23-02-2025
Dubai: Educators call for 'play-based' teaching to help students up to 6 years learn Arabic language
Teachers in Dubai are advocating for student-centered and play-based cultural experiences to boost early Arabic language learning.
This follows the announcement of a new policy by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) aimed at improving Arabic language education in early childhood settings.
The policy requires Arabic language instruction for children from birth to six years old at all private schools and early childhood centers in Dubai.
The goal is to promote the use of Arabic in schools and society, fostering pride in Emirati culture, language, and heritage.
These changes will take effect in September 2025 for schools that begin their academic year in September and in April 2026 for schools that start in April.
Dr Vandana Gandhi, CEO and Founder of British Orchard Nursery, reinforced the vision and said, 'Our curriculum already incorporates Arabic learning through twice-weekly sessions, led by experienced and qualified educators who integrate language with the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. We are proud to have partnered with the Emirates' government, The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and KHDA to open and operate UAE's first Arabic and Islamic nursery in line with national identity and culture.'
She highlighted recognising the diverse linguistic backgrounds of their students, BON differentiates Arabic instruction and Islamic studies for native and non-native speakers.
'For younger learners, Arabic is introduced through play-based activities, songs, and storytelling, fostering early engagement and familiarity with the language.'
Gandhi explained in FS1 and FS2, the focus expands to including reading and writing milestones, gradually building foundational literacy skills.
Cultural experiences for students
'Our holistic approach extends beyond the classroom, incorporating cultural experiences such as visits to local heritage sites and interactive projects that deepen children's connection to Arabic language and traditions,' she added.
As part of innovation, the group has also enhanced its project-based learning approach for the 2024-25 academic year to ensure learning contexts reflect UAE-specific topics and the experiences of young children living here.
Others early learning centres (ELC) also welcomed KHDA's phased implementation strategy and aim to further develop the Arabic provision in alignment with the curriculum design standards that KHDA will release.
Heba ElKholy, Founder of the Arabic Department at Creative Nest, Deputy Principal, said, 'We focus on building a strong linguistic foundation from an early age, as research shows that children's brains naturally absorb multiple languages when immersed in a rich and engaging environment. This approach nurtures their love for the language, fosters academic readiness, and instills a deep sense of belonging, ensuring that Arabic remains vibrant and relevant in an evolving world.'
'The KHDA will oversee the quality of Arabic learning, continuing the Ministry of Education's (MOE) previous role in setting foundation stage guidelines. Language acquisition in the early years follow universal principles across all curricula. It depends on the amount of time a child is exposed to the language and whether the surrounding environment is rich and enabling. A well-structured approach, where Arabic is naturally integrated into daily interactions, play, and learning experiences, will be key to fostering proficiency and engagement among young learners," said the founder.
Ongoing professional development, assessment
Experts highlighted ongoing professional development is also key to equipping educators with the skills they need.
'For example, recent phonics workshops saw Arabic and English teachers applying what they learned in their classrooms. The growing availability of Arabic resources shows a commitment to preserving the language, and events promoting Arabic learning at home further support this. Expanding such workshops will help families reinforce Arabic learning, amplifying the impact of the new policy,' added ElKholy.
Headteachers stressed, like any other language, Arabic will be measured through ongoing assessments of language acquisition, tracking students' progress in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
This will involve regular observations, formal evaluations, and feedback from educators and parents.
Sheela Menon, Principal, Ambassador School Dubai, said, 'The policy states that a standardised end-of-phase assessment targeting sample cohorts will track overall sector improvements in Arabic language development so that appropriate timely interventions and policy changes can inform further decisions. Moreover, schools will develop phase appropriate assessment strategies and track progress to ensure learner-based adaptations as and when required.'
Why non-Arabic-speaking expat families prioritise Arabic
Meanwhile, non-Arabic speaking expatriate parents believe that being multilingual is beneficial for children, as it will stand them in good stead in the future.
Notably, Arabic, spoken by 380 million native and non-native speakers across the Arab world, ranks as the fifth most spoken language globally.
Arijit Nandi, father of an eight-year-old, said, 'My son was struggling with Arabic in school as he didn't pick up the language well in his early years. So, we decided to hire a private tutor to help him improve before it's too late. I believe it's essential to learn the language of the country where you're born, raised, or even where you work. It gives you a deeper connection to the culture, a stronger sense of belonging, and a competitive edge for the future. It's more than just a language, it's the key to meaningful relationships, broader career opportunities, and a richer experience of life in this region.'
French resident Marie Dubois explained her 13-year-old daughter loves history and has already picked up Arabic to quite an extent.
'I feel Arabic is deeply tied to rich literary, historical, and religious traditions. Understanding Arabic will help her in appreciating Middle Eastern and Islamic culture, poetry, and philosophy. It would also enable her better communication and connection with Arabic-speaking communities that might help her in her career going forward, if she wants to continue living here. Therefore, introducing children to the language at an early age is crucial, as they can absorb it more effectively, much like a sponge,' she said.
