Dubai to begin phased reopening of nurseries from April 16

Private early childhood centres in Dubai will begin a phased return to in-person learning from April 16, following approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

In the initial stage, nurseries operating within government facilities and commercial buildings will reopen first, while other centres may continue offering regulated home-based childcare services.

KHDA emphasised that all reopening plans will be subject to approval and must comply with comprehensive health and safety measures to ensure a secure environment for children and staff.

“The safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the wider community remain our top priority,” the authority said, urging the public to rely on official sources for accurate information.

To support families during disruptions, centres are also permitted to provide alternative learning models. These include small group “CLHL Hubs” hosted in approved homes, accommodating up to eight children under staff supervision.

Additionally, centres may offer personalised home learning through qualified, KHDA-registered educators assigned to individual children or siblings.

KHDA clarified that such home-based services will only be allowed during officially mandated distance learning periods.

A regulatory framework has been introduced to oversee these services, covering licensing, risk assessments, parental consent, child protection, staff monitoring and insurance requirements.

Authorities stressed that educational standards must remain consistent, regardless of whether learning takes place on-site or at home.