Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Education has fined Merryland Kindergarten Dh5,000 for violating safety rules which led to the death of a boy on a schoolbus.
Aatish Shabin, 4, died after being left locked in the schoolbus for three hours on April 24. A statement from the ministry said a fine will be imposed on the school. Although the statement did not mention the amount of fine, Gulf News learned the amount is Dh5,000.
The ministry said parents can take legal action and seek compensation from the school and transportation company.
"I am shocked to know about the meagre fine though I'm satisfied with the administrative action taken, said Shabin Sreedharan, Aatish's father.
The school did not comment on the ministry' decision. The transportation company said its contract with the school has not been renewed, and it will expire at the end of this month.
A police official said the case has been referred to the public prosecution.
Story so far
- April 24: Aatish Shabin dies after being left locked on the schoolbus.
- April 26: The driver of the external transport providers for the kindergarten is arrested. The conductor absconds.
- April 27: A medical report says Aatish did not suffocate and mentions the boy was unwell. Based on the initial police report, the prosecution grants bail to the driver.
- April 29: The Abu Dhabi Educational Zone finds that serious lapses on the part of the school caused the death. The school did not follow rules on safety and security of the children.
- May 10: The Ministry of Education starts a probe based on the report.
- June 16: The Ministry of Education imposes a fine on the school.
Page last updated 03 February 2026