The UAE Ministry of Education has announced sweeping curriculum changes that will make Arabic language, Islamic Studies, and social studies mandatory subjects for all kindergarten students in private schools beginning the 2025-2026 academic year.
As part of the new policy, private schools must allocate 200 minutes per week—or 40 minutes daily—for Arabic language instruction. For Muslim children in kindergarten, Islamic Studies will be introduced at 90 minutes weekly, delivered either as three 30-minute sessions or two 45-minute sessions.
Social studies will also become a core part of early education. According to the Ministry, teaching will follow a play-based approach both indoors and outdoors, and lessons must explore topics such as family, UAE geography, the environment, and national values.
The changes will apply to all private schools across the country, regardless of the curriculum they follow.
By the 2027-2028 academic year, Arabic lessons will be extended further to 60 minutes per day, emphasizing the UAE’s long-term goal of strengthening Arabic proficiency from an early age.
To support implementation, the Ministry will provide schools with structured learning outcomes and teaching frameworks ahead of the rollout. It will also begin advisory visits and enforce compliance through regular inspections starting in 2026-2027, in collaboration with local educational authorities.