Image courtesy: WAM/ For illustrative purposes
The Ministry of Education in the UAE has issued compulsory guidelines for the instruction of Arabic language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies in private kindergartens nationwide, according to reports from state news agency WAM.
These guidelines are set to be implemented starting from the 2025-2026 academic year and will be mandatory for all private educational institutions, irrespective of the curriculum they follow.
This initiative aims to promote national values from an early age, encouraging the development of a generation that is “proud of its national identity, skilled in its native language, and deeply rooted in the values of family, community, as well as the geography and environment of the UAE.”
The decision is in line with the ministry’s goal of reinforcing national identity by strengthening the foundational education in Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies.
Enhancing children’s skills and values
The ministry aims to provide specialized educational programs that will cultivate children’s abilities in reading, writing, and instilling Emirati values, ensuring a solid progression in their academic journey as they grow.
To facilitate this consistent application, the ministry will deliver instructional frameworks and clear learning expectations for all three subjects to private schools ahead of the 2025-2026 academic year.
The rollout will be bolstered by advisory visits to schools, and in partnership with local education authorities, routine inspections will commence in the 2026-2027 academic year to ensure adherence to these new guidelines.
Arabic language instruction for kindergarten students: 200 minutes weekly
Arabic lessons will be provided to all students on a daily basis, starting with a total of 200 minutes per week (40 minutes per day), which will increase to 300 minutes per week (60 minutes per day) by the academic year 2027-2028.
These classes will be conducted by certified early childhood educators utilizing approved materials and age-appropriate techniques, catering to both native and non-native Arabic speakers.
In addition, Islamic Studies will be taught to all Muslim kindergarten students in private institutions at 90 minutes per week, either in three 30-minute sessions or two 45-minute sessions weekly.
Social studies to include family and environmental topics
The authority has also approved mandatory directives for social studies instruction in kindergartens.
Private schools are required to incorporate themes related to family, UAE geography, environmental awareness, and social values into their kindergarten curriculum.
Such education will be delivered through playful learning methods that are integrated naturally into students’ daily activities, both inside and outside the classroom.