Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has introduced a groundbreaking policy requiring all private schools, including Indian educational institutions, to incorporate Arabic language education into early childhood learning programs. The new regulations, set to take effect in September 2025 for schools with a nine-month academic year and April 2026 for those with a four-month academic year, aim to enhance Arabic proficiency among young learners.
This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader Education 33 strategy and aligns with the Loughat Al Daad program, which seeks to improve Arabic literacy and foster cultural understanding among children. Initially targeting children aged four to six, the program will eventually expand to include infants and toddlers up to six years old.
Key Features of the New Policy
To ensure effective implementation, the KHDA has outlined several strategies:
Dedicated Teaching Time: Arabic teachers will be allocated one-third of the total teaching time.
Interactive Learning Methods: Game-based and inquiry-driven approaches will make Arabic learning engaging and enjoyable.
Adaptive Teaching Models: Tailored methods will be used for native Arabic speakers and non-native learners to ensure inclusivity.
Cultural Integration: Interactive activities will help children appreciate Arab culture and traditions.
The KHDA emphasized two critical factors for the program’s success:
Qualified Teachers: Educators must meet specific qualification standards and participate in ongoing professional development.
Parental Involvement: Parents are encouraged to support Arabic learning at home to reinforce their children’s language skills.
Broader Educational Reforms
In addition to early childhood education changes, the KHDA has updated requirements for teaching national subjects in private schools.
These updates include:
- Increasing instructional time for Arabic, Islamic education, social studies, and moral education.
- Adjusting the language of instruction for Arabic-speaking students in Islamic education, social studies, and Arabic classes.
- Revising the Emirati Social, Ethical, and Cultural Studies curriculum for non-Arab students.
Leadership Perspective
Fatma Belrehif, CEO of the Education Quality Assurance Agency at KHDA, highlighted the importance of fostering a love for Arabic from an early age. “Ensuring that all children—whether Emirati, Arab, or non-native speakers—have a strong command of Arabic allows them to fully integrate into the UAE’s linguistic and cultural environment,” she said.
These reforms reflect Dubai’s commitment to strengthening Arabic language education while maintaining a high-quality, inclusive education system for students of diverse backgrounds.
