Harry Potter banned from Gulf schools

The Harry Potter series and George Orwell’s Animal Farm are among 26 books that have been banned from schools in the United Arab Emirates.

The Ministry of Education banned the books because they contained ‘‘written or illustrated material that contradicts Islamic and Arab values,’’ reported the Al-Hayat newspaper today.

The paper said the banned books contained pictures of alcoholic drinks, pigs and other ‘‘indecent images.’’

They also insulted Arabs and Muslims and had false historical references, such as using the word Israel instead of Palestine, either in maps or in written texts.

The ministry warned private schools to abide by its decision and required them to present a list of books to be taught to students.