Early Childhood Week: UAE to Stage 300 Events Across Seven Emirates From 16 November

The UAE's first nationwide Early Childhood Week will bring more than 300 educational, cultural, sporting and family activities to all seven emirates from 16 to 22 November. The Ministry of Family launched the initiative at a press conference in Dubai, bringing together 130 organisations to promote the development and well-being of children aged eight and under while strengthening family bonds.

Organised by the ministry in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and partners from various sectors, Early Childhood Week runs under the theme "Every Moment Matters" as part of the UAE's Year of the Family 2026. The week is held under the patronage of Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of ECA.

Early Childhood Week Programme: Learning, Culture and Play

The Ministry of Family outlined activities ranging from interactive learning and storytelling to parenting workshops, cultural experiences, sports and community events. Early Childhood Week is designed to give families a broad choice of activities in every emirate, with each location shaping its own contribution.

Early Childhood Week Activities Across the Seven Emirates

Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Abu Dhabi will host museum tours for children, introducing young visitors to art, culture and heritage through interactive experiences. In Dubai, the Community Development Authority will organise "Children's City, City of the Future", where children can explore a miniature city designed around health, education, creativity, inclusion and sustainability.

Sharjah and Ajman

Sharjah's House of Wisdom will host activities for infants, young children and caregivers, alongside reading and creative workshops. Families who enjoy literary events can also read about the Sharjah International Book Fair 2026. In Ajman, "Fareej Market" will transform Ajman Chamber Park into a traditional Emirati-style marketplace run by children with their families, introducing them to entrepreneurship, heritage and practical learning.

Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah

Fujairah will host "Ramstna", an initiative using Emirati vocabulary cards to encourage parents and grandparents to pass local expressions and cultural traditions to younger generations. Umm Al Quwain will offer a "Young Broadcaster Experience", allowing children to explore radio studios and learn about broadcasting. In Ras Al Khaimah, the Higher Colleges of Technology will organise an Early Childhood Carnival and Together Labs, bringing families, educators and students together for interactive learning.

Childhood Run and Together in Blue Mark World Children's Day

Among the flagship events of Early Childhood Week is the "Childhood Run" on 20 November, organised in collaboration with UNICEF and national partners to mark World Children's Day. The Ministry of Family will also launch the "Together in Blue" campaign, encouraging institutions and individuals to use blue in public spaces, activities and communications to show support for children's rights.

School Sessions and a New Family Guide

The Ministry of Education will introduce "A Moment Together at School", bringing children and their parents or caregivers together for short sessions involving reading, play, discovery or conversation. Families will receive activity cards to help them continue these experiences at home. Parents planning around the academic calendar can also check the UAE school winter break 2026-2027 dates.

The ministry also unveiled "Everyday Moments for a More Connected Family", a bilingual Arabic-English guide developed with the Development Affairs Office's Behavioural Science Group. It offers practical tools built around four pillars: meaningful conversations, presence, family routines and growth. The guide aims to help families strengthen communication, establish shared habits and turn everyday interactions into opportunities for learning and connection.

Minister: Early Childhood Development Needs Coordinated Effort

Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, said early childhood was a critical stage in shaping children's abilities, skills and personalities. She stressed that creating supportive environments required coordinated efforts across families, government institutions and the wider community.

She said Early Childhood Week would translate the objectives of the Year of the Family into sustainable daily practices, while giving parents and caregivers opportunities to strengthen their relationships with children. The initiative brings together partners from the healthcare, education, technology, sports and community sectors, including PureHealth Holding, e& and the National Academy for Childhood Development. Official national information is available through the UAE government portal, and wider national announcements are carried by the Emirates News Agency.

How to Take Part in Early Childhood Week

Families can explore activities, locations and registration requirements at www.ecweek.ae. Those interested in other child-focused initiatives can also read about EGAMES DUBAI27, the school esports championship.

The Ministry of Family said it would monitor participation and family engagement to assess the impact of Early Childhood Week and identify opportunities for future programmes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Early Childhood Week in the UAE?

Early Childhood Week runs from 16 to 22 November across all seven emirates. It is the first nationwide edition of the initiative.

Who is Early Childhood Week for?

Early Childhood Week focuses on children aged eight and under, along with their parents, grandparents, caregivers and educators. More than 300 activities are planned.

Where can families find Early Childhood Week details?

Families can find activities, locations and registration requirements for Early Childhood Week at www.ecweek.ae. The programme is organised by the Ministry of Family with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority.