Al-Fareej Nursery: Innovative Care Model by IACAD and KHDA Launched

Photo : Dubai government media office

The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai, in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), has officially launched the "Al-Fareej Nursery," a pioneering childcare model aimed at promoting the national identity and cultural heritage of Emirati children. This initiative marks a significant step in fulfilling IACAD’s mission as a hub of cultural, religious, and educational enlightenment while aligning with the broader goals of Dubai's Social Agenda 33.

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The Social Agenda 33 outlines a roadmap for building a stronger, more cohesive community in Dubai, emphasizing the importance of fostering happier families that embrace national values. The launch of Al-Fareej Nursery directly contributes to this vision by providing a nurturing educational environment where Emirati children can grow and develop in line with Islamic values and Emirati traditions.

The opening ceremony, which was attended by several key officials, underscored the importance of this initiative for Dubai’s future. Dignitaries present at the event included Her Excellency Hessa Bint Issa Bouhmaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai; His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al-Mehairi, Director General of IACAD; and Her Excellency Aisha Abdullah Miran, Director General of KHDA. Representatives from various government bodies were also in attendance, reflecting the broad support for this innovative project.

In his keynote address, His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al-Mehairi emphasized IACAD's commitment to fostering community cohesion through the proper upbringing of children grounded in Islamic values that align with Emirati customs. He noted that the Al-Fareej Nursery is a unique initiative, being the first of its kind to rely on skilled local mothers with expertise in early childhood education. This approach not only ensures a high standard of care but also creates a familial and warm environment, offering a "home away from home" for the children.

One distinctive feature of the nursery is the presence of a "grandmother" figure, who plays a central role in creating an atmosphere of traditional care and warmth. This concept brings a sense of familial comfort to the children, ensuring that they feel loved and supported as they grow and learn. His Excellency Al-Mehairi highlighted that the nursery is not just an educational facility, but also a place that nurtures the spiritual and intellectual development of children, preparing them to become cohesive and aware future generations who embody the values and principles of Emirati society.

Her Excellency Aisha Abdullah Miran also spoke at the ceremony, expressing her delight in partnering with IACAD to launch such a meaningful initiative. She emphasized that the Al-Fareej Nursery aligns with Dubai's educational priorities and future strategies, offering tailored educational and care services designed to meet the specific needs of Emirati children. This initiative, she noted, is especially beneficial to Emirati families, as it fosters positive values, preserves authentic Emirati culture, and provides an educational foundation that complements family upbringing.

A key component of the Al-Fareej Nursery is its reliance on "Al-Fareej mothers," a group of skilled local women who specialize in early childhood care and education. This strategy not only ensures that children receive high-quality care, but also empowers Emirati women to contribute to their communities by utilizing their unique talents and skills. By integrating these mothers into the nursery’s operations, the project aims to create a holistic educational environment that supports the growth and development of young children while promoting traditional Emirati values.

Her Excellency Aisha Abdullah Miran added that the initiative is designed to address the educational needs of Emirati families across residential areas, ensuring that children have access to a nurturing and supportive environment close to home. The project aims to support parents by offering a comprehensive suite of educational and care services, allowing them to focus on their careers and other responsibilities while knowing their children are receiving the best possible care.

The launch of the Al-Fareej Nursery is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Dubai’s government entities, which have come together to provide innovative solutions for the development and care of children. By creating a nurturing educational environment rooted in positive Islamic values and Emirati traditions, the nursery aims to contribute to the holistic growth of children and build a distinguished generation that reflects the principles of Emirati society.

As Dubai continues to prioritize the development of its youth, the Al-Fareej Nursery is expected to play a key role in supporting Emirati families, helping them raise children who are not only academically capable but also culturally aware and grounded in the values of their heritage. The project team is enthusiastic about the future and remains committed to providing high-quality services that will help achieve the desired educational and developmental goals for Emirati children.

This initiative signals the beginning of a new chapter in early childhood care and education in Dubai, where tradition and modernity blend to create an environment that fosters intellectual, spiritual, and emotional growth. The Al-Fareej Nursery stands as a model for future projects aimed at nurturing the next generation of Emiratis, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute to the development of their society while staying true to their cultural roots.