As schools across the UAE reopen, Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE is urging parents and teachers to act against a growing but often overlooked problem—children’s eye health in the age of constant screen use.
With both schoolwork and leisure increasingly tied to digital devices, young students are spending more hours than ever in front of screens. A recent survey revealed that over a third of children in the UAE clock more than seven hours of daily screen time—well above the World Health Organization’s recommended limits.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, tops the list of concerns. A 2023 meta-analysis involving over 335,000 children found that each extra hour of daily screen exposure raises the risk of myopia by 21%, and the danger nearly doubles after four hours. “This is not just about blurred vision,” said Dr. Alina Mugnani Deza, Specialist Ophthalmologist at Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE. “Childhood myopia can progress rapidly, increasing the likelihood of serious eye diseases later in life. Parents must be proactive in protecting their children’s eyes.”
Beyond myopia, prolonged exposure to blue light from devices can cause eye strain, disrupt sleep, and may have lasting effects on the retina. Computer Vision Syndrome—marked by headaches, dry eyes, and neck pain—is also on the rise among young users.
To protect children’s vision, experts recommend limiting non-essential screen time, ensuring at least one to two hours of outdoor play daily, following the 20-20-20 rule, adjusting device settings for comfort, and scheduling annual pediatric eye exams.
“With the right habits, we can prevent much of the vision damage caused by excessive screen use,” Dr. Deza added, stressing that parents, educators, and healthcare providers all share the responsibility.
Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE is encouraging families to book comprehensive eye check-ups as the school year begins—helping ensure that students can enjoy technology without sacrificing long-term eye health.
