Procedure per The Official UAE Government Portal (u.ae). Fees and timelines change — check the authority's website. We don't invent numbers.
How to navigate early childhood care, step by step
- 1
Know who supports child welfare in your emirate
Support is organised by emirate. In Abu Dhabi, child welfare is backed by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), the Department of Community Development, and the Endowments' & Minors' Funds Authority. In Dubai, it is the Endowment and Minors' Trust Foundation. In Sharjah, it is the Child Safety Department. Start by identifying the body that covers where you live.
Documents:Proof of residence - 2
Understand what the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority covers
If you are in Abu Dhabi, the ECA aims to create a high-quality early childhood development system for the emirate. Its scope of work is meant to include health and nutrition, child protection, family support, early care and education — so it is a useful first point of reference for the whole picture, not just schooling.
- 3
Check the official early childhood age range
The Ministry of Education defines the stage of early childhood to be between the ages of 45 days and four years. Knowing this range helps you understand which programmes and settings your child is eligible for.
- 4
Explore pre-school and early education options
The UAE offers a wide variety of pre-school and early childhood education opportunities for children aged 0 to 4 years. Compare settings on curriculum, location and hours, and confirm current placement rules directly with each provider.
Documents:Child's passport and residence visaVaccination and health records - 5
Find a registered centre in Dubai
Currently more than 120 early childhood education centres are registered in Dubai. Choosing a registered centre gives you the assurance of official oversight. You can also read more about the services of the Dubai Early Childhood Development Centre when weighing your options.
- 6
Get the right support for people of determination
If your child has limited abilities or special needs, learn how to support children who are people of determination during their early years. Ask each centre and the relevant authority what tailored programmes and accommodations they provide.
Documents:Any existing assessment or medical reports
Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.
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