As children head back to school across the UAE, eye specialists are noting a worrying rise in vision-related complaints, ranging from eye strain and headaches to blurred distance vision. Ophthalmologists report that children are being diagnosed with myopia—or short-sightedness—at significantly younger ages than in previous decades. While it was common for kids to develop these issues around age eight or ten in the past, doctors are now frequently seeing children as young as five or six struggling with their eyesight. This shift has raised alarm bells, as an earlier onset often leads to a higher risk of developing severe vision problems later in life.

Experts point out that while genetics play a role, the rapid spike in cases is largely driven by lifestyle changes, specifically the combination of increased screen time and a lack of outdoor activity. It isn't necessarily the screens themselves that are the sole culprit, but rather the fact that digital devices are replacing the time children would otherwise spend playing outside. Natural light is essential for healthy eye development, and global research suggests that replacing outdoor play with sedentary, indoor habits significantly boosts the risk of myopia. To combat this, doctors advise parents to prioritize balance: aim for at least one to two hours of outdoor time daily, encourage regular breaks from screens, and ensure children undergo routine eye exams to catch potential issues early.