DUBAI: Officials and parents at Dubai’s Universal American School (UAS) are calling for the removal of a giant Red Bull billboard above the campus.
Members of the school community said they are unhappy with the “Wings for Every Taste” advertisement hanging above the Dubai Festival City campus.
Dr Gunther Brandt, UAS principal, said they are looking for ways to exclude from the billboard any items inappropriate for young people … “or better yet, to get rid of this monstrous and unattractive structure altogether”.
“I’m not against commerce and targeted marketing, but there’s such a thing as appropriateness. Aesthetically and based on education principles I know, I would like to see it removed. My main concern is to have a healthy and respectful environment for children.”
His concern is shared by some parents. Chris, a parent of a grade-schooler, cited that in other jurisdictions, the sale and advertising of soda is banned in schools. “This huge billboard showing products inappropriate for young kids is misplaced,” he said.
Red Bull, which sold more than five billion cans worldwide, is an energy drink.
Alberto Chahoud, Area Communications Manager for Red Bull in the MEA region, said: “As you might know, Red Bull Energy Drink is available in more than 165 countries as health authorities have concluded that (it) is safe to consume.
“One 250-ml can of Red Bull Energy Drink contains about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee (80 mg). As for the billboard you are referring to, we take pride in fully abiding with the rules and regulations of the UAE. We trust the directions of the local competent authorities, and will always follow their guidelines across our marketing and communication operations.”
