Dangerous Challenges Threatening Dubai Students

Dangerous “Challenges” Among Students: Dubai Authorities Issue Warning

Health and education authorities in Dubai have recently issued a joint warning concerning a worsening issue: dangerous behaviors spreading among students, often recognized as online “challenges.” Parents received a circular via email detailing the dangers if a child falls victim to such trends. The goal is clear: to prevent tragedies before they occur.

What did the warning contain?

The document, issued jointly by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), clearly outlines that these “challenges” are not harmless games. Various physical trials—such as restricting breathing, choking, or limiting blood circulation to the brain—pose significant health risks and can cause permanent damage or even death in a matter of seconds.

Why are these behaviors dangerous?

Experts highlight that any actions restricting oxygen supply to the brain can have potentially fatal consequences. Consequences may include sudden loss of consciousness, epileptic seizures, brain damage, cardiac arrest, internal injuries or marks around the neck, death.

Authorities emphasize: there is no “safe way” to engage in these so-called challenges. They are not funny trials but life-threatening behaviors.

What attracts children to these trends?

The letter also addresses why these behaviors might appeal to some children or youths. Common reasons include peer pressure, curiosity about online trends, thrill-seeking, desire for popularity often driven by social media.

Pre-teens and teenagers are particularly at risk as experimentation, boundary-testing, and a heightened interest in the online world are common at this age.

What should parents look out for?

Authorities urge parents to observe their children's behavior and physical signs, as early detection can save lives. Specific warning signs to watch out for include:

Physical signs:

Redness, discoloration, or bruising around the neck, frequent headaches, dizziness or fainting, bloodshot eyes.

Behavioral signs:

Secrecy around online activities, conversations about “challenges” or strange games, sudden mood or behavioral changes, wearing clothes that cover the neck area.

What can parents do?

The virtual parental briefing organized by DHA aims to provide practical guidance for families. The advice includes:

Initiating open, calm discussions with children.

Clarifying: these behaviors are never acceptable.

Monitoring online content and discussing it with the child.

Encouraging children to say no, walk away from dangerous situations, and share concerns with a trusted adult.

The role of schools

Leaders of Dubai schools indicate these discussions are already integrated into child protection systems. Institutions work closely with parents to protect students from multiple directions. Prevention is most effective when schools and families operate as true partners.

Long-term teacher-student relationships are considered particularly important protective factors: in schools where the same teacher follows students for several years, behavioral changes are easier to notice.

Involving and empowering students

One of the most important elements of prevention is ensuring that students know when and how to seek help. Some schools have students participate in mental health programs, organizing presentations and discussions as student ambassadors about conscious decision-making, mental well-being, and online safety. This contributes to cultivating a culture where trust, openness, and support are natural parts of the school environment.

Creating psychological safety

School administrations also consider psychological safety a priority goal. Through homeroom classes, school assemblies, counseling conversations, and targeted interventions, they continually reinforce a positive, accepting environment where students can voice concerns without fear of shame or retaliation.

Summary

Dangerous challenges spreading on social media pose serious threats to Dubai's students. The joint action of the DHA and KHDA, alongside collaboration between schools and parents, is crucial for preventing tragedies. Parents have the responsibility to be actively present in their children's lives, observe the signs, and dare to take action if needed. Prevention starts not only within schools but also within the walls of homes—with attention, trust, and honest dialogue.

(The article is based on a warning from the Dubai Health Authority.)