Fostering Cultural Identity: Dubai’s New Initiative for Early Arabic Language Education

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) of Dubai has announced the mandatory introduction of Arabic language lessons in all private schools and early childhood centers for children from birth to six years old. This initiative will come into effect in September 2025 for schools that start their academic year in September and in April 2026 for schools that begin in April.

In the first phase, covering children aged four to six, the focus will be on a play-based approach to learning Arabic. The program will later expand to younger age groups. The initiative aims to make learning Arabic enjoyable and culturally enriching, fostering a stronger connection between children and the culture and language of the UAE.

Parents are also encouraged to support their children’s language development in everyday life, promoting a deeper immersion in the country’s linguistic and cultural environment.

Previously, under Dubai's education system, all schools, including private ones, were required to offer Arabic language classes. However, the new KHDA policy extends this practice, making Arabic language learning mandatory at the preschool level, starting from an early age.

This measure is designed to strengthen cultural identity and ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to learn Arabic from a young age, fostering their integration and understanding of UAE culture.