UAE Launches Inaugural National Early Childhood Week in November 2026
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the first nationwide edition of Early Childhood Week will transform communities across the Emirates into interactive spaces for learning and family engagement, building on the success of previous regional initiatives.
The first national edition of Early Childhood Week will take place across the United Arab Emirates from 16 to 22 November 2026, marking a significant expansion of an initiative previously centred on Abu Dhabi. Led by the Ministry of Family in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority and held under the theme Every Moment Matters, the week represents a comprehensive commitment to supporting children during their most formative years whilst strengthening the family as a cornerstone of society.
Held in alignment with the UAE Year of Family, the initiative will transform public spaces into interactive environments designed to foster meaningful connections between children, parents, caregivers and their broader support ecosystem across the health, education, sport and social sectors. The week recognises that the early years represent the most critical stage of human development, with approximately 90 per cent of brain development completed by age five—a foundation that shapes lifelong learning capacity, emotional development and social connection.
Expanding Impact and Community Engagement
Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family and Director General of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, described Early Childhood Week as a national initiative bringing together families, government entities, the private sector and community organisations within an integrated ecosystem. “Expanding the week nationwide will create significant momentum to broaden partnerships, exchange expertise and provide high-quality experiences that support children’s development and wellbeing,” she stated, emphasising alignment with the UAE’s vision for advancing quality of life and building a more cohesive, future-ready society.
The previous edition demonstrated substantial community engagement, with over 70 partners delivering more than 300 activations and experiences across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. These initiatives attracted more than 65,000 participants and generated nearly 55,000 hours of engagement. Activities ranged from interactive storytelling sessions and educational experiences to maritime and heritage programmes, delivered across shopping centres, public spaces, sports facilities and cultural destinations.
Diverse Programming for Families
The 2026 national programme will feature an expanded array of activities designed to support learning and wellbeing whilst strengthening family bonds. Planned activations include play-based learning experiences, workshops for parents and caregivers, family health and wellbeing sessions, arts and music performances, storytelling sessions, cultural and heritage activities, sports programmes and physical activities, alongside community engagement initiatives. Partnerships with organisations across the health, education, technology, sport and community sectors will ensure comprehensive coverage and diverse offerings.
Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail emphasised that the week translates the UAE’s vision for supporting every stage of child development into everyday practices. By equipping parents and caregivers with knowledge and experience to enrich family moments, the initiative promotes positive parenting practices, strengthens family bonds, and creates nurturing environments in which children’s potential flourishes. These efforts contribute to fostering wellbeing and opening pathways for children to learn, grow and thrive throughout their developmental journey.
Invitation for Organisational Participation
The Ministry of Family and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority have invited organisations to contribute to the Early Childhood Week programme by organising activations and experiences for families and children. Interested parties may register by emailing ECWeek@eca.gov.ae, with official partners and the full programme to be announced in the lead-up to the event. This collaborative approach underscores the integrated ecosystem approach central to supporting children’s development across the nation.
Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office