Children’s Institutions in the UAE

High standards mean high trust: we launch childcare businesses in full compliance with the rules. MIRAD supports the registration of children’s facilities at every stage — from choosing the location to opening the doors.

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Childcare & Educational Institutions in the UAE

Opening a nursery, learning center, or private school in the UAE is not only a business opportunity but also a social mission. The government strictly regulates the education sector: a license from the relevant education authority, compliance with safety standards, certified staff, and successful inspections are mandatory. MIRAD guides you from idea to license issuance, ensuring a legal and safe launch.

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Types of Institutions We Register

Nurseries and pre-schools.
Development and learning centers.
Language schools and classes.
Kids’ clubs and activity centers.
Private primary and secondary schools.
Preparatory courses for children and teenagers.

Key Requirements

Determining the type of institution and licensing authority:

Dubai — KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority).
Abu Dhabi — ADEK (Department of Education and Knowledge).
Northern Emirates — MOE (Ministry of Education).

The premises must meet standards: separate entrance, security, play area, nurse room, and fire safety system.

Preparation of the educational program and internal policies.

Qualified staff: teachers, administrators, medical personnel.

Appointment of an accredited manager.

Registration of staff, WPS compliance, and HR documentation.

The final license is granted only after inspections by Civil Defense, Municipality, and the education authority.

Comparison of Licensing Authorities

Authority	Emirate	Licensing Focus	Timeframe
KHDA	Dubai	Strict standards, mandatory curriculum, staff audit	6–12 months
ADEK	Abu Dhabi	Focus on curriculum, safety, and student transport	6–10 months
MOE	Northern Emirates	More flexible, but strict safety compliance	6–9 months

Risks of Operating Without a License

Important

Unlicensed childcare or educational institutions in the UAE are considered illegal. Fines may reach AED 500,000, operations are shut down, licenses are blocked, and founders lose the right to reapply. Additionally, banks and landlords terminate agreements if violations are found.

What MIRAD Does

Business model analysis: nursery, school, learning center.
Location selection per KHDA, ADEK, MOE requirements.
Company incorporation.
Preparation of curriculum and internal policies.
Application submission to the relevant education authority.
Support with staff and medical personnel accreditation.
Obtaining permits from Civil Defense, Municipality, MOHAP.
Preparation for inspections and final license issuance.

Planning to open a nursery or school in the UAE?

MIRAD provides full-cycle support: company setup, licensing, staff accreditation, and institution launch.

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HowTo: Open a Childcare or Educational Institution in the UAE

Choose the format: nursery, school, or learning center.
Identify the emirate and authority (KHDA, ADEK, MOE).
Register your company.
Secure premises that meet requirements.
Develop the curriculum and hire staff.
Submit applications to the education authority.
Pass Civil Defense and Municipality inspections.
Receive the final license and open the institution.

Why Choose MIRAD

Experience in registering nurseries and schools across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Northern Emirates.
Direct cooperation with KHDA, ADEK, MOE, and Civil Defense.
Expertise in local and international curricula (Montessori, British Curriculum, STEAM).
Support through licensing and launch.
Full protection of client interests during inspections.

FAQ: Licensing Childcare & Schools

❓ Can a nursery be opened in a Free Zone?
✅ No. Licenses are issued only in Mainland under KHDA/ADEK/MOE control.

❓ How long does licensing take?
✅ From 6 to 12 months, depending on the emirate and type of institution.

❓ Is a nurse room required?
✅ Yes. A nurse room with accredited medical staff is mandatory.

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