How to Get a Nursery License in the UAE: A Complete Guide for Early Learning Providers
The demand for early childhood education in the UAE continues to rise, driven by a growing population, working parents, and increased awareness of early development. If you’re planning to open a nursery or daycare in the UAE, understanding the licensing process is critical. The UAE has strict regulatory standards to ensure that nurseries offer safe, high-quality learning environments for children from birth to four years of age.
This guide provides a clear overview of the licensing requirements, regulatory bodies, and steps needed to start and operate an early childhood center in the UAE.
Who Regulates Nurseries in the UAE?
The regulatory authority depends on the emirate in which you plan to operate:
- Dubai: Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), in collaboration with Dubai Municipality.
- Abu Dhabi: Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).
- Sharjah and other Emirates: Ministry of Education (MoE), along with local municipal authorities.
Each authority follows a specific licensing framework, but the core requirements are similar across the country.
Licensing Requirements for Opening a Nursery in the UAE
1. Business Structure and Local Partnership
Foreign investors are required to have a local sponsor or partner, unless they operate under a Free Zone where 100% foreign ownership may be allowed. For nurseries in mainland UAE, you’ll need to establish a business under a recognized legal structure (e.g., LLC) and obtain initial approvals from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
2. Location and Premises Approval
The premises play a central role in the licensing process. Key considerations include:
- Zoning: The property must be located in an area approved for educational use.
- Size and layout: The facility should have a minimum area (usually around 200–300 sqm depending on the authority) with separate classrooms, activity areas, restrooms, staff rooms, and outdoor play spaces.
- Safety compliance: The building must meet Civil Defense regulations, including fire alarms, emergency exits, and child-proofing.
A full inspection is required before final approval is granted.
3. Curriculum Declaration
Operators must submit the proposed curriculum for review. The most commonly approved curricula in the UAE include:
- British EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage)
- Montessori
- Reggio Emilia
- Bilingual or local frameworks
The curriculum should include a developmental plan that promotes cognitive, emotional, physical, and social growth in early years.
4. Staffing and Qualifications
The UAE has strict requirements regarding staff qualifications:
- Nursery Manager: Must hold a university degree in early childhood education or a related field, plus at least two years of experience.
- Teachers and Assistants: Must have relevant diplomas (e.g., CACHE Level 3 or equivalent) and be medically fit with a clear background check.
- Nurse: A licensed nurse is often required on-site, especially in larger nurseries.
Staff ratios and training requirements are also monitored closely. For example, one adult is usually required for every four infants, or one adult per 8–10 older children.
5. Health, Safety, and Sanitation Approvals
Operators must comply with local health and hygiene regulations. This includes:
• Routine pest control and sanitation
• First-aid kits and childproof safety measures
• Daily cleaning schedules and safe food handling procedures
Authorities may conduct unannounced inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.
6. Final Approvals and License Issuance
Once you complete all documentation, inspections, and approvals, the final license will be issued by the relevant authority (KHDA, ADEK, or MoE). This license is usually valid for one year and must be renewed annually, subject to meeting compliance standards.
Key Documents Required
While the full list may vary slightly by emirate, common documents include:
- Business registration and trade license
- Emirates ID and passport copies of stakeholders
- Educational certificates and attestation for key staff
- Civil Defense and Municipality approvals
- Curriculum plan and educational philosophy
- Floor plan and layout of the facility
- Health and safety compliance certificates
Timeline and Cost for Nursery License in UAE
The licensing process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on your preparedness and the responsiveness of various authorities. Startup costs can range widely—anywhere from AED 300,000 to AED 1 million or more—depending on the location, facility size, curriculum, and staff.
Final Thoughts
Starting a nursery in the UAE is both a rewarding and regulated venture. With increasing parental expectations and government oversight, early learning providers must focus on compliance, quality, and safety from day one. Whether you’re a new investor or an educator expanding your services, it’s essential to align your business plan with the licensing framework of the relevant emirate.
If you need help navigating the licensing process or finding the right support partners, our platform connects you with qualified consultants, setup advisors, and approved service providers who specialize in launching early childhood centers in the UAE.
Our platform also help early learn centers in getting relevants enquiries through online marketing. Please visit online marketing for nurseries and contact us. You can also mail to rakesh@growthkeeda.com