Cookie Policy

Last Updated: December 26, 2024
Quick Summary: We currently do NOT use cookies on our website. We only use browser localStorage to save your language preference and login session. If we enable analytics in the future, we will update this policy.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that websites place on your device to store information. They help websites remember your preferences and improve your browsing experience.

2. Our Current Storage Approach

2.1 We Do NOT Use Cookies

Unlike many websites, we currently do NOT set any cookies on your browser.

2.2 We Use localStorage Instead

We use browser localStorage (a different technology) to store:

Item Stored Purpose Expires
preferredLanguage Remembers if you prefer English or Arabic Never (until you clear browser data)
token Keeps you logged in to your student account Never (until you log out or clear browser data)
adminToken Keeps admins logged in (admin accounts only) Never (until logout or browser data cleared)

2.3 What's the Difference?

Cookies vs. localStorage:

  • Cookies: Automatically sent to the server with every request
  • localStorage: Stored only on your device, never sent to our servers

We chose localStorage because it's more privacy-friendly and efficient for our purposes.

3. Future Use of Cookies

3.1 Google Analytics (When Enabled)

In the future, we may enable Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our website. When enabled, Google Analytics will set the following cookies:

Cookie Name Purpose Duration Type
_ga Distinguishes unique users 2 years Analytics
_ga_* Stores session state 2 years Analytics
_gid Distinguishes users 24 hours Analytics
_gat Throttles request rate 1 minute Analytics

Note: We will update this policy and notify users before enabling Google Analytics.

4. Third-Party Services

4.1 Current Third Parties

We currently use these third-party services that may set cookies:

  • Bootstrap CDN: For styling (does not set cookies)
  • Google Fonts: For typography (may set minimal cookies)
  • Bootstrap Icons: For icons (does not set cookies)

4.2 Google Fonts Cookies

Google Fonts may set the following cookie:

  • NID - Used to remember preferences (expires in 6 months)

5. How to Control Storage

5.1 Clear localStorage

To remove all stored data:

  • Chrome/Edge: Settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data → Check "Cookies and other site data"
  • Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data → Clear Data
  • Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data → Remove All

5.2 Disable localStorage

Most browsers allow you to disable localStorage, but this will prevent:

  • Language preference from being saved
  • Ability to stay logged in

5.3 Opt Out of Google Analytics (Future)

When we enable Google Analytics, you can opt out by:

6. Cookie Categories

6.1 Strictly Necessary (localStorage)

Currently Used: Yes

These are essential for the website to function:

  • Login authentication
  • Language preference

Can be disabled? Yes, but the website won't function properly.

6.2 Analytics Cookies

Currently Used: No

Future Use: Google Analytics cookies to understand website usage

Can be disabled? Yes, through browser settings or opt-out tools.

6.3 Marketing Cookies

Currently Used: No

Future Use: We have no plans to use marketing cookies

7. Your Rights

Under UAE data protection laws and GDPR principles, you have the right to:

  • Know: What data is stored (see table above)
  • Access: View all localStorage data in your browser
  • Delete: Clear all stored data at any time
  • Opt-out: Disable cookies/storage through browser settings

8. Children's Privacy

Our website is used by students, including minors. We:

  • Do NOT track children for marketing purposes
  • Only store essential data (login, language)
  • Do NOT share data with advertisers
  • Comply with COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act) principles

9. Updates to This Policy

We will update this Cookie Policy if we:

  • Start using cookies
  • Enable Google Analytics
  • Add new third-party services
  • Change our storage practices

Significant changes will be announced via:

  • Email notification to registered users
  • Prominent notice on the website
  • Updated "Last Updated" date at the top of this page

10. Contact Us

If you have questions about our use of cookies or localStorage:

  • Email: privacy@uaeschoolcup.com
  • Website: www.uaeschoolcup.com/contact
Privacy First: We believe in transparency and minimal data collection. By avoiding unnecessary cookies, we protect your privacy while delivering a great educational experience.