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................12 TRAINING AND COMMUNICATION ........................................................................13 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION .................................................................................13 MONITORING AND REVIEW ....................................................................................13 ANNEXURE A – UAE FLAG PROTOCOLS .................................................................14 ANNEXURE B – ANNUAL UAE NATIONAL IDENTITY AND CULTURAL CALENDAR ..14
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POLICY STATEMENT 1.1
Jumeirah English Speaking School ("JESS") is committed to fostering respect for the United Arab Emirates, its leadership, culture, heritage, Islamic values and national identity.
1.2
The School recognises its responsibility as a KHDA licensed educational institution to ensure that all members of the school community understand and demonstrate respect towards the UAE National Anthem, UAE Flag, national occasions, Emirati heritage and the cultural and religious values of the UAE.
1.3
Through the JESS Core Values of Care, Commitment, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity and Respect, the School seeks to foster informed global citizens who value and celebrate the culture, heritage and traditions of the United Arab Emirates while embracing the diversity of the wider community.
1.4
This Policy supports: 1.4.1
UAE National Agenda objectives.
1.4.2
Education 33 (E33).
1.4.3
Dubai Social Agenda 33.
1.4.4
KHDA National Anthem Observance Standards.
1.4.5
Ministry of Education expectations concerning national identity and values.
1.4.6
UAE legislation governing private education.
PURPOSE 2.1
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The purpose of this policy is to: 2.1.1
Ensure compliance with KHDA National Anthem standards.
2.1.2
Promote understanding and appreciation of UAE national identity.
2.1.3
Foster respect for Islamic values and Emirati culture.
2.1.4
Provide clear expectations for staff, students, parents and visitors.
2.1.5
Support an inclusive approach that respects the diverse international nature of the JESS community while recognising the cultural foundations of the UAE.
SCOPE 3.1
This Policy applies to: 3.1.1
All students.
3.1.2
All staff.
3.1.3
Governors.
3.1.4
Contractors and suppliers.
3.1.5
Parents and guardians.
3.1.6
Volunteers.
3.1.7
Visitors attending school premises or school events.
JESS CORE VALUES AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES 4.1
JESS believes that respect for the UAE's national identity, culture, heritage and traditions aligns closely with the School's core values of Care, Commitment, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity and Respect.
4.2
These values guide how members of the JESS community engage with the UAE National Anthem, national observances, religious traditions and cultural events.
4.3
Care
4.4
4.5
4.3.1
We demonstrate Care by recognising the diverse backgrounds of our community while honouring the traditions, culture and values of the UAE, our host nation.
4.3.2
We support all students, including Students of Determination, to participate meaningfully and inclusively in national and cultural observances.
Commitment 4.4.1
We demonstrate Commitment by actively participating in school observances, assemblies, national celebrations and cultural learning opportunities.
4.4.2
We recognise our responsibility to contribute positively to the UAE community and to uphold the expectations of KHDA and the Ministry of Education.
Curiosity 4.5.1
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We demonstrate Curiosity by seeking to understand the history, heritage, achievements and traditions of the UAE.
4.5.2
4.6
4.7
4.8
Students are encouraged to learn about Emirati culture, the significance of the UAE National Anthem, the UAE Flag, Islamic traditions and the values that have shaped the nation's development.
Excellence 4.6.1
We demonstrate Excellence by modelling exemplary behaviour during observances and by striving to deepen our understanding of the UAE's culture, achievements and aspirations.
4.6.2
We seek to ensure that all national and cultural events are delivered with professionalism, inclusivity and respect.
Integrity 4.7.1
We demonstrate Integrity by showing genuine respect for the UAE National Anthem, the UAE Flag, national occasions and religious observances, regardless of our individual background or nationality.
4.7.2
We act responsibly and uphold the expectations of the School and the wider UAE community.
Respect 4.8.1
We demonstrate Respect by honouring the UAE's laws, traditions, customs and cultural values.
4.8.2
We show respect through our conduct during the National Anthem, our engagement in cultural and religious events, and our interactions with all members of the community.
UAE NATIONAL ANTHEM OBSERVANCE 5.1
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Daily Observance 5.1.1
The UAE National Anthem shall be played on every operational school day.
5.1.2
JESS will: a)
Play the Anthem each morning through assembly or the school PA system.
b)
Ensure observance occurs across all phases.
c)
Ensure any future additional school shifts also observe the anthem at the start of each shift.
d) 5.1.3 5.2
The National Anthem of any country other than the UAE shall not be used as part of daily observance arrangements.
Weekly Assembly Requirement 5.2.1
All students shall participate in a physical group assembly at least once each week.
5.2.2
JESS may utilise:
5.2.3 5.3
Resume observance as soon as practicable following any emergency disruption.
a)
Whole school assemblies.
b)
Phase assemblies.
c)
Rotational assemblies.
d)
Divisional assemblies.
The selected model shall be documented within the annual Assembly Plan.
Institutional Events The UAE National Anthem shall be played at the commencement of all major school events, including:
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5.3.1
National Day celebrations.
5.3.2
Flag Day events.
5.3.3
Commemoration Day (Martyrs' Day).
5.3.4
Sports Days.
5.3.5
Prize/Awards Ceremonies.
5.3.6
Graduation Ceremonies.
5.3.7
Cultural Festivals.
5.3.8
Whole-school performances.
5.3.9
Virtual or hybrid institutional events.
CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS DURING THE ANTHEM During observance: 6.1
Students and Staff 6.1.1
6.1.2 6.2
Where physically able: a)
Stand respectfully.
b)
Face the UAE flag where displayed.
c)
Remain still and attentive.
d)
Refrain from conversations.
e)
Refrain from mobile phone use.
f)
Listen respectfully for the duration of the anthem.
Students are encouraged to sing the anthem, but this is not mandatory.
Parents and Visitors 6.2.1
Parents, visitors, suppliers and contractors present during observance shall: a)
Stand respectfully.
b)
Give full attention.
c)
Pause all activities.
d)
Avoid conversation or device use.
STUDENTS OF DETERMINATION 7.1
JESS will ensure reasonable adjustments that enable participation while preserving dignity and inclusion.
7.2
Adjustments may include:
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7.2.1
Supported seating.
7.2.2
Reduced crowd exposure.
7.2.3
Sensory supports.
7.2.4
Adult assistance.
7.3
7.2.5
Visual preparation.
7.2.6
Alternative positioning within the assembly environment.
Students will not be segregated from peers solely due to observance requirements.
EARLY YEARS PROVISIONS 8.1
For FS1, FS2 and Year 1: 8.1.1
Calm and respectful participation is expected.
8.1.2
Formal attention, perfect stillness and accurate singing are not required.
8.1.3
Developmentally appropriate participation is considered compliant.
UAE FLAG PROTOCOL 9.1
JESS will: 9.1.1
Display the UAE National Flag appropriately and respectfully.
9.1.2
Maintain the flag in good condition.
9.1.3
Ensure flag displays align with UAE government protocols.
9.1.4
Encourage students to understand the history and symbolism of the flag.
9.1.5
Adhere to the UAE Flag Protocols (see Annexure A).
RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL OBSERVANCE REQUIREMENTS 10.1
Living the JESS Values Through UAE Cultural Understanding The School will provide opportunities throughout the academic year for students to develop: 10.1.1 Care through community engagement and charitable initiatives linked to Ramadan and national causes. 10.1.2 Commitment through participation in national and cultural events. 10.1.3 Curiosity through learning about UAE history, heritage, Arabic language and Islamic traditions. 10.1.4 Excellence through high-quality student leadership and participation in national identity initiatives.
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10.1.5 Integrity through responsible and respectful conduct during all observances. 10.1.6 Respect through appreciation of the UAE's cultural diversity and traditions. 10.2
In addition to National Anthem compliance, JESS will observe and respect the cultural and religious values of the UAE. 10.2.1 Islamic Values The School will: a)
Respect Islam as the official religion of the UAE.
b)
Promote understanding, tolerance and respect for Islamic beliefs.
c)
Ensure school activities do not conflict with UAE laws relating to religion and public morality.
d)
Facilitate student understanding of key Islamic celebrations and traditions.
10.2.2 Ramadan During Ramadan the School will: a)
Respect government guidance issued annually.
b)
Adjust operations when directed by authorities.
c)
Promote respectful behaviour during fasting hours.
d)
Educate students regarding the significance of Ramadan.
e)
Support charitable and community initiatives consistent with Ramadan values.
10.2.3 Eid Observances The School will acknowledge: a)
Eid Al Fitr
b)
Eid Al Adha
through age-appropriate educational activities celebrating UAE culture and traditions.
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10.2.4 UAE National Occasions The School will recognise and educate students regarding: a)
Eid Al Etihad (National Day).
b)
UAE Flag Day.
c)
Commemoration Day (Martyrs' Day).
d)
Other UAE government-designated national observances.
10.2.5 Emirati Cultural Heritage The School will actively promote: a)
Arabic language appreciation.
b)
Emirati history.
c)
Emirati arts and culture.
d)
Traditional customs and hospitality.
e)
UAE environmental stewardship.
f)
National identity initiatives promoted by KHDA and MoE.
MORAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL STUDENTS (MSC) FOR NON-ARAB STUDENTS 11.1
In accordance with KHDA and Ministry of Education requirements, JESS will provide Moral, Social and Cultural Studies (MSC) to all non-Arab students in the relevant year groups through dedicated curriculum provision designed to develop understanding of the United Arab Emirates, its history, values, culture, heritage, traditions and society.
11.2
The programme will promote responsible citizenship, intercultural understanding, respect for diversity, appreciation of Emirati identity and awareness of the UAE's role as a global community. Through the JESS Core Values of Care, Commitment, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity and Respect, students will be encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of the UAE's cultural heritage, national achievements, ethical values and social responsibilities, enabling them to contribute positively to both the school community and wider society.
11.3
JESS will ensure that all teaching and learning materials support the UAE National Curriculum requirements and reflect the values, culture and laws of the United Arab Emirates.
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11.4
JESS will maintain evidence of curriculum planning, student learning and achievement in Moral, Social and Cultural Studies in accordance with KHDA requirements and reporting expectations.
RESPONSIBILITIES 12.1
Principal Responsible for: 12.1.1 Overall implementation. 12.1.2 Compliance monitoring. 12.1.3 Resource allocation.
12.2
Senior Leadership Team Responsible for: 12.2.1 Assembly arrangements. 12.2.2 Staff training. 12.2.3 Event compliance.
12.3
Staff Responsible for: 12.3.1 Modelling respectful conduct. 12.3.2 Supervising students. 12.3.3 Supporting inclusive participation.
12.4
Students Students are expected to demonstrate the JESS Core Values of Care, Commitment, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity and Respect through their participation in national, cultural and religious observances.
12.5
Parents and Visitors Responsible for observing conduct requirements while on site.
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TRAINING AND COMMUNICATION 13.1
JESS shall: 13.1.1 Communicate expectations annually to parents and students. 13.1.2 Induct all new staff within one week of commencement. 13.1.3 Include observance expectations within Staff Handbooks. 13.1.4 Provide regular reminders where appropriate.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION JESS shall maintain: 14.1
Assembly Plan Including: 14.1.1 Selected observance model. 14.1.2 Annual schedule. 14.1.3 Supervision arrangements. 14.1.4 Risk assessments. 14.1.5 Inclusion arrangements.
14.2
Communication and Induction Protocol Including: 14.2.1 Stakeholder communications. 14.2.2 Staff induction requirements. 14.2.3 Conduct expectations. 14.2.4 Annual review arrangements.
MONITORING AND REVIEW 15.1
The School will: 15.1.1 Monitor implementation through routine quality assurance.
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15.1.2 Review the Policy annually. 15.1.3 Update the Policy following changes in KHDA, Ministry of Education or UAE Government requirements.
ANNEXURE A – UAE FLAG PROTOCOLS UAE Flag and Official Portraits Guidelines
ANNEXURE B – ANNUAL UAE NATIONAL IDENTITY AND CULTURAL CALENDAR Religious Holidays
Public Holidays
Laylat Al Isra wal Mi'raj
National Day in the UAE
Day of Arafah
New Year’s Day
Eid al-Adha
Anniversaries and Memorial Days
Islamic New Year
Flag Day in the UAE
Mawlid Al Nabi (Birth of the Prophet)
Haq Al Laila
Other Observances
Professional Days
Mother's Day in the Arab World
Teachers' Day in Arab Countries
Emirati Women’s Day
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