In a major step to promote national identity from the earliest years of education, the UAE Ministry of Education has announced that Arabic language, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies will become mandatory subjects for the kindergarten stage across all private schools in the country starting from the 2025-26 academic year.
The decision applies to all private schools in the UAE, regardless of curriculum, and is designed to instil in children a deep connection with the language, geography, and Emirati social values from the foundational stage of their education.
The Ministry explained that the new initiative supports its broader mission to strengthen national identity and cultural awareness while nurturing skills in reading, writing and social understanding through age-appropriate, engaging learning methods.
Key Details:
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Arabic Language:
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Will be taught daily for 200 minutes per week, or 40 minutes per day, initially.
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This will increase to 300 minutes per week or 60 minutes per day by 2027-28 academic year.
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Lessons will be delivered by qualified early childhood teachers, using resources suited for both native and non-native speakers.
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Islamic Studies:
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Compulsory for all Muslim students.
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Schools must allocate 90 minutes per week, either through two 45-minute sessions or three 30-minute sessions.
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Social Studies:
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Private schools must integrate concept of family, UAE geography, social values, and environmental awareness into daily classroom activities using play-based learning techniques.
To support smooth implementation, the Ministry will provide schools with instructional frameworks and clear learning outcomes well before the rollout. Advisory visits will begin in 2025-26, followed by regular inspections starting in 2026-27, in collaboration with local education authorities.