The new policy mandates Arabic language education for children from birth to six years at all private schools and early childhood centres in Dubai 

Dubai, Feb 21, 2025: Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced a new policy aimed at enhancing Arabic language education in early childhood. The policy is designed to provide children with the opportunity to develop their Arabic language skills from an early age.    

The new policy mandates Arabic language education for children from birth to six years at all private schools and early childhood centres in Dubai.  

The policy is part of Loughat Al Daad, one of the 28 game changers under Dubai’s Education 33 strategy.  

Fatma Belrehif, CEO of the Education Quality Assurance Agency at KHDA says, “Our goal is not only for Emirati and Arabic speaking children to embrace the language as their mother tongue, but for non-native speakers to also experience the richness of the UAE’s culture and rich heritage from an early age. This will help them develop a strong connection to the country they are living in as they grow into well-rounded individuals who understand and respect the world around them.”   

The new policy encourages a play-based, inquiry-driven approach to Arabic teaching in early years, and requires schools and early childhood centres to offer a variety of language learning models to suit the needs of both native and non-native Arabic speakers. It is required that at least one-third of children’s instructional time must include the presence of an Arabic teacher to engage children in interactive and culturally relevant activities.   

Schools and early childhood centres must also ensure that Arabic teachers have the right qualifications and are supported with professional development to enhance their skills.  

Starting September 2025, the policy will be introduced in phases, beginning with Arabic language education for children aged four to six. Future phases will gradually extend to include all children from birth to six years.